Stories of Childhood

It could be a big celebration, but it doesn’t have to be. In this display, we’ve chosen some objects from festive days and one-off events, and others which marked a special time for just one child.

Do you remember going to the shops to buy that toy you desperately wanted? Or visiting a much-loved person or even scoring that amazing goal.

Sindy and Paul Dolls, early 1960s

 

Julie from Kingstone spent hours playing with dolls Sindy and Paul and dressing them in different outfits. On special occasions, she went with mum Florence to Woolworths in Barnsley, or to John Lewis in Leeds to buy accessories and clothes. A real treat!

Advent Calendar, 1985

A special time of year for many children!

Letter to Santa

A handwritten letter to Santa on festive paper with a Santa illustration at the bottom. The letter requests items such as dolls, games, clothes, and toys. It's signed "with love from Zenna," and there's a drawing of Santa with presents.

Jemma's letter to santa, we hope she got everything she wished for that year!

Schools Millennium Coin Barnsley, 2000

Given to Barnsley’s schoolchildren to celebrate the Millennium. The back of the coin reads ‘Pride in our industry. Learning for the future.’

Sports Day Photo, 1960

 

A black and white photo shows a man kneeling beside a young child dressed in a cowboy outfit, complete with a hat.

This photo was taken at a fancy dress gathering for a sports day in Carlton. The boy is dressed as a miner with a helmet, lamp and coal dust on his face. In the background is Carlton ‘muck stack’ which once overlooked Wharncliffe Woodmoor pit and Athersley South.

Pair of Pony Glasses, 1870s

Two green glass tumbler cups featuring white etched silhouettes of a girl holding flowers and a boy holding a stick. The images are surrounded by white decorative foliage near the bottom.

The little boy and girl are in woodland covered with snow. It looks like a special journey. Where do you think they are going?

Christening Gown, 1866

A display case showing a vintage christening gown with intricate embroidery, accompanied by handwritten letters, a children's book, and two green glasses. Various dolls are visible in the background, and wooden flooring is underneath.

An ivory handmade christening gown with cape, worn by four siblings from the Eyre family. Originally made for George
Harry Eyre, born 1886, then worn by Hubert, Rose Ellen and Gladys. In 1909, George and Hubert set up the successful car dealership business Eyre Bros (Barnsley) Ltd on Regent Street. In 1934, George bought a 1902 12hp Napier car with the famous number plate HE 1. He took part in rallies at home and abroad, including the ‘Genevieve’ London to Brighton run.