The
Oral History
Project
Perhaps the most precious and irreplaceable facet of the Archive is the Oral History project. Unlike static documents, these interviews capture the nuances of memory, dialect, and personal experience.
Methodology:
Interviews are conducted by trained volunteers who follow ethical guidelines (informed consent, clear usage rights) and a structured thematic framework. Themes cover major life events, childhood, local customs, working life (farming, trade), wartime experiences, and community change.
Explore
The interviews capture the intangible heritage of Hambledon. They provide firsthand accounts of events that were never formally recorded, such as local rumors, changes in social customs, and the impact of national events on a small rural community.
Latest
This collection of the most recent interviews provide a comprehensive view of the village’s character and traditions from that specific near-past period. They focus on a wide range of community stories, memories of events, and reflections on change from a diverse group of residents.
Legacy
Recorded 5 to 10 years ago, these interviews specifically features the eldest and longest-standing villagers. It offers an unparalleled bridge between the village’s deep past and its current state, capturing memories that span almost the entire century, alongside their most recent reflections on contemporary life and recent changes.
Farming
Interviews detailing the historical development and daily life of farming in the village. This collection establishes the foundational connection between the community and the land, covering early techniques, equipment changes, and the experiences of previous farming generations.
Filmed
A separate collection of interviews, recorded around the same time as the Legacy round, which were specifically informally filmed. These provide distinct visual narratives documenting the village’s life, events, and residents from that period, chosen for their visual documentation value rather than being identical to the Legacy audio.
Interviewer – Information Area
Portal for the dedicated interviewers
Interview Documentation
Documentation to be taken to every interview. A permission slip for the interviewee to sign and an up-to-date topic list for the interviewer.
HAMBLEDON HISTORY GROUP
Your Stories, Our Legacy
Every villager has a story that deserves to be heard, but we can’t reach them all alone. Whether you have a passion for local lore and want to become an interviewer, or you know a neighbour whose memories should be preserved for the next generation, we want to hear from you. Join us in making sure our village’s unique voice is never lost.
Contact Us
Questions, suggestions, or just want to say hello?
Get in touch with the team here…
contact@hambledon-archive.co.uk
Phone
+44 7930 *** ***
aDDRESS
The Terrace,
Green Lane, Hambledon
PO7 4ST