Record
No.
Series
Title
OT 526
Abingdon Oral Miss Elizabeth
History Project Aldworth
OT 527
Abingdon Oral Leslie Aubrey
History Project Argyle
OT 528
Abingdon Oral Matt Ashmall
History Project
OT 529
Abingdon Oral Trudi Ashmall
History Project
Content
b. 1921, brought up in Abingdon. Education at St Helen's School;
lessons, the nuns, effects on the school of early years of World War 2.
To St Annes's Oxford to read English - students did war work in Oxford
and she did so also in Abingdon. Teacher From 1966 taught at the new
John Mason School. Growing up in Abingdon - leisure activities,
importance of the river, walks, parties, dances, processions, the cinema.
Evacuees coming to the town in the war. Buildings that have been
demolished. for the worse and better - among former, closure of the
Station.
b. 1927, all his life in two houses in Abingdon. Schooling. Most of
working life as a baker - much interesting detail about the work, effects
of the weather, changes in people's tastes. Leisure activities - would go
to Oxford, Stratford, London, plays, opera etc, using buses and trains,
hitchhiking home from Didcot etc. Boat trips on the Thames. Dancing
with the Morris Men - the Ock Street Horns, names of the dances. Was
the elected Mayor of Ock Street for 16 years. Has lived in Ock Street
years. Long time member of Trinity Methodist Church. His feelings
about living in Abingdon.
b. 1971, Matt grew up on Dunmore Farm estate. Memories of play
school, primary school, Fitzharry's Secondary. School sport, activity
holidays, sailing on Farmoor Reservoir. Scouting, fishing. Changes at
Dunmore Farm - most of the shops gone. in the river and the Abbey
grounds. Watching the river steamers. Changes in the Market Place. The
old toy shop. The Fair. Bun throwing at the Jubilee. After leaving
school, had various jobs, then settled with a finance company. Now
marrried, lives Peachcroft Estate. Changes in the town; more houses,
some pubs have disappeared, the Brewery and MG works closed.
b. 1971, married to Matt [OT 528]. Trudi describes her family and
home, first memories of Abingdon, and her days at nursery and primary
school, comparing her experiences with those of her young daughters.
After secondary school, work at Oxford PO a bank then training as a
nursery nurse. Marriage. Involvement with Guides and Venture Scouts.
Memories of the Market Place, Queen's Hotel, her grandparents' pub the
Spread Eagle, shops, the cattle market, walking along the river, the Fair.
Interviewer
Date
Smith, Angela 26.1.2002
Smith, Angela 30.1.2002
Legge, Lesley
11.4.2002
Legge, Lesley
11.4.2002
OT 530
Abingdon Oral Mrs Joan V.
History Project Ballard
OT 531
Abingdon Oral Miss Joyce Barnett
History Project
OT 532
Abingdon Oral Mervyn Beadle
History Project
Enjoys near the centre, for the library, facilities at the Old Goal etc. The
Farmers' Market is good, but the town needs more variety of shops.
People should be proud of their town and the river and look after the
historic buildings.
b. 1909 (nee Mayhead] Her parents moved to Abingdon 1911, took over
Lion Hotel after her grandfather's death. Good descriptions of life in the
High Street, the Fair, shops, Monday market day and cattle market; the
hotel and its guests. She married 1922 - her husband's agricultural
business and smithy, his work as a volunteer fireman. World War 2 people billeted on them, her work in the Red Cross, clinic for refugees,
food rationing, air raid shelters. Her husband often called out to air in
Birmingham, Coventry etc. Recreation - swimming in the river Thames,
picnics, shopping in High Street and Ock Street, pageants and parties.
How has life in Abingdon changed? For the better - slum clearance, less
illness, river banks have been Abbey grounds opened up, more for
young people to do, but traffic is worse and people are not as happy as
they were.
b. 1912, lived in Bath Street until 1934, in an old house over her father's
shop, educated at St Helen's School. Importance of the river; picnics,
rowing the family's boat, the bathing place [plenty of detail]. Early
memories - Abingdon a much place, little traffic, children's parties,
taking part in an Amateur Dramatic Society production, the Fair. After
leaving school worked in an insurance office and became very involved
in the Guild of Abbey Players, taking part in amateur dramatic and
appearing as Queen Henrietta Maria, wife of Charles I in a historical
pageant. Left Abingdon 1945, in 1946 joined a new repertory company,
began career as a professional actor; people she met, where she worked.
On return to Abingdon 1954, first at Brize Norton, then to better paid
job in the town. Changes - better facilities, redevelopment, closure of
brewery, much traffic; she would not want to live anywhere else.
b. 1927, educated at a convent school, then to Abingdon School. In RAF
1945-1946, worked at Harwell until 1951, then he joined his father in
the family's ironmongery shop. History of the firm, the old building in
which it is situated, changes in sorts of things people want to buy over
the last 50 years. The town centre and shops when he was a boy, the
Fair, Silver Jubilee procession [George V], air raid shelters and gas
Pratley, Ann
Marie
18.8.2000
Pratley, Ann
Marie
10.4.2001
Smith, Angela 8.2000
OT 533
Abingdon Oral Mr Cyril Bernthal
History Project
OT 534
Abingdon Oral Charlotte
History Project Blackwell and
Kate Buckley
OT 535
Abingdon Oral
History Project
masks in World War 2. Changes in the town - far more houses, some
old such as Fitzharry's Manor demolished, the Station gone. He misses
the good political meetings. Hopes remaining old buildings will be
looked after. The town has a good community spirit.
b. 1918 in Abingdon. His father's market garden in Northcourt.
Schooldays and sport. The General Strike. Walking with friends in
Bagley Wood, meeting tramps, mostly ex-servicemen. Cox's saw mill.
Playing in the gravel pit. The Fair. Changes in Street and the rebuilding
of Abingdon Bridge 1928-1931. After leaving school he was
apprenticed as an electrician. Some account of the work. Learning to
drive on the Ridgeway, the introduction of driving tests. World War 2 conscription, medical [nothing about war experiences]. Changes in the
town - for the better, the A34 bypass and the inner relief road. For the
worse - the shopping area and Broad Street where changes have
'destroyed the town', and the removal of Queen Victoria's statue the
Abbey Grounds.
Both born in 1987 at Radcliffe Infirmary Oxford, grew up in Abingdon,
both pupils at John Mason School. What they do in their spare time;
salsa dancing [Charlotte], ballet and horse riding [Kate]. Special
memories from their present school - going the farm that the school
owns in Wales - orienteering, cooking their meals, bog hopping.
Description of a school trip to St Petersburg and Moscow; visitng a
Russian School. Visit to Aachen for the Christmas market - trying out
their German. The Drama Club. Subjects they are taking for GCSE,
plans for A Levels and the future. Abingdon Museum, the river, the
Leisure Centre. There is plenty fot young people to do if one looks for
it.
b. 1915 in Berlin, came to England 1937, she and her husband moved to
Abingdon when they retired 1981, find it a very friendly place. Both
very active in local organisations. She helped found Abingdon AngloGerman Club, the Abingdon branch of of Students of the Third Age,
and Abingdon European Society. Both are members of Abingdon
Archaeological Society and Abingdon Naturalists' Association. Regrets
disappearance of old houses and shops. Abingdon a very good place for
walks; enjoys along the river. A big need - more places where clubs, and
friends, can meet.
