Banknotes Come Alive!

During August 2003 visitors to the Bank’s Museum met Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens, Michael Faraday and George Stephenson ‘in person’. Actors portraying the four, who have variously appeared on the £5, £10, and £20 banknotes, were dressed in character to help emphasise the stories they told.

Back to past exhibitions

Charles Darwin

Charles Darwin – Robert Hulse played Darwin on his return from his expedition aboard HMS Beagle. He had a box of stinky ‘bugs’ for discussion and examination!

Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens – Faud Conroy read extracts from novels – specifically relating to London and money.

Michael Faraday

Michael Faraday – Richard Hodder carried out small experiments connected to the induction coil and electricity. Faraday was passionate about the communication of science to young people.

George Stephenson

George Stephenson – Geraint Thomas, pioneer of steam locomotion, talked mostly about the Rainhill trials which The Rocket won, and about the implications as regards travel and the industrial revolution.