Culture And Memory

'My Grandad knew Elvis'

The project will highlight the legacy of Albert Hand of Heanor, Derbyshire. We will make known the amazing and largely unknown story of how Albert introduced Elvis Presley’s music to Britain. When Elvis’ music came to Britain, British culture was changed forever, almost overnight, and a major figure in creating that change was Albert Hand and his dedicated support for Elvis and emerging British acts. We will record oral histories, preserve memorabilia and photographs, engage the local community through exhibitions, educational outreach and engage people with Heanor's role in creating 1960s music and culture. We aim to create pride and understanding of this local record shop owner’s contribution to the 1960s, celebrate local heritage, create an accessible archive and encourage the people of Heanor to value their community and its heritage. Through performance, events, exhibitions and school visits, we will tell Albert’s story and strengthen local identity through heritage.