Smith, Angela
Jameson,
Audrey
11.4.2003
Argyle, Leslie
7.11.2000
OT 536
Abingdon Oral Mary Carslaw
History Project
OT 537
Abingdon Oral Dennis Carter
History Project
OT 538
Abingdon Oral Edna Carter
History Project
OT 539
Abingdon Oral John David
History Project Chapman
b. 1911 in East St Helen's Street, lived in same house till age 17, family
moved to house nearby with bigger garden, again in the first house with
husband and children from 1954. Detailed descriptions of East and West
St Helen's Streets, the slums, father's surgery, who lived in the various
houses, Queen's Hotel, buildings that have disappeared. After school in
Abingdon and Oxford, trained with Red Cross, helped in hospitals, in
World War 2 served away from home as a hospital cook. Marriage
1946, lived with her husband in India for a few years. Life in Abingdon
when she was a child. Changes in the town - carpet factory and brewery
gone, and the cattle market. Her parents' involvement in the life of the
town. The history of their house.
b. 1926 at Drayton near Abingdon, family moved to Abingdon 1930.
From earliest days fascinated by trains, would watch them all day at
Steventon and later, trains on Abingdon-Radley line. At 15 started work
at Abingdon Station. Detailed account of life on the railway - in the
engine sheds, particular incidents, working as a fireman from Oxford to
Paddington. Abingdon trains to Radley [to connect with London trains]
took 5 minutes, 22 trains per day; Abingdon Station closed 1963.
Dennis left traffic department, worked as a porter at Radley.
b. 1923 in Abingdon. Detailed reminiscences of life in Ock Street in
1920's and 1930's - picnics in the Park, Sunday School outings, playing
in the street, the shopkeepers, bakers and milkmen, the swimming place
in the river. The Fair - the time new clothes, preparations and
anticipation, horses and steam engines, watching the rides being set up,
going on the Big Horses. At 14 began work at Coxeter's, in World War
2 with Air Ministry, then in Land Army, later secretary at MG car
company. Queen's visit to the town 1956. Family outings to pick
primroses and bluebells. The Monday Market, animals coming through
the streets. Sunday School and church; she is now an Elder of Trinity
Church. Dances at the Corn Exchange during the War. Met husband
when he was in RAF; he was from South Wales, but very happy to live
in Abingdon.
b. 1930 in Abingdon. At 14, after leaving school, apprenticed to Wessex
Electricity Company. Effects of the fire at the clothing factory.
Travelling to different towns and villages, varied work. Changes of
name of the company. Later in career on motorway lighting and traffic
Goode, Jenny
25.1.2001
Smith, Angela 20.9.2002
Argyle, Leslie
25.9.2000
Smith, Angela 22.2.2003
OT 540
Abingdon Oral Kevin Clare
History Project
OT 541
Abingdon Oral Melanie Dowling
History Project and Richard
Grimshaw
OT 542
Abingdon Oral Mr Fred Edwards
History Project
lights. Putting up flood lighting for VE and VJ Days in Abingdon.
Memories of early days - childrens's cinema club, floods, fishing in the
river, the steamers, the Air Training Corps, National Service in RAF, in
Germany, afterwards back to his usual work. Effects of having electric
light in houses where people had used candles. Changes in the town mainly for the worse.
b. 1941, Didcot. After working in London, returned to Abingdon to help
in father's sports shop; Kevin opened a camping department. Early
memories of living in Bridge Street, the river, the Fair. Changes in the
town centre; he analyses these at pointing out the mistakes made. Refers
to discussions by the Council with an insurance company that owned
some of the land over developments. Need for a bus station. Siting of
Waitrose. Market Place could be used for more events eg Morris
Dancing, fairs. Improvements - there are more good eating places and
lovely walks along the river; the Museum. Need for more activities for
young people. Would another river crossing help the traffic situation?
b. 1987, both pupils at John Mason school, Melanie brought up in
Abingdon, Richard's family moved there when he was 10. Both hope to
study law. Richard keen bridge player, hopes to get into England junior
team. Melanie does judo to national level, involved in singing and
drama in county youth organisations. Highlights in school life - poetry
reading competitions, drama, musicals, the school visit to Moscow.
Practical experience of mock Magistrates' Court, preparing a case in
competition with schools. School representatives to the Youth Forum,
debating questions of local and national interest, in co-operation with
the Council [Vale of White Horse], interesting to meet with
representatives from other schools, private and state. Future of
Abingdon - Sports Centre is good, but more is needed for young people.
b. 1916 in Abingdon. Memories of the town when he was young - the
cattle market, animals driven through the streets; singing in the choir of
St Helen's Church, the annual choirboys treat; the pubs, especially in
Ock Street, the older houses and who in them. His position as Governor
of the school he attended and other work serving the town - chairman
and organiser of the teenagers' dance club, official at Town Hall
functions, lecturer on history of the County Hall, Special Constable,
Sunday teacher and server at St Helen's; fostering and adopting
Argyle, Leslie
15.2.2001
Jameson,
Audrey
4.4.2003
Hutchins,
David
23.1.2001
OT 543
Abingdon Oral Kathleen Evans
History Project
OT 544
Abingdon Oral Mr Jack Fisher
History Project
OT 545
Abingdon Oral Ruby Fitzsimons
History Project
OT 546
Abingdon Oral Peter A. Gent
History Project
numerous boys; with his wife to a Buckingham Palace Garden Party.
Shops that have disappeared; living in Stert Street and Ock Street, the
old Fire Brigade, swimming in the river, family His work at the Quarter
Sessions held at the Town Hall. Held high office in the Ancient Order of
Oddfellows; their annual service at St Helen's.
b. 1928 in London, came to Abingdon 1962. Big contrasts between life
in the two places, Abingdon seemed very quiet. Living on the Harwell
estate, joining in local activities and sports. Description of former shops
in the town centre, walks by the the Bun Throwing, the Fair. Does not
like the changes in the Market Square and Precinct but likes new
buildings where the Station was. Very happy to live in Abingdon and to
have brought up her children here, would never go back to London.
b. 1923 Abingdon. Memories of days in the Home Guard 'A' Company
No. 2 Platoon, which he joined in 1941. Detailed descriptions of what
they did - 'attacks' on Abingdon aerodrome, practising rifle shooting, a
grenade demonstration in which one man accidentally killed and he
himself had a lucky escape. A visit to London to see the bomb damage.
1944 went into the Army. Weapons used, practising them, not always
safely.
b. 1916, has spent most of her life in Abingdon. Memories of a happy
childhood, her father's allotment, home-made wine, school, strict
discipline, life in East St Helen's Street, visit to the town by George VI,
her marriage, bringing up her two The shops and shopkeepers, the
kindness of the Rev Mr Phillips of St Michael's Church and his wife; her
first seaside holiday. Building of the new bridge. The Fair. Crowds
coming to watch the Boxing Day Hunt Meet in the Market Place. Morris
the Mayor of Ock street.
b. 1922, has lived in Abingdon all his life. After leaving school, worked
at Officers' Mess RAF Abingdon, at 18 called up, was trained as
Aircraft Electrician, served in India and Coastal Command in Aircrew.
