Catalogue

Interview
1199, LO/546/496
Leicester Oral History Archive Collection

Speaker: Beasley, Mabel, - , Interviewee, Female, Laundry worker
Speaker: Johnson, R, Interviewer, Female

Summary of interview item: Recalls unemployment, poverty, in Grassmore, Derbyshire. Explains how found work in Leicester. Talks about childhood in Grassmore, singing at local cenotaph on Remembrance Day, father talking about war experiences only when older. Recalls free meals, events, entertainments at local Mission during 1926 General Strike; clothing, reading. Doesn't remember family showing much affection. Talks about making suspenders in Leicester, then work at 'Kay's Way Pays' grocers, then laundry work. Recalls outbreak of Second World War, learning about dangerous gasses. Mentions death of husband, birth of first baby, air raid shelters, having evacuees from London, black market, propaganda posters, celebrations at end of war. Talks about having widow's state benefit checked by Department of Health and Social Security who once accused her of having a lodger when a friend came for tea.
Place of birth: Grassmore, Derbyshire
Education:
Marital Status: Married, Children:
Father's Occupation:
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County: Derbyshire, Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Grassmore, Leicester
Periods Covered: 1930s, 1940s, 1950s
Language: English

Recording Date: 22/5/1989
Playing time: 1 hr 10 mins
Access Restrictions: Full clearance Item Copyright: EMOHA
Summary: Yes
Transcription: No
Copies: yes
Cross Reference: LO/545/495

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Last updated: 08/05/02 East Midland Oral History Archive Web maintainer This document has been approved by the head of department or section.