The People’s History Museum, Manchester, takes an unusual look at the city’s humanities journey. I was fortunate enough to visit when Pauline Omoboye was reciting her work. Do watch it on Facebook, (it’s more meaningful hearing her)… it’s on the One Manchester banner. Extraordinary woman. Manchester has strong humanity forces, starting with the arresting sculptureContinue reading “To boldly go…”
Tag Archives: UK
Land of mystery…
Of all the places to store ammunition during WW1, Carrickfergus Castle… And in WW2 it was the local air raid shelter! Surely they felt like sitting ducks? Heading north, both the Unionists and Nationalists flags hang at half mast. Nobody’s died; the flags are set at the ladder’s maximum reach! Also at maximum reach, thisContinue reading “Land of mystery…”
When strangers become family.
There’s risk in making, or responding to, contact with distant relatives. Whilst it’s unlikely they are actual murderers, differences in character and expectations can be fraught. Thus it was with some trepidation that I reached out to folk in Ireland who share the same ancestors and, amazingly, are on the original farm. From their perspective,Continue reading “When strangers become family.”
Standing the test of time.
The walls of Conway castle, Wales, were built in 1234. Oh, to weather that well! Conway’s architecture is wonderfully random. As I stood in a Conway stŕeet, the unmistakablebeat of horse hooves behind. A white-grey horse trotting with intent, pulling a black lighter-weight gig. Two gents, one in the driving seat and the other hangingContinue reading “Standing the test of time.”
Change is all around…
Gwrych Castle, North Wales, is over 2000 years old, over half of that time in the ownership of the Dundonalds. And if you’ve heard of it, then you’ve probably watched ‘I’m a celebrity.’ Imagine staying in a building created back in the iron age. You can; they welcome tourists. The castle is unusual because itContinue reading “Change is all around…”
When you’re little but big…
Thirty-three miles long, thirteen miles wide… the Isle of Man is little, but oh so big. Not only do the slower-moving vintage trams and trains turn a short trip into a wonderful journey, but there’s another facet which aids the illusion of big. A prime example: A street you may think, but no! Four streets!Continue reading “When you’re little but big…”
Marvels in Liverpool
Looking up at the waterfront wheel: Grass! The Chinese community commissioned this as a thank you to Liverpool: Albert Dock internally, and the walkway along the Mersey externally:
Sweeping the (Liver)pool
One hundred years ago, the Football Pools began in Liverpool. For decades men and women have faithfully bought their ticket, and listened closely to the radio, shushing the kids in order to hear the winning numbers. Everyone knew someone who knew someone who had won the pools. During World War Two, the Pools ticketing machineryContinue reading “Sweeping the (Liver)pool”
Freedom
In her darkest moment, Freda the cow took steps. It was 1986, and she was at the abbatoir. It was do or die. She did; leaping to freedom… actually, the motorway. Police and many helpers gave chase. By the time they finally managed to tranquilize her (in a cemetery) Freda was featuring on the news.Continue reading “Freedom”
Art (apparently)
Everyone should visit a Tate, apparently. Modern art at it’s finest. But is it art if the viewer has to read the explanatory notes in order to understand it? In tunnels, on walls, and on lamp posts, there’s some stunning street graffitti; modern, easy to understand, and beautiful. Poignant or hilarious, graffiti reflects someones communityContinue reading “Art (apparently)”
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