After the War, back to the Officers' His father in the Abingdon
voluntary fire brigade - during the war, it became part of National Fire
Service, members were called to help put out fires when Coventry,
Plymouth etc were bombed. Peter joined the Drama Club, where he met
his wife. On Town Council and on various committees. Changes in
Abingdon.
Argyle, Leslie
2.2.2001
Smith, Angela 31.1.2004
Argyle, Leslie
21.3.2002
Aldworth,
Elizabeth
20.4.2001
OT 547
Abingdon Oral Richard Gibson
History Project
OT 548
Abingdon Oral Stephen Gibson
History Project
OT 549
Abingdon Oral Mrs Beryl
History Project Gottfried
OT 550
Abingdon Oral Winifred Green
History Project
OT 551
Abingdon Oral Johnny Grice
History Project
b. 1969 N.Ireland. Education in Abingdon, university, work in National
Health Service. Joined Liberal Democratic Party, elected for Fitzharry's
Ward in 1995 when the party gained control of the town council from
Conservatives. Work on the Leisure Contains information about plans
for the old Regal Cinema, new Leisure Centre (Audlett Drive) and
development of Morland's Brewery site, local government planning, no.
45 The Vineyard and Housing Association building.
b. 1975, has spent most of his life in Abingdon. Now works for Thames
Water, in Reading and London, but lives in Abingdon. Was elected to
the town council; special concerns Planning, Environment, Finance and
General Purposes. Discusses why most of his age take so little part in
local politics; does not intend to stand again after his 4-year term.
Special events - Remembrance Day services; bun throwing. Changes for
the better - more good places for eating - some pubs do very good food;
the Theatre.
b. 1929 in Abingdon. School and Sunday School. The shops in West St
Helen Street, people who lived there, the High Street. Swimming at the
bathing place, playing by the river. Dances at the Corn Exchange,
cycling as far as Wantage to dances. What changed most in Abingdon losing the fields and the wild flowers. Good changes - health care is
free, education is better, children are better dressed - but people do not
trust each other as they used to.
b. 1933 London. Came to Abingdon as an evacuee in 1939, with a group
from Millwall including her sisters. Very interesting account of the
bewilderment and various experiences, good and less good, of staying
with local families and at a house for near Albert Park, education
somewhat chaotic. Later the whole family moved to Abingdon and lived
in Bridge Street. Playing by the river, swimming, dances at the Church
Hall and Corn Exchange. Work as a clerk at MG factory. What the town
centre was - busy with buses, few cars, many small shops, buying
rationed food. The Queen's Hotel. Change for the better - the Abbey
Grounds. For the worse - the Precinct, pulling down of the Corn
Exchange,
b. 1931, came to Abingdon with his sister in 1940 as evacuees, made
very welcome by two sucessive families. Enjoyed coming to live in the
country after experiencing bombing. Playing football and cricket,
Smith, Angela 18.8.2002
Goode, Jenny
3.4.2003
Smith, Angela 26.2.2001
Smith, Angela 12.2.2001
Hutchins,
David
3.9.2002
OT 552
Abingdon Oral Joan Hammond
History Project
OT 553
Abingdon Oral Peter Harris
History Project
OT 554
Abingdon Oral Edward (Ted)
History Project Harvey
helping at stable near the Station. In 1945 of the family moved to
Abingdon, lived in Ock Street. After leaving school, served in RAF,
then worked at RAF Abingdon, at Morris Motors, then Oxford Magnet
Technology. Life in Ock Street - floods, blockhouse and tank traps in
case of invasion, the centre, town celebrations, the cinema, the
swimming place in the river. Pubs in Ock Street, full of servicemen
during and after the War.
b. 1922 Great Yarmouth; family moved to Abingdon 1940 because of
the War, stayed with her grandmother in East St Helen Street. How the
War affected life in Abingdon. She worked as civil servant with RAF,
when war ended to Lloyds Bank, first at at Carfax Oxford for 10 years,
then to Abingdon to open the branch there. Dances at the Corn
Exchange, the cinema, shops in High Street and Ock Street. East and
West St Helen Streets - some derelict and very small houses, now
upgraded. The clothing the Fair; floods and bad winters. The Centre in
the late fifties and early sixties. Her grandparents' family connections
with the area. Present interests - member of the Horticultural Society,
started the Flower Club. Changes in the town - shopping with the advent
of supermarkets, the Station gone, buses in the High Street - a bus
station needed. Hopes the town will not change too much.
b. 1935 in Abingdon, has spent most of his life in the town. Education at
primary school age 5-15, no secondary schools at the time, then N.
Berks College. Celebrations at the end of the war; the Corn Exchange,
singing in church choirs. After Service, worked at Nuffield Exports,
Cowley, then for two leather companies, Henry Booth and Pavlova.
Gives detailed description of the treatment of the skins, various
processes, working conditions. Changes for the better? no longer floods
in Ock For the worse? closing of the cinema; people can no longer leave
doors and windows open, not safe for children to go to the park as they
used to.
b. 1920 d. 2002. Teacher at Bury Street School 1949 - 56. A
conversation between Ted Harvey and the interviewer John Brucker
who had been at primary school together in Oxford, about how they
both came to be teaching at Bury Road School, Abingdon. talk about
how they were appointed, the classrooms and the children, the big
classes, noise from the airfield and the abattoir, the inadequate heating,
Pratley, Anne
Marie
5.2.2001
Smith, Angela 30.4.2001
Brucker, John
20.1.2001
OT 555
Abingdon Oral Frank Haynes
History Project
OT 556
Abingdon Oral Dr Per Helander
History Project
OT 557
Abingdon Oral Ewart Hemmings
History Project
OT 558
Abingdon Oral Sheila Hills
History Project
an inspection, a notable football match, the lack of books and
equipment, occasional school trips.
b. 1910, llth of 13 children, lived in the Vineyard for about 24 years,
then Oxford Road until the present. School, playing truant. The family
home - father a decorator, shop on the ground floor, sharing a bed with
two brothers. Swimming and in the river. Numerous anecdotes about
adventures and people. His frequent changes of job, apprenticeship as a
carpenter, temporary decorating work, getting dole money. Worked at
Harwell age 52 to 65. In Abingdon Fire Service during the War. Change
the better - slums demolished - but too much traffic; people don't come
to see him.
b. 1967 in Sweden, spent two years in Alabama at age 16, otherwise
education at school and university in Sweden. After graduation he and
his wife offered jobs in US, after one year the government funding was
axed; moved back to Europe and he took a in the area of plasma physics
at Culham UK Atomic Energy Authority, which he had already visited
frequently. Reflections on living in England. Importance of work on
nuclear power for the world's future energy needs. Culham world leader
in this Hobbies etc; he and his wife play in string quartets; visiting
Blackwell's bookshop in Oxford; friends at St Helen's Church.
b. 1930 Abingdon; when nine, the family moved to South Abingdon in
slum clearance scheme. Contrasts between his old and new homes.
Early memories of Ock Street. World War 2. School summer holidays swimming in the Ock, children's fishing Left school at 14, worked for
Morland's Brewery, then Nuffield Exports, finally at Pressed Steel for
45 years. What the various jobs entailed. Social life - Abingdon Youth
Club, dances at Corn Exchange and Church Hall. Changes - Queen's
Hotel gone, of Queen Victoria moved from Market Square - town much
bigger, new housing in places where they used to go for Sunday walks
in the country. Shops when he was a boy - very good memory for detail.
