MELKSHAM Remembers, the group behind last year’s exhibition marking 100 years since the end of World War One, have announced exciting plans for new historical projects about the town.
The group is planning a special photo presentation about the history of the Market Place; a ‘Macabre Melksham’ talk and walking tour; a project to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two; and a book about Melksham during World War One.
Speaking to Melksham News on behalf of the group, Ray Heard said, “The Melksham Remembers group really enjoyed putting together the exhibition last year for the World War One anniversary, that we wanted to carry on – there is so much fascinating history in Melksham!
“The exhibition last year showed visitors what life was like for the people of Melksham and the surrounding area during World War One – but there was masses of material that was never used. So with the help of Rob Cumming, who produced a similar book about Broughton Gifford, we are going through all the information collected last year to condense it into a book. We anticipate that this will be available for purchase by November – with copies also available in places like the library and the Wiltshire History Centre.
“Inspired by the 800th anniversary celebrations for the town’s market charter, we will host a photo exhibition in the library in September. The photos show the Market Place through the years – we have hundreds of photos! We’re not sure of the dates for some of the photos, so we will be asking visitors to help us identify what year or era the photos were taken in.
“Similar to last year, we are gathering information about what life was like in Melksham during World War Two in time for the 75th anniversary of the end of the war in 2020. We would love to hear from anyone in the area who has a story to share.
“And finally we are preparing for a ‘Macabre Melksham’ talk and walking tour – exploring the darker side of Melksham – murder, mystery and riots! We are planning to host a talk one evening in the Kings Arms, followed by a walk.
“If anyone wants to get involved and help with research on any of the projects, please do get in touch.”
For more information or to offer support to the projects, contact Ray Heard by email: rayheard1937@ btinternet.com. The group can also be reached via their Facebook page – search for ‘Melksham Remembers’.
