Tea, Cake and Bunting… Welcome to the 1950s!

Elvis soundtracked a parade, tea and coffee flowed and cakes were bountiful, at Brent Museum’s and Brent Archives Festival of Britain 60th Anniversary celebrations held on the 24th August at Willesden Green.

The day started with lovely sunshine, something the original street party-goers in 1951 lacked, as Willesden Library Centre saw itself decorated in red, white and blue trestle tables and colourful bunting. We were also joined by friends from Waste Watch, Children’s Services and Willesden Library who all hosted information stalls for people to browse.

The party was launched by a family event were children enjoyed story-telling in Brent Museum’s own 1950s kitchen followed by a craft workshop making aprons, waistcoats and ties inspired by 1950s patterns. The tea party was in full flow by then and the children paraded their new costumes through the centre to some early Elvis songs. The children could not believe their eyes when they were cheered on by the crowds and a man in stilts who subsequently taught them some good old-fashioned juggling tricks.

But the party wasn’t just about children – there were plenty of adults who wanted to learn more about history and celebrate the Festival’s 60th anniversary. The exhibition panels were well received and were further complimented by a Brent Archives display of life in the 1950’s. Images of magazines, TV, radio and homewares as well as information on the birth of the NHS brought back memories to many party-goers. All in all nearly 200 people came to the party.

The original Willesden Green 1951 celebrations included folk dancing and in 2011 we were only too happy to oblige at our own celebrations. For over 30 minutes ENCEE Academy of Indian Folk Dancing enthralled the public with their fabulous music and dancing.

These celebrations were part of the Mayor’s Story of London Festival, so thank you Boris, fun was had by all!

P.S. don’t forget that we are also at the Southbank Centre on Sunday 28th August 12:30-4pm celebrating the 60th Anniversary with other London museums.

Posted by Gill