Collections

Military

Our renowned military collection spans from the Stone Age to the twentieth century. It features rare treasures like seventieth century rapiers (a thin sharp sword) and ornate armour. Much of it was gifted by Colonel Gilbert Ormerod Spence, a decorated World War One officer from Stockton-on-Tees, whose legacy continues to inspire. 

A special thanks to the armed forces community who have kindly donated items over the decades.

People 

Stockton-on-Tees is built on the passion and hard work of its people. From early settlers and farmers, to pioneering industrialists and today's vibrant communities.

Our collection honours the individuals who shaped the town through industries like:

• shipbuilding
• pottery
• brickworks
• engineering
• chemicals

Their stories, past and present, are the heartbeat of Stockton-on-Tees.

Archive 

Our archive is a treasure trove. The collection includes:

• ancient tomes
• mug shot books
• soldier diaries
• rare edition prints

 A highlight is the Hutchinson Book Collection, donated in 1973. With over 2,000 works, it includes poetry, rare first editions by famous authors and Victorian curiosities collected by Thomas Hutchinson. Thomas was a passionate book lover from the 1870s. 

Art 

Step into our galleries and discover over 600 artworks, across 5 unique collections that include:

• The Edwin Clephan Memorial Collection featuring Georges de La Tour's Dice Players
• The Spence Bequest with World War 1 watercolours and medieval art
• Local Art that celebrates Teesside's people and landscapes
• Modern Art including works by Bridget Riley
• Sculptures, from bronze busts to striking marble statues

Whether you are drawn to Turner's watercolours or bold abstract prints, there is something to spark your imagination.

Explore our public artwork collection on the Art UK website.

Archaeology 

Step into thousands of years of history with our archaeology collection. We have over 2,000 fascinating finds from prehistory to the 1800s. 

Explore treasures from Anglo-Saxon graves in Norton, relics of Stockton Castle, and artifacts from the River Tees, shaped by Vikings, Saxons, and Civil War battles. From Bronze Age swords to pottery from Russia, every piece tells a story of the people who shaped Stockton-on-Tees.

Fashion

Step into the past with our stunning costume collection. From elegant 1730s pieces to bold twentieth century styles. It showcases how fashion has evolved through time. 

Highlights include:

• detailed Victorian and Edwardian dresses
• 1920s flapper fashion
• swing dresses
• shoulder pads
• mini skirts
• flares

We are continuing to grow the collection to reflect modern styles and the people who wear them.

Science and technology

Our science and industry collection celebrates the region's rich industrial roots.

Explore highlights like:

• tools and models from iconic shipyards and chemical giants like ICI
•  machinery from Brown's Foundry
• cobbler and saddler tools, handmade cabinets, and leatherwork
• railway heritage from the 1825 Stockton and Darlington Railway
• the invention of the friction match by Stockton chemist John Walker
• the Ropner family's legacy in shipping and shipbuilding on the Tees

Social History 

Our social history collection is a window into daily life across generations. From vintage vacuum cleaners and early TVs to gramophones and club badges, there is something for everyone.

One of the most loved parts of the collection is the toys! From Victorian dolls and rocking horses to board games and early computer games, they capture the joy of childhood through the decades. 

Contemporary collection

We are actively building a collection that reflects the lives, voices, and experiences of people in Stockton-on-Tees today. We work with local communities to uncover missing stories and co-curate displays that feel relevant and real.

From Covid and LGBTQIA+ experiences to refugee journeys, elections and women's health, we are making sure our collection speaks to the people who live here. This work continues alongside our efforts to review and refine what we already hold.