Culture And Memory

The Peoples Archive of Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon has an expansive cultural history centred on Shakespeare, but no formal archive dedicated to celebrating the richness of contemporary local people’s stories. This groundbreaking 3-year project will explore and preserve the social history of Stratford-upon-Avon and create a People’s Archive embedded in community steering, celebration and civic pride. Building on proven and embedded community-engagement practice, alongside established partnerships, the project will host participatory workshops, driving grassroots heritage exhibitions and innovative digital capture ensuring that individuals of all ages and backgrounds can engage, connect and be inspired by the stories of our shared history. Influential advocacy, events and a showcase exhibition will demonstrate the transformative power creative heritage has on individual wellbeing and community cohesion. Investment in youth leadership and volunteering whilst ensuring local relevance will empower community voice to drive social change, address cultural inequalities and play a central role in shaping Stratford’s future, leading to sustainable legacy.