I'm Nerile Jurgutaviciute and I'm a 3rd year history student at the University of Sheffield. I've been volunteering at Cannon Hall over the summer break. I wanted to volunteer as a way of being more actively engaged in historical work outside of my university degree, and to participate in my local community's heritage.
As a volunteer room steward, I've been delivering information to visitors about the life of the Spencer-Stanhope family and the pieces we have in our collection. I've also worked with another volunteer, Margaret, to transcribe a household inventory written in 1914.
I've really enjoyed talking to visitors, especially hearing about the longstanding connections many have with Cannon Hall – this was something I hadn't really expected to be part of my role. Many visitors had been coming since they were children. Others knew someone who had worked here.
I think volunteering in Cannon Hall is really valuable, especially for young people because it enhances our understanding of and respect for the people that came before us. By walking through the Hall, and learning about the paintings and furniture on display, young people can more closely appreciate the artistry, craft and knowledge that has been passed down through generations.
