Voices of

This warm and nostalgic collection of memories reveals the fascinating history of North and South Ockendon before, during and after the Second World War. The 1930s saw great change in South Ockendon as London Land Company, London County Council and Essex County Council began buying up land belonging to the Belhus estate and, after the Second World War, rehousing families from London whose homes had been destroyed by the Blitz. Life also changed for the inhabitants of North Ockendon, as the old ways of farming were replaced by modern machinery, with jobs disappearing and village life diminishing. Horses practically vanished from the area and rows of green vegetables were replaced by wheat, barley and rape. Those who live and have lived in the area reminisce about their childhoods, creating a valuable historical record of Ockendon heritage which will bring back poignant memories to all who have connections with the area.

Voices of Geordie Childhood is a remarkable compilation of oral history extracts drawn from the extensive Beamish Museum Audio Archive, revealing what childhood was like as recalled by over one hundred Tynesiders born at the turn of the century and onwards. Vivid memories are recounted, including stories of family and friends, of play, school, home and work, of sheltering from air raids and trips to the seaside. This delightful compendium of memories offers a child's-eye view of life, from staying in hospital to making Christmas decorations, from watching street entertainers to wearing charity boots – revealing a Geordie childhood now fading from memory. Richly illustrated with over sixty pictures from the museum archive, many previously unpublished, this volume is sure to bring back wonderful reminiscences of childhood, and jog memories for those who grew up in Tyne and Wear.