The two-year project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), aims to capture and record the changing history and diverse nature of the Broomhall area. Built in 1867, St Silas has been closed as a church since the year 2000 but still retains many of its original architectural features and memorials.

Project Manager, Jennie Beard said “We are keen to record what we can whilst we have the opportunity and are working with local archaeologist Helen Ullathorne to teach people building recording skills. We want to make a photographic and artistic record of it as well as gather and film people’s memories of it. We are keen to talk to anyone who has memories to share. Perhaps they were baptised or got married there or went to the nearby St Silas school. Anyone with an artistic flair or an interest in copying text or information is welcome to come down and get involved for all or part of the day.

“Next year is the 100th anniversary of World War One and we are keen to mark the occasion by noting down all the names on the oak tablet memorial that still remains attached to the foyer wall. It would be great if we can trace some of the relatives of the men mentioned. An opportunity to learn new skills and contribute to the community efforts should make for an interesting day.”

If you would like to get involved on the day in recording info, taking photos or drawing features or have your own memories to share, please contact Jennie Beard at ourbroomhall@gmail.com or 07810 162 146.

Notes to editors
Working with a range of local community groups and heritage professionals, the Our Broomhall heritage project is funded by the HLF and aims to capture and record the changing history and diverse nature of the area.

The project is providing training in heritage and other transferable skills that will help participants contribute more to community life in the future. Local residents are being trained in oral history techniques to help them gather their neighbour's stories using film, audio and modern digital media technologies. Using these as well as archives & archaeological skills, we will explore the historical development of the area and the role of the local Broomhall community centre within living memory. Uncovering the hidden heritage and social history of Broomhall will enable a more positive story to be told about the area and create a more positive identity within the city of Sheffield.