Living History Day 2010

History through the Ages

This year Leighton-Linslade Town Council will be celebrating the 10^th Anniversary of its annual Living History Heritage Day and we invite you to Take a Walk through History.  This FREE community event takes place on Saturday 9 October from 10am to 4pm in Leighton Buzzard town centre and promises to be entertaining as well as educational for all the family.

The theme is based on a timeline featuring snapshots from various periods in history.  Time zones within the town centre will portray different centuries from the Romans to the present day – with displays/activities relating to medieval times and the 19^th and 20^th centuries.  There are opportunities to explore and learn some fascinating facts about our history including World War II, Victorian England and the English Civil War.   

Leighton Middle School playing fields will again play host to military encampments re-created from the Roman, Medieval and the English Civil War period.  Visitors will also have the opportunity to watch military displays and see for themselves examples of day to day life during these fascinating periods of English history.   Recruiting parties will be seeking “volunteers” around the town throughout the day and children will be invited to join the armies on their march through Leighton Buzzard. 

Queen Victoria and her Lady in Waiting will be in residence in Leighton Middle School to talk to you about the royal and social side of life in Victorian England - and may even be persuaded to show you what she keeps in her handbag!   Along with Her Majesty, visitors will also find Professor Heard with his Magic Lantern Shows and other Victorian characters.

Displays of vintage vehicles located in North Street and Church Square will include motorbikes, classic cars and World War II military vehicles.  Exhibits by local historical societies will also be on display in All Saints Church which will include a programme of talks on the history of Gargoyles.  A recently discovered map of Leighton Buzzard dated 1883 will be on display to the public for the first time.  This authentic map provides a fascinating insight to the town and the surrounding area during this period.

Music and dance from different eras will provide entertainment for visitors at the Market Cross.   Fiona Harrison will be performing songs from the 1930’s and 40’s and during the afternoon will perform in a 1940’s decorated local pub, The Top Bell.  Local group, Razz will entertain with music from the 60’s and 70’s including an Abba tribute during the afternoon.  

All Saints Church will host a programme of medieval music and local choirs as well as local historical exhibits.

For the more energetic amongst you, visit North Street where a spot of line dancing or a challenging giant scalextric may provide you with an adrenalin fix.  And if you’re not easily spooked why not join the ghost tour around the town!