Take a trip down memory lane in Northampton
Date 20.08.2019
The University of Northampton is just one of many Town centre organisations who have delved into their archives to take a trip down memory lane, as part of a three-week celebration of Northampton’s history and heritage.
The ‘Northampton Memories’ exhibition, which coincides with the National Heritage weekends, has encouraged Town centre organisations to delve into their past and share pictures and videos from as far back as 1800’s with members of the public from 24th August – 15th September.
Phil Oakman, Records Manager at the University of Northampton, who manages the University archives said: “The University archive houses the historical records of the institution. We have items in the archive which date back to 11 March 1867, when a free public lecture on science and art was held in Northampton Town Hall. As a result of its popularity, evening classes in electricity and magnetism were started in October of the same year and the journey to today’s University of Northampton began.
“150 years later and the University archives chart the educational history of the town and its people. Northampton Memories created something that will hopefully generate interest in not only the town’s heritage, but also that of the University – and maybe bring a few people to our archive!”
Mark Mullen, Northampton town centre BID project manager, who has brought the Town together for this initiative said: “Our town centre boasts a very rich and vibrant history and our Northampton Memories campaign will celebrate all of that positive nostalgia.
“Local businesses in particular are very passionate about their past, and we have worked with Northampton Central Library to select the very best images from their archive of thousands so that businesses can display them in their windows for all to see. We hope to generate lots of enthusiasm and a real buzz on social media and among shoppers who will make a special visit into the town centre to look for the Northampton Memories frames.”
Displays in the Grosvenor Centre will also be on show as part of the campaign. Watch Northampton Memories unfold on social media by following the hashtag #NorthamptonMemories and @NorthamptonBID.