History & Heritage

Latest Local History & Heritage pages

Life around Petre Street just over 50 years ago

I thought you may be interested in life around Petre Street just over 50 years ago. Particularly in the winter when the snow's arrived. As a young boy it was an event patiently waited for, and especially if it snowed on Friday night as that gave us the whole weekend for sledding.

2016-10-25 18:42:19

Appalled at considerations to making the swearing of allegiance to Queen compulsory

How appalling that the government is considering making the swearing of allegiance to Queen and Country a compulsory event for all teenagers.

2016-10-25 18:22:06

Fond memories of the area where I grew up

A former residents now living in Australia reminisces about growing up in Burngreave after a return visit.

2016-10-25 15:02:12

More work needs to be for our elders

A resident feels uur elders are part of our history, our dreams and they’ve given so much for the future generation, and it’s time to look after our elders with great reverence.

2016-10-25 14:12:17

Celebrating our heritage

“I wanted to join the Multiple-Heritage Service because I wanted people to understand my background and help other children not be ashamed of who they are.” That was the view of young committee member Danny Brand, who is part of, arguably Sheffield’s youngest Management Committee – the Sheffield Multiple-Heritage Service (SMHS).

2016-10-25 13:46:02

Memories of Carnival

With the Abbeyfield Multicultural Festival upon us, memories of another festival have been evoked. Leroy Wenham, carnival fan and Area Manager from Sheffield Futures came to talk to me about the African Caribbean fortnight that took place in Sheffield every September for over a decade.

2016-10-25 12:21:52

The Furnival – from pub to church

Passing by Verdon Street, you could easily mistake The Furnival for a 6O’s pub: from the outside it is just a dreary, characterless brick box. Inside, however, a different story is told by the people who use it, of faith, determination and hope that turned the building into a church.

2016-10-25 04:13:51

‘Palace and Mosque’

A fantastic exhibition of Islamic Treasures of the Middle East from the Victoria and Albert Museum.

2016-10-25 03:16:46

Dear Messenger...

Readers of the Messenger share their views and have their say.

2016-10-24 23:44:30

“Who do you think you are?”

An evening to help anyone interested in tracing their family tree.

2016-10-24 23:27:53

A Passion for Pitsmoor

Starting a new job in Burngreave last year, I was struck by the discovery that some residents don’t like the way the name ‘Burngreave’ is applied to the whole area. Further investigation on the subject has revealed a group of people who feel a strong sense of loyalty to Pitsmoor in particular.

2016-10-24 23:23:50

Telling it straight

Lloyd has been part of Burngreave for over forty years, serving behind the bar in The Catherine, enjoying ‘blues’ and giving time to help set up the Walter Rodney Housing Association. He looks back on the house parties that used to be so prevalent and says they were ‘uplifting’ – a community thing where people could meet, have a dance and enjoy themselves.

2016-10-24 23:16:51

Burngreave Voices

• A Request to Ex-Steel Workers.

• “Church Spires and Wedding Bells”. An exhibition of photos.

2016-10-24 19:48:01

The First Curry House on Spital Hill

The Kashmir Curry House is a bit of a landmark on Spital Hill, known for decades for good, tasty curries and an atmosphere of informality. B’sharath Hussain, who owns the restaurant, told me how it all started.

2016-10-24 18:11:05

I can fling a rainbow!

No one celebrates the return of blue skies, golden sunshine, green leaves and flowers of all colours better than Burngreave’s Hindu community. If you call at the Hindu Samaj on 25th March, the Spring festival of Holi, be sure to wear clothes that wash easily – whatever colour they are when you go in, you’ll look like a walking rainbow when you leave.

2016-10-24 16:36:09

The Howitt sisters

Dorothy Howitt was born in Fitzwilliam Street in 1923, and her sister Mary in Lopham Street in 1930. Both were educated at Pitsmoor Church of England School. After leaving school, the sisters learned hairdressing and worked together.

2016-10-24 16:33:11

Devon Gardens AGM

The Friends of Devon Gardens are holding our next Annual General Meeting in the park on Saturday 1 October from 2.30-4pm. For more details call John Chapman on 07860 101907.

2016-09-19 11:38:57

Heritage Open Day at SADACCA

A chance to visit SADACCA's historic building on The Wicker

2016-09-07 18:11:05

A Zeppelin over Sheffield

A Zeppelin Over Sheffield

North Chapel, Burngreave Cemetery, Melrose Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S3 9DN

Guided Walk at 1.00 pm on Sunday 11th September to visit graves of those Civilians killed by a Zeppelin in the First World War.

2016-09-07 16:31:38

Local History Group and the Listening Project

Burngreave Local History Group monthly meeting visited the library on Spital hill.

2016-08-13 19:01:17

Test your local knowledge

Quiz

2016-07-22 11:54:56

Back to the Blitz

Story by Katie Hobson Back in March, children from Whiteways and Owler Brook schools learned about the hardships of life during the Sheffield Blitz which killed over 2,000 people in December 1940. The pupils had the chance to take part in ‘Blitzed’ living history classes delivered by Jenny Bland and The History Van, who believe it is important for pupils to explore the life changing dilemmas and challenges of the Blitz. The program was created to remember the 75th anniversary of the Blitz that made nearly a tenth of Sheffield’s population homeless. Jenny said it was particularly important in the Grimesthorpe area because it was badly bombed during World War 2. The project allowed students to have the chance to learn to use stirrup pumps for putting out fires and deciding on what to do with a family pet if an air raid were to occur. Teachers from Whiteways primary school said that the children haven’t stopped talking about the day and have produced some lovely work.

2016-07-22 06:45:28

Crabtree Ponds reserve meeting

Crabtree Ponds Reserve Advisory Group Meeitng on 7th July at 6.30pm.All welcome.

2016-07-05 12:46:04

Cemetery Well dressing

Annual flower creation by the friends of Burngreave cemetery

2016-06-19 17:23:24

Environment weeks in the cemetery

Environment weeks events in Burngreave cemetery

2016-06-11 16:02:09

Parkwood Springs landfill visit

report from a tour of the Parkwood Spings landfill site.

2016-06-11 15:48:40

Norwood Hall

A history of Norwood Hall

2016-06-11 15:32:04

Past Times- chess at the Limes

Chess page.

2016-06-11 15:22:10

International Roma Day

International Roma day 2016 local celebration.

2016-06-11 10:50:41

Victoria Dawes

the ceramics of Victoria Dawes

2016-06-11 08:41:23

Hidden gems at the library

Recent events at Burngreave Library.

2016-06-08 20:27:40

Vestry Hall under threat

Burngreave Vestry Hall is under threat.

2016-06-08 17:40:24

June 2016 news

June 2016 news and information

2016-06-08 08:39:10

What's your story

Everyone has a story to tell! In this new short course in Burngreave, we will explore how we can tell our own stories and develop confidence in writing in a supportive group. Starting: Thursday 5 May 2016 12.30 – 2.30pm for 7 sessions Sorby House, 42 Spital Hill Sheffield S4 7LG

2016-05-03 16:56:01

Archaeology Exhibition

An exhibition of Community Archaeology Projects featuring research by University Of Sheffield Archaeology Students in collaboration with Community Groups at The Diamond – Workroom 1 University of Sheffield, 32 Leavygreave Rd, Sheffield S3 7RD When: 11th May 2016 10am-1pm Contact: Dr. Katherine Fennelly Tel: 0114 222 2930 k.fennelly@sheffield.ac.uk

2016-05-03 16:11:13

Sheffield University Archeology Students Exhibition

Students from Shu who have been studying three places in Burngreave/Pitsmoors past are exhibiting their findings in the Diamond Building.

2016-04-30 15:42:11

7th May 2016. A busy day at Burngreave Cemetery

The friends of Burngreave Cemetetery have organised a variety of events on 7th May.

2016-04-22 13:18:25

Local history walk

A local history walk around Roe Woods, Crabtree pond and Parkwood Springs on 12th May 2016.

2016-04-20 16:23:13

Friends of Parkwood Springs meeting and AGM

Friends of Parkwood Springs meeting and AGM Tuesday, 3rd May 2016.

2016-04-20 16:17:17

Plan for flats on Spital Hill

The Burngreave Messenger has reported in the past on the historic Lion Works on Spital Hill, which have been in a derelict state for a long time.

2016-04-01 15:35:32

Pye Bank School

Pye Bank Board School on Andover Street opened in December 1875 and had Boys, Girls and Infant Departments. It eventually became a nursery and infant school and closed in 1990.

2016-03-31 20:07:35

Drama at the library

Burngreave Library’s Marcia Layne wrote a play performed by Hidden Gems Productions at Sorby House on 14th March,

2016-03-31 19:58:45

Wanted

Pictures or stories of old Sheffield pubs

2016-03-31 19:52:45

What’s your Story?

Rob Hindle, working for the WEA, ran a short writing course at Burngreave Library.

