Derwent Pencil Museum, Keswick

Origins of Pencil Making in Keswick

The Derwent Pencil Museum is situated in Keswick, the historic heart of the pencil industry, where graphite was first discovered in the nearby Borrowdale Valley in the early 16th century. This discovery sparked a cottage industry of pencil making that evolved into a commercial enterprise by the late 18th century. The museum’s entrance mimics a graphite mine, giving visitors a tangible connection to the mineral that shaped the region’s economy and culture. Early pencil production was artisanal, with local craftsmen hand-making pencils before the industrialization of the process in the 19th century.

A Journey Through Pencil Innovation

Inside, the museum traces the development of pencils from simple black leads to the introduction of coloured pencils in 1932 by the Cumberland Pencil Company, which later became part of the Derwent brand. Exhibits include miniature pencil sculptures, one of the largest coloured pencils in the world measuring nearly 8 metres, and the specially crafted Queen’s Diamond Jubilee pencil, which features intricate calligraphy and diamond embellishments. The museum also highlights Derwent’s ongoing innovation in art materials, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques.

Secret Stories and Wartime Ingenuity

One of the museum’s most fascinating stories is the secret production of WWII pencils containing hidden maps, designed to aid prisoners of war. This covert operation involved drilling out pencil interiors to insert rolled maps and tiny compasses, then resealing them to look like ordinary pencils. The museum features a video recounting this history and displays reproductions of these ingenious tools, underscoring the pencil’s unexpected role in wartime intelligence.

Local Heritage and Resilience

The museum stands near the original factory site, preserving Keswick’s rich industrial heritage. Despite suffering severe flood damage during Storm Desmond in 2015, which destroyed many artefacts, the museum has salvaged much of its collection and continues to celebrate the region’s pencil-making legacy. The story of graphite smuggling and the ‘black market’ origins of the pencil trade adds a layer of local intrigue, reflecting the mineral’s historical value and impact on the community.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

The Derwent Pencil Museum offers a family-friendly environment with interactive displays and educational content suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy exploring the exhibits, watching informative videos, and viewing unique pencil artworks. The museum operates seasonally with winter closures on Mondays and Tuesdays, and tickets are purchased on-site. Nearby amenities include parking (with separate management and charges), restrooms, and a gift shop offering art supplies and souvenirs.

Artistic Inspiration and Cultural Significance

Beyond its industrial story, the museum serves as a cultural hub for artists and writers, celebrating the pencil as a tool of creativity and expression. Derwent’s commitment to quality and innovation continues to inspire artists worldwide, with the museum standing as a testament to the enduring importance of this humble instrument in art and history.