16 Sept – 15 Oct
Let us take you on a journey through the hidden histories of Stockton High Street with our fascinating new exhibition.
Experience the evolution of Stockton High Street through the eyes of the people who have lived, worked, studied or visited the town centre with Hidden Histories: Memories of Stockton High Street. Explore the interactive displays that bring the past to life including visiting a market stall and Leslie Brown’s listening booth, transport yourself back to the 1960s with the impressive model replica of the high street, or take time to reflect on your own memories of our wonderful High Street.
Treasured personal memories, collected by High Street Heritage Volunteers and the Council’s Community Partnership team for the exhibition, include:
“My great aunt Lucy Lofthouse was head milliner at Wilson’s department store and would travel to London at the beginning of every season to buy hat trimmings.” Mike
“I bought my first guitar from Whiteley’s music shop in Finkle Street, way back in 1964 when I was 12.” John
“My Grandad, William Gray, had three shops in Stockton High Street: A sweetshop, a fish and chip shop and the Castle Café. The café was in the Empire Arcade. My mam worked for him. This is how she met and married my Dad.” Maureen
Stockton High Street is now on the edge of an exciting transformation, so it’s the perfect time to celebrate the past. Find out more about Stockton Town Centre’s redevelopment.
Event information
The exhibition will take place from Saturday 16 September until Sunday 15 October 2023 in the Temp Gallery on the first floor of the museum.
Booking information
No booking required, see our opening times.
You will need a valid museum ticket or can buy one on the day. Tickets include 12 months of free return visits. See our admission prices.
Thanks
We’re very grateful to the following for their support in making the exhibition possible:
- Stockton High Street Heritage Volunteer Group
- Preston Park Museum & Grounds volunteers – Sewing Bees and craft volunteers
- Stockton Reference Library, Stockton-on-Tees Libraries
- Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Community Partnerships