2016-03-31 19:43:41

Play about Mary Seacole at Burngreave Library 10th March at 5.30pm

Play about Mary Seacole at Burngreave Library 10th March at 5.30pm

2016-03-01 19:41:46

Putting the Sheaf back in to Sheffield

Sheffield City Council and the Environment Agency are working on an exciting project to de-culvert and restore the river Sheaf in central Sheffield between Exchange Street and Castlegate.

2016-01-21 18:19:50

Spital Hill art, Love it or hate it

Two sculptures have been installed on Spital Hill.

2016-01-13 17:42:51

Lilian Bamforth

Memories of Lilian Bamforth by Gabriel Kaden Jacobs

2016-01-13 10:58:08

My Pye Bank

Barbara Warsop's family story.

2016-01-13 10:37:49

A quilt of memories

St James churchgoer takes part in quilt display commemorating the First World war.

2016-01-13 07:53:08

The library comes to life

Storytelling and volunteering at the library

2016-01-12 15:53:37

Bicycles and Beacons at Parkwood Springs

Events and news from Parkwood Springs

2015-10-07 09:34:02

Sixth Green Flag for award winning Devon Gardens

Green space Devon Gardens has won a Green Flag Award.

2015-10-06 19:53:33

Summer in the cemetery

Summer 2015 events in Burngreave cemetery

2015-10-06 19:40:49

Devon Gardens AGM

Saturday 3rd October at 2 pm

2015-09-25 12:06:26

Burngreave Voices: Our Stories Celebrated

‘A slice of life’ – An exhibition of photographs of Burngreave people and places. Fri 7th Oct Sun 9th Oct 2005

2015-08-20 23:47:41

Chapel cinema show saved

Over 200 people attending a visually and acoustically amazing ensemble of screenings, supported by a live performance from Sundaze, and an array of moving images from both Burngreave- and Yorkshire based filmmakers.

2015-08-20 15:30:41

Behind the scenes at the museum

April 2005 sees the beginning of a new course for Burngreave residents offering the chance to develop the skills needed to investigate the living history of the area. Nikky Wilson talks to I met Kim Streets.

2015-08-20 15:12:49

The forgotten Woodsiders

The ‘upside down’ houses on Woodside have been replaced by empty green spaces. But the last few wavyroofed houses still stand and some of the last residents say they should be saved.

2015-08-20 14:41:02

Burngreave finds its voice

Last month Verdon Street Rec hosted a wealth pictures, stories and displays about the area’s history to celebrate the launch of Burngreave Voices: Our Stories Celebrated, a project aiming to gather together some of the untold stories of residents’ lives and histories.

2015-08-18 10:58:07

Crabtree Pond maintenance day

Sheffield Wildlife Trust hold monthly maintenance days at Crabtree Ponds.

2015-07-24 10:34:19

Sheffield Oromo Cultural day

Sheffield Oromo community hosted a cultural day

2015-05-28 13:37:28

News from Parkwood Springs

The Friends of Parkwood Springs have commented on Viridor's plans for the restoration of the Landfill site which had been submitted to the Council. These and other comments have been discussed between Viridor and Council officers, and Viridor have now submitted revised plans.

2015-05-28 12:41:36

Arrivals in Burngreave

The last week of May was celebrated as Refugee Week. The Messenger invited photographer Jeremy Abrahams to talk about his photography project ‘Arrivals’, which will be exhibited in Weston Park Museum in Autumn 2016.

2015-05-28 12:32:22

New Burngreave local history book just released

Following the successful book ‘Pitsmoor – a peek into the past’ about the history of Burngreave in the 19th century a few years ago, the Burngreave Messenger Local History Group has just released a sequel after several months of research and hard work entitled ‘Burngreave – as the 20th Century unfolds’.

2015-05-28 12:26:52

Ken Riley: Normandy Veteran (1924-2015)

Ken Riley, of Torbay Road, was the Chairman of the Sheffield branch of the Normandy Veterans Association for 12 years and one of its founder members. In common with other members of the association, Ken landed on the Normandy beaches during ‘Operation Overlord’ which began on 6th June 1944. Ken, at the age of 19, was a radio operator with the Royal Armoured Corps.

2015-05-28 12:00:12

In memory of Reverend Don Sparkes

Obituary of Reverend Don Sparkes

2015-05-25 11:20:59

A lack of respect

The Messenger was shocked to discover the recent damage to monuments in Burngreave Cemetery wasn’t due to vandals, but Sheffield City Council’s Bereavement Services.

2015-05-11 17:17:37

Miners strike remembered

It’s 20 years since the year-long Miners’ Strike began. It started as a battle to save pits and miners’ jobs; it soon became all-out war between the Conservative Thatcher government and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM). The strike changed lives and politics in Britain.

2015-05-11 10:54:14

Parkwood Springs evening walk

Evening walk – Parkwood Springs, Roe Wood, Crabtree Pond. Tuesday May 12th.

2015-04-22 10:49:54

Parkwood Springs Village reunion

Reunion of former residents of Parkwood Springs village Tuesday 12th May 12.30 pm at the Hillsborough Hotel Infirmary Road.

2015-04-22 10:42:12

Bert Holmshaw , Normandy veteran

Bert Holmshaw spent his early childhood years in the Burngreave area and Bert’s sister, Macyl Holmshaw, who died of diphtheria at the age of six, is buried in Burngreave Cemetery.

2015-03-23 15:46:25

Local history - the next chapter

Burngreave’s local history group which meets monthly in St Catherine’s School on Firshill Crescent is now working on a follow up to ‘Pitsmoor a Peek into the past’.

2015-03-23 15:38:57

Memories of Pitsmoor

Dr Aileen Adams writes from Cambridge about her father Dr Joseph Adams who lived at 189 Grimesthorpe Road – the doctor's surgery.

2015-03-23 15:25:42

Origins of Royal Maundy

The origins of Royal Maundy go back a long way in history. King John was the first monarch recorded as giving alms to the poor at a Maundy service in 1210.

2015-03-23 13:23:05

Out and about

Local woman Kate Thomas is a volunteer who has set up an ‘Out and About’ course to help groups of women learn how to get around the city, and to give them the confidence to explore outside of the local area. Kate has been running courses for many years now, and says, “I like introducing people to new places and I like meeting people.”

2015-03-23 13:13:31

From the Indus to the Don Valley- Sheffield's earliest Muslim settlers

David Holland, a PhD student, is seeking information on early Asian immigrants to Sheffield.

2015-02-18 08:34:22

Crabtree Ponds Maintenance Day and Meeting

Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust manage Crabtree Ponds nature Reserve. There will be a maintenance day on 5th January 2015 and a planning meeting at St James Church, Scott Road on 12th January 2015

2014-12-30 10:27:12

Chilean Diplomats visit Burngreave

On 26th November 2014 two Chilean diplomats came from London to meet Chileans in Sheffield.

2014-12-08 11:37:28

Parkwood Springs: News and Events

Latest news and events from Parkwood Springs – Outdoor activity

2014-11-26 07:38:24

Remembrance Sunday

meeting at the war memorial in Burngreave Cemetry

2014-11-19 11:04:52

Parkwood Springs former residents meeting

Former residents of Parkwood Springs are meeting together to record their memories.

2014-10-24 06:36:52

Black History Month Programme of Events

Events celebrating Black History Month

2014-10-02 15:07:05

Friends of Burngreave Cemetry: Apple Day

Friends of Burngreave Cemetry will be holding their annual Apple Day on Sunday 5th October

2014-10-02 15:06:07

Cemetery Chapel Autumn activities

Events at the Cemetery Chapel from October through to November 2014.

2014-09-29 03:55:42

Burngreave Local History Group

Burngreave Local History Group meets once a month at St Catherine's school.

2014-09-28 19:19:23

Summer activities in Burngreave Cemetery

The WW1 postcard exhibition was enjoyed by visitors during its three day opening and most of the display is still available to view on Sundays. As part of the WW1 event, we created a small well dressing inspired by one of the postcards.

2014-09-27 10:38:49

Vestry Hall: serving the community for 150 years

Burngreave Vestry Hall is 150 years old The offices were built and opened in 1864, the year carved in stone over the main entrance.

2014-09-26 19:51:15

SADACCA International Community Cultural Day

Sheffield and District African Caribbean Community Association (SADACCA), with the support of community partners, held its annual International Community Cultural Day on 25th August, an opportunity to experience the diversity of cultures in Sheffield. It was attended by The Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Councillor Peter Rippon.

2014-09-26 15:23:59

Community mosaic workshop

Sunday community workshops at the cemetery chapel to create a sundial.

2014-08-15 17:51:59

Cemetery WW1 exhibition

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the start of WW1, Burngreave Cemetery displayed postcards, artworks and info about WW1 war graves.

2014-08-15 17:17:32

Cemetery Guided Walk

Guided walk featuring the War Memorials in Burngreave Cemetery

2014-07-18 15:53:25

Embroidered Postcards of WWI

A display of sweetheart postcards and other artwork associated with World War I

2014-07-18 15:47:39

Embroidered Postcards of the Great War

The members of Burngreave Community Cemetery Chapel have used the theme of Embroidered Postcards to recognise the Centenary of the Great War, 1914 -1918, in an exhibition at the Cemetery.

