Dr Sam Knapton from the University of Nottingham's Department of History has collaborated with Jennifer Shearman, curator of Queer Britain museum, on a groundbreaking podcast exploring LGBTQ+ histories. The podcast, released by the Historical Association, discusses innovative approaches to uncovering and presenting previously hidden LGBTQ+ experiences across Britain and beyond.
The collaboration stems from Dr Knapton's AHRC IAA-funded project "Hidden Histories: Queer Experiences and Displacement in the Contemporary World", which aligns with Queer Britain's mission as the UK's first LGBTQ+ museum. Their work combines traditional archival research with material culture to illuminate twentieth-century LGBTQ+ experiences in both museum and university settings.
Dr Knapton said: "This collaboration with Queer Britain has opened up new possibilities for integrating LGBTQ+ histories into mainstream historical narratives. Rather than treating these stories as separate or tokenistic, we're working to weave them into the broader fabric of British and global history."
Jennifer Shearman, curator at Queer Britain, said: "Working with Dr Knapton has enriched our understanding of how academic research can enhance museum interpretation. Together, we're developing new ways to present these important histories to diverse audiences."
The podcast covers various topics including post-war queer displacement, methodologies for researching hidden histories, and approaches to teaching and curating LGBTQ+ history. It also explores how local, public, and academic history can work together to create more inclusive historical narratives.
Listen to the full podcast on the Historical Association website: https://www.history.org.uk/podcasts/categories/970/podcast/710/queer-britain-and-public-history
Posted on Monday 10th February 2025