Stories of Childhood

The objects on display here made us think of being at home as a child. What object or word brings a memory
of home to you? We often keep favourite or special objects from childhood which remind us of time spent at home.
A child’s chair, baby clothes or a carefully created piece of artwork.

Have you kept something and why did you choose it?

Workhouse Committee Book, 1901–1913

This book lists children who lived at the Gawber Road Workhouse, specifically those who were being boarded out (fostered) to families.

Little Laundry Maid Postcard, c.1905

Sentimental scenes with children were popular subjects for postcards. Theygive an impression of both innocence and nostalgia.

Hot Water Bottle, early 20th century

This one is stoneware (a ceramic) and was used to warm the bed before you got in and keep you cosy in dreamland.

‘Darling’ Figurine by Charles Vyse for Doulton, c.1910–1920

A ceramic figure of a young, brown-haired child with its fingers in its mouth, dressed in a pale blue nightgown. The figure is entiteld 'Darling'. Vyse produced designs for Doulton in the 1920s which were very popular.

Child’s Chair, 1714

They don’t make them like they used to! This sturdy little chair has the initials R S and the date 1714 carved
on it. It was donated by James Fraser, descendant of the Spencer Stanhope family who lived at Cannon Hall in Barnsley for generations. It’s likely it was made for a child of either the Spencer or Stanhope families. The two names were joined when Walter Stanhope inherited the estate from his uncle John Spencer in 1775.

Doll’s Bed, c.1930

Acquired by Mabel Bristow of Grimethorpe, shortly after the birth of her twins. The bed was used by her daughter Janet for her dolls, then passed down to generations of the family to play with.

Dolls and Accessories, c.1995

Sisters Mary and Margaret Breedon of Wombwell made these items of doll’s furniture at a woodwork class in Hoyland. They also collected dolls and made their clothes and accessories.

Photograph, mid 20th century

Everyday moments can make the best memories. Even mealtimes can be a voyage of discovery. Photo gifted by J Stewart of Barnsley

Money Box, 1950s

Elizabeth Whitehouse found this money box when clearing her mother’s house. It is disguised as a book with ‘Thrift must begin with little savings’ on the front.

Return to the virtual exhibition or explore more of the objects from the exhibition below.