From stone coffins to skull and cross bones memento mori, and even the burial place of a convicted witch, the grounds of St. Mary’s Heritage Centre, Gateshead, are filled with history fitting for a Friday the 13th. Many of our graveyard residents have strong connections to local industry, architecture and the most significant events in the region’s history.
Supported by some wonderful volunteers, historian of the North East, Doctor Katie Liddane delivered guided tours our graveyard, telling you all about the site’s long – and sometimes dark – history and its strong connections with the wider region.
Friday 13th was a lucky day for our visitors as they got to see our rarely viewed collection of artefacts and looked at the stories behind some strange headstone symbols.
There were also family crafting activities inside the building, including making magpies to balance out the bad luck!
This is a past event, but look out for more tours soon!
Become a part of history
Your support means we can continue to help the buildings of the North East thrive.