A special archive day is taking place at The Poly on Saturday when visitors can chat to local historians and see original examples from the collections of 12 local archives, including early photographs, maps and documents which give an insight into how people lived in the Falmouth area in the past.

There will short talks about different aspects of life in the area, including the Pendennis Motorcycle races and tourism, and a chance to reminisce with long-standing Falmouth trader Alan Cox. Cornwall Family History Society will also be on hand to give advice to people looking for clues about their ancestors and Source FM will be there to record people’s memories for future generations.

Volunteer event co-ordinator, Amanda Rundle said: “We are really excited to provide this unique opportunity for people to explore the collections of different archives in one place and find out more about the people who lived in the area in the past.”

The free event is hosted by Falmouth History Archive, a community archive based at The Poly. Others who will be there on the day include the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth Town Council, Penryn Museum, Flushing History Group, Constantine Museum, the Institute of Cornish Studies, Archive and Cornish Studies Service, local historians Tom Weller, Mike Bradley and Falmouth Flower Show researcher, Jean Carr.

The Archive Day will launch a week long programme of activities and events for people to discover the history of Falmouth and celebrate Cornish culture. Highlights include a Falmouth Then and Now talk by historian Michael Bradley, a film screening of Jamaica Inn, a Cornish cabaret evening of entertainment and a series of free workshops. The final event is a family fun day on March 4, when a host of free activities will be on offer and the winners of the Fun in Falmouth children’s art competition will be announced by the mayor, Grenville Chappel.

All activities and events are free or low cost thanks to funding from the National Lottery. For further information go to thepoly.org or the Falmouth History Archive Facebook page.