Step back in time at new exhibition honouring the Jarrow March

South Tyneside history lovers can get a step back in time to help celebrate the milestone anniversary of the Jarrow March.
The Mayor and Mayoress, Cllrs Alan and Moira Smith, join Adam Bell at the exhibitionThe Mayor and Mayoress, Cllrs Alan and Moira Smith, join Adam Bell at the exhibition
The Mayor and Mayoress, Cllrs Alan and Moira Smith, join Adam Bell at the exhibition

A rich array of memorabilia and artefacts relating to the famous crusade is on display at Jarrow Town Hall to mark the 80th anniversary of the protest.

The treasure trove of historic items have been redisplayed and reinterpreted as part of the anniversary celebrations.

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The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Alan Smith, was one of the first to look around the updated exhibition, which includes an original banner and the petition box used on the Crusade.

He said: “The Jarrow Crusade is of great historical importance to the Borough and deeply rooted in our heritage.

“The actions of the men who marched are still relevant decades later and this exhibition helps illustrate their ongoing significance.

“I’d encourage people to come along and take a look at the memorabilia and information to learn more about this historic event.”

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The exhibition has been revamped by Adam Bell of Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums and Dr Matt Perry, Reader in Labour History at Newcastle University.

The Jarrow Crusade saw 200 local people march to London in October 1936 to deliver a petition to parliament demanding work for the poverty-stricken town.

The marchers set off on foot for the 300 mile journey but met with disappointment when they reached the capital.

The refreshed exhibition is part of this year’s Jarrow Festival, and a wider programme of events and activities taking place to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Jarrow Crusade in October.

The exhibition is ongoing and is available for viewing in the reception area of Jarrow Town Hall.