2014-07-18 15:35:44

70th Anniversary of D-Day

The Sheffield branch of the Normandy Veterans Association have recently held two parades at the war memorial in Barkers Pool to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy in June 1944

2014-06-12 14:37:05

History book launch at Burngreave Cemetery Chapel

21st June: A display and launch of a new book about the history of the area in, around and under the cemetery.

2014-06-02 10:22:26

The Cornerstone

At the junction of Carwood Road and Grimesthorpe Road stands a building known as the Cornerstone. It is home to the 76th Scouts and is also used as a polling station. But what about its history?

2014-05-30 17:40:29

The Jamaican Breadfruit Tree By Tandi

Breadfruit is a popular ingredient in Jamaican food

2014-05-30 16:57:22

Arnica Montana by Nikola

The Arnica Montana plant from Slovakia is used as a a cream to treat bruises and inflammation

2014-05-30 16:51:51

Harvesting Our Heritage

The Harvesting Our Heritage project is bringing together people from different backgrounds and ages to discuss their knowledge of plants and uses

2014-05-30 16:33:15

Margaret Dufty of the ATS

Margaret Dufty recalls her days in the ATS in World War Two.

2014-05-29 15:36:58

Normandy veterans return after 70 years

Local heroes of the Normandy landings in 1944 tell their stories.

2014-05-29 15:21:23

Help keep Ellesmere Green and Spital Hill clean and tidy

Now that the works to improve Ellesmere Green have been completed, we want to make sure that its stays clean and tidy.

2014-05-29 15:19:53

Firshill residents remembered

In December, Firshill residents reported to the Messenger that a tree had been stolen. The tree was significant to local people as it had been bought and planted by active community member

2014-05-29 14:46:51

Residents raise money for the Library

Local residents have been working hard to raise money for Burngreave Library, to help keep it open and staffed.

2014-05-29 14:37:21

Friends of Parkwood Springs Events

1.Meeting with Snowsport 1st May 2.Friends group workday 26th April 3.Guided walk 12th May

2014-04-17 14:40:42

Future Firth Park events

Events to come later in 2014 organised but Friends of Firth Park, including a Heritage Day in the Clock Tower on 13th September and First World War commemorations.

2014-04-05 16:54:10

About the Burngreave Tara

We are a group of tenants and residents in Burngreave and are supported by Sheffield Housing Service

2014-04-04 15:44:28

Summertime is here

The clocks went forward an hour this weekend – 30th March – and local artist, Steve Poole adjusted the sundial on the corner of The Lodge in Abbeyfield Park, to match.

2014-03-31 21:27:02

Burngreave Cemetery Chapel

• Friends of Burngreave cemetery are looking for volunteers.

• Coming events in the cemetery (Bat walk and Permaculture Design course)

2014-03-31 10:46:48

Trustee Vacancies: Friends of Abbeyfield Park

The Friends of Abbeyfield Park (FOAP) are reconstituting as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, and seeking individuals to join the Trustee Board that will govern the organisation.

2014-03-31 09:56:40

150 years since Great Sheffield Flood 1864

Floods were much in the news this winter. 150 years ago, the Great Sheffield Flood of 1864 not only damaged and destroyed large amounts of property; it caused a great loss of life, wiping out whole families.

2014-03-28 19:39:50

Old buildings of Burngreave

This entertaining walk around Pitsmoor on 5th March revealed a wealth of history and the back story of local old buildings we pass every day.

2014-03-28 19:21:09

Anne Gilbert turns 100

Anne Gilbert has celebrated her hundredth birthday.

2014-03-28 15:59:02

BCAF quarterly forum meeting

26 February 2005 • 11.00am The Welcome Centre, Nottingham Street

2014-03-04 15:58:36

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year marks the beginning of Spring, so is called the Spring Festival. Years are noted in 12-year cycles. People bear the qualities of the particular animal that represents the year they were born in. This is the ‘rooster’ year.

2014-03-04 15:41:27

Heritage Showcase

Friends of Burngreave Cemetery had a stall at the Heritage Lottery ‘jamboree’ at St Mary's Community Centre Friday 17th January.

2014-01-31 17:03:44

Peggy Doman

Peggy Doman came to the UK in 1956. For most of that time she has lived in Pitsmoor.

2014-01-31 16:51:12

A Soldier from Sheffield

Alan Billam who spent much of his life in Grimesthorpe has published a book in memory of his father— its a limited edition of 200 copies.

2014-01-31 16:43:39

Brief history of Spital Hill Works

A short history of Spital Hill Works

2014-01-30 20:23:38

Friends of Parkwood Springs events

Upcoming events organised by Friends of Parkwood Springs:

• Heathland work-day (Sat 25th Jan)

• Friends Group meeting (Tues 4th Feb)

• Trip to learn about the restoration of the old Beighton landfill (Sat 8th Mar)

2014-01-23 20:36:04

Winter Fun Day

Winter Fun Day at the Ripples Project, next to the Clock Tower on Firth Park Road with Free music, games, activities and entertainment.

2014-01-17 14:29:45

Library campaign: Quotes on the Central Library walls

Gordon Shaw has collated a handful of quotes about libraries, seen on the stairwell walls of Central Libray, in the hope that they willinspire the council to keep Burngreave Library open.

2013-12-20 16:57:45

Heritage at the House

Members of Sheffield Community Heritage Forum visited Abbeyfield Park House on 26th October 2013 to hold their quarterly meeting.

2013-11-30 20:39:45

Mushroom Walk

A few intrepid explorers braved the wind and rain at half term, to search for fungi in Burngreave Cemetery. Michael Senkans – SCC Biodiversity officer -led the tour starting and ending at the old mortuary chapel near the Melrose Road entrance.

2013-11-30 20:26:47

More Memories

More memories of Pitsmoor during wartime.

2013-11-29 20:21:30

Remembrance Memories

The Elliott family, Dad Frank, Mum Edith and daughter Dorothy, cowered in their brick shelter with another family in their yard on Brunswick Road in Pitsmoor on the fateful evening of 12th December 1940. The sound of bombs dropping further away made the ground tremble. The drone of bombers could be clearly heard overhead.

2013-11-29 20:05:03

Metal sculpture designs revealed

Designs for the proposed artworks on Spital Hill have been revealed by the Council. Images of metal sculptures for the area outside Tesco and the corner by the Vestry Hall and a series of pieces for Ellesmere Green are on display at Burngreave Library and Sorby House.

2013-11-29 15:58:46

140 years of Burngreave Library

Burngreave Library is one of the oldest branch libraries in Sheffield, first opening its doors over 140 years ago.

2013-11-28 20:23:56

Castle Market’s last day

It was an emotional day at Castle Market on 23rd November as it held its last day of trading. The Market will now move to the Moor from Monday 25th November.

2013-11-28 15:46:35

Yemeni workers recognised

A film documenting the memories of retired Yemeni steelworkers from Burngreave was premièred at the Vestry Hall in October

2013-11-28 14:56:58

Black History Month at SADACCA

On 6th October, SADACCA invited the community to a splendid event to commemorate the start of Black History Month (BHM). Includes the peom ‘still I Rise’.

2013-11-28 14:38:28

George Buckley interview

Sir George Buckley retired this year as Chairman, President and Chief Executive of American company 3M, who manufacture a wide range of products but perhaps most famously Scotch Tape and post-it notes. (Fuller version of the article from our August 2013 issue)

2013-10-11 16:25:00

Black History Month 2013

Sheffield and District African Caribbean community Association (SADDACCA), in conjunction with other community organisations will be holding a series of events mark and celebrate Black History Month throughout October 2013

2013-10-11 15:43:44

Wooden Head returned

The disappearing wooden horse’s head has … reared its head again.

2013-09-27 21:49:52

Harry Brearley in Pitsmoor

Harry Brearley, discoverer of stainless steel, was born on Spital Street in 1871 and later moved with his family to Marcus Street in Pitsmoor which is now demolished. His wife lived on Scott Road.

2013-09-27 21:30:15

New roof for Abbeyfield Park House

The short-term future of Abbeyfield Park House has been secured following Sheffield City Council Cabinet agreeing to renew the slate roof and guttering

2013-09-26 20:38:31

Burngreave Library at risk

Burngreave Library has not made it on to the Council's list of 11 local libraries to be saved.

2013-09-26 16:03:58

Down by the Riverside Festival 2013

Saturday 21st September and Sunday 22nd September. Music, metalwork, traditional crafts and skills

2013-09-12 15:05:36

Help wanted after fire at recycling plant

Reclaim is a recycling charity in Attercliffe that provides work and support for adults with learning disabilities. After a huge fire on Sunday 14th destroyed the majority of their site, they are looking for local businesses and skilled workers to help get the plant up and running again.

