THE history of Brighton and Hove has been captured extensively for almost two centuries by the local museum and art gallery.

Many notable exhibitions and reconstructions of the city’s buildings can be seen in the archived photographs above, providing readers with a small slice of local history.

Brighton and Hove Museum and Art Gallery opened its doors to the public on November 5, 1861.

It was opened by Richard Owen, the founder of the Natural History Museum.

Some of the first displays there consisted of natural history specimens, art collected from various sources and other items collected from around the world by residents.

The museum’s collection soon became too big to continue being hosted by the Pavilion and the council made ambitious plans to expand the building.

In 1873, it was moved to its current location in a building especially built for the museum.

The collection continued to grow to include anything from reconstructed shop fronts to old carriages and horse drawn trams.

Among residents’ favourites were reconstructions of shop fronts, including Brighton’s unique cork shop.

Do you recall the shop when it was in Gardener Street?

Shortly after the millennium, Brighton Museum was transformed thanks to a £10 million redevelopment scheme.

The museum entrance was repositioned from Church Street to the Royal Pavilion Gardens and its galleries were also redesigned to become more contemporary.

Do you remember what other changes were made to the museum?

Perhaps you have family or friends who have worked there or helped during the regeneration?