People and communities
New local history book by Walsall Council honours late Queen Elizabeth II
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Walsall Council is launching a new local history book that draws together a selection of stories about Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II’s four visits to the borough and local Jubilee parties, at a special event at the Council House on Tuesday 28 January 2025.
The event will be hosted by the Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Anthony Harris. Guests will include the Deputy Lieutenant David Frost CBE DL and participants who took part in the project.
The book is called ‘Walsall Celebrates Queen Elizabeth II, Stories of The Queen’s visits and Jubilee parties’.
Walsall Council commissioned the book in 2022, when Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll celebrated her Platinum Jubilee. Over the last two years, more than 100 participants have been interviewed and their tales include stories and memories of the Coronation in 1953, street parties and Jubilee celebrations, and personal reminiscences of official visits to Walsall by the Queen.
“ This book has gathered together and recorded the memories of people from across the borough. It serves as a celebration of her life and a record of Walsall’s fond memories of celebrating her reign during her lifetime.
“It focuses on her relationship with Walsall, the affection felt by Walsall people for her, and their memories of how Walsall celebrated royal milestones such as the Queen’s Silver, Gold, Diamond and Platinum Jubilees.
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The publication was created by Walsall Creative Factory, which develops arts and heritage projects with communities. The team researched, interviewed, photographed and captured in print the stories of local people’s experiences.
“ This has been a lovely project to work on. This book celebrates the late Queen’s links to Walsall and tells the story of her visits to the borough over the years using historic photographs, press and printed materials as well as the memories of local people. It also gives an insight into how Walsall changed during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. “
Following the book launch, from February 2025 a copy will be displayed in the Borough Archives and all seven libraries in the borough including Aldridge, Bloxwich, Brownhills, Darlaston, Lichfield, Streetly, Willenhall and the Lichfield Street Hub in Walsall town centre. The New Art Gallery will also have a copy for visitors to view.
Every school in the borough will be given a copy too.
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