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Oral History – Barbara

Barbara Watson’s mother and grandmother were devoted members of Top Church, and her father served as church warden. Barbara was baptised in the church and went on to marry her husband Kenneth there in 1960, as her mother “wouldn’t have considered it a proper marriage anywhere else”. Here she shares memories passed down by her parents, as well as her own memories of World War 2 through the eyes of a child.

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Barbara remembers visiting the church after the bomb fell opposite the church in 1940.

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Barbara share’s her mother’s memories of making entertainment in the First World War.

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Barbara tells us about ‘Kipper’ the unofficial carpark attendant.

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Barbara remembers first meeting Ken and why their courtship first started.

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Related Imagery

Click any image below to view in larger size.

  1. Barbara on her grandmother’s knee.
  2. The order of service for Barbara and Ken’s wedding.
  3. Signing the register.
  4. Barbara and her father.
  5. The wedding party.

Thank you Barbara for taking the time to share your memories.

The full oral history is stored for posterity at Dudley Archives.

Posted 25th October 2024

Part of the Oral History archive

Top Church Dudley (aka St Thomas and St Luke’s) is a thriving, inclusive Anglican Church. We are positioned at the top of the high street, at the highest geographical point for miles around and our heart is to serve the most vulnerable in our community and be a resource to other churches.

Our mission is for people in Dudley and beyond to experience ‘life in all its fullness’ as Jesus promised. Some churches have big bands for their worship, some have big stages for their preachers – at Top Church we hope for a bigger table, where all are welcomed in the name of Jesus.

Renewing Top Church for the People of Dudley

Top Church, St Thomas & St Luke’s, High Street, Dudley, DY1 1QD