Changes in the road system. The Hemmings an old family, involved in
the traditions of Ock Street; the Traditional Morris Dancers. Change for
the better - upkeep of the County Hall. For the worse - loss of the Cattle
Market.
b. 1930, Luton, moved to Abingdon 1955 when her husband began
work at Harwell. Being a trained teacher of French, was asked to teach
Pratley, Anne
Marie
19.8.2000
Goode, Jenny
15.9.2000
Legge, Lesley
4.10.2000
Goode, Jenny
2.5.2001
OT 559
Abingdon Oral Norman J. Holmes
History Project JP
OT 560
Abingdon Oral Noreen Howrigan
History Project
OT 561
Abingdon Oral June and David
History Project Hutchins
OT 562
Abingdon Oral
John Jones
at John Mason School at very short notice, later taught there full time.
John Mason School in its early years - the the grammar school ethos,
unusually wide range of languages, a very happy school. Life in
Abingdon - the river, bun-throwings, going to classes and clubs, close
involvement with St Helen's Church, especially the choir. Buildings that
have changed. husband's job as organic chemist at Harwell and Grove.
After his retirement, both did further study part time at Brookes
University; her degree in Art History led to work as voluntary guide at
Ashmolean Museum.
b. 1922 Northants, family moved to Abingdon 1927 to take over bakery
business in Ock Street. School at Conduit Road, at 10 to Abingdon
School. Ock Street - a poor street, West St Helen and the Abbey even
worse. On leaving school was to train in in London, but because of War
joined the RAF, became a pilot, later an instructor. Joined the family
business. His father Mayor of Abingdon in Coronation Year. Growth of
the town; closing of MG, but far more people now employed on the
former site. a magistrate in 1958, what this means; Governor of Christ
Hospital, its meetings mainly concerned with administering its property.
Side 2 more detail about his Service in RAF, including training in USA.
b. 1921 Abingdon. Memories of living in Bridge Street. Education at
Miss Gillett's School and Conduit Road School; poetry, singing,
cooking lessons. After leaving school, apprenticed to Chivers drapery
store. In World War 2 joined WAAF and learnt drive lorries in North
Wales.
David b. 1924 June b. 1927. June reminisces about living in West St
Helen St, then moving to a modern house in Saxton Road. Picnics by
the river, the Fair, the Town Crier announcing the outbreak of war, the
blackout. Her father's job on the her first job, how she met her husband.
Big changes in the town when the Harwell people came. The railway,
old hospital and cinema gone, less variety of shops. David lived for first
8 years in an alley near the Abbey Grounds. The Fair and the Fair.
Sports Day in the Abbey Grounds, the Congregational Church and the
Sunday School summer trip. The Fire Station, the Corn Exchange,
flower and vegetable shows. His father's work as a harness maker.
Shops and shopkeepers, pubs.
b. 1917 Liverpool, to Abingdon for his first teaching post, 1949. Head
Goode,
Michael
2002 = 2003
Smith, Angela 16.7.2000
16.6.2001
Argyle, Leslie
6.11.2000
OT 562
OT 563
History Project
of Art at Larkmead School; description of the school, his teaching
experiences, the children. Very much involved in local government;
events in which he took part as councillor Mayor of Abingdon - visit by
the Queen, the historical pageant. Twinning with the city of Lucca,
Italy. Details of the growth of Abingdon from 9000 to 36000 people,
building of the Precinct, negotiations with developers, purchase of
Abingdon decisions about allowing Tesco to build a supermarket.
Changes - loss of old buildings including slums which had no water or
electric light, mistakes in design of buildings to replace Queen's Hotel,
changes in way of life - people watch TV, do they a new cinema?
Abingdon Oral Norah Jones
History Project
b. 1921, Abingdon; the family lived at Culham, then moved to
Abingdon. Schooling in Abingdon, then Milham Ford School Oxford.
Apprenticed to a fashion designer at Elliston and Cavell department
store in Oxford. Met her husband, Sam, who was at RAF Abingdon,
married at 18. While he was away over 4 years serving in the war, her
mother looked after their son and she worked at MG, rivetting
instrument panels, test driving the few sports cars still being made for
export. The town centre she was young - dances at the Church Hall and
Corn Exchange. Her husband joined the Town Council 1967. Interesting
account of a very busy and enjoyable year when he was Mayor
including visits to Buckingham Palace, a private party with Princess
official functions, opening of the Precinct. Changes in the town - too
many people coming in and too many shops going out. New housing
estates are good. But the town is dead.
b. 1913, Dublin. Father in the Army; when he was stationed at Didcot,
Goode, Jenny
she became a boarder at Our Lady's Convent, Abingdon. Entered the
Convent 1931, remained at Abingdon apart from 3 years in Sussex.
Some brief memories of schooldays, shops in the the swimming place.
Living conditions of the nuns. Chose to teach Geography, with some
tuition from other nuns, but no formal training. Children evacuated from
London etc at the school during the War. How the sisters of Mercy
began, why they set up house in Abingdon. Visting the poor. Changes
for the worse - traffic, vandalism.
b. 1932 in Thame, lived in Abingdon from age 4. At Bury Street School, Aldworth,
then won scholarship to St Helen's School, followed by secretarial
Elizabeth
OT 564
Abingdon Oral Sister Gabriel
History Project
OT 565
Abingdon Oral Brenda Kentish
History Project
11.11.2002
5.6.2003
25.7.2001
OT 566
OT 567
OT 568
OT 569
OT 570
Abingdon Oral King, Bill
History Project
Abingdon Oral Mr Ray Lacey
History Project
Abingdon Oral Frank La Forte
History Project
Abingdon Oral Alwyn and
History Project Margaret
Langsford
Abingdon Oral Violet Looker
History Project
course in Oxford. Worked at Abingdon Police Station. Member of St
John Ambulance Brigade; helped at Didcot crash [13 killed, about 90
injured]. Improved her secretarial skills, took teaching qualification,
taught at Abingdon College for 22 years. Life in Abingdon when she
was young - dances at the Corn Exchange, the Fair, bun throwing, VJ
Day Memories of shops, milk man delivering with horse and cart,
brewery drays. Much involved with St Helen's Church and ecumenical
activities - the month-long 'Abingdon Alive' Festival. Improvements in
the river frontage, lovely walks but fewer boats. memories, when a
Jewish girl evacuee stayed with the family.
b. 1938. Upper Thames Patrol.
b. 1943 Sutton Courtney near Abingdon. Responsible as Head Water
Keeper [formerly Bailiff], with 6 assistants, for a stretch of the Thames
including Abingdon. On duty day and night to stop night fishing and
fishing without licence, to collect needles washed up on the bank by
flooding, to deal with mooring problems and boats carelessly steered
into fishing lines. The danger of leaving young children fishing on their
own. Children caught with cannabis resin. Saving people from
drowning. of fish in the river. Has been in this job for 30 years.
