The National Forest’s LANDshapes project interview with John & Pearl Baker

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LANt006 John & Pearl Baker
LANDshapes Oral History interview summary

What was it like to grow up in the Swadlincote area during the first half of the 20th century? Listen to John & Pearl Baker's memories of childhood homes without indoor toilets or running water. John tells us about his first job in the pipeyards and how his wife Pearl, introduced him to Eatough's shoe factory where he worked for almost 40 years. John and Pearl share memories of childhood walks to Bretby and fondly recall their 'courting days' there. Listen to reminiscences of high days and holidays including the Easter Fair at Gresley Common, the August Bank Holiday Fair at the Swadlincote Engine Ground, the Whitsuntide Carnival and the Moira Wakes. John & Pearl have witnessed many changes in the local landscape during over 90 years of life in The National Forest area, and they both agree that the creation of the Forest has brought about "a marvellous improvement all round" in areas that used to be covered in the scars of old mine and clay holes.

Interviewer: Roger Kitchen
Interview Date: 09/02/2005
Landshape Zone: Leicestershire and Derbyshire Coalfield
Parish: Swadlincote and surrounds
Location: The National Forest Company, Bath Lane, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE12 6BD
Date of birth of John Baker: 1915
Location of Original: Originals held with The National Forest Company
Reference LANt006

Last updated: 15/9/2005
East Midland Oral History Archive Web maintainer
This document has been approved by the head of department or section.