2013-08-27 20:12:15

Pitsmoor’s George Buckley

Sir George Buckley retired this year as Chairman, President and Chief Executive of American company 3M, who manufacture a wide range of products, but perhaps most famously Scotch Tape and Post-it notes.

2013-07-19 22:36:17

Brearley’s early life

During his early childhood, Harry Brearley, discoverer of Stainless Steel, moved from Spital Street to Marcus Street, Pitsmoor

2013-07-19 22:23:44

Firth Park Festival

On Saturday the 29th of June, the local community gathered together to celebrate the start of summer in the annual Firth Park Festival.

2013-07-19 20:50:24

Library moving to Sorby house

The Council have submitted a planning application to move Burngreave library to Sorby House, revealing that the library will be substantially smaller

2013-07-18 15:40:33

Down the mines

A group of intrepid local historians set off from Burngreave Cemetery early in May to visit the National Coal Mining Museum at Wakefield.

2013-06-01 11:21:53

Brearley’s origins

Harry Brearley, who discovered Stainless Steel in 1913, was born on 18th February 1871 in a back-to-back off Spital Street, Pitsmoor, in what was known as a House, Chamber and Garret.

2013-06-01 10:40:16

Burngreave History and Nature Walk

Begin with a guided tour of Burngreave Chapel and Cemetery by Ken Wild from the Friends of Burngreave Cemetery (donation appreciated), then visit Parkwood Springs, Wardsend Cemetery, Roe Woods and Crabtree Ponds Nature Reserve.

2013-05-02 15:31:42

Harry Brearley's School - fire

A fire has badly-damaged Harry Brearley’s old school.

2013-04-19 11:00:19

Further tales of St Catherine's Scout Group

It was 1st April 1943 when the 205th St Catherine’s Scout Group was formally affiliated into the Scout movement. 70 years later, Patrick Duggan continues with reminiscences of the group.

2013-03-21 23:23:58

Letter: Working with Harry Brearley

I was intrigued to read the article on the discovery of stainless steel, as my late grandfather, John William Lindley, was a member of the small team that assisted Harry Brearley in the project.

2013-03-21 22:34:53

Digging Deep into Local History

The Friends of Burngreave Cemetery and Chapel have a new project – ‘Digging Deep under the Cemetery.’

2013-02-01 18:08:37

Harry Brearley:Discoverer of Stainless Steel

2013 marks a century since Pitsmoor-born metallurgist, Harry Brearley, made his historic discovery of stainless steel.This article highlights his connections with our area.

2013-02-01 16:59:41

New local history classes

All are welcomed to the Cemetery local history group which will meet in the Burngreave Vestry Hall computer suite.

2012-12-31 07:44:00

Heritage Lottery Funding for Burngreave Cemetery Local History Project

Friends of Burngreave Chapels and Cemetery have received a one year grant from The Heritage Lottery Fund ‘All our Stories’ project.

2012-12-07 21:14:32

Ellesmere Green Update

Designs for the development of Ellesmere Green will go forward to the next stage with very few changes following the consultation in the summer.

2012-12-01 13:57:50

St James centenary

St James celebrated is 100th anniversary with great success. The event brought together both young and old with several generations of some families represented.

2012-12-01 13:47:08

Recollections of Grimesthorpe

Beginning with a history of Grimesthorpe, Alan Billam follows on with a ‘boy’s eye’ view of life in the area in the ’30s and ’40s; games they played, tricks they got up to and working life as a teenager and young man

2012-12-01 13:40:42

Project work at Parkwood Springs

M.A. Students from Sheffield University's Department of Landscape chose Parkwood Springs for their Urban Development project.

2012-11-30 15:31:33

Council questioned about Abbeyfield House

Friends of Abbeyfield Park addressed the full meeting of Sheffield City Council on Wednesday 3rd October and asked questions about how the Council's plans for Abbeyfield House

2012-10-04 10:43:32

Free Bulbs for your Community Group

The North East Community Assembly has ordered spring bulbs to give out to local community groups.

2012-09-30 16:15:36

Somali story-telling

This celebration of Somalia's story-telling tradition and oral heritage will take place at Burngreave Vestry Hall and include readings from “The Fox and The Crocodile” and other stories

2012-09-30 15:50:35

St James’ Church Centenary

In 1898 the Presbyterian Church of England decided to start a new congregation in Ellesmere Road to serve the growing number of Scottish people working and living in north Sheffield. Within a short while the growing number of members needed new premises and they bought a piece of land at the corner of Scott Road and Abbeyfield Road.

2012-09-29 11:56:03

Creative Writing group

A friendly group of local writers of all ages from many communities

2012-09-28 17:02:12

20 years service at Ellesmere Post Office

Kamalbir Nandra (Kamal) who, along with his wife Dalbir (Bobby) has been running the Ellesmere Post Office since l992, has decided it is time to have a change.

2012-09-28 14:29:25

Petition to repair Abbeyfield’s roof

Friends of Abbeyfield Park are petitioning the Council about the poor state of Abbeyfield Park House.

2012-09-27 15:01:21

The Sheffield Riverlution Festival

Join us for a weekend of events and activities along Sheffield’s city centre riverside, and a week of fringe events spread across Sheffield’s wider waterway network

2012-09-13 16:27:30

Local History Book Launch

Burngreave Local History Group launched their first book, “Pitsmoor: a Peek into the Past,” in June at Burngreave Library.

2012-07-23 12:23:14

Fondly remembered: Tom Gould

Valerie Brightman writes to us in reference to our article about Tom Gould, “In the February obituary you stated that Tom had no living relatives. In fact he was my Father's cousin and myself and my Mother were in contact with Tom right up until his death.”

2012-07-23 12:09:54

Sheffield and the Great War

Over 50,000 men from Sheffield took part in the Great War of 1914-18. Those who enrolled (many of them under 18 years of age) saw the war as a great adventure compared to their routine lives which revolved around work during the week and chapel on Sundays. Most had never left the city boundaries, let alone travelled to a foreign country.

2012-07-23 11:38:50

Burngreave Foodbank now open

Story:Andrew Birtwhistle Burngreave ‘Food Bank’ opened on 18th June 2012. It is run by volunteers at the Rock Christian Centre, Carlisle Street and linked to a UK-wide network of over 200 food banks.

2012-07-20 17:01:02

The Burngreave Well Dressing

Come and see the well dressing displays made by local volunteers and children from Firshill Primary School. Also a guided walk in the cemetery, displays in the chapel and tea and scones for everyone!

2012-06-21 15:31:17

The Fir Vale Workhouse

The early history of the Northern General Hospital is not always obvious to many people visiting the large modern complex today. However, if bricks could talk, some of the older hospital buildings, like the old clock tower, could tell a story or two about their origins as the Fir Vale Workhouse, a place that inspired fear and dread in the hearts of many.

2012-06-21 15:17:33

Pitsmoor: A Peek into the Past

Victorian history of Pitsmoor

2012-06-14 14:48:40

Cemetery & Chapel: Past and Future

Friends of Burngreave cemetery and chapels have plans for the future

2012-05-25 09:51:26

Pitsmoor – A peek into the past

Over the past few years you will have read lots of local history articles in the Messenger, many by members of Burngreave Local History Group.

2012-05-24 16:09:45

Whitsuntide 1912

100 years ago Spring Bank Holiday was then known as Whitsuntide, one of the best and brightest of the Bank Holidays. Whitsuntide is a Christian festival which commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Christ’s disciples.

2012-05-24 16:04:13

1912 coal strike

In 1912 there were prolonged countrywide coal strikes following cuts to miner’s wages. The strikes ended when, despite strong opposition, the government passed the Coal Mines Act, which set a minimum wage for miners.

2012-05-24 15:58:41

In the news 100 years ago

To celebrate the Burngreave Messenger’s 100th issue, our local history group decided to look back at Sheffield newspapers published in the same week of May 1912, 100 years ago.

2012-05-24 15:52:09

From the Streets

Kim Streets, the new Chief Executive of Museums Sheffield, lives in Burngreave. I went to meet her and find out what it's like working in Sheffield's arts and heritage.

2012-05-24 15:26:29

Advice on metal theft

• Do not leave metal items unsecured in your front or back yards;

• Secure backyards from any attacks;

• Do not challenge metal thieves;

• Report any metal theft to the police.

• If you wish to report metal theft, contact South Yorkshire police on 101.

2012-04-02 07:16:14

Tea gardens

Tea gardens outing and tea gardens public house

2012-04-01 13:44:53

Bill Stead ‘lucky to be alive’ at 90

Bill Stead, of Rock Street, celebrated his 90th birthday with his family and friends at the ‘Normanton public house’ recently.

2012-03-30 14:14:04

Trees vandalised on Abbeyfield Road

At the lower end of Abbeyfield Road, near Osgathorpe Road, two fairly young trees planted several years ago and a quite substantial mature tree have been cut down.

2012-03-29 15:55:32

Supporting the Messenger

The Burngreave Messenger is about to become a teenager! In July, we’ll be celebrating our 13th birthday and in June, we’ll be putting out our 100th issue – quite an achievement for a community magazine run mainly on the time, effort, skills and goodwill of local volunteers.