Abingdon Oral History Project. Frank La Forte b. 1926
Alwyn b. 1934 Lancs, Margaret b. 1935 Yorks. Met when he was a
research student at Oxford and she was teaching at Milham Ford School
Oxford. He then worked at Harwell, they settled in Abingdon as a
convenient place for both jobs. Early memories of and its shops;
difficulties of getting around in snow in winter 1963. Alwyn speaks at
length about Abingdon Music Society choir, its conductors,
performances, his work on the committee. Abingdon's need for a
concert hall. Margaret talks about her in the Council of Churches and its
development into the Church in Abingdon. Changes in the town - more
restaurants, more things for people to do. Special occasions - bun
throwing, Air Shows.
b. 1917, settled in Abingdon 1946 when her husband Jack was
demobilised following 6 years abroad with REME. Getting used to
living in what seemed like a village. Husband worked for Esso
Jameson,
12.2.2004
Gordon
Smith, Angela 16.4.2004
Jameson,
Gordon
Argyle, Leslie
1.12.2003
Goode,
Michael
20.6.2001
12.8.2002
OT 571
Abingdon Oral Mr Kelvin Lucy
History Project
OT 572
Abingdon Oral Nancy McCormick
History Project
OT 573
Abingdon Oral David Manship
History Project
Research, Milton. Their home, allotment, shops in the town, steamers,
the old Hospital, her work as a seamstress at Esso. After retirement Jack
became Verger of St Helen's Church; what this involved. How he and a
friend painted the whole inside of the church in gratitude for their life's
happiness. Her a London fireman who lost an arm in an air raid.
Anecdote about getting the local fire service to drain their pond. Violet
talks about the autobiography she is writing, her success in winning
prizes at Abingdon Horticultural Show, and the skill of father in
gardening and her husband in marquetry.
b. 1941, Oxford. Came to Abingdon 1952, went to school in Conduit
Road - the teachers, boxing. For lack of space, some classes to Dunmore
School for a year, then to newly built Larkmead School - its opening,
lessons, sports, and clubs, his as Head Boy. Left at 16; took over a
newspaper kiosk at RAF Abingdon and four paper rounds. Moved from
kiosk to shop near the Main Gate, then another shop on new estate in
Marcham, took on a shop in Abingdon 17 years before this interview.
Abingdon it was then - the Precinct built, but still plenty of family firms.
Joined Young Conservatives when he left school, helped with
canvassing at elections. Involved in starting the Squash Club. Change
for the better - development of sports facilities; the worse - traffic.
b. 1919 in Abingdon, all her life in Ock Street. Detailed description of
Ock Steet, and the courts off it [demolished around 1934], the
inhabitants, large families, small shops, pubs, the chimney sweep, piano
teacher; who/what occupies the now. The community spirit. Leisure the Horticultural Show, the river steamers, women going to pubs,
visiting old people in the Workhouse. Going to Church and Sunday
School. Stories of trades people - the baker who cooked people's
Christmas the watercress man, milk delivery in big churns. Distribution
of beef, money, clothing, coal by various town charities. Her own life after school, apprenticed to dressmaking at a store in Oxford, married at
21 to a member of the RAF. Worked at Laundry, then in sewing room at
Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford; after her husband's death repaired overalls
etc. at MG.
b. 1927 (?). The Rev. David Manship, Rector of St Helen's Church,
Abingdon 1979-1992, interviewed by his successor. Changes in the
town - rise in population, family run shops replaced hy national
Smith, Angela 5.6.2001
Gould, Anne
12.6.2001
Goode,
Michael
12.2003
OT 574
Abingdon Oral Michael Matthews
History Project
OT 575
Abingdon Oral Michael Matthews
History Project
Abingdon Oral Robert (Bob) May
History Project
OT 576
businesses, much more traffic, regrets loss of Hotel and Corn Exchange.
The particular status of St Helen's, traditionally the civic church and
dominated by the old 'burghers' who decided on who should be
churchwarden etc, and by freemasons. A small struggling choir, a
'liturgically drab' People objected to the first appointment of a woman as
churchwarden but families began to join the church. History of the
ecumenical project, how the various denominations were involved,
becoming the Church in Abingdon. Special projects such as Alive'. An
ecumenical community in a changing town where people come and go.
Strong traditions in Abingdon sometimes restricted progress.
b. 1933 Abingdon. Education Abingdon School [Roysse's]. After
Goode, Jenny 19.10.2000
service in RAF to Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester. Joined
family agricultural merchants' business. The family's use of the Old
Gaol for storage and as a home for his conversion of the Old Gaol for
sport etc. when the Council bought it from his grandmother. How he
joined the Young Conservatives and later became a town councillor. In
local politics 27 years including serving as Mayor. While Mayor, visited
Shongau Lucca to make agreements for twinning. Became a Governor
of Christ's Hospital - its charitable work. Governor of Abingdon School.
Changes in the town - loss of old shops and cinema; not as friendly as it
was. But old core of town still attractive, good that the slums have gone.
Traffic - another bridge needed.
Abingdon Oral History Project. Michael Matthews b. 1933
Jameson,
5.12.2003
Gordon
b. 1909 in Oxford. At 18 set up his own business, at first selling china
Smith, Angela 29.10.2003
and glass, then lino, and carpets which he at first imported mainly from
Belgium, selling through door-to-door salesmen. Developed a
prosperous business, still a family firm, Carpets. Was in the volunteer
Fire Service. Main interest - 'I think the whole of my life was hobbies
and sports'. Loved speed. Car rallying in US, Australia, NZ and Africa;
the Alpine Rally; took part in 24 London to Brighton rallies for Veteran
Champion Cyclist of Oxford at age 18/19. Loved motor bikes but did
not race them. Power boats - raced them inshore [lakes and rivers], won
Paris Six Hour race on Seine; his boat a marker for Donald Campbell in
record attempt on Lake Windermere. did he enjoy most, what did he
feel was his greatest achievement?
OT 577
Abingdon Oral Dr David J. Mazey
History Project
OT 578
Abingdon Oral Bill Mellor
History Project
OT 579
Abingdon Oral Brian J. Moylan
History Project
OT 580
Abingdon Oral John North
History Project
b. 1929, came to Abingdon to work at Harwell 1957. Memories of
Abingdon and changes - the new shopping precinct, Abbey Buildings,
Stratton Way, the old shops, the Market Square, the river, the Old Gaol.
Account of the Air Shows, the displays, some Joined Harwell in the
Metallurgy Division after serving in the RAF, had good opportunities
for studying, including Physics at Oxford Brookes University, took part
in research, met and worked with famous scientists; was at Harwell at
an exciting A very keen photographer, member of Royal Photographic
Society, contributed to development of first electron microscope.
Helped to co-ordinate images with script of Abingdon Son et Lumiere.
Leisure - cinema [now closed], theatre, lectures, clubs Archaeology,
WEA committee. What has changed for the worse/better.
b. 1934. Retired Head Brewer at Morlands Brewery. Born in Sheffield,
came to Abingdon 1962 to join the Brewery. Gives a detailed account of
the history of Morlands since its foundation 1711, its owners, growth,
taking over other breweries and pubs, links with Whitbreads, the new
bottling plant, expansion in response to new interest in Real Ale and to
the demand for lager, for which a special fermentation plant was built.
Takeover of the company 1998 by Greene King, and closure of the
Brewery Abingdon 1999, five years after he retired.
b. 1928, London, came to Abingdon 1940 when his father's work in
RAF was transferred to Milton Park. Did engineering apprenticeship at
Milton, then joined MG in 1950, worked there until it closed 1979. He
describes the various buildings, sports and club house with ballroom etc.
