Feathers with Stories with The Devil’s Porridge Museum &

Join us at The Devil’s Porridge Museum for Feathers and Footsteps, a creative and immersive workshop exploring powerful stories of migration — in both the natural world and human history.

Organised as part of the Wild Goose Festival, led by The Stove, this special event is a collaboration between The Devil’s Porridge Museum and WWT Caerlaverock Wetland Centre. Together, we’ll explore the extraordinary journeys of migratory geese and the wartime movement of the “Canary Girls” — women munitions workers who travelled from across the UK to work at HM Factory Gretna during the First World War.

Join us for a creative workshop exploring migration in nature and human history — from geese in flight to WW1’s “Canary Girls.” Dress up, explore HM Factory Gretna, and write reflections on feathers. A hands-on session about movement, resilience, and connection. All ages welcome — no experience needed!

Participants will:

• Hear from experts at WWT Caerlaverock about the epic migration of barnacle geese and the importance of wetlands in their journey.
• Learn from museum staff about the “Canary Girls” and the history of HM Factory Gretna — the largest munitions factory in the UK during WW1.
• Explore the museum’s HM Factory Gretna area to gain insight into the lives and journeys of the women who worked there.
• Dress up in period clothing for an immersive experience.
• Take part in a creative activity, writing personal reflections or messages on feathers to symbolise movement, resilience, and connection. Your reflections and letters will be displayed in our community exhibition, and you’re welcome to create an extra one to take home. 

This event invites participants of all ages to explore the deep connections between natural and human migration, and how these stories still resonate today. No creative experience required, all materials will be provided — just bring your curiosity and imagination!

Event Information
All ages welcome. Children should be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility Information

The Devil’s Porridge Museum is a modern building with a mezzanine layout and two floors, accessible by a lift and stairs. The museum is fully accessible by wheelchair and walking frame.