Rural atlas funded
Feb 16 2008 by Ben Guy, The Journal
A NORTHUMBERLAND history society’s attempts to discover the secrets of the past have gathered momentum with a major funding boost.
Chollerton Parish History Society have been awarded £41,800 by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and the cash will be used to produce an interactive historical atlas over the next two years.
The money will allow the society to work with a team of professional archaeologists and historians to chronicle the development of rural communities in Barrasford and Gunnerton in the Chollerton parish.
Society secretary Geraldine Tate said: “We first applied for it nine months ago, so we were delighted when it was awarded.
“The historical atlas will provide a thorough background to the cultural heritage of the area and provide a basis for members of the community to carry out further work.
“The society volunteers, guided by the archaeologists, will undertake the task of researching and seeking out ancient documents, maps and photographs from various archives, libraries and private collections.
“These will be incorporated in the village atlas which will be preserved and periodically revised for future generations. The award also includes a provision for the recording of oral histories from older members of the community who will contribute valuable and often humorous anecdotes of village life for inclusion in the atlas.”
The cash will also pay for a range of talks and site visits in the community, with the society to organise a programme of events and exhibitions to make the project accessible to all.
Pupils at Chollerton First School will also be involved in lottery funded projects to help develop their interest in the history of the area.
Keith Bartlett, regional manager of HLF North East added: “We are delighted to support this project which delves into the local history of this area in a fresh, exciting and interactive way.
“It is particularly important to involve the community at all levels – with a history project like this, making it relevant to young and old.
“This not only brings history alive but also helps to educate young people on the importance of their local heritage.”
A society meeting to launch the project will be held on Tuesday February 19, in Gunnerton Church at 7.30pm, and all are welcome.
Anyone wishing to be involved in the Atlas, or who has any old photographs, anecdotes or documents which could be included in the work should email chollertonhistorysociety@hotmail.co.uk or telephone them on (01434) 681158.
