A unique online collection of recordings of people sharing their memories of dance halls, picture houses and the Blitz has launched.
The oral archive includes colourful stories and experiences of people connected to Hull and will be available to listen to for free online at untoldhull.org
This new permanent digital collection forms a unique social history archive created from memories of the past.
Untold Hull features over 100 life story recordings as well as special collections exploring subjects as diverse as Hull’s rich pop music scene, Black African heritage and memories of Newland Avenue in the 1940s and 1950s.
Michelle Alford, Library Services Director, said:
“The Untold Hull Archive is a valuable addition to the Hull Library Service collections. Hearing the past brought to life by the words and voices of ordinary people is fascinating and moving.
“It is remarkable to hear evacuation stories, memories of childhood from the 1930s about the dance halls, picture houses, industries, shops, streets and daily life. All of these oral histories come together to create an outstanding collection that reflects the rich heritage of Hull.”
The recordings will also be showcased at a launch event at Hull Central Library on Friday from 10am until 5pm.
The recordings will be played throughout the day. People can drop in to find out more about the archive and listen to people talking about their memories of Hull from the 1930s to the present day.
Online at untoldhull.org there will be a full text search facility which filters recordings by subject including street names, dates and historic events such as the Second World War.
Councillor Terry Geraghty, Hull City Council Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Tourism and Chair of Hull Culture and Leisure Limited, said:
“Untold Hull is a fascinating archive of stories which has only been made possible thanks to the fantastic contribution of everybody who has shared their experiences of this great city.
“I encourage everyone to go online and enjoy this brilliant project.”
Untold Hull is a Hull Library Service project funded by the James Reckitt Library Trust.
