We are currently developing an exciting new project to explore and celebrate the work of women on the land in Cornwall.
Throughout history, women have played a vital and often undocumented role in working and caring for the land. Within living memory our relationship with the land has changed drastically. Whether hand milking the cows before anyone else was out of bed or painstakingly picking violets to send on the train to London, if the land could talk it would tell countless stories of the strong and knowledgeable women who have walked its soils. By recording oral histories from these women and uncovering personal archives such as diaries and photo albums, Storylines hopes to honour these hidden histories.
Being the Western most part of the UK, Cornwall holds a distinct tapestry of landscapes, with small field systems and a unique climate. Not that long ago it would have been common to find women who rarely travelled outside their community, providing them with an intimate knowledge of the landscape surrounding their homes. As well as being a place of work, the local landscape has provided materials, refuge, wisdom and community. Customs and rituals relating to the land were often underpinned by women’s work and were key markers of the yearly calendar. From preparing the feast for Guldize or knowing where to find specific plants for healing, these narratives often remain unheard.
Storylines see great value in documenting hidden narratives. Through recording stories that have been passed down the generations, listening to memories from those who have lived through these changes and reflecting on where we are now, the project will focus on the past 200 years. These oral histories will be archived, preserving them for future generations. Drawing upon their expertise, Storylines also plan on sharing these stories, providing opportunities for people to come together and celebrate the women in their community.
What now?
As part of developing this project, Storylines are keen to hear from groups and organisations in Cornwall who see opportunities for collaboration.
“Through the many oral histories we’ve recorded in Cornwall over the past decade, we’ve heard amazing stories of resilient and hard-working women, yet these invaluable contributions remain largely unshared, often hidden in people’s memories and attics. We now want to give these stories the platform they deserve.”
To help us develop this project we are grateful to have received funding which has been allocated from Cornwall Council’s Community Capacity Fund. The Community Capacity Fund is part of the Good Growth Programme, which is delivering the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly.
Funders & Links