2012-03-29 14:53:23

Nursery Street work to start

A new park is being created that should help keep the Wicker flood-free.

2012-03-29 14:37:06

Events with Friends of Parkwood Springs

Forthcoming events in March and April including Clean Up morning, Mountain Biking and a History Walk.

2012-03-01 16:02:51

Dear Messenger

Residents campaign for St Hilda's.

2012-02-03 21:33:08

A Pitsmoor life

The story of Aileen who was born in 1929 in a back-to-back house on Verdon Street and her family.

2012-02-03 16:06:21

Caborn Corner planting

It's good to see trees being replanted again on Caborn corner outside the entrance to the new Tesco store on Spital Hill.

Website exclusive: List of trees planted.

2012-02-02 14:34:47

Home Fire Girls 90th anniversary

Pitsmoor Home Fire Girls had their celebration 90th Anniversary Tea Party on Saturday 22nd October, where over forty past and present members, friends and supporters came together for an afternoon reminiscence, memorabilia and friendship.

2011-11-25 15:00:29

The Teachers’ Orphanage

In 1877 the National Union of Teachers founded a Teachers’ Benevolent Fund. A year later, a separate Orphanage and Orphan Fund was established, in order to ‘aid as liberally as possible all who had fallen upon evil times’. Two orphanages were eventually set up, one for boys in Peckham Rye, London and another for girls, situated at Firshill (pictured above).

2011-11-25 14:39:24

Report from the October public business meeting

Local Councillors agreed the Community Plan, reallocation of funding and investment to improve local open spaces in the area.

2011-11-25 13:35:21

Local History Talk

Sheffield Flood and Workhouses talk by Marion Heywood at Burngreave Library

2011-11-03 15:05:21

Black Spirituality & Mental Health

On Monday 24th October SACHMA presents ‘Past, Present & Future’; Back Spirituality & Mental Health; What you don't know can hurt you! – A Black History Month event at SADACCA Day Centre.

2011-10-13 16:33:53

Metal thieves attack historic sites

Thefts of metal in the area have caused damage and upset in the community.

2011-10-07 21:22:59

Pitsmoor Lunch Club

Pitsmoor Lunch Club opens on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Pitsmoor Methodist Church

2011-10-05 06:53:30

Trace your Caribbean Ancestry

Come along to a FREE day workshop at Sheffield Archives,

2011-09-29 20:19:58

Wicker chemist

As part of their 60th anniversary celebrations, Wicker Pharmacy are looking for people with memories of the pharmacy or of the Wicker from 1952.

2011-09-25 12:55:38

26 years serving the community

After 26 years of unceasing service at the Burngreave Wine Shop, the Patel family have decided to take retirement and sell their shop on the corner of Burngreave Road and Catherine Street.

2011-09-25 09:25:39

Eastern Eye Pakistan Independence Day

August 14th saw another huge celebration event at Mohammed Akram's Eastern Eye take-away restaurant on Firth Park Road. The event drew hundreds of people together for a special meal in honour of the day Pakistan achieved independence back in 1947.

2011-09-23 17:55:57

Devon Gardens award

For the second year running Devon Gardens, the Victorian nannies’ park on Abbeyfield Road in Pitsmoor, has been awarded a prestigious Green Pennant Award, part of the Green Flag scheme which recognises great green spaces and the work done by the community to maintain and develop them

2011-09-23 09:55:27

Burngreave Fungi Walk

Details of the Burngreave Fungi Walk at Burngreave Cemetery on Saturday 10th September 2011.

2011-08-13 18:41:46

The history of Wincobank Hill - Special Event

Details of an illustrated talk about Wincobank Hill

2011-08-01 11:41:02

Ripples in the pond – new life for old boating lake

Work is well underway on the old boating lake, next to the Clock Tower on Firth Park Road and is about to become a reality! The consultation took place alongside an intensive fundraising effort by Friends of Firth Parks & Countryside working in partnership to raise over £200k.

2011-07-22 15:36:52

Party at Devon Gardens

Activity Sheffield organised great games and activities for the local children, and neighbours and residents came out in force, bringing all sorts of delicious home-made dishes to share.

2011-07-22 14:56:09

Wedding memories

The recent Royal Wedding was a very popular topic at the Firshill and Pitsmoor Local History Group meeting. It set off a discussion on weddings in the past, a subject we had covered before.

2011-05-30 11:53:26

Burngreave Exploration

Thursday 19th May was a pleasant summer evening so my husband Gordon and I decided to join the Burngreave Exploration walk, part of Sheffield Environment Weeks.

2011-05-27 16:11:11

Spring Bank Holiday Activities

Events and Activities for Sprink Bank Holiday

2011-05-27 14:53:42

History on your doorstep

Local resident, Tom Barnard, an archaeology student at Sheffield University lives next to Osgathorpe Park. Digging up pieces of worked bone in his garden led to a fivemonth archaeological dig that could put Osgathorpe Park on the map as an historical site. The Messenger went to meet him at the University Archaeology Department to find out more

2011-04-02 14:20:05

150th Anniversary of Burngreave Cemetery

Event to mark the 150th Anniversary of the cemetery on 17th April 2011

2011-03-31 17:33:53

Jim Gilbert’s Retirement Party

Nearly forty members past and present of the 76th Sheffield Scout Group, along with the Don District Scout Commissioner, Steve Clayton, and other official representatives, paid tribute to Jim Gilbert’s work as a Scout Leader over the last 50 years.

2011-01-28 16:05:23

Burngreave Fungi

Steve Clements, fungus recorder for the Sorby Natural History Society, has been documenting the fungi he has seen on his travels in our area.

• Web exclusive: Guide to fungi found in Burngreave.

2011-01-28 15:06:26

Rocky and the undercover cop

Burngreave resident, Anthony Mullen, spoke to the Messenger about being an environmental activist and how he got caught up in the national under-cover police controversy in Nottingham.

2011-01-28 14:46:31

1940's Night Gallery

A selection of pictures from the 1940's night event

2010-11-28 22:35:47

A new home for old books

Winnie Bentley has been the custodian for many years of two books detailing the members and minutes of the Abbeyfield Bowling Club dating from 1913. They have now found a new home in the Local Studies Library where they will be available for future generations to read.

2010-11-28 22:16:30

Hidden past of Burngreave Rec

With the funding confirmed to improve Burngreave Recreation Ground, I decided to have a look at the history of the area.

2010-11-28 18:51:50

Beacons Festival photo gallery

Photots taken at the Beacons Festival at Parkwood Springs

2010-11-26 15:48:36

Christmas is coming

Christmas is coming …and the Firshill and Pitsmoor History Group did some reminiscing (longer online version).

2010-11-25 16:29:14

Vegetable monsters from the past

More memories from Parkwood Springs village detailing extraordinarily large vegetables that were grown there!

2010-10-07 20:44:08

Small bomb thrown at train - News from 1887

More memories of Parkwood Springs. A small bomb was thrown at a train passing Parkwood Springs in 1887.

2010-10-07 20:40:30

Memories of Parkwood Springs village

Lots of people have brought us their memories of Parkwood Springs – playing there as children, wartime memories of army billets and anti aircraft guns, the ammunition dump, the brickworks and the power station – we would love to hear more.

2010-10-07 20:34:31

Walk on the Heritage Trail

A guided walk along the heritage of the River Don and Canal will start from the Wicker at 2pm on Saturday 9th October 2010.

2010-10-07 20:04:17

Back to schooldays

It’s that “back to school” time of year again and this made me think of our group’s memories of schooldays. Maybe our recollections will stir a few memories for older readers and give younger ones an idea of what it was like at school for us. (*Longer vesion*)

2010-09-26 20:27:24

Cemetery damage

Residents and visitors were concerned to find a number of graves damaged near the Scott Road entrance in September.

2010-09-23 18:07:08

Blooming Brilliant!

Carwood resident Ronald Roe has been announced the winner of the ‘Best Wild and Sustainable Garden’ in the “Sheffield Gnomes Gardening Competion".

2010-09-23 17:56:07

Allotment demands

A number of local allotment tenants have been threatened with eviction after receiving stern warning letters from the Council, criticising the condition of their plots.

2010-09-23 17:25:58

Green Pennant for Devon Gardens

Our little green oasis, Devon Gardens on Abbeyfield Road, has won a coveted Green Pennant award. It has now been recognised as a historic park by Sheffield City Council.

2010-09-23 17:14:43

Summer Study

In the summer, 30 children aged 8-13 from Burngreave After School Study Support attended a one-week educational project organised by the Sheffield Children's University. In the process, they improved their maths and literacy skills and found out about University.

2010-09-23 15:47:09

We’ve seen the light!

At last electricity has returned to the chapels in Burngreave Cemetery. Thanks to those in City Council who enabled the electricity to be connected.

2010-05-31 01:21:23

Brotherton Street memories

After last issue’s article about the Catherine Arms, The Messenger had a call from Mr Frank Goodwin who lived on Brotherton Street until 1980. His aunt Nellie also lived there between 1930 and 1974.

