History in the Making
Historic England is working with young people (aged 13 to 25) to create a new programme to create place markers across the North of England. They will mark and celebrate important local histories that have been overlooked and bring them to a broader audience. New funding has been announced for 11 youth-led place-marking projects across northern England; such as connecting generations of LGBTQIA+ communities in Newcastle and encouraging young people to explore the history of a former fire station in Hull.
Following an open call out in May, Historic England received over 40 applications for the scheme and was guided in the decision-making process by Historic England’s Young Advisors. Eleven grants of up to £15,000, a total of £151,000 in funding, will fund projects over the next 18 months.
Among those chosen for funding are projects exploring the Roman era multiculturalism of Hadrian’s Wall, the diverse history of Sunderland’s musical past, Blackpool’s historic connection to tourism and the theme of pride within the industrial seaside communities of Redcar.
From artworks and murals to immersive walking trails and theatre productions, young people will decide who and what to celebrate and how best to do it. These projects will provide new opportunities for young people to discover, engage, and connect with their local stories and ensure the history that matters to them is not forgotten. The programme aims to improve young people’s wellbeing, by gaining skills, confidence, and understanding of their local area.