His work in Rectification [of faults found in cars at their final road
testing]. In 1955 Competition Dept set up, he was in team making
adaptations to bring Minis up to leveL to compete in rallying, Monte
Carlo etc. le Mans 24-hour Race. International rally in Europe and
S.America when World Cup Finals were held in Mexico 1970. Big
celebration in 1979 of MG's 50 years in Abingdon, with floats, sports
events, hot air ballon etc, but just after this the was sold and factory
closed. He accepted offer of a job running MG Garages in Oxford.
Involved in MG Auto Club, gives talks about MG, has written a book
about his experiences in rallying and racing.
Abingdon Oral History Project. John North b. 1950. Tape inaudible.
Goode, Jenny
6.3.2003
Smith, Angela 3.5.2002
Smith, Angela 21.1.2003
Gould, Anne
24.4.2001
OT 581
Abingdon Oral Laura Oultram
History Project
OT 582
Abingdon Oral Anil Patel
History Project
OT 583
Abingdon Oral Anthony Peters
History Project
OT 584
Abingdon Oral Freda Provan
History Project
b. 1984 in Oxford, then lived in North of England, came to Abingdon at
age 7. She talks about her home and family, music and TV, lessons she
likes at school, sport, shops and leisure activities in the town, what she
is thinking of doing after she school. Comments on going to church,
other races, films, the river, whether young people are freer than those
of previous generations, doing a Saturday job, going out with friends,
and her general attitude to life.
b. 1958 Mwanza, Tanzania, to a family from Gujerat, India, who moved
to UK when he was 8. Schooling at Coventry, then family settled in
Oxford. Worked in family shop in Oxford for 12 years, then they bought
a business in Abingdon, Price the 1990. He describes changes in the
area round Stert Street where he lived at first; now in another area with
his elderly father, wife and and two daughters both at Our Lady's
Convent School. Disappearance of some independent and specialist
shops, units in Stert Street. Some well thought out observations ahout
the present employment and business situation in Abingdon and how it
can be improved. His own business, development of area of 'computer
consumables' for an expanding market.
b. 1945, London, to a family of showmen who went from one fair to
another. Has been coming to Abingdon Fair all his life. How the fair
was set up; the Runaway Fair [for people hired at the main fair who
didn't get on with their new masters]; with boys, would watch pigs being
killed at the slaughterhouse. Changes in Abingdon. His own work began with a children's ride and hoop-la stall, now has had the helterskelter for 29 years; how it is put up. Modern ways of transporting the
rides etc. to school only during winter; now there is a travelling school,
which his own children used. Improvements in parking arrangements
for fair in Abingdon - allowed to enter the town earlier, can set up
everything without rushing.
b. 1929, Glasgow, came to Abingdon 1956 when her husband, a
scientific instrument maker, took a job at Harwell. When the youngest
of their five children started school, she began working as a home help heard a lot about past times in the town the elderly people. Attitude of
some Abingdom people to the Harwell newcomers. She went back to
college, did various courses, then a full-time secretarial course, and
worked at Abingdon College, becoming eventually Head of Secretarial
Aldworth,
Elizabeth
4.9.2000
Gould, Anne
3.4.2001
Legge, Lesley
10.2000
Legge, Lesley
12.9.2003
OT 585
Abingdon Oral Steve Rich
History Project
OT 586
Abingdon Oral Arthur Conrad
History Project Rogers
OT 587
Abingdon Oral Pat Russell
History Project
Services at a when the college was expanding greatly; was there for 20
years. Joined the Women's Institute, was President one year, became
involved in creating the Northcourt Hanging to commemorate the
Millenium; describes the panels that she did. What she likes Abingdon;
wishes there was a cinema. Visits relatives in Scotland but has put her
roots down here.
b. 1954 Hants, to Abingdon at 4 months when his father came to work
at Harwell. The family's house, schooldays, trainee manager for Co-op,
then to Harwell as Clerical Assistant for 25 years. How he came to join
Abingdon Brass Band in 1965, no musical experience. Where they
practised, the instruments he learned to play, his taking over as
Bandmaster 15 years before this interview, his wife training the players.
Special events for the Band - the Civic Parade, Bun Throwing, Bierfest
with Band from Bavaria [twin town], evenings out with Band members,
visit to Colmar, plan to go to Lucca. Growing up in Abingdon - the
Town Centre, Northcourt, rebuilding, the cinema. Not enough for young
people to do nowadays - sports facilities good the Arts neglected.
Improving Abingdon? make Market Square a more lively place, shops
need to be smartened up, new bridge to take traffic away from the
centre, get rid of the Precinct.
b. 1919, Abingdon. Recollections of Abingdon characters and shops,
schooling at Roysse's [Abingdon School] to which he won a
scholarship, the ladies who ran the Cubs. After army service and time as
a Prisoner of War, took over a tobacconist's shop HIgh Street Abingdon
from a widow, whose daughter he married. Details of running the
business, the short supply of cigarettes in 1946, the other tobacconists;
diversifying into other items as smoking became less popular for health
reasons. Changes the town, destruction of Queen's Hotel. Dances in the
old Church Hall, the bands.
b. 1919, Wembley, to Abingdon 1947 when her husband became one of
the first physicists at Harwell. Lived in basic cold prefab, then to a
house on Harwell estate, Fitzharry's. Her husband was killed in an
accident at Harwell, leaving her with aged 2 and 4. Having studied art,
she began a career, at first teaching, then developing her skill in
calligraphy. Made an illuminated address for the Queen's visit to the
town. Was asked to design lettering for an altar frontal, which led her
Goode, Jenny
11.4.2001
Smith, Angela 18.12.2003
Goode, Jenny
22.1.2004
OT 588
Abingdon Oral Miss Connie
History Project Silvester
OT 589
Abingdon Oral Miss Connie
History Project Silvester
OT 590
Abingdon Oral James Thomas
History Project Simpson
OT 591
Abingdon Oral
Diana Skellington
into embroidery. Had commissions from numerous cathedals and
churches, wrote a book, did tours in Canada and USA. How she made
her designs, working out how to put modern work into an old building.
Moved into East St Helen Street, where she had her What the area was
and is like - the river, small shops gone, too many cars. Regrets changes
in the Museum.
b. 1918, Ock Street, Abingdon. Vivid description of life in Ock Street,
where many of her mother's family lived; great community spirit. Their
house - were the Courts originally ropewalks? Shops they used. Family's
life revolved round Primitive Chapel. She won scholarship to St Helen's
School. The family moved from Ock Street at time of Slum Clearance
Plan, demolition of the Courts. At 17, left school, became a telephonist
at local exchange, 1948 moved to London to a better paid ' job newly
opened to women. Worked in London 30 years, coming home for
weekends to Abingdon, where she eventually retired.
b. 1918 Supplementary to OT 588, four years later, diferent interviewer.
Additional information ahout her family, Ock Street, the Council Schol,
her upbringing by an aunt while her mother was working in a factory, St
Helen's School and the Her siblings, her father and the Primitive
Methodist Church. Singing in choirs. Her work as a telephonist and later
as supervisor when the War opened more senior jobs to women. Her flat
in London and her use of it when going up for Art classes she had
retired to Abingdon.
b. 1915, Abingdon. Teachers at Bury Street School; meeting his father
at age of two when he came on leave from the Army; living in Thames
Street, Bath Street. Plenty of things to do - fishing, boating, the Fair,
Flower Show, playing with hoops and in the street. What life was like in
the poor areas - Ock Street, Gaol Yard, the Abbey, big families, several
houses sharing one tap. Longford's Tulip Gardens. Descriptions of
shops. Left school at 15, got a job at MG; encounter with the boss,
Kimber. Served in Pioneer Corps in World War 2, then back to MG,
worked there until it closed down. In the works fire brigade.
