There was plenty of steam power on show in 1984 when east Suffolk celebrated a momentous day with the opening of what has since become one of the county’s leading museums and tourist attractions.
The Leiston Long Shop industrial heritage museum was created in the Garrett Engineering Works in Leiston, which had been the world’s first purpose-built assembly line building.
The factory – the area’s biggest employer during its 200-year-history – had closed just three years before.
It meant the grade two-star listed building could be saved with a new use that would serve the area by telling the story of the business, the people who worked there and the machines they made.
Over the past 33 years it has done just that with huge success, attracting large numbers to enjoy the exhibits and educational activities.
Do you remember the Long Shop opening? Let us know by sending us an email
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