Preserving Great Yarmouth memories

Community memories take center stage at Monday Social


On 1st December, we welcomed Poppy from Out There Arts to our Monday Social. Poppy collected memories and personal histories from our members, all centred on the vibrant story of Great Yarmouth.

The event brought everyone together for an session of listening, sharing and learning. The room was full of laughter and reflection. We took turns recounting our experiences of life in the town. It was heartwarming to see and hear how connected people feel to Great Yarmouth and their past

Fun and fascinating moments

Highlights of the session included cheeky bus drivers who told passengers to lean left or right when going round corners to help the bus balance, recollection of visits to Great Yarmouth that later inspired our members to make the town their home and the interesting jobs their ancestors once held.
Poppy brought a collection of pictures that ranged from fascinating to downright bizarre. One image even showed elephants on the beach! We also used some local history books that we have in The Shoebox Hub, to get those memories flowing. We even had members phone their parents during the session to gather more details, uncovering stories no one had shared before. These discoveries became the most meaningful part of the session. We thank Poppy and Out There Arts for providing us with the materials and opportunity to tell our stories.

How to get involved

Join our Monday Socials, held every Monday from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at the Great Yarmouth Community Hub on Tolhouse Street. Come and share your memories of Great Yarmouth and help preserve the town’s unique stories.

Out There Arts are still collecting these memories for their Local Voices event, which will take place at The Ice House next year. Anyone who wants to share their memories can email clarissa@theshoebox.org.uk. She will pass them on to Poppy.