Catalogue

Interview
882, LO/246/197
Leicester Oral History Archive Collection

Speaker: Szoldra, Helena, 1924 - , Interviewee, Female, Hosiery designer;
Speaker: Van Heender, N, Interviewer,

Summary of interview item: Recalls early life on a farm in eastern Poland. Details the Russian invasion in 1939 and being sent to a slave camp near the Volga river. Describes trek to reach the Polish army, reunion with father and move to Iran and eventually joining of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force and coming to England. Recalls move to Melton Mowbray to work as a welfare officer for Polish families after the war, and her marriage. Describes work as a hosiery designer for Corah's and her son's work. Describes her husband's work as a teacher and how Polish tradition and culture was maintained by Polish people in Britain through the church and customs. Mentions the Polish community in Melton Mowbray and details Christmas and Easter celebrations.
Place of birth: Western Poland
Education: Grammar school
Marital Status: , Children:
Father's Occupation: Farmer
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County:
Location: Town/Place: Melton Mowbray
Periods Covered: 1920s, 1930s, 1940s,
Language: English

Recording Date: 30/1/1986
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.