2010-05-31 00:52:29

Firshill's working days

It is very sad that young people are unable to find jobs these days. When we reminisce, all of us remember “leave school Friday, start work Monday”.

2010-05-28 16:36:03

Wincobank Hill Fun Day

Family activities on the ancient Hill Fort will take place on Sunday 23rd May.

2010-05-19 08:16:15

Pikworo the Movie

Follow Rob Smith on his journey in Africa learning about the lives of distant relatives and the slave trade.

2010-05-11 00:34:33

Snow-time Memories

We’ve had a slow start to this year – we are all getting on a bit and the weather has somewhat restricted our normal outings. This situation started us reminiscing about the weather conditions when we were young.

2010-03-26 15:11:40

The mystery of Roe Lane Tower

The picture above was taken in 1940. Whatever is the large structure at the bottom of Roe Lane and who would build a house with a tower attached? I had to find out who lived in that house and why they built the tower.

2010-03-25 18:17:03

150 years of Catherine Street

Properties on Catherine Street and Brotherton Street are presently fronted by scaffolding prior to demolition. These properties are over a hundred years old and the property on the corner of these two streets has probably been a part of the lives of many locals over the years.

2010-03-25 16:33:27

Fruits of the Forest at Parkwood Springs

Thursday 18th March was an industrious and sunny spring day at Parkwood Springs when work took place to plant the fruit trees and bushes at the Forest Garden.

2010-03-25 16:24:50

Twentieth Century Woman

This is a poem by a member of Write Horizons, a group of local writers, who meet in the area once a week. The group write poems and stories some fact some fiction, enjoying one another’s company and sharing ideas and encouragement

2010-03-25 16:12:31

Wicker Works

Since the devastating floods of 2007 shops and businesses on the Wicker have endured a particularly tough period of trading. Now, nearly three years after the Don burst its banks, work is finally underway to protect the area from flooding.

2010-03-25 15:55:54

Brothers-In-War

A poem in memory of Harold and Don – by David Norris-Kay

2010-02-01 01:32:43

“Wonderful Ellesmere!” A nonagenarian remembers…

Anne Gilbert (nee Gray) was born in March 1914 (the first of five children), just a few months before the start of the “Great War” (later to become known as the First World War). Five of her uncles fought in that war; three of them returned from it, but two (Ben and Ebb) were killed, at the age of 21.

2010-01-31 17:52:03

Looking back at Grimesthorpe Road

Grimesthorpe Road, which starts on Gower Street, at the side of the Vestry Hall, ends just over a mile away at what once was Grimesthorpe Village, now just another suburb of Sheffield.

2010-01-31 17:25:50

Friends of Wincobank Hill

Right at the top of Wincobank Hill is the site of an Iron Age hill fort that dates back thousands of years. Nowdays you can just make out the rim around the top of the hill where the walls would have stood.

2010-01-28 15:46:55

By myself in Africa

Local resident and writer Rob Smith travels to Africa to find his roots.

2010-01-28 15:23:43

The closing of the Coliseum

No Tears – and a cinema quietly dies. An article by Keith Farnsworth about the closure of the Coliseum cinema on Sptial Hill in 1963.

2009-12-05 15:35:55

Sadness for the Hallcar Tavern

A letter to the Burngreave Messenger

2009-11-29 20:59:49

Underwood House

I joined the local history class this year and as part of the course we were asked to undertake a research project of our own choice. I went to school at the Convent High School on Burngreave Road which was a large house that had been extended. I thought it would be interesting to find out when the house had been built and who had lived there. Most of you now will know the building as St Catherine’s Nursing Home. By using internet research sites and the local history library I was able to find out quite a lot about the house and its occupants.

2009-11-29 20:33:41

Inside Page Hall

Page Hall is an amazing place. If you had any doubts, you only need spend five minutes looking at Richard Hanson's new exhibition to be sure.

2009-11-27 14:11:25

Our younger days: Firshill History Group

A little while ago we were asked by one of our local schools if we could talk to a class of 7-8 year olds about our lives when we were their age. Three of our group were faced with about 30 children bursting with questions about what it was like to live 50 years ago!

2009-11-26 20:41:25

Normandy Veterans Meet

Two World War Two veterans who landed at the same beach in Normandy meet each other after 55 years.

2009-11-26 14:17:56

Tomorrow's terraces?

A recent Council project to renovate rundown houses in Page Hall opened its doors to residents in November.

2009-11-25 17:51:09

Work in Burngreave Cemetery

In recent months Bereavement Services have been doing significant work in Burngreave Cemetery. (Includes full action plan download).

2009-11-25 17:31:50

Parkwood Springs: the village

Parkwood Springs was inhabited until the mid 1970s, when it was demolished, and its inhabitants have dispersed across Sheffield and even as far as Australia. An impression of the history of Parkwood Springs.

2009-10-01 17:29:40

The pub that never shut

Marion Graham shares her memories of the Hallcar Tavern from the 1940s onwards.

2009-09-27 18:30:51

History of Hallcar Tavern

The earliest reference to Hallcar Tavern we can find is in the 1871 census, when the address was Hall Carr Gardens, near Carwood House.

2009-09-27 18:24:20

Holtwood House

Across from Abbeyfield Park, on Abbeyfield Road there is a derelict lodge, have you ever wondered what it was part of, or why there is a lodge there? The lodge was originally just a small part of a much bigger estate, with a grand house called Holtwood House.

2009-09-25 15:51:29

Memories of Abbeyfield Park

Last issue we marked a hundred years of Abbeyfield Park as a public park. This issue residents share their memories of the park over the last 70 years.

2009-07-19 15:07:16

Firshill and Pitsmoor Local History Group

We are a small group of people who live on Firshill estate in Sheffield.

2009-07-16 21:10:33

Jazz at SADACCA

On the evening of Friday 3rd July, “Jazzmotic”, a local five-piece jazz collective, played the first of a series of gigs at SADACCA.

2009-07-16 20:55:20

A marvellous day

A marvellous day of gathering for all the refugees and asylum seekers from all over Burngreave and Sheffield was held on 19th June in the familiar atmosphere of SADACCA.

2009-07-16 20:31:59

Wicker floods again

Two years ago, the Wicker was flooded, causing extensive damage to businesses and disruption to everyone. The clean-up operation took huge resources and many businesses have still not fully recovered.

2009-07-16 19:59:17

Hope not Hate

Burngreave resident Ken Riley remembers why he fought the Nazis in 1944

2009-06-02 17:08:55

Memories of 1984

Since the beginning of March this year, there has been a lot of writing and reflecting on the 1984 Miners’ Strike, marking the 25th anniversary. One Burngreave resident, Lesley Boulton, was actively involved in supporting the miners’ cause and has strong memories from this time. I went to meet her at her home in Pitsmoor and to hear her own account of the Battle of Orgreave.

2009-05-31 22:18:23

Local History Class

Discover the history of Burngreave. Learn how to research your own local history project and work towards an exhibition or article in the Messenger. Begins Friday 12th June – 7th August.

2009-05-31 21:43:28

Abbeyfield Park centenary

Built in the 1840s, and originally called Pitsmoor Abbey, Abbeyfield was five and a half acres of land which first belonged to William Pass, the owner of a local colliery.

2009-05-31 21:36:37

A little piece of heaven: Devon gardens

Finding a peaceful spot in a busy city can be a challenge but residents in the Abbeyfield Road area have their own little piece of heaven.

2009-05-29 16:56:56

Cleaner Arches

The stone facing of the landmark Wicker arches has recently had a clean-up, thanks to Network Raid and Sheffield City Council. The operation follows on from recent decorative lighting in the pedestrian arches and illumination above the main span. The work was to enhance the visual impact of the arches on the main route between Burngreave and the city centre.

2009-05-29 16:29:27

Ken Riley, Normandy veteran

On 6th June 1944 the Allied Forces of World War II began their invasion of the Normandy beaches, the ‘D Day’ Landings. The largest military operation in history saw hundreds of thousands of troops being ferried across the English Channel frok Southern Angland to Northern France in a well planned and highly organised operation. Among them was Burngreave resident Ken Riley, one of only a handful of Veterans of the Normandy Landings still living in Sheffield.

2009-05-29 16:01:54

Pub reunion

I joined around 30 locals in The Normanton pub on Earldom Road for their reunion. When I arrived the bar was decked with balloons and nibbles. I asked organaiser John “Fozzi” Foster what it was all about.

2009-05-29 14:44:49

Jamaican High Commissioner at SADACCA

The Jamaican High Commissioner addressed the Sheffield’s black community on Thursday 30th April.

2009-05-28 22:15:18

Explore Historical Parkwood

Join the Rangers on a short walk of approx. 3 miles exploring the history of Parkwood Springs.

2009-04-03 19:29:28

Martin Luther King Day

On 19th January, the eve of Barack Obama's inauguration as the first black President, young and old people gathered at the Welcome Centre for the 5th annual celebration in rememberance of Dr Martin Luther King Jr.

