WANTED: LIVERPOOL LIVES
National Museums Liverpool project
Help is needed from Liverpudlians in an exciting National Museums Liverpool project recording the personal experiences of 800 living people, as the city prepares to celebrate Charter Year 2007 and European Capital of Culture 2008.
A unique concept, 800 Lives is inspired by the 800 years since King John granted Liverpool its first charter. National Museums Liverpool wants young and old people from all backgrounds and walks of life to offer their stories for this milestone venture.
The project aims to reflect a cross-section of the people of Liverpool – from its citizens and local characters to its celebrities and wealthy business figures. Some will be newcomers, others with deep roots in this amazing city – all helping to make up its rich history.
The aim is to compile 800 stories which reflect Liverpool’s world-famous make-up as a living, vibrant city consisting of not just beautiful buildings but also a vast range of personalities with many diverse qualities and talents.
Everyone has a chance to be included in 800 Lives. The project records people’s experiences and some are asked to donate an object to National Museums Liverpool’s social history collection. It could be anything from a simple everyday object to historic family keepsakes, including photographs. But they must have significance to the people involved.
800 Lives will be a virtual exhibition on the National Museums Liverpool web site and in future Liverpool history exhibitions. You can see some of the lives collected so far, read more about the project or even nominate yourself to take part, on the website www.eighthundredlives.org.uk
The information gathered will be an educational and learning resource for future generations, a series of snapshots of Liverpool in 2007-8.
Jen McCarthy, project manager and head of social history at the Museum of Liverpool Life, says: “This is a great opportunity for people to come forward with their personal stories. We want to uncover little-known, moving and fascinating narratives that people can tell from their own memories.
“This is a remarkable and stimulating project which will give a deep insight into Liverpool’s diverse communities. We are certain that many people will want to tell us their stories. 800 Lives will reveal the true heart of this renowned city – its exceptional people.”