Shine Together: Mapping Our Lighthouse Stories

Lighting the World from Smethwick: The Chance Heritage Trust Lighthouse Project

In 2022, Chance Heritage Trust launched the Lighthouse Mapping Project—an ambitious global effort to document over 2,500 lighthouses fitted with pioneering lenses made at the historic Chance Glassworks in Smethwick. These precision lenses were shipped worldwide, guiding countless ships safely along remote coastlines.

On Saturday, 13th September, we proudly unveil a new interactive digital map. This platform lets you explore these lighthouses, learn their stories, and virtually stand at their sites. Discover how Chance Brothers revolutionised lighthouse technology, making Smethwick a global beacon in maritime safety.

From Australia's cliffs to Northern Europe's icy shores, Chance lenses saved lives worldwide. Now, Chance Heritage Trust aims to preserve this legacy by restoring the Chance Glassworks site into a vibrant centre for creativity, heritage, and innovation. This will support creatives and makers, artisans, revive traditional crafts, and offer opportunities to upskill in new technologies.

Inspired by the Chance Brothers’ history of caring for their workforce and community—building schools and parks—we continue their values of Innovation, Education, and Community.

We will be launching our ‘Shine a Light On… pop-up spaces at our event. These mini exhibitions will celebrate Smethwick and Sandwell today, shining a light on local people and stories that will shape our future!

Timings & Tours

Saturday 13 September:

1000-1600

Location & directions

Smethwick Library, High Street, Smethwick, West Midlands, B66 1AA

Directions:

Smethwick Library is on the High Street. The nearest car park is located on a side street immediately before the Library. By bus: 80, 82, 87 Platinum By train: Smethwick Rolfe Street is a 5-10 minute walk away

Contact on day:

Jane de Weijer

Telephone number:

+447498145058

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Disabled parking is available on Smethwick High Street, located in front of Smethwick Library. There is no visitor parking, but there is a long stay carpark available along Stony Lane, B67 7QX.

Additional information

We will be demonstrating our new Lighthouse map and discussing our vision for the future of the Glassworks alongside Sandwell Archives, who will be delving into the legacy and history of the Chance Brothers.

Est. tour duration:

6 hour(s)

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