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Murdoch House and the Cornish Global Migration Programme

People sitting under parasols in the courtyard outside Murdoch House
Home of one of the most influential inventors in global history, Murdoch House in the town centre was the first building in the world to be lit by gas lighting and was the hub of engineering breakthroughs.

In this house over 200 years ago William Murdoch, the father of the modern gas industry, pioneered the first practical system of piped-gas lighting anywhere in the world, the house is a centre for educational and community purposes. Murdoch House also houses the Cornish Global Migration Programme – they have a complex database containing biographical details of many thousands of Cornish migrants and can provide a link with Cornish ancestors worldwide. There is also an archive of literature, documents and artefacts which help to explain the social and economic history of the Cornish Diaspora. Visitors are welcome.

Location

You can find Murdoch House in Cross Street, Redruth, just behind St Rumon's Gardens. From the town car park at New Cut walk through to the main shopping street - Fore Street - walk down the hill and take the alley to the left directly after the Boesti Cafe. Murdoch House is on your right

Opening and admission

To book use of the house, or  to schedule a visit please contact us: email: booking@murdochhouse.org.uk 

What you can see and do:  On the lower floor of the house you can see an exhibition on the life and work of William Murdoch. Tea, coffee and home-made cakes are served every Friday 10am - 12noon, 

 The Cornish Migration Office is normally open Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings for three hours, on the first floor.

Here you can look at the archives and meet the volunteers who will help you trace families and relatives who have emigrated. This is home to a complex database of biographical details of many thousands of Cornish emigrants worldwide. There is also an archive of literature, documents and artefacts. The Management Committee is keen to promote the continued use of the house for a variety of activities and rooms can be hired at modest rates.

Nearest car or cycle park

There is no parking outside the house so please park either in the St. Rumon's Social Club car park on Penryn Street or in the town's main car park in New Cut. Cycles can be left outside.

Distance from Bus or Train

We are only a minute or two away from the railway station and main bus stops. The Town Plan at the Railway Station shows the location.

Contact Numbers

Murdoch House: 01209 216140

 or the Cornish Global Migration Programme: 01209 215736

Web Sites

Murdoch House:  www.murdochhouse.org.uk or the Cornish Global Migration Programme: cornishmigration.org