Express & Star

1940s event coming to Haden Hill House Museum

Staff at a museum are getting ready to travel back 70 years into the house's history with a celebration of life on the Homefront in the Second World War on Bank Holiday Monday.

Published

The event will take place at Haden Hill House Museum and Old Hall in Cradley Heath on May 1.

Jane Hanney, museums services manager, said it was believed that the house in Barrs Road was used by evacuees before they found homes in the local area as well as being used to help bombed out families and as a food store during the war. She said: "Older visitors have told us about celebration that took place in the park at the end of the war."

For younger visitors, there will be children's entertainment and Punch and Judy with Ron Popple as well as wartime craft activities, quizzes and trails.

It will also be a first chance to see the new evacuee's bedroom display in the Old Hall.

Alison Hyatt, visitor services officer, said: "The site will come alive with costumed historical interpreters and old vehicles, there will be a uniform display and a chance for visitors to learn about rationing and taste some wartime food.

"There will be some great live music out in the park with Eureka Jazz to get you jumping and jiving or just something to watch and enjoy while you enjoy a picnic on the lawn."

The event, which runs from 12pm until 4pm, is free although there will be a small charge for some activities. Refreshments will be available in the tearoom.

For details visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/joininmuseums or call 01384 569444.

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