Volunteer to bring fresh eye to Doncaster history and find hidden stories

Curators from Heritage Doncaster are looking for local people to join their volunteer team as community researchers, uncovering the voices of under-represented groups and changing South Yorkshire’s historic record.

“We’re looking for people who will see our collections differently and share their own experiences.

"For this to work we are especially keen to hear from researchers who are women, LGBTQ+, disabled or from a BAME background,” said Victoria Ryves from Heritage Doncaster’s History, Health & Happiness programme, which aims to bring people together by bringing history to life.

She added: “There are some tantalising clues in the historical records that suggest there are stories that have not yet been told. These stories are about people that have made up Doncaster’s community over time.

"In just one set of records, the parish records, there are references in 1865 to the baptism of a ‘woman living in adultery’, in 1797 the baptism of a ‘Black boy from St Lucia’ and poignantly in 1897 the baptism of a child at her mother’s funeral.

"We want to find out what happened to these people and celebrate their lives. We want to explore the lives of women in the past, the experiences of migrants to Doncaster and people of colour, how LGBTQ+ people were viewed locally, how disability was talked about – and so much more.

"If you think you can help recover these hidden voices, please get in touch – it’s a chance to change history, making sure that our community heritage includes everybody in our community.”

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The new community researchers will be delving deep into newspaper and photographic archives and examining museum objects, as well as exploring census documents, letters and diaries.

As part of the project, the community researchers will also be invited to share what they uncover creatively, through web posts, photography, art or poetry.

Expert training and support will be provided by Heritage Doncaster and each researcher will also receive £200 to cover their expenses.

To find out more or to register interest, email [email protected] or visit www.heritagedoncaster.org.uk

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