The history of New Directions from its early beginnings at Richmond Lodge in the 1900’s is now on display in our conference room at Head Office. Archive Volunteer Mark, who also uses New Directions’ services, presented this display board to special guests at a private viewing on 10th April. Mark has been researching information about New Directions’ charity with Senior Administrator Tracy for 2 years.
The idea for this project came about just before the development of Richmond Lodge into supported living flats, that guests also visited on the day. Mark fondly remembers Richmond Lodge from the 1960’s when disabled people stayed there for respite. He created the board with Tracy in date order and memorized the placement of each piece. Published on our website soon will be an article about the findings of his research.
There were three historical artifacts donated to view on the day including an iron, a trophy and a very decorative Victorian lavatory pan. Mark and Tracy did many hours of research in the local library and the whole project took months to complete. Much information needed typing up and organising onto the board along with photographs.
Their research produced more information than could be used so the remainder was archived. Mark enjoyed this project and remembering the people that had established the charity. The original doorplate for Richmond Lodge takes pride of place at the top of the display. Mark learned valuable research skills from Tracy and their work will continue to keep up-to-date with the development of New Directions.
Mark said, “I would like to thank Tracy for her time helping me to find out what happened in the past. I was able to talk with knowledge on the day. Knowing how New Directions started was very rewarding because I came here when I was very young. I was pleased with the results and guests asked how I did it all. I am very proud of my achievements and Tracy and I are thinking about what is next in recording events, visits and things that develop for the charity.”