Pen Museum 25 years of telling the story of an industry that once produced three quarters of the world’s pens

By MH

February 16, 2026

11

Birmingham’s Unique Pen Museum is launching a programme of 25 events to celebrate 25 years of telling the story of an industry that once produced three quarters of the world’s pens.

The Pen Museum will present an exciting programme of, at least 25 events, celebrating a quarter-century of sharing the remarkable story of a time when Birmingham was the centre of the world for pen-making.

Since opening its doors in April 2001, the Pen Museum has been shaped by the vision and dedication of four local enthusiasts: Brian Jones MBE, historian, and visionary; Larry Hanks, chairman and pen trade specialist; Colin Giles, researcher, and archivist; and Ray Handley, pen maker, and industry insider.

Their pioneering research and scholarly work has been supported for the past 25 years by generations of dedicated volunteers, who continue to share the remarkable history of pen making and writing, and how Birmingham became the global centre of the steel pen industry, with more than 100 manufacturers employing around 8,000 workers, the majority of them women, producing over 18,000 pen nibs per day. Ironically, most of these women were illiterate and worked under strict rules of no talking, singing, or eating.

These facts and some poetic licence will bring a different view of the history through Murder Mystery with a bit of comedy, Living History, a focus on Women’s Work as well as an exhibition on entrepreneur Josiah Mason. The museum also has an extensive programme of calligraphy workshops.

Chairman of The Pen Museum said: “This is an important year for The Pen Museum. It is a time to celebrate the founding members whose dedication created the Museum and whose passion has been passed on to our younger generations of volunteers. Together, they continue the vital work of preserving and sharing the extraordinary achievements of Birmingham’s workers and entrepreneurs.”

“Our manager and team of volunteers are working hard on an exciting and entertaining programme of events to suit all ages, abilities, couples, families, schools, and groups.

“The Pen Museum has many stories from women sneaking ‘bread and lard’ to sneak a bite as they worked under stringent rules, connections with Rip Van Winkle and Sleepy Hollow author Washington Irving to Disney. From fascinating and informative to an enjoyable day out with the family.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the original workshop environment, complete with authentic period machinery and tools, while hearing vivid stories of factory life. Hands-on activities include writing with steel pens and quills, guided tours and live demonstrations that bring Birmingham’s industrial heritage to life.