Gainsborough Heritage Association is encouraging local people to step back in time and discover what life was really like during the 1940s and 1950s. The war years brought rationing not only for food, but also clothing and petrol. Communities pulled together, many families grew their own vegetables, made clothes and even created rugs from strips of old material. It was very much a ‘make do and mend’ generation.
Children’s games were simple but brought neighbourhoods together. Cats cradle, hopscotch, skipping games, makeshift footballs made from rolled-up rags and circle games such as Ring O’ Roses and The Farmer’s in His Den filled the streets. Older generations may remember these times fondly, when children spent hours outdoors with friends rather than indoors with electronic entertainment.
Visitors to the Gainsborough Heritage Centre can explore recreations of life from years gone by, including old-fashioned shops, a 1950s sitting room and kitchen, and displays showing how everyday life has changed over the decades. Visitors can also sit on the old Lea Road station bench and watch videos created by local children during Future of the Past workshops.
Free drama workshops for young people aged between 11 and 18 continue twice each month. Anyone interested in taking part can email hello@taylormadehearts.co.uk to book a place.
The next heritage talk will take place on Thursday 25th June at Club on the Park, when Rick Berry will present a talk about Gainsborough Old Hall. Doors open at 7.00pm and admission is £5.00. Drinks will be available at the bar. This is a cash-only event. The Heritage Association will also have a stall in Gainsborough Market Place on Saturday 20th June during Armed Forces Day celebrations, selling merchandise from the centre’s gift shop, alongside new and second-hand books and a tombola. There are hopes that a Spitfire and Hurricane flypast may also take place during the event.
The Heritage Centre itself will also be open, offering visitors the chance to enjoy homemade cake and refreshments in the café or browse the gift shop. Entry to the café and gift shop is free. The museum is disability friendly, with toilets and lift access to all floors.
The centre is located on the corner of North Street, DN21 2HS. Admission to the museum is £3.00, with free entry for children accompanied by an adult. Volunteers are on hand to welcome visitors and answer questions.