Exhibition will shine the light on Robert Owen

A new exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of one of Montgomeryshire's most influential historical figures is set to open next month at Newtown Library.

The "Robert Owen Utopian Legacy Exhibition" will run from May 2-31, showcasing the visionary ideas of the renowned social reformer who was born in the town.

Organised by the Heritage Hub for Mid Wales, the exhibition aims to enhance awareness of Owen's contributions to social reform, education, and cooperative business models - ideas that remain relevant two centuries later.

Ann Evans, Founder of the Heritage Hub for Mid Wales Pioneer Legacy Projects, described Owen as "a far-sighted utopian visionary man who was arguably born before his time, one of the most original free thinkers ever to come out of Wales."

The exhibition highlights Owen's progressive thinking on issues of equality, feminism, environmental concerns, humane treatment of workers, and infant education. His ideas on cooperative ownership and profit-sharing continue to influence modern business and political thought.

In a historical connection, the exhibition launch will include a digital zoom conference with New Harmony, Indiana in America, commemorating the 200th anniversary of the day Robert Owen signed the constitution for his Owenite Utopian Community on 1st May 1825.

The exhibition represents a collaborative effort between the Heritage Hub, Newtown Heritage Custodians, and New Lanark in Scotland - another site closely associated with Owen's work.

Visitors can explore the exhibition during Newtown Library's opening hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday (9am-5pm/6pm), Friday (8am-4pm), and Saturday (9:30am-1pm). The library is closed on Wednesdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.

For more information about the exhibition, visit the Heritage Hub for Mid Wales website at www.heritagehub4midwales.co.uk/robert-owen-utopian-legacy-exhibition.