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Feedback from “Unlock! Rochford’s History” Project
The Mosaic Project
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Feedback from “Unlock! Rochford’s History” Project
Location: Essex
“Unlock! Rochford’s History” was a really successful and enjoyable project. The funding from LHI enabled the group to attract approximately 1000 visitors to the activities on a sunny Sunday on 5th September. Without the support from the Local Heritage Initiative, it would not have been possible to bring the history of the town alive in such an enjoyable way.
As well as so many people enjoying the main activities in the Old House Gardens, a lot of the visitors took the opportunity of exploring the other buildings around the town open for the day. St Andrew’s church had more than 200 people for their tours. There were knock on effects too, with the local pubs benefiting from the extra trade. Quote from local resident on day: “I’ve lived here all my life and never knew that building was there!”
The money used towards extra publicity provided us with eye-catching posters, flyers and banners and we were able to attract many more people from farther a field. Quote from visitor: “Are you doing it again next year because my friend from Australia wants to know!”
We continued the theme created by the designers onto the trail leaflet, and markers and signs on the day, creating a “corporate” image which helped to knit the buildings and activities together.
The trail leaflet is a really useful tool that continues to be valuable long after the event. It is now available in libraries, local shops, council offices, on the council website and through the local history societies. We have already had a group of history students request copies of the trail to base a visit to the town around.
The school banner workshop was very popular with children and teachers alike. Large banners depicting buildings in the area were created using recycled carrier bags. One pupil commented “Its like the Bayeux Tapestry” and the teachers were keen to use the technique again in future lessons.
The mosaic workshop was a great success; It was bigger than planned because so many adults and children wanted to have a go. Being able to employ a qualified artist meant that the experience for visitors was educational, enjoyable, and the finished product looks fantastic. Quote from boy taking part: “Is this mosaic going to be here in 100’s of years time and will there be a day to celebrate it in the future?”
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