A new exhibition celebrating 200 years since renowned naturalist and artist John James Audubon arrived in Liverpool is opening at Liverpool Central Library this weekend.
200 Years of Birds of America opens on Saturday 10 October and explores the fascinating history behind one of the world’s most valuable books, alongside the life and legacy of its creator.
Audubon first arrived in Liverpool in 1826 to secure financial backing and subscriptions for his ambitious publication, The Birds of America, which was completed in 1828.
Liverpool Central Library is home to a complete four-volume set of the celebrated publication, with one volume permanently displayed in a temperature-controlled glass case. Its pages are regularly turned, while an interactive kiosk allows visitors to explore the extraordinary illustrations in detail without risking damage to the original.
The historic collection also has a remarkable connection to Liverpool’s wartime history. During the Second World War, librarian Reginald Biotelli famously rescued the valuable books when the library building was bombed during the Blitz.
More recently, The Birds of America featured in a storyline in the BBC comedy Small Prophets.
The new exhibition brings together a carefully curated selection of treasures from Liverpool’s Archive and Special Collections, alongside items loaned by the Victoria Gallery & Museum and National Museums Liverpool.
Visitors will have the opportunity to discover original sketches by Audubon, including a self-portrait, as well as letters exchanged with prominent Liverpool families and original bird specimens collected and preserved by the naturalist himself.
Among the most extraordinary exhibits is an extremely rare taxidermy Passenger Pigeon, a species that became extinct in the early 20th century. The specimen, on loan from the World Museum, will be displayed alongside other American bird species.
The exhibition will also feature reproductions of original sketches of Native American people by artist George Catlin, held within Liverpool Central Library’s special collections.
Alongside celebrating Audubon’s artistic achievements and the intricate processes involved in producing his remarkable publication, the exhibition will explore more troubling aspects of his life.
This includes his treatment of Native American graves and his use of enslaved people, offering visitors a fuller understanding of the man behind the celebrated work.
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:
“The story behind the creation of the Birds of America book is absolutely fascinating and part of Liverpool’s history.
“We are extremely fortunate to have a copy of this rare book on permanent public display. This exhibition shines a spotlight on how the book came to be created, as well as looking at the man who was behind it.
“Despite his incredible achievements, in more recent years there has been evidence of a darker side to John James Audubon, which is also explored.
“As we approach 200 years since its publication, this is an opportune moment to learn more about it.”
Exhibition Details
Exhibition: 200 Years of Birds of America
Location: Hornby Library, Liverpool Central Library, William Brown Street, Liverpool, L3 8EW
Dates: Saturday 10 October 2026 to February 2027
Admission: Free entry
