190th Birthday Celebrations | People Power Exhibition

As part of our 190th birthday celebrations, discover the story of Sheffield General Cemetery through the people who have shaped it over nearly two centuries.

From its origins in 1836, when the Sheffield General Cemetery Company was established by leading industrialists and professionals, the site quickly became a vital part of the city’s life. Designed by architect Samuel Worth, the Cemetery grew to become the final resting place for over 86,000 people – from Sheffield’s wealthiest figures to those buried in public graves.

By the late 20th century, the Cemetery had fallen into serious decline. Buildings were deteriorating, graves were collapsing, and the future of the site was uncertain. It was the determination of local volunteers – first through the Friends of the General Cemetery and later the Sheffield General Cemetery Trust – that transformed its fortunes.

This exhibition explores how generations of people – from those who built and worked in the Cemetery, to the volunteers who saved it – have shaped what it is today: a cared-for historic landscape, cultural venue and ecological resource at the heart of Sheffield.

A powerful story of community action, heritage and resilience.

Throughout the 190th birthday weekend, the Samuel Worth Chapel will also host a café and bookstall alongside the People Power exhibition, as well as an exciting programme of events to celebrate this milestone.

Exhibition Details

• Location: The Samuel Worth Chapel, Sheffield, S11 8NT.
• Accessibility: The Samuel Worth Chapel is fully accessible. Find out more here.
• Email [email protected] with any questions about this event.