Archives from the Attic event looks at ‘The Way We Live’

If you have any old or historic documents you’d like an expert opinion on or would like to find out more about the history of Plymouth then head to the ‘Archives from the Attic’ event on Saturday 25 May.

The free annual event, which will this year tie in with the city’s first ever History Festival, brings together experts from Plymouth City Council’s record office, the Friends of Devon Archives, the Devon Family History Society and the South West Film and Television Archive.

The event is called ‘The Way We Live’ to complement the History Festival’s signature exhibition ‘The Making of a Modern City’, which is on display at Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery. It will run from 10am to 4pm in Plymouth University’s Portland Square Building and people can drop in for as little as long as they like.

Local history experts will be on hand to take a look at any old photographs or historic documents, such as property deeds, family business records, letters, diaries, maps, plans, accounts or minutes.

There will be talks throughout the morning including one on the Plan for Plymouth, which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, as well as an update on the North Prospect History Project and the recent changes that have taken place in this part of the city.

Jill Craigie’s 1946 film (also called ‘The Way We Live’), which examines the plans to rebuild Plymouth at the end of the Second World War, will be screened from 2pm to 4pm. Places must be booked in advance by calling 01752 305940 or emailing tony.davey@plymouth.gov.uk.

‘The Sanatorium’ – a film detailing the history of The Devon and Cornwall Sanatorium and Consumptives, a tuberculosis hospital on the edge of Dartmoor – will be shown from midday to 1.30pm

Documents and records from the Plymouth and West Devon Record Office will be on display, including some relating to piracy in celebration of the city’s Pirate Weekend. There will also be information stands from local heritage organisations.

In the evening the South West Film and Television Archive will be showing ‘Putting You in the Picture: Celebrating the City’s Culture’ from 6pm to 7pm, 7pm to 8pm and 8pm to 9pm. This film features a selection of footage exploring festivals and cultural activities throughout the years. There is no need to book and admission is free, although donations are welcome.

For more information about 'Archives from the Attic 2013: The Way We Live’ and the film screenings, plus all other Plymouth History Festival events, visit www.plymhistoryfest.wordpress.com or call 01752 305940.