Memory Collector Workshops

Preserving Ormskirk’s Living History

The Memory Collectors Workshops provided an invaluable opportunity for the people of Ormskirk to come together, share their personal stories, and contribute to preserving the town’s vibrant history. These events, held at Ormskirk Library and the Parish Church, focused on themes that captured the essence of local life, inviting participants to explore and celebrate their shared heritage. The workshops were designed to spark conversations around familiar landmarks and moments in time, with themes like Around Town, Meet Me at the Clock Tower, and Keepsakes and Mementos, encouraging participants to connect with the past and each other.

Event Highlights:

• 16th March 2024 – Ormskirk Library: The first workshop, held at Ormskirk Library, saw a vibrant turnout of approximately 50 participants, with many families bringing their young children to engage in the storytelling experience. The event provided a space for attendees to share their memories, whether they were recalling childhood games around town or reflecting on changes in local landmarks. Alongside the storytelling, participants had the chance to explore displays of local artefacts and historical photographs, which sparked even more memories and conversations. The library’s warm and welcoming atmosphere proved the perfect setting for families to reminisce and learn about the town’s past.

  
  

• 23rd March 2024 – Ormskirk Parish Church: A more intimate gathering took place at Ormskirk Parish Church, where older members of the community shared deeper, more personal connections to the town’s history. This session invited individuals to bring along personal objects that had sentimental significance, allowing them to tell the stories behind these cherished items. Among the most unique and fascinating items shared were a locally made barometer and police-issued purse bells from market days long past—each artefact carrying a story that enriched the overall narrative of Ormskirk’s history. These items, rich with personal and historical context, offered a tangible connection to the past, providing participants with a meaningful way to engage with the town’s heritage.

  
  

The workshops also played a key role in building a community memory archive, a project that is poised to grow and evolve as more memories are shared and recorded. The Memory Collectors initiative is not just about preserving the past, but also about creating a living, breathing repository of local history that future generations can explore. The collaboration with the Ormskirk District Family History Society was especially instrumental, providing a foundation for conversations that inspired participants to uncover hidden stories and connect personal histories with broader community narratives.

As a result of these workshops, plans are now underway to showcase the community archive in future projects. This archive will serve as a testament to Ormskirk’s rich and diverse heritage, ensuring that the memories, stories, and experiences of the town’s people are preserved for years to come. The success of these workshops marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to celebrate and safeguard Ormskirk’s living history, offering a valuable platform for future storytelling and historical exploration.

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