July 2017 marked the 60-year anniversary of the town twinning between York and Münster. The idea for this project was created by Explore York Libraries and Archives and the Civic Office with the aim of creating a digital archive of the memories and experiences of the people of both cities who have taken part in visits and exchanges since 1957. These exchanges have ranged from choral concerts, to dance performances, sports tournaments, language exchanges and much more!

The project invited anyone to create a ‘yarn’ about their experiences and memories of Münster using a platform created through the University of Leeds. It is an easy to use, online portal, which allows individuals or groups to create their own ‘yarn’, composed of words, images, sound or video, which were grouped together to create an overall ‘York – Münster yarn’. Individuals were encouraged to delve into their attics and basements to seek out any photographs, film footage, programmes, diary entries, correspondence or otherwise related to their time in Münster and share their story through Yarn. Similarly, our Münster counterparts were encouraged to contribute. This project culminated in an exhibition and a visit of both York and Münster civic parties to York Explore for an official launch.