2009-02-01 21:57:01

Washing Days at Sutherland Road Baths

For many of us, a washing machine and a bath are essential piece of household equipment, used routinely throughout the week and taken for granted. However, a conversation with Joyce Rason and Joyce Wilson from Firshill Local History Group reminded me that washing our clothes and bodies was a completely different experience 60 or 70 years ago and one that often took place outside the home.

2009-01-30 22:16:31

St Catherine’s reopening

On Sunday 12th October, a beautiful sunny morning, St Catherine’s Church re-opened after major refurbishments.

2008-12-01 12:35:07

Tom turns ninety

Tom Gould, celebrates his 90th birthday on the 16th December. Born in 1918 on Botham Street, off Grimesthorpe Road, Tom is one of the oldest residents on the Firshill estate.

2008-12-01 12:30:44

Walk good

Walk good is a Jamaican phrase which simply means ‘have a good journey’. One of the most memorable journeys taken by Jamaicans over sixty years ago was that on the “Windrush” ship in 1948.

2008-12-01 12:27:16

St Catherine’s Living Library

“St. Catherine’s Catholic Primary School recently held a living library in our school hall, which was a great success. We had lots of visitors to the library to meet with our ‘living’ books.”

2008-12-01 12:24:05

Muslims in Britain

The arrival in Britain of large numbers of Indian, Arab and Somali Muslims at the turn of the century was due to their role in the British merchant navy.

2008-11-29 21:35:38

Muslim graves in Burngreave Cemetery

We may think that multicultural Burngreave is a fairly recent thing, but a collection of graves of Muslim people in Burngreave cemetery dating from 70 to 80 years ago shows how long Burngreave has been a mixed community.

2008-11-29 21:15:54

A day trip to Cleethorpes - 1949

Fond memories from Gordon Lawton, Renmark, South Australia.

2008-11-29 20:09:44

Companions Club closes

The Sheffield Companions Club on Barnsley Road finally closed in October. The ground floor area has now opened as a wholesale and retail Halal Butchers.

2008-11-28 16:55:10

Inspirational Films

Over 30 people came to the Vestry Hall on October 14th to participate in Transition Sheffield's 3×3 Film Festival

2008-11-28 16:19:50

Creative Outpost in the Chapel

If you happened to be strolling through Burngreave Cemetery on Friday 10th of October, you may have stumbled across a very positive and eclectic group of people. ‘Creative Outpost’ is a multitalented group of volunteers who are motivated by the revival of Burngreave’s Chapel and Cemetery. They see it being used in diverse and electrifying ways.

2008-11-28 15:30:27

Petition for a better cemetery

Coupe Road resident, John Duignan, presented over 60 signatures to Full Council in November, protesting about the poor maintenance of Burngreave Cemetry. As one of the first public cemetries, its 27 acres are home to many important habitats

2008-11-27 15:41:12

Walk Good

a filmmaker and digital artist, I had always been interested in looking into the past, especially when I see a gap.

2008-09-26 18:06:32

Burngreave Cemetery Chapel open days

Chapel in Burngreave cemetery open to the public

2008-09-26 12:33:50

Pitsmoor Pipers

City of Sheffield Pipe Band return from emotional visit to Sheffield Memorial Park involving Pitsmoor Residents.

2008-07-17 20:12:51

Dressed for success

Triggered by the recent discovery of an ancient well shaft, the art of well dressing has arrived in Burngreave. The Friends of Burngreave Cemetery, helped by Firshill Afterschool Arts Club, created a display from petals and flower heads on a puddled clay board, which celebrated water, the source of life.

2008-06-14 21:00:00

Integration for da nation!

On the 16th April an interfaith discussion took place at the Vestry Hall, bringing together faith organisations from Sheffield and Bradford to share ideas and good practice.

2008-05-30 18:50:14

St Catherine’s refurbishment

Shrouded in blue safety mesh and scaffolding, one of Burngreave’s most iconic buildings is undergoing a long awaited programme of renovation work.

2008-05-30 18:25:51

Got any treasures?

Not of the expensive variety but things you value because they bring back memories or have special meaning for you? It could be an old photograph, something a loved one gave you or even an object you found.

2008-05-04 18:18:30

Copper Beech Studios

A collection of archive photographs, featuring many pictures of Burngreave, Grimesthorpe, Pitsmoor and Fir Vale, has been revamped and published on the internet by the son of the renown Sheffield photographer, Harry Ainscough.

2008-04-20 18:13:20

The Good, the BAD and the Messenger

In celebration of the 50th issue of the Messenger this article takes a look at the paper’s origins.

2008-04-19 12:48:59

Handful of Henna

Sheffield Theatres treated Burngreave to free performances of a Handful of Henna in February, funded by New Deal. So many people came to the first event at the Vestry Hall, that a second performance was arranged. The project was part of a community tour which included performances at Pye Bank and Firs Hill schools.

2008-04-05 19:38:42

Too much fluff

Letter from Christine Bluff

2008-04-05 17:51:11

Cherry Tree Planting

Thanks to Sheffield Small Grants Panel, the Friends of Burngreave Chapel and Cemetery were able to plant 30 wild cherry trees in the form of an avenue along a popular path in the Cemetery.

2008-04-05 15:29:57

Burngreave Bouncing Back Gallery 3

A gallery of photos taken by Matloub Husayn Ali Khan of the Burngreave Bouncing back March.

2008-04-04 17:56:00

Milaad Un-Nabi Celebration gallery

A Photo gallery of Milaad-Un-Nabi procession from Ghausia Mosque (Firvale) through Page-Hall. Selection of photos of this event.

2008-04-03 18:30:17

Mosque celebrations of Milad-un-Nabi

Over 1,000 people attended the Milaad-un-Nabi (birth of prophet Muhammad – Peace be upon him). These happen every year during the third islamic month of Rabbi-al-Awwal. As Christians celebrate Christmas to celebarate the birth of Christ (Jesus. Muslim celebrate Milaad-un-Nabi.

2008-04-03 17:37:24

Burngreave seminars at New Roots Shop

Burngreave seminars due to take place at New Roots Shop on Spital Hill in February and March.

2008-02-09 10:48:23

Inspired by Martin Luther King Junior

On Monday 21st January at Christ Church Pitsmoor, the Martin Luther King Junior Planning Group organised an event, reminding us how wonderful Martin Luther King was and how his war for freedom, justice and equality began.

2008-02-02 12:04:18

Pakistan After Benazir Bhutto

A local resident's view of the former Prime-Minister of Pakistan: Benazir Bhutto after the recent assasination on 27th December 2007.

2008-02-02 10:43:11

Cinemas remembered

Memories of cinemas around Burngreave by, once resident, Gordon Lawton.

2008-01-07 23:26:15

Old Cinema Programmes

A collection of local cinema programmes and film listings from the 1950's.

2008-01-07 21:37:51

Were you a resident in Woodside pre-1960s?

Did you live on Birley Street, Fowler Place, Fowler Street, Grove Street, Haywood Road, Macro Street, Marshall Street, Reginald Street or Woodside Lane? If so the East Sheffield Regeneration Team would love to talk to you and learn a little more about what once stood on Stanley Fields.

2007-12-28 15:52:52

Roamin' the Rig

The building of the new Inner Ring Road is beginning to have an effect on our everyday lives and the environmental structure of our area. Another change is the controversial plans for apartments along Grimesthorpe Road at Wood Hill.

2007-12-27 21:15:03

Mr Equiano comes to Burngreave!

In Burngreave it was 1790, the 27th August to be precise and Olaudah Equiano, the freed slave and abolition campaigner, came to Sheffield to talk to pupils in some of the Year 4, 5 and 6 classes in each primary school.

2007-12-24 18:54:04

Restoring the Cemetery Chapel

Friends of Burngreave Cemetery and Chapel have been working hard for several years to get the chapels back into use. Now it looks as though the dream could become a reality as the friends group team up with the City Council, Groundwork Sheffield, Burngreave Community Action Trust, Sheffield Galleries and Museums Trust and Sheffield Community Enterprise Development Unit.

2007-12-24 16:06:00

Thieves strike local landmark

Winnie Bentley has lived at the Toll Bar House at the top of Burngreave Road for 32 years. Built in 1836, the house is a Grade II listed building. As with many other old buildings, there was lead on the roof, but in July 2007, for the first time in the house’s history, this lead was stolen.

2007-11-30 10:42:19

Yemeni Exhibition

Around 200 people attended the opening of the “Coal, Frankincense and Myrrh” Exhibition at Weston Park Museum on 30th October. The exhibition celebrated the links between Sheffield and the Yemeni Community that has lived here since the 1950s. Yemenis from all over Sheffield and further afield joined others at the opening.

2007-11-30 06:18:54

'An Introduction to Oral History Interviewing' training course

Would you like to learn the skills needed to interview people professionally and earn some money by recording interviews?

2007-10-07 14:13:28

Messenger editorial

News and comment by the Messenger.

