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Family Memories: Family Treasures

As archaeologists we study the peoples of the past by looking at archaeological sites and objects, but we also look at other types of evidence if they are available to us, such as historical writings, maps, photographs, and oral histories.

Oral histories are very important as they can help us to learn new things about people, places, and objects. We are currently conducting research at Newcastle University on how objects can help people to remember things, and we would love you to get involved!

You can help us by writing down some of your grandparent’s or parent’s memories. Get them to choose an object they own that makes them think of particular memories or feelings, for example a medal, teapot, ornament, hat, piece of jewellery etc., and bring that object – along with your family members! – to the next YAC session on the 20th November.

Here are some of the types of questions you might like to ask your family member about the object:

• What is it?
• Where did it come from?
• How did you get it?
• Do you have any memories of it?
• What else does it make you think about?
• Anything else you would like to ask!

We will provide you with recording sheets on the day so that you can write down the stories and memories.

For examples of the recording sheet and release form (for your family members to sign), please click on the links below:

If you would like to see how other organisations use oral histories and objects, and to listen to some examples, please visit the websites below:

Culture Shock visual memory archive: http://www.cultureshock.org.uk/home.html

Beamish Museum online audio collection:
http://www.beamishcollections.com/rrc/audio.asp

BBC’s A History of the World in 100 Objects:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/ahistoryoftheworld/