Celebrations in the town, the Fair, eccentric characters. Changes regrets loss of Corn Exchange, Church Hall, Queen's Change for the
better - housing.
b. 1931 London, to Oxon with mother and sisters because of the war;
Argyle, Leslie
10.8.2000
Godfrey,
Oonagh
20.4.2004
Pratley, Ann
Marie
6.2.2001
Legge, Lesley
12.2.2003
History Project
OT 592
OT 593
OT 594
Abingdon Oral Alan Smith
History Project
Abingdon Oral Sarah and David
History Project Smith
Abingdon Oral Malcolm Snowden
History Project
educated at St Juliana's Convent and Oxford High School, trained as
nurse and midwife, married. Her husband was at Ruskin College,
Oxford; he then worked as grave-digger and in Abingdon. Life in the
town, their house at the Cemetery, the Market. The whole family
involved in folk music clubs, meeting in pubs, singing with Morris Men,
going to festivals. Returned to nursing at Rivermead Hospital, Oxford,
gave up when her left and she had to find other work. The beginning of
play groups. Worked at a baker's for 12 years, then back to nursing, at
residential home for adults with learning difficulties, encouraged them
to try music and painting. Social life - Drama Millenium events, the
Church-in-Abingdon and her involvement with Trinity Church, the Fair.
Her love of wild flowers, visits to Pixey Mead, Wolvercote. Her time as
a town councillor; the value of the Council. Presence of people from all
over the encourages a wider view. An old Gypsy women who used to
visit regularly; what they learnt from her about gypsy life.
Abingdon Oral History Project. Alan Smith b. 1928
Jameson,
D.G.
1. Sarah b.1969, Oxford. Her father the first male teacher at school of St Aldworth,
Helen and St Katherine; lived in a school house. Early memories of the
Elizabeth
shops, education at Manor Prep School and St. Helen's, the Queen's
Silver Jubilee 1977, school summer Changes in the town, the Old Gaol.
After a year at college, got married, a year in Norfolk, then happy to
return fo Abingdon. Reading[when at school] to a very interesting 94year-old blind lady. Importance of knowing family history - memories
of father and of her Hungarian grandmother about World War 2. Is
Abingdon a good place to bring up children? how different from when
she was a child? 2.David b.1963 Oxford. Parents had moved from
London to Abingdon; his father worked for Oxford Education Josca's
Prep School, John Mason School. Spare time - cycling, metalwork,
gardening. Watching MG cars being loaded at the Station, How he met
Sarah. Changes in the town; on the whole, for the worse, big population
rise without to match; but plenty of jobs and houses.
b. 1916 near Sheffield. During World War 2 worked at Malvern on
Aldworth,
development of radar, after war some of the scentists moved to Harwell Elizabeth
to set up atomic energy research project. With other scientists lived first
in prefabricated houses, then in houses on Fitzharry's Estate. First
9.10.2003
26.3.2001
27.3.2001
OT 595
Abingdon Oral Ted Staniland
History Project
OT 596
Abingdon Oral Roger Steere
History Project
OT 597
Abingdon Oral Joan Sylvester
History Project
Abingdon Oral Mrs Phyllis
History Project Thomas
OT 598
OT 599
Abingdon Oral Roger Thomas
History Project
impressions of Abingdon. Newcomers joined clubs and societies. New
schools built to accommodate the families. His involvement in St
Nicholas Church, churchwarden for 25 years. Among the scientists were
gifted and two traitors - Klaus Fuchs and Pontecorvo. With his wife,
belongs to Friends of Abingdon and supports Unicorn Theatre.
b. 1908. d. 2002. Was first Town Mayor in 1974 - 75 and a Freeman of
Abingdon (23 April, 1987). His family; helping his mother when his
father was away fighting in World War 1. Worked in grocery and
general store in Market Square. How he met his When in the army in
Palestine, had a dream that came true. A friend of Bob May. [despite
prompting he finds it difficult to recall much detail].
b. 1948, Middlesex. Worked in computers then joined Thames Water as
relief lock keeper. At Lechlade 4 years, then to Abingdon where he has
looked after the lock for 29 years. Description of his duties, the lock
mechanism. Traffic diminishing but walkers since completion of
Thames Path. Floods, river management, fishing, water quality, raising
and lowering the weir, how lock gates are renewed. Changes in overall
control from Thames Conservancy to Environment Agency. The Dragon
Boat race. across the lock. Changes in Abingdon.
b. 1920. Joan Sylvester talks about her job in WAAF, Abingdon no. 10
Operational Training Unit during WW2 - routine and recreation.
b. 1920 nee Wiblin. Life in Ock Street, children's games, joining in
haymaking, where she lived when young and after marriage. Her first
job. The town centre, the shops, the Fair with the various rides and
stalls, playing in the Park, bathing in river, the pubs. Her husband and
children. Has anything changed for the better? No - 'It would be lovely
to have the old town as it used to be'. Her happy days in Ock Street. The
Darby and Joan Club. The old Corn Exchange, Fire Station, Railway all
gone, as have the industries - MG, Pavlova, glove, clothing and carpet
factories.
b. 1957 Boston USA, when his father was workiing at MIT. After two
years in Geneva, family came to live in Abingdon 1965. Schooling Dunmore Primary, Roysse's [Abingdon School]. Early impressions of
the town - demolition of Queen's Hotel, building new estates, end of the
farmland and open spaces where children used to play. Places where
you can see remains of old lanes. Very interested in archaeology, joined
Legge, Lesley
1.11.2000
Legge, Lesley
9.3.2003
Jameson,
D.G.
Hutchins,
David W.
24.1.2004
Legge, Lesley
9.3.2003
12.9.2000
OT 600
Abingdon Oral Sydney Thomas
History Project
OT 601
Abingdon Oral Richard Thorne
History Project
OT 602
Abingdon Oral Brian Tonkin
History Project
the new Archaeological Society when he was 11; while still at school
helped in in West St Helen Street and on sites of demolished buildings.
Became his main hobby, social life with other young people involved,
including some school friends. Favourite pubs. Helping dismantle
machinery at the Fair; working on building sites. in Abingdon - loss of a
sense of community; shops that have gone, especially family run shops,
but some streets have not changed much. Change for the better Abingdon a very cosmopolitan town, Abingdon European Society
thriving.
b. 1916 Sutton Coureney near Abingdon, one of 9 children. The town
and its people when he was young. Errand boy when not at school from
age 10 to 14 because the family was poor and the money useful.
Continued working Mr Cullen's shop when he left until World War 2.
Parents moved to Saxton Road; after they both died he went on living in
same house with his wife and children. When widowed and unable to
cope alone, to Brick Alley Alms Houses. Description of life of the really
poor in West St Street and Ock Street. Worked for the Post Office after
the war. His wedding in 1942. Changes in Abingdon - industries,
railway, traffic. Most people who live here are not Abingdonians.
