For almost a century, two historic Midlands Tudor houses believed they were linked by fragments of the same tapestry.

Now the truth is revealed through two new exhibitions exploring the histories of the tapestry fragments owned by Selly Manor Museum and the National Trust’s Packwood House.

The ‘Common Threads’ exhibitions will display Selly Manor’s Achilles tapestry fragment and Packwood House’s Two Women tapestry fragment side by side for the first time in living memory.

For years it was believed both fragments, dating back to the 17th century, were part of the same larger piece. However, a visit last year to Selly Manor Museum in Bournville from the Packwood House team proved this is not the case.

Louise Deakin, Heritage Engagement Officer at Bournville Village Trust, which manages Selly Manor Museum, said: “The belief that both tapestries were linked has been perpetuated for almost a century, but it’s simply not true. We now want to explore the histories of these pieces and reveal the truth behind them.

“The ‘Common Threads’ exhibition will highlight the significance of textiles in storytelling and explore the connections between Selly Manor Museum and Packwood House and their collections. We’re delighted to have partnered with Packwood House on this exhibition.”

Emily Greaves, Collections and House Manager from Packwood House, said: “The two tapestries, although they don’t match, have been a catalyst for a much larger story about the histories of our places. New links between our houses, people and collections have been revealed, leading to fresh and exciting narratives. Working in partnership with the team at Selly Manor Museum has been so enjoyable and I look forward to continuing our work together as we prepare for Packwood’s ‘Common Threads’ exhibition in early 2026.”

Selly Manor holds elaborate, intriguing and beautiful examples of Tudor and Stuart furniture and objects. Assembled at the beginning of the 20th century by Laurence Cadbury, the collection brings the museum to life.

In the same period, Graham Baron Ash was restoring, furnishing, and decorating Packwood House in Warwickshire. With so many similar objects and artefacts, these exhibitions will explore the connections and motivations of the collectors.

In the autumn, Selly Manor Museum will also be working with craft groups on new community tapestries with residents of Northfield and Shenley.

Louise added: “We want to engage people who face barriers to heritage and encourage co-production of the museum’s interpretation and narrative. The artwork created by participants will tell stories of Birmingham now, connecting personal histories and community. A professional textile artist will lead the workshops.”

As part of the project’s legacy, fragments created by participants will be repurposed and exhibited in the Rest House (which sits in the centre of Bournville Village Green) in 2026.

The Common Threads exhibition at Selly Manor Museum, Maple Road, Bournville, B30 2AE, is open until 16 October 2025, Tuesday-Sunday (Aug) 10am-5pm and Tuesday-Friday (Sept and Oct) 10am-5pm. The exhibition is included in entry to the museum. Normal admission applies: Adults £6, concessions £5, children £4.  To find out more, please go to sellymanormuseum.org.uk

The Common Threads exhibition at Packwood House, Packwood Lane, Lapworth, B94 6AT, will be open from 19 January until 5 April 2026, Monday-Sunday 11am-3pm. Entry to the exhibition is included in admission. Details will be available on website: Packwood House | Warwickshire | National Trust