Personal histories bring the 1950s back to Western Australia

24/10/07
Western Australians are being invited to take a nostalgic trip back to the 1950s, with the opening today of an exhibition featuring the personal stories of more than 170 seniors.
Communities Minister Sue Ellery said the 'Living Histories' display at the Fremantle History Museum was a captivating showcase of the memories of older people in the community and would leave a legacy for future generations.
"The stories present a fascinating contrast between life today compared with 50 to 60 years ago," Ms Ellery said.
"Seniors relished the opportunity to reminisce about school days, popular culture, food, housing, working life and many other themes, and the views they offer are thought-provoking and often surprising.
"Many school students also participated by interviewing seniors in their families or communities and submitting these as digital stories, posters and poems.
"The exhibition has helped build mutual respect between the generations by highlighting the value of seniors' contributions and acknowledging the considerable role they play in our society through their skills, knowledge and experience.
"I encourage all Western Australians, young and old, to visit the 'Living Histories' exhibition and take a unique and colourful journey back in time."
The 'Living Histories' exhibition is at the Community Access Gallery, Fremantle History Museum, until February 3, 2008. Entry is free.
The Fremantle History Museum is located in the Fremantle Arts Centre on the corner of Ord and Finnerty streets, Fremantle.
The exhibition is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4.30pm, Saturdays and public holidays from 1pm to 5pm and Sundays from 10.30am to 4.30pm.
The 'Living Histories' program is an initiative of the Department for Communities and Have-a-Go News and is supported by the State Library of Western Australia, Writing WA, Arts Edge and the Film and Television Institute of Western Australia.
Minister's office - 9213 7150