Connected Earth was[citation needed] a UK network of organizations, primarily museums, that preserve the history of telecommunications in the UK.
Heritage artifacts are physically sent to Connected Earth partners and other institutions as appropriate, and are brought together again online through virtual galleries, searchable catalogues and educational resources at its website.[citation needed]
Background
Connected Earth was founded by BT in 2001 and grew from its commitment to the UK's telecommunications heritage. By working with institutional partners the network aimed to ensure that the UK's telecommunications heritage should be both accessible and assured for future generations.[1]
Each partner focused on a different aspect of telecommunications history. Five partners – Amberley, Avoncroft, Goonhilly, Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester and National Museum of Scotland – have hosted dedicated Connected Earth galleries, while others incorporate Connected Earth artefacts into their existing galleries.[citation needed]
Partners continue to collect contemporary communications artefacts and work with other organisations to ensure that the history of communications is preserved.[5]
Through People's Connected Earth, partners also collected stories and memories from the general public and people who worked in the industry.[citation needed]