The Shildon History Recall Society was founded around 1984 as a community project after the closure of Shildon Wagon Works.
It allowed people to come together to record their memories of Shildon and its industries such as the mines, textile factories and the railways.
For many years, Shildon Centre on Main Street was home to the group, and upon closure, the group moved to its present home in the Methodist Hall behind Main Street Methodist Church.
Alan Ellwood from the society said: “Over those 38 years we have amassed a large archive of photographs, memories and artefacts pertaining to Shildon’s past and its people, and have visited schools, women’s institutes, nursing homes and other venues to talk about our history and to put on photographic shows.
“Unfortunately, as the years have gone by and members passed away, we now have less than a dozen members, who are in their 70s and 80s, who meet weekly to maintain our archive, help people with research and record events happening today for the townsfolk of the future.
New blood
“The group desperately needs new blood to continue its work and although younger people have from time to time attended our meetings, to learn about Shildon and its history, they tend to gain the information they need and not come back.
“We need younger generations to come forward and to expand our knowledge base for future generations, and at our last meeting it was decided that if we cannot attract new members, the Shildon Recall Society may have to close.
“The group has a constitution which outlines the direction in which we must go if this were to happen, but hopefully this will not be necessary.
Amalgamating
“We would also ask other like-minded groups within the town to consider amalgamating with our group, to share facilities, knowledge and our archive of social, mining and railway history.
“Our meetings are held on Thursday evenings between 7.30pm and 9pm and all are welcome.”
If you can help, or wish to join the group, you can contact Alan Ellwood on 07707 828894 or by email at: alan.ellwood(at)whsmithnet(dot)co(dot)uk.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
