Past ArtReach Activities

Halifax Heritage Project

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This project formed part of a Heritage project delivered by Calderdale Television, whose aim was to encourage local people to research the history of Halifax, particularly (but not exclusively) in the 16th and 17th centuries.

This project was very much about engaging local people with local history and we produced two films, one with a group of ladies at and about Square Chapel entitled A Round View of Square Chapel, and one by pupils at Halifax High called An Unlikely Neighbour… Halifax's Gibbet.

Some of the women in the Square Chapel group already had an interest in local history, and they particularly enjoyed the use of video as a tool for exploring and documenting what they learned. They attended lectures and visits to other local historical sites delivered by Jessica Sutcliffe, and did an excellent job of pulling together their research to write voice-over for the film.

The Halifax High group benefited in that we were able to deliver the project as a cross-curricular activity, spanning drama and history. As well as learning new technical and creative skills, they learned about their local gibbet which got them thinking about justice systems and capital punishment. They also enjoyed the visit to the replica gibbet on Gibbet Street.

Here are some comments from both groups...

I thought the project went well. I did learn something, eventually, about the workings of a camera, but above all I enjoyed discovering and sharing knowledge with my fellow projecteers! HONEST! Maureen, Square Chapel

I was very apprehensive at first as we didn't seem to have much direction, and discussions went in various directions - not always helpful ones! However, Maria pulled us all back together and I feel we did a good job in the end. Really enjoyed myself doing it. Margaret, Square Chapel

The project went well. It was boring at times when we were talking about safety, but we had to get that over and done with. Plus I really enjoyed the trip to the gibbet and filming it. I also enjoyed being a host and asking the teachers questions, and giving my own view on capital punishment and the gibbet. Nosheen, Halifax High

I have learned a lot during this project. For instance, how to interview and present in a documentary and also how to use a video camera whilst taking pictures and recording. Zara, Halifax High

Copies of the DVD are available to borrow or buy. It also features a longer documentary by Calderdale TV called 'The Town From Hell?' which explores Halifax's history and the legacy of the gibbet. Call Maria on 01422 353073.

Visit www.halifaxhistory.co.uk