Iconic Sheffield store recalled with plaque unveiling

The memory of one of Sheffield’s most-loved stores, the Yorkshire Disneyland, will live on after a plaque was unveiled in its honour.
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The plaque to remember Redgates was unveiled yesterday at clothing store H&M on The Moor, following a campaign by former Redgates staff, led by Maggie Nunn.

Maggie wrote to The Moor developers, calling for Redgates’ past to be recognised 30 years on from its closure.

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Following the letter, Aberdeen Standard Investments worked with H&M, which now occupies thesite, to install a plaque on the building, following recent construction work on the site.

The plaqueThe plaque
The plaque

The plaque says ‘Remembering Redgates’ and lists the dates the family-owned store, which was set up in 1857, ‘occupied’ the site, from 1966-88.

Maggie said: “I am delighted to unveil this. Thank you to everyone who has worked to make this happen.”

Amanda Phillips, The Moor manager, said: “Maggie and her team have worked tirelessly to recognise Redgates and the memories this toy store gave to so many families and children in its time.

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“We are delighted to have supported her mission to commemorate this iconic establishment.”

Redgates toy shop in Sheffield pictured in 1986.Redgates toy shop in Sheffield pictured in 1986.
Redgates toy shop in Sheffield pictured in 1986.

Michael Butterworth, from H&M Sheffield, said: “Redgates is a much-loved Sheffield institution and so it is an honour to be able to remember the toy store through the this plaque.

“We’re delighted to join with The Moor team and Maggie to unveil this tribute, which we hope will help to preserve Redgates in the memories of Sheffield residents for many years to come.”

Redgates was founded on Fargate by Edwin Redgate in 1857, selling sewing machines and furs – and did not start selling toys until after 1890.

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That was when the firm started to use cheap fur which would not sell to make pram covers – and started selling prams and other wheeled toys as well.

Demolition of the old Redgates store.Demolition of the old Redgates store.
Demolition of the old Redgates store.

It moved to Moorhead in 1925, but was badly damaged during the Sheffield Blitz 15 years later and relocated to Ecclesall Road, before returning to The Moor some years later.

Nicknamed the Yorkshire Disneyland in its heyday, it was an oasis for generations of youngsters, a haven of Lego, dolls’ houses, Subbuteo, Meccano,train sets, wooden horses, board games and more, across several floors.

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