MANY families possess a family archive; documents, photographs, heirlooms, scrapbooks, recipes and a range of other items that can reveal insights into past generations.

However, they may never have thought of their collections as 'archives'.

But, by retaining and preserving these possessions, often kept in shoeboxes, under beds, on top of wardrobes or in sheds or garages, these items can create a sense of family identity. 

The Blake family archive revealed many such treasures, and has now been gathered for a must-see exhibition at Enniskillen Castle.

However, the opening of the exhibition has been tinged with an air of sadness following news of the passing of Enniskillen publican, Pat Blake.

Born ‘between the bridges’, the 91-year-old ran the bar previously named Melvin House, which is the now famous as Pat’s Bar on the Diamond, as it had quickly become known with Pat at the helm. 

He is just one of the many Blakes who have left an indelible mark on the business fabric of Enniskillen town. 

This exhibition traces the origins of the family business from its foundation in 1880 as a grocer's shop on Chapel Street, Derrylin, to the Blakes' businesses today.

Through words, pictures, artefacts and other archival materials, the exhibition focuses on the characters of the tale.

It looks at their lives and the contributions they have made to Enniskillen and beyond over the years.

Their hard work and dedication to family, community and business have inspired this exhibition.

Many changes have occurred over the past 140 years, and it is against this backdrop of change that this exhibition is defined.

The Blake Family archive went on display last week, and runs until September 22 at Enniskillen Castle.