The Social History
group has done research the last century in Oswestry. We have taken a number of
subjects to explore and have found members who are enthusiastic to research one of these
each or with a partner. Its interesting to find that the fun of doing
this research is appreciated not only by those who have lived here for some years but also
by those new to Oswestry.
Just before Christmas, our group met at the home of
Dai and Helen Lewis where we also invited U3A member Walford Jones to talk
about his interesting life. Walford, is writing his family story and has a
remarkable memory. He was able to talk about his early days in the mining
communities near Wrexham and in particular his memories of the great and
terrible Gresford pit disaster.
Walford has also had an illustrious career in the amateur singing world,
taking part in international tours with the famous Rhos choir, and also
taking leads in operas. Walford had the chance to make singing a
professional career, but instead chose to opt for a more stable life and
marry his sweetheart Doreen, also an active U3A member. Walford was more
modest about his war record.
It was a most interesting afternoon, and we would like to thank Walford for
giving us his time and sharing his life with our group.
In March, on Wednesday 19th, we are planning a half day at Dai's home so
that we can share our research with each other. We are then going out to
lunch.
And just to prove that it's not all hard work in our group, in January, Joan
donated a box of liqueurs which we munched while doing our research in the
library. We had quite a laugh when I sat tucking into a Cointreau liqueur
while researching the Temperance movement in Oswestry
We have room for more researchers if you would like to join us.
We meet on the third Wednesday in the month from 2pm to 4pm in the local
studies section of the Library. When the library moves into its new premises
sometime in the late summer, the facilities will be much improved.
If you would like to join us, please give me a ring on 657987.