Saffron Walden listening bench

Essex Sound and Video Archive / Saffron Walden Initiative

Saffron Walden bench

Listening bench in Saffron Walden
Essex Record Office

Welcome to the information page for the listening bench installed in Saffron Walden, Essex.

Here you can find out more about the clips featured on the bench. There is also information about the Saffron Walden Initiative, which put the clips together.

The clips currently loaded onto the bench describe what life was like on Castle Street, and past landmarks of the town that have since disappeared.

 

 

Location of the bench in Saffron Walden

The bench is located near the main entrance to Saffron Walden Museum.

This bench was put together by the Saffron Walden Initiative in collaboration with the Essex Record Office, as part of the Heritage Lottery Funded project, You Are Hear: sound and a sense of place. The Initiative aims to improve Saffron Walden by working in partnership with local residents, businesses, non-commercial organisations and public agencies to facilitate and promote initiatives to:
Enhance the town’s appearance
Promote the town and area
Provide facilities and activities for all ages and interests
Improve accessibility for residents, visitors and shoppers
Maintain the vitality of shopping and services
Develop community spirit.
You can find out more on their website.

 

QR Code generously provided by Visualead.

Audio clips on this bench

Growing up on Castle Street (Button 1)

Introduction to the bench and memories of growing up and playing on Castle Street; gas lighting; neighbourly atmosphere; and experiences at school. Features Peter Riding, Janet Bright, Maggie Gypps, Kenneth Osborne, Christopher Pledger, and Ron Butcher.

Sunday School outings and Sillett's bakery (Button 1)

Memories of Sunday School outings; Sillett’s bakery; shooting rooks; and homemade wine. Features Maggie Gypps, Christopher Pledger, Ron Butcher, William Clark, and Ron Butcher.

Castle Street's rough reputation (Button 1)

Fights and the rougher side of Castle Street; the layout of houses in the street. Features Albert Bacon, Christopher Pledger, and Ron Butcher.

The Corn Exchange (Button 2)

Description of trading at the Corn Exchange; Market Street. Features Peter Riding, Bruce Munro, and Maggie Gypps.

Market days and cattle market (Button 2)

Memories of livestock sales at the cattle market. Features Bruce Munro and Janet Bright.

The Rose and Crown pub and the old swimming pool (Button 2)

Memories of the Rose and Crown pub and the old swimming pool. Features Bruce Munro and Janet Bright.

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