The project

The participants began by going out and about on walking tours guided by local historians, visiting places of interest and learning new things about their neighbourhoods. They honed in on selected personal landmarks and stories, anchored in their sense of belonging; researched online and visited the local library and archives for images and precious information about the past. They then wrote up and recorded their stories and commentaries, incorporating photographs and videos they (or in some cases the project team) had taken of their chosen landmarks and places. They used sound, spoken word and even poetry.

Through this process, they created their own trails - mini walking tours, guiding us through fascinating journeys of discovery, imaginatively weaving together personal stories and reminiscences with broader social history.

Thanks to its bespoke mobile application, In My Footsteps has collected and conserved these fascinating trails so that others can explore them, virtually as well as for real. 

 You can look at the trails by downloading the app or by going to In My Footsteps website. In the 'Menu', there is a section  called 'For Teachers' where they can access teaching resources specially produced and inspired by the trails. You can also access the teachers resources here.

Meet the local residents by clicking on their names. Open up and explore their trails, click on a ‘stop’, listen to their stories, discover how they relate to their neighbourhoods and learn new things about their localities.The trails represent a growing collection of voices and visions of neighbourhoods and people’s relations to local heritage.

In My Fotsteps has been reviewed by The Londonist who said This is addictive stuff. We’ve seen many, many digital area guides over the years, but this one has real heart and a genuine sparkle of authenticity.” You can read the full article here.

The Huffington Post and East End Life also reported positively on the project.

The Community Channel produced a short film and interviewed some of the participants, which was also broadcast by London Live -  to watch it, click on the image below.

You can also watch a selection of illustrated 'stops' from whitechapel and Poplar/Limehouse back clicking here

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