Shadwell Heritage is an exciting project in Shadwell, North Leeds, led by Shadwell Local History Society and has been given £10,000 to promote an interest in the history and heritage of the local area, tell their stories through oral history, develop history trails throughout the area, build up an archive of resources and carry out research.

Shadwell Local History Society was launched in November 2012 when the village celebrated the centenary of Shadwell becoming part of Leeds. The society is run by volunteers and works closely with the parish council and Shadwell Independent Library. It aims to develop an interest in the history of the village by involving all sections of the community, including the local primary school, small businesses and community groups. This inspirational project will give local people the opportunity to build up an archive of maps, photos and documents, participate in speaker and other events, and carry out research into various aspects of the village, such as looking into past residents and their occupations and the local public house.

The project also includes interviewing local residents who have lived in the area for a long time, and others who have moved out but spent their life here, so that a picture can be built up of what life was like for people from different social backgrounds and ethnicities. Shadwell Heritage will also develop two history walks around the area, one for children and one for adults, which highlight aspects of historical significance, like the oldest buildings, land use, and street furniture. In short Shadwell Heritage will be accessible and exciting for all residents. Shadwell Local History Society is keen to hear from anyone who can contribute to this initiative.

Commenting on the award, Denise Trickett, Chairperson of Shadwell Local History Society, said: “It’s brilliant that we have been awarded this grant and we can’t wait to get started. We love our local area and know that there is so much more to discover about our past. We are all really excited to be exploring our history and involving the local community in this project”

Fiona Spiers, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund Yorkshire and Humber, said: “Sharing Heritage is a wonderful opportunity for communities to delve into their local heritage and we are delighted to be able to offer this grant so that Shadwell Heritage can embark on a real journey of discovery. Heritage means such different things to different people, and HLF’s funding offers a wealth of opportunities for groups to explore and celebrate what’s important to them in their area.”
 
Notes to editors

Shadwell Local History Society was launched in November 2012 when the group organised an event celebrating 100 years of Shadwell being part of Leeds. The society aims to build on the work done by others in the past, particularly the Women’s Institute, who published a book in 1978 called 'Shadwell and Its People’. The society is run by volunteers, who have now started to plan activities and events, research, walks, the development of the archive, and displays etc.

Further information
Denise Trickett at Shadwell Local History Society on 07850 283 529, email: denise.trickett@btinternet.com.