The Workers Museum

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, The Workers Museum (Arbejdermuseet) offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the lives of Danish working-class families over the past 150 years. Housed in the historic Workers’ Assembly Building, established in 1879, the museum stands as a testament to the evolution of Denmark’s labour movement and the everyday experiences of its people. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family seeking an educational outing, or a traveller eager to delve into local culture, the Workers Museum provides an enriching experience for all.

About the Museum

The Workers Museum is situated in the original Workers’ Assembly Building, the first of its kind constructed by the Danish labour movement. This iconic structure, dating back to 1879, has been meticulously preserved and now serves as a window into Denmark’s social and political history. The museum’s mission is to collect, preserve, and communicate the cultural heritage of the workers’ movement, shedding light on the history of working conditions and everyday life in Denmark.

Visitors can explore a variety of exhibitions spread across the museum’s floors. The ground floor features the Children’s Workers Museum, where young visitors can engage in hands-on activities that illustrate the lives of working-class children from the past. The first floor transports guests to the 1950s, showcasing a typical working-class family’s apartment and a high street from that era. The second floor delves into the history of the Sørensen family, offering insights into their daily lives from 1885 onwards. The third floor focuses on the industrial workforce, highlighting the transition from agricultural to industrial society and the associated challenges and triumphs.

Interesting Facts

• Historic Venue: The museum is located in the Workers’ Assembly Building, the first house built by the Danish labour movement in 1879, and is on UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites.
• Children’s Interactive Space: The Children’s Workers Museum allows young visitors to dress up, play in a 1930s flat, sort bottles at a brewery, and even stamp membership fees at a union office.
• 1950s Coffee Bar: Experience a taste of the past by enjoying a cup of coffee brewed with Rich’s substitute coffee or a piece of chocolate biscuit cake in the museum’s 1950s-style coffee bar.
• Authentic Family Exhibit: The Sørensen family’s apartment, preserved from 1915, offers a genuine look into the living conditions of a working-class family during that time.
• Industrial Revolution Insights: The museum’s third-floor exhibition traces the development of industrial work, highlighting the struggles and advancements in factory conditions.
• Café & Øl-Halle ‘1892’: The museum’s basement houses a heritage-listed cellar restaurant serving traditional Danish open sandwiches in a historic setting.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +453 393 2575

Website: arbejdermuseet.dk/

Facebook: facebook.com/arbejdermuseet.dk

Conclusion

The Workers Museum in Copenhagen stands as a vibrant tribute to the resilience, creativity, and solidarity of Denmark’s working-class communities. Its immersive exhibitions, authentic settings, and engaging activities offer visitors a profound understanding of the nation’s social history. Whether you’re exploring the past through the eyes of a child, stepping into a 1950s apartment, or reflecting on the evolution of industrial work, the museum provides a rich tapestry of experiences that resonate with all ages. A visit to the Workers Museum is not just an exploration of history; it’s an invitation to connect with the stories that have shaped modern Denmark.