Moorland Heritage
The Moor Memories oral history project collected nearly 50 local stories from the moorlands in and around the Peak District.
There is a wealth of knowledge held locally about the moors. We collected accounts of traditional land management and farming techniques, as well as stories of living in moorland communities and enjoying the great outdoors.
Stories of the moors
We spent two years, from 2010 to 2012, assembling an archive of stories of moorland life in the Peak District from residents, farmers, gamekeepers, ramblers and local history groups.
The archive consists of 40 hours of audio on CDs, including 46 interviews with more than 60 individuals. As well as an archive of spoken memories, a series of booklets and podscrolls (digital walking guides for your iPod or smartphone) were also produced. The full archive can be accessed online and can also be viewed for free at Derbyshire Record Office in Matlock and at Holmfirth Library and Information Centre.
Memories recounted include how gamekeepers used to hand-scythe bracken on the moors, and the time Shep, the Blue Peter dog, got lost on Bleaklow.
We would like to say a huge thank you to all the volunteers, interviewees and supporters who shared their stories and contributed to a unique record for future generations to discover.
The project was funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, East Peak Innovation Partnership, South Pennine Leader, English Heritage, Peak District National Park Authority, National Trust, United Utilities and the Sheffield Ramblers.
Did you know?
- The Sheffield Clarion Rambler podscrolls were inspired by similar handbooks produced from the early 20th century. They contain poems, stories, quotes, maps and pictures to help you enjoy the wild countryside
- The podcasts include a range of interviews with local people including a gamekeeper, farmers, the Peak District National Park’s first female ranger, and a pub landlady!
