Back in time in Throwleigh

In March last year Throwleigh Archive presented the first of two productions about the history and heritage of Throwleigh. Called The Miss Varwells Throwleigh it was an adaptation of an account of the history of the village published in 1938 by a local resident, Emmie Varwell. A mixture of narrative, live-action, music and song illustrated by photographs from the Archive, it played to packed houses. At the same time The Archive re-published Emmie Varwell's book, 'Throwleigh, The Story of a Dartmoor Village,' making this enchanting account available again for the first time in many years.

This March, Throwleigh Archive will be presenting their second production. Titled Colonel Heath's Hut, the presentation will concentrate on events in the village during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Unlike part one, this performance is not based on the writings of one person. Instead, a wide range of accounts, reminiscences and documents held by the Throwleigh Archive have been utilised, along with extracts from contemporary local newspapers.

Once again, a range of photographs drawn from the Archive’s collection will support the narrative. Also, this time, the producers are utilising a number of film extracts. Because time had moved on, another world war had taken place - the Throwleigh of the 1940s and 50s was becoming a different place. Although many of the old families still remained and much of life went on as before, the wider world was beginning to impact on the village. New fashions in clothes, in music and communications could not be ignored and these are represented in this production. Step by step, the traditional village was beginning its transformation into the Throwleigh of today.

The performances will be in Throwleigh Village Hall at 7.30pm on the evenings of March 22nd, 23rd and 24th. Book your tickets as soon as possible from Dawn Hatton – 01647 231051.