Livesey Collection

Special collections

Named in honour of Joseph Livesey, one of the early teetotal pioneers and founder of the Education Institution now known as the University of Central Lancashire, the Livesey Collection forms an internationally significant resource for the study of the Temperance Movement.

In 1987, the Livesey Collection transferred to the University of Central Lancashire from the British National Temperance League in Sheffield.  Since then it has been enriched by donations from temperance groups and individuals.

The collection is made up of a significant number of journals, monographs, bound collections of pamphlets and other non-textual items. These include lantern slides, posters, banners, textiles, crockery and ephemera. The collection represents temperance societies and culture from the 19th century onwards, from Band of Hope groups to the Rechabite Friendly Societies. Also included in the collection are works relating to non-conformist religious groups in the Preston area.

Most items in the Livesey Collection are listed in Library Search. Any items which have been digitised are available through the University Repository.

The Demon Drink project

The Demon Drink Project launched in 2012. It was a partnership project between the University of Central Lancashire and the People’s History Museum.

It included exhibitions at The People’s History Museum, Manchester and St George’s Shopping Centre, Preston. There were also a variety of related events and activities.

The ‘Temperance and the working class’ project is directed by Dr Annemarie McAllister and funded under the ‘Your Heritage’ programme of The Heritage Lottery Fund.

Demon Drink digitised content
Slide 1 of 4

From the Livesey Collection01 / 04

Joseph Livesey
Joseph Livesey

Special Collections enquiries

If you would like to view materials from any of the Special Collections or would like to discuss how these resources can be used to help in your teaching, learning or research, please complete the Special Collections enquiry/appointment form or contact us for any further questions regarding the collections

Related pages

  • UCLan historian to discuss origins of ‘Demon Drink’ movement to national audience

    A Preston researcher with expertise in the history and legacy of the UK temperance movement is to appear on the renowned BBC Radio 4 programme ‘In Our Time‘.

    Friday 28 January 2022
  • Temperance Heritage

    Preston was the birthplace of the teetotal temperance movement in 1832, and UCLan is the home of the internationally significant Livesey Collection of temperance history material. This project explores the social history and heritage of the temperance movement, and its relevance …

  • Joseph Livesey plaque handed to UCLan

    UCLan has been presented with a plaque dedicated to Joseph Livesey, the man who co-founded the institution that became the University as we know it today.

    Thursday 8 February 2018
  • A tee-total toast to Lancashire Day

    As proud Lancastrians raise a glass to the Red Rose County on the 27 November to celebrate Lancashire Day, they’ll be spoilt for choice of where to go and what to drink.

    Thursday 24 November 2022