• Thu. Mar 28th, 2024

North East Connected

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Museum provides a window into the past for elderly residents

A MUSEUM trip turned into a stroll down memory lane for elderly care home residents – with exhibits all too familiar for the recent visitors.

The social history collection at The Dorman Museum, on Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, provides a window into the history of living and working in the area.

There are over 16,000 objects in the collection, arranged to reflect the domestic environment, working conditions and leisure pursuits in Middlesbrough from the 1930s onwards.

Residents from Mandale House Care Home, on Acklam Road, Thornaby, recalled seeing many of the items on display before they became museum exhibits.

The recreation of Linthrope Road, including old shops, pubs and a cinema, is a particular favourite of resident Peter Wilson, 84.

He said: “I’m a regular visitor here and I love the Linthorpe Road exhibit because it reminds me of how the world used to be. Everything is marvelous at the museum.”

Resident Ian Laing, 59, enjoyed seeing models of the Transporter Bridge and ships, as it brought back memories of his career in the Ministry of Defence.

He said: “I loved the Transporter Bridge model and model ships, as I remember seeing them dock in Middlesbrough when I was younger.”

Another resident Brenda Turner, 88, was accompanied by her daughter-in-law Rosie Turner for the trip.

While viewing the church exhibit, Brenda took to the pulpit to pretend to hold a church service, imitating her regular service at St Paul’s Church, Thornaby.

Rosie said: “I love to go on outings with Brenda and the residents from Mandale House. It’s always loads of fun.”

The zoological exhibit was also a favourite of the care home residents, with Ian providing his own commentary on the displays of birds.

During their tour he explained where each of the birds can still be found locally. He said: “The cormorants are still thriving at RSPB Saltholme.”

Tracy Wilson, activities coordinator at Mandale House Care Home, accompanied the residents on their visit.

She said: “Staying connected with our own history is vital and The Dorman Museum is a great window into the history of Middlesbrough and the surrounding area.

“Our residents thoroughly enjoyed their visit and particularly the social history collection as it brought back so many memories for them.

“It was a fantastic day out and the museum being free to visit is amazing – although donations are gratefully received. We will certainly be taking more residents in future.”