The idea
A film of stories from children evacuated from Tyneside in 1940, seen through the eyes of young people from the Haltwhistle Film Project.
We want to tell the story of the journey from the bombs and shipyards of Tyneside to rural safety of Haltwhistle. Through research by Wallsend Local History Society, we know who had the best billet, who loved it, What was it like to meet a cow for the first time what was it like to leave your family behind? We would like the former evacuees, now over 80 years old to share their stories with you.
Our Haltwhistle young people are looking forward to hearing these wartime stories and creating a film record of these memories. This film will bridge the gaps between 1940s and now and bridge the generations. We want this to be a record of the journeys made and to be a resource for schools and groups studying World War Two.
This is social history looking at the impact of war. Are there lessons for today?
What we'll deliver
- film record
- recording memories and stories before they are lost
- developing young people's skills
- resource for schools, history groups, museums
Why it's a great idea
Our project will give voice to those evacuated from Wallsend to Haltwhistle in 1940 who are now over 80 years old. It will build the connections between urban and rural areas. Young and old working together will learn from each other as we produce a film which values the contribution of an overlooked generation and provides a record of past lives and past experiences. Young people from the Haltwhistle Film Project will develop practical skills in researching, interviewing, filming and production as well as learning about the disruption experienced by a previous generation. We also want our film to encourage people to explore the Tyne Valley by rail and to promote the community of Haltwhistle and surrounding areas. The film will also promote Wallsend Local History Society who do much to encourage the study of history in North Tyneside. This film will be available as a resource for schools and groups who are interested in learning about war time challenges.
Steps to get it done
- Meet the young people who are part of the Haltwhistle Film Project
- Young people 'meet' some evacuees
- Script developed by Haltwhistle Film Project
- Filming and editing takes places
- The final film released and a big shout out on social media
Through the making of this film we want to increase the wellbeing of former evacuees who are living in care homes, with families or on their own. In a small way, we want this to decrease loneliness. Through initial research, Wallsend Local History Society have contacted a number of former evacuees who have never had the opportunity to tell their stories to a wider audience. Many are excited at the prospect that their stories may be recorded for future generations.
