[2] Weaver Hall Museum houses a large collection covering the archaeology, architecture and industries of Cheshire from prehistory to the present.

[3] The museum also holds an image library of more than 8000 items recording the history of west Cheshire, particularly in relation to the salt and chemical industries and associated canal transport.

[5] The museum collection originally shared a building with Northwich library but mine subsidence – once a significant problem in the town – caused this to collapse.

[6][7] The collection was moved into its current premises in the former workhouse building at Weaver Hall in June 1981, in large part thanks to the efforts of Mary, Lady Rochester, who played a leading role in its early establishment.

The appointment of Matt Wheeler as Curator in 2004 led to an enhanced programme of special exhibitions and events and prompted a significant rise in visitor numbers.

Poor Law Unions and their Guardians were abolished in April 1930, when Northwich Workhouse transferred to Cheshire County Council as a public assistance institution.