Blast from the past as historians unite at Telford event - with pictures
Photos, films and artefacts went on display to celebrate Telford’s 50th anniversary.
Nearly 400 people visited The Place, Oakengates, on Saturday where Wrekin Local Studies Forum had organised a community history day.
Residents had the chance to see just how much things had changed in the town during the past 50 years.
About 30 organisations presented displays, including Britannia Aqueduct Historical Society, Telford 3D Buildings Project, Newport History Society, Ironbridge Coracle Trust, Shropshire Historic Churches Trust and Shropshire Caving and Mining Club.
Marilyn Higson chairs the Wrekin Local Studies Forum, a group which brings together organisations and individuals interested in community history around the Telford and Wrekin area.
She said of the exhibition: “There were displays of photos and maps. “Newport History Society brought along a lot of artefacts which had been dug up.“A lot of people had photos, that’s very good for getting people talking.
“There were commercial films from the early days of Telford, they promoted the town to investors and businesses,” Ms Higson added.
“We also had a group of students from Wrekin College who brought in a retro shack, displaying things from the 1960s and 1970s.”
The event was opened by Councillor Rae Evans and drew hundreds of people through the doors.
Ms Higson added: “We are very happy with how it went. It was really fascinating.
“Everyone thought it was a really good venue and there was a good mix of organisations.
“Some of the displays are going on a tour of the libraries.
“They will be going to Oakengates, Southwater, Madeley and Wellington.”
The event was supported by a Telford & Wrekin Council Pride@50 Celebration grant.