People don't care about the town very much.
b. 1940, Muradabad, India. Completed his medical training at Oxford, in
1968 came to Abingdon to join the Malthouse Surgery, a partnership of
six doctors, which moved into premises in the newly-built Charter 1977.
Was a Labour councillor for 4 his wife a magistrate. First impressions of
the town and traditions - the election of the Mayor of Ock Street, the
Fair, bun-throwings. Changes in hospitals and in treatment - coming of
penicillin, anti-TB drugs. Demise of MG and Morland's brewery. pride
in the town, flower displays. Questions about future of the Old Gaol, an
extra bridge, traffic.
b. 1940, Penzance. Came to Abingdon area when appointed Deputy
Clerk and Chief Finance Officer for Faringdon RDC. He describes the
formation of the Vale of White Horse Council in 1973 from 5
authorities - Abingdon Borough, Abingdon Rural, Wantage Wantage
Rural and Faringdon Rural. How the public and council staff reacted to
the changes. His part in the amalgamation. Moved to Abingdon 1974 to
work for VOWH. Changes on the whole beneficial e.g.better leisure
Goode,
Michael
28.9.2000
Argyle, Leslie
22.3.2004
Goode,
Michael
9.2.2001
OT 603
Abingdon Oral Mrs Ann Turner
History Project
OT 604
Abingdon Oral Mrs Ann Turner
History Project
OT 605
Abingdon Oral Pam Walker
History Project
OT 606
Abingdon Oral Bill Walker
History Project
facilities. Relations between and Town Council and between VOWH
and County Council. Building developments in Abingdon, new schools,
the Charter, Twinning. Lack of variety in shops, Stert Street struggling,
Abingdon a conservative town, should welcome tourists. Problems of
lack of public transport to the housing estates. He is happy to stay in
Abingdon in retirement.
b. 1946, nee Purbrick. Talks very easily about early years, school, work,
family, with cheerful reminiscences. Mentions canal, train crash, crash
of Beverley Bomber, Carswell School, the teachers. At Larkmead
School in its early days - collecting for fund raising, favourite members
of staff, punishments. Work at Coxeter's store, where she met her
husband - what the store sold; playing tricks on new assistants.
b. 1946, nee Purbrick. 'Swinging Sixties' How young people spent their
free time. Meeting at the 'Mousehole', under the Town Hall, after work.
Dances at the Corn Exchange and MG Club, the music, clothes and
shoes, bands. Her work at Coxeter's. of the Precinct, shops that were
there and the new ones. A clothes shop called Ruby Tuesday, the place
for fashion. Her father and his allotment, family meals, going to church,
Christmas presents, the cinema. Her home after she married, how they
the funiture.
b. 1921, London. Came to Abingdon with parents for a holiday Sept
1940; while there, their house in London damaged in an air raid, parents
returned, she stayed in Abingdon at the Queen's Hotel on her own for a
year. Found a secretarial job at wine spirits shop later part of Morland's
brewery. Good detailed descriptions of the town centre and effects of
the war. Met and married a man in the RAF. [see 0T 906]
Entertainments - Dances at the Corn Exchange, the cinema. Worked for
20 years at RAC in Oxford. Served as Conservative Councillor, Mayor
of Abingdon 1979-1980, enjoyed taking part in town events. Good
changes in the town - influx of Harwell people, new houses and schools,
good organisations, opportunities to learn things at night and to do sport.
Less good - disappearance of shops, pulling down of old buildings,
people drinking in the streets, crime. Bur she and her husband will never
leave Abingdon.
b. 1916, Kingston on Hull. Became gardening apprentice with city
parks, went to night classes from age 14 to 21. In 1940 joined RAF,
Smith, Angela 10.4.2003
Smith, Angela 8.7.2004
Gould, Anne
27.6.2001
Gould, Anne
19.4.2001
OT 607
Abingdon Oral Brian Warren
History Project
OT 608
Abingdon Oral Duncan Buller
History Project West
OT 609
Abingdon Oral Percy Wiblin
History Project
stationed at Abingdon aerodrome, used especially for training. Met his
future wife at a dance in the town. [OT 605] they lived, near the
brewery, in Ock Street, floods, pubs, noise of the Fair. Polish airmen in
training celebrating VE Day with huge [dangerous] bonfire. During the
war worked on producing vegetables and keeping pigs for the Forces on
surplus land by RAF, continuing as a civilian after the war, helped by
landgirls and Italian and German POWs. Then worked at Morris factory
as car inspector on production line for 26 years. Old shops in Abingdon,
what the Market Place was like, the the swimming place in the river.
b. 1953, Abingdon. Education at Dunmore and St Nicholas Schools school dinners, cold winter of 1963, celebrating St Nicholas' Day, a
school stay in Ostend, visiting a Belgian school. Then to John Mason
School - wide curriculum especially playing rugby. In holidays to the
river, fishing, helping to open lock gates. Studied at Abingdon College
and Oxford Polytechnic, building construction etc, leading to career in
architects' offices in Oxford and area. Joined Abingdon Twin Towns
visits to Schongau [Bavaria], St Niklaas [Belgium]. Regrets closing of
MG and Morlands brewery. Traffic situation improved by building of
Stratton Way and A34 extension.
b. 1921 Abingdon, has lived almost all his life in same area. Schooling
at Our Lady's Convent and Abingdon School - memories of lessons and
teachers, especially Mr Grundy and Mr Cobban at Abingdon School.
Early memories of the town, Market Place, Street, Salvation Army band
playing in the street, houses in Norman Avenue, milk and bread
delivered by horse and cart. After Army service in Africa, Italy,
Yugoslavia, trained as an architect, followed father and grandfather into
family practice. in the town after the war - establishment of AERE at
Harwell, new estates buit to house the staff. His work in architecture,
including buildings for Abingdon School, hospital, abattoirs, private
houses. Town celebrations. Redevelopment of Ock the Common, the
town fire brigade. What he especially likes - Albert Park.
b. 1909 Abingdon, one of 11 children, brought up in West St Helen
Street. People who lived in the courts; pubs and shops. Abingdon then
run by a few powerful families. Worked as a builder. Celebrations in the
town, the rebuilding, disappearance of factories. Demolition of Corn
Exchange and Queen's Hotel 'destroyed Abingdon'. Doesn't like use of
Smith, Angela 23.4.2003
Goode,
Michael
17.10.2001
Gould, Anne
22.5.2001
OT 610
Abingdon Oral Nellie Woodley
History Project
OT 611
Abingdon Oral
History Project
Abingdon Oral
History Project
OT 612
John Mason
School Year 9Y
John Mason
School Year 8K
the Old Gaol for recreation.
b. 1906 Abingdon, 95 at time of interview. Brought up in Bury Street;
memories of people who lived there, the Queen's Hotel, Market Place,
the shops in Ock Street area. During the war had a milk round with
horse and cart. Schooldays and teachers. mother did first aid and pulled
out teeth and was a school caretaker. Changes in the town. A beautiful
place, apart from the traffic, but people don't appreciate it, they go
astray and take drugs. In the past children enjoyed playing in the street
spending hours in the Park with a picnic.
Abingdon Oral History Project John Mason School Year 9Y (Not
transcribed)
Abingdon Oral History Project John Mason School Year 8K (Not
transcribed)
Argyle, Leslie
1.2.2001
Pennington,
Ben
Hall, AnneMarie
13.6.2001
13.6.2001