Beaumanor Hall and wartime Leicestershire

Last weekend I took myself off to Beaumanor Hall, to the Leicestershire Archaeological and Historical Society wartime event, and what a fantastic event this was! Over 50 stalls showcasing their local history work, much of it centred around WW1, and lots of short talks on various topics, including Richard III, history of Beaumanor during WW2, the Enigma machine, the Beam Benders of Charley, and war memorials in Leicestershire and Rutland. There was also an air raid experience in the cellars, and an outdoor tour to a secret listening station.

It was absolutely fascinating to learn that there were so many local history societies around, doing such great work, often funded by Heritage Lottery grants. There was a real buzz about the place, with people dressed in 40s costume, some dressed as soldiers, and a wartime musical group playing.

I was really glad I’d taken several layers of clothing as it got extremely hot in the hall: There were so many people squished in there I’d be surprised if they hadn’t exceeded their room capacity for health and safety! In fact, there were so many people that I had to go round the whole thing about four times, each time looking at a different set of stalls because at times they were queuing four-deep so I didn’t get a look in!

Anyway, I managed to resist joining too many societies: In fact, I only joined one! And, I resisted buying too many books, only buying two: World War II in Charley, and Is There a Green Man of East Leake?








Of course, there were numerous interesting leaflets to pick up!

And even a packet of poppy seeds to take away and plant in memory of those who gave their lives.

I also came away with the idea that I might one day pop into Beaumanor Hall for a cream tea, or a pie lunch!!

The only disappointing thing was that there seemed to be few representatives from Loughborough itself there.  

 

 

 

 

It was absolutely fascinating to learn that there were so many local history societies around, doing such great work, often funded by Heritage Lottery grants. There was a real buzz about the place, with people dressed in 40s costume, some dressed as soldiers, and a wartime musical group playing.

 

I was really glad I’d taken several layers of clothing as it got extremely hot in the hall: There were so many people squished in there I’d be surprised if they hadn’t exceeded their room capacity for health and safety! In fact, there were so many people that I had to go round the whole thing about four times, each time looking at a different set of stalls because at times they were queuing four-deep so I didn’t get a look in!

 

Anyway, I managed to resist joining too many societies: In fact, I only joined one! And, I resisted buying too many books, only buying two: World War II in Charley, and Is There a Green Man of East Leake? Of course, there were numerous interesting leaflets to pick up and even a packet of poppy seeds to take away and plant in memory of those who gave their lives.

 

I also came away with the idea that I might one day pop into Beaumanor Hall for a cream tea, or a pie lunch!!