Catalogue

Interview
105, MA200/115/115
Mantle Oral History Project

Speaker: Harris, Florence, 1916 - , Interviewee, Female, Factory machinist;
Speaker: Carswell, J, Interviewer, Female

Summary of interview item: Recalls early family life and move to Desford, including father's work as Deputy at Desford Colliery and mother opening shop to sell small goods to miners. Describes recreational activities, sports and parties from her childhood. Also recalls the different tradespeople who visited the village, and shopping at Bagworth Co-operative (Co-op) store. Describes the new house in Desford and its modernisation in 1953. Recalls the 1926 General Strike and its effect on the family. Talks about Sunday school at the Baptist church and singing there, also the social activities of the church. Recalls school days at Broom Leys school and having to leave school early. Describes obtaining work in 1930, taking factory machinist job at Faire Brothers' as it paid better, also describes work and journey to work. Talks about the effects of rationing during the Second World War, concerts for the forces and the Italian Prisoners of War (POWs). Describes the local doctor Dr Da Souza, home remedies, health treatments and the effects of diphtheria and tuberculosis (TB) on family and neighbours. Also recalls birth of sister and death of grandfather. Describes housework and washing clothes. Interview with husband also recorded see 000103 MA200/113/113
Place of birth: Ibstock, Leicestershire
Education: Bagworth school; BroomLeys school;
Marital Status: Married, Children: Sons: 1 Daughters: 1
Father's Occupation: Miner, Deputy
Mother's Occupation: Cleaner
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Desford,
Periods Covered: 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s
Language: English

Recording Date: 8/6/1991
Playing time:
Access Restrictions: Full clearance Item Copyright: EMOHA
Summary: Yes
Transcription: No
Copies: yes
Cross Reference: see 00103 MA200/113/113

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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.