Catalogue

Interview
1190, LO/537/487
Leicester Oral History Archive Collection

Speaker: Hopkins, Matilda, 1923 - , Interviewee, Female, Traveller
Speaker: Johnson, R, Interviewer, Female

Summary of interview item: Describes childhood in travelling family, father dealing in scrap iron, caravan, horses. Relates meeting husband in Leicester, marrying. Recalls hiding under table during air raids [Second World War], not liking rationing, Americans buying women drinks in pubs. Talks about mother helping at childbirth as well as midwife, Bond Street Hospital; mentions complications at last birth, speculates heavy work on scrap metal round the cause. Mentions parents didn't agree with her marriage, celebrations at Christmas, discrimination against travellers, burning someone's caravan when they die. Talks briefly about her stillborn baby not being allowed a proper funeral.
Place of birth: Northampton
Education: No formal schooling
Marital Status: Married, Children:
Father's Occupation: Scrap iron dealer
Mother's Occupation: Scrap iron dealer, housewife
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Leicester
Periods Covered: 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s
Language: English

Recording Date: 19/4/1989
Playing time: 45 mins
Access Restrictions: Full clearance Item Copyright: EMOHA
Summary: Yes
Transcription: No
Copies: yes
Cross Reference:

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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.