Leader: Joan Hassett

The group meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at Leader’s home at 10am. The Oral and Personal History Group was established about 5 years ago and meets monthly at the home of the group leader Joan Hassett.

Attendance at meetings average about 8 although about 12 people are members of the group. Experience has shown that these figures are sufficient to sustain lively discussions but small enough to enable everyone to contribute. Although the group membership has changed over the years a number of the current members were at the original meeting and continue to be actively involved.

Members of the group vary considerably in age and come from a wide range of backgrounds, different parts of the country and have different life experiences. The one thing they have in common is an interest in the past and use this as a way of looking at their personal or family history. The group select topics of mutual interest to focus on and after 5 years are still finding new areas to discuss.

From the outset group members have written notes or short pieces about the selected topic for the monthly meeting. One of the strengths of the group has been the freedom to interpret or reflect upon a topic in whatever way seems appropriate to each group member. This means that although everyone may be meeting to share thoughts about 'Schooldays' the contributions will vary depending on what particular aspect the group member has chosen to highlight.

Some of the topics discussed over the years have included: Parents, Grandparents, Toys and Games, Fashion, First Job, Weddings, Holidays, Hobbies, Shops, Delivery Services, An Unforgettable Day, Music, Books and Humour.

There are several very important reasons why the group is so successful. We appreciate each others contributions. We take turns and are careful to listen to each other. We respond positively and supportively and enjoy a good laugh when appropriate.

We regularly receive requests from people to join the group but as too large  membership would curtail discussion it was considered better to begin a second group. Oral and Personal History 2 also meets monthly under the leadership of Mo Sherwood. 

  It is hugely stimulating. If interested in this group contact Group Leader to enquire if there is a place free.

 

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Oral & Personal History

2nd Group

 

 

Leader:  Mo Sherwood

Tel: 01604-790098

Email: mosherwood@aol.com

 

Programme for the next six months discussions are as follows :-

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Programme for 2011

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Due to several members having other commitments over the next couple of months we will not be meeting until 15th September when the topic will be clothes and fashion.

Future topics to include Toys and Games, Relatives, Songs and Rhymes.

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We meet at 2.30 pm on the third Thursday of the month at leader's home.

The idea is to discuss a topic which is relevant to us all, but which will hold different memories for each one of us.

An example would be ‘FOOD’.

For some this would bring memories of rationing, for others it may be the exotic food sampled on a recent holiday, for others it means cooking for friends.

  One thing that is certain is that one person’s reminiscences will spark memories for others in the group and lively discussions will ensue.

If you’re interested in reviving memories and possibly even forming the basis of your life story, give me a ring on Northampton 790098. (if on ansaphone leave a number and I will get back to you.) or email me on mosherwood@aol.com

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