Walsall’s rich history is set to become more accessible than ever, thanks to a substantial grant of £249,020 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. This funding will support the ‘Walsall Archive for All’ (WAFA) project, a new initiative by Walsall Council aimed at preserving and celebrating the borough’s heritage.
The WAFA project draws inspiration from the extensive work of local transport photographer and historian Jack Haddock. It plans to digitise thousands of historic images, audio recordings, and personal accounts, bringing to light many untold stories from Walsall’s past. Notably, the project will digitise the Jack Haddock Collection, which includes 2,200 photographic prints, 5,928 slides, and 220 recordings.
A key aspect of the project is community involvement. Volunteers and local residents will play an essential role in curating these materials, ensuring that the voices of Walsall’s communities are both heard and celebrated.
Councillor Amandeep Garcha, Portfolio Holder for Resident Access and Housing Support at Walsall Council said:
“The Walsall Archive for All project will give our residents a chance to share their stories and contribute to a growing digital archive that celebrates our borough’s past.
“We have a proud history in Walsall, and through this project, we will be able to uncover untold stories through material captured by local people.”
In addition to creating the digital archive, the WAFA project will develop a community exhibition programme. Walsall College plans to incorporate the Jack Haddock Collection into their photography courses, allowing students to engage with historical materials and produce contemporary reflections.