• Vestry Hall opens at last

• Special thanks to Camille Daughma

• Next Messenger meeting and dealines

• This month's contributors

2007-09-28 16:10:11

Celebration of the Abolition of slavery

Second Step Caribbean Women’s Group Agewell has been in existence since

1. We are well known for

the many activities and events we have held over the years.

2007-09-27 10:20:38

Memories of a similar debate...

A reader writes of how the recent debate over Umar Mosque/Madressa on Barnsley Road reminded him of a similar debate and complaints by local residents (including Muslims) against a Mosque during the Ramadan in 1997-98.

2007-09-26 19:15:32

Reverend Jesse Jackson to visit Sheffield

The Reverend Jesse Jackson, the renowned civil rights leader who worked alongside Martin Luther King and was the first black US presidential candidate, is to visit Sheffield on Sunday.

2007-08-24 16:46:54

Inmates

Artist Chris Pickup presents an installation of sculpture depicting his journey into the early history of the Northern General Hospita. At the Clock Tower Gallery, Northern General Hospital, 27th August to 5th October 2007.

2007-08-21 17:57:11

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

All people are welcome to come and celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Challenging racism through quotes, films, discussions, open mic, artistic displays.

2007-08-19 14:40:53

Wicker Arch at risk

The Wicker arch has been placed on the English Heritage's buildings at risk register. The Sheffield Star and BBC websites have more details.

2007-07-26 17:21:51

Burngreave Voices

Free copies of the Burngreave Voices book are now available from Burngreave Library for all Burngreave residents.

2007-07-23 12:42:47

The Great Flood

In March 1864 the Dale Dyke dam collapsed and the Wicker was flooded. A painting in the City's collections shows horses and people being swept along the Wicker in a scene sadly similar to those witnessed recently.

2007-07-20 01:03:43

Tunnel

After reading your article in the June 2007 issue of Burngreave Messenger, on the Fiery Jack Tunnel, it brought back memories of the war years.

2007-07-19 19:38:17

SADACCA celebrates twenty years

On the 26th March SADACCA celebrates its 20th anniversary. The starting point for the centre was in the 50s and 60s when the West Indian Community Association (WICA) was created.

2007-07-03 18:12:48

Building work starts on Burngreave landmark

An historic building in Burngreave is being given a new lease of life with the announcement that work is to start on a major refurbishment programme.

2007-07-03 17:31:52

"Thank you Dr Saleem"

Long-serving and well-respected GP, Dr Mohammed Saleem is to retire on 31st March after serving the Burngreave and Fir Vale community for more than 32 years.

2007-07-03 17:10:43

Forces for positive change

On Monday 16th January at the Pitsmoor Welcome Centre on Nottingham Street they all gathered again to celebrate Martin Luther King Day – recognising those great figures who have forced positive change for all mankind.

2007-07-02 17:49:10

Lollipop ladies

Three of our local lollipop ladies were given awards by the Area Panel in January. Shirley Else who works at the crossings close to Pitsmoor Post Office and Susan Rogers stationed on Barnsley Road help children from St Catherine’s and Firs Hill Schools. While Valerie Hanson helps children from Fir Vale School cross Owler Lane and Rushby Street.

2007-07-01 21:37:08

Who really ended slavery?

This year marks 200 years since the abolition of slavery, and at a public meeting on 14th June 2007, we will hear a lot about those who campaigned to end it. Guest speaker: Weyman Bennett.

2007-06-11 17:39:45

Surtag Hack

Ms Surtag Hack lives on Wensley Estate with a garden full of colourful flowers and a patio set out with parasols. She is volunteer coordinator of Petsearch, which puts people in touch with lost pets, is of Indian descent and has three successful adult children of joint Arab-Indian heritage.

2007-05-31 21:55:00

Bicentenary of the Abolition of Slavery

The commemoration event – 200 years since the abolition of the slave trade – was held on the March at the Winter Gardens and hosted by Lord Mayor Jackie Drayton. Seated serenely among the greenery, we were far removed from the reality of the horrors of slavery.

2007-05-31 21:34:34

Spital Tunnel, the Fiery Jack!

As Tesco prepares its application to redevelop the Hartwell’s site on Savile Street, an issue of history and heritage arises because the Hartwell’s site has not always been a car dealership!

2007-05-30 22:14:18

Vestry Hall's new look on show

An important public meeting has been organised so you can get involved in the future plans of one of Burngreave’s most prestigious landmarks.

2007-05-06 17:12:35

Burngreave Academy Summer Programme

Summer programme of Burngreave author events in May and June 2007 at the New Roots Shop.

• Cultural Diversity & Diaspora Communities: Art as a vehicle for Social Change

• The Rise of the Crescent

• Lifestyles of Sharing

• Sociology of Regeneration

• Burngreave Voices

2007-05-02 12:37:53

Cinemas map

Map showing the location of the old local cinemas, from the Wicker to Sheffield Lane Top.

2007-04-03 15:27:19

A celebration of people and place

A book about Burngreave, the people, the places and the history, featuring stories collected by the Burngreave Voices project. Come and claim your FREE copy of the book at Burngreave Library!

2007-04-02 20:21:30

Cinema by Tram

Starting down memory lane at the tram stop in the Wicker, the old tram, destination the terminus at Sheffield Lane Top, but first the Wicker Picture House, one of eight in the area.

2007-03-29 23:13:57

Memories of the Adelphi Cinema and Pavilion

I grew up in the Attercliffe area and lived between the two cinemas. The Adelphi was a grand cinema with a glass dome and stained glass windows.

2007-03-29 20:55:35

A Good Life!

Collis Icylyn Beckford is a sprightly 73 year old mother of six from Burngreave. Destinations Arts managed to catch up with her and recorded her life story as part of our Oral History and Arts Project, Digital Journeys. These are extracts from Collis's rich and fascinating life!

2007-03-29 20:45:35

Caborn’s Corner – a bit of Sheffield's history under threat?

Whilst studying recent plans for the new Tesco supermarket at the top of Spital Hill, somebody pointed out to me that the ‘attractive urban landscape with potential public plaza’ marked at the front of the drawing appeared to obliterate a bit of Sheffield’s political history: Caborn’s Corner. It’s a small triangle of land located at the junction of Spital Hill and Carlisle Street, just below the East House and opposite The Kashmir restaurant.

2007-03-28 20:53:13

Burngreave Book Group

Information about the Burngreave Feel-Good Reading group at Burngreave Library.

2007-03-19 16:26:30

Gordon Lawton reminisces...

It gave me great pleasure to read the article in the April 2006 Messenger regarding the Wembley Playground at the bottom of Sutherland Road. I spent many a Saturday afternoon playing there in the late 1940s and early 1950s…

2007-03-17 19:21:43

Investing in our Vestry Hall

An expectant buzz greeted people at the Vestry Hall meeting on Thursday 18th May 2006 at Shiloh Church in Spital Hill. The Burngreave community was widely represented with a good turn out.

2007-03-03 20:28:42

Readrite - Learning through fun!

Sessions organised by Burngreave Community Learning Campaign and Burngreave adult learning providers. Promoting fun, free and fulfilling learning.

2007-02-26 09:31:23

Burgreave Voices celebration

Burngreave voices invite you to their website launch and a celebration of their achievements on Saturday 17th March 2007.

2007-02-04 20:18:52

Big names at the King Mojo Club

Did you know that Burngreave has seen its share of stardom perform at the King Mojo Club back in the 60’s? For just three years, from 1964 to 1967 the club on Pitsmoor Road became a thriving scene of modern music and a place where an amazing array of famous names performed.

2007-02-03 11:26:30

Steam Train Over the Wicker

For the first time in many years a real steam train will pass over the Wicker Arches on Saturday, 3rd March 2007.

2007-02-02 15:54:11

A dream come true

Once again a diverse group of people came together to celebrate the life and work of Dr Martin Luther King and discuss issues around racism. The Welcome Centre on Nottingham Street was transformed for the event with informative and artistic displays about the 1960’s civil rights struggle in the USA.

2007-02-01 11:39:32

Cinemas remembered

Do you remember the old cinemas of Burngreave? The Messenger has received a fascinating article from Mrs Reaney of Fir Vale, which we hope to use in the next edition of the Messenger with any old photographs we can bring together. Do you remember:

2007-02-01 10:39:27

Transforming the Vestry Hall

Local photographer, Richard Hanson, records the progress of work on the Vestry Hall.

2006-12-04 12:10:35

David gets medal at last!

Local resident, David Mowat, was recently presented with a medal by the Lord Mayor for serving as a soldier in the Suez Canal Zone in the 1950s. Here he tells us his story…

2006-12-01 16:03:17

The Corner Shop – A Celebration

In the past twenty years, small independent shops have been vanishing, facing stiff competition from supermarkets and changing consumer habits. Despite this nationwide trend, there is still a thriving selection of local shops in Burngreave. To find out why this might be, Nikky Wilson spoke to some local shop keepers.

2006-11-08 13:04:16