5 new projects across the South East celebrating working-class histories are being funded by Historic England’s Everyday Heritage grants programme in 2025, including a project right here on the Isle of Wight.
These projects will explore the story of education for the Deaf in Margate, create a new ceremonial tradition for Sheerness, consider the impact of Shoreham Harbour locally and delve into the traditions of the fishing fleet in Hastings.
On the Island, a project that will shed light on the LGBTQ+ heritage of Union Street in Ryde has been awarded £21,700.
StoneCrabs is working with people in Ryde to explore and celebrate the LGBTQ+ heritage of Union Street. While tourism often centres on the Island’s grand historic houses and castles, this project will focus on the everyday heritage of LGBTQ+ people, nightlife and community spaces that flourished during the 1980s and 1990s.
Participants will investigate venues such as Bar 74, Patsy’s, The Redan and Prince Consort, examining their role in supporting the local LGBTQ+ community in a close-knit coastal town. Through panel discussions and workshops, older community members will share their first-hand experiences and stories of these spaces. The project will help shape creative responses which may include poetry nights, guided tours, and exhibitions as well as foster self-confidence and pride in place for LGBTQ+ people locally.
Caroline Diamond, Project Manager at StoneCrabs, says:
“We’re excited to have Historic England’s support to explore the LGBTQ+ heritage of Ryde – ‘the town on the beach’. Our project will shine a light on stories that have often been overlooked, hidden or ignored. This is important to our community because it celebrates its involvement in shaping our collective memories and heritage”.
Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, says:
“Across England we are all surrounded by inspiring historic buildings, landscapes and streets, rural and coastal heritage. These projects will shine a light on the stories of local, working class people and their extraordinary contributions to our shared history.
“Connecting with our heritage helps us to feel that we belong and to feel pride in our local area. This programme gives communities the opportunity to recognise and celebrate their history in their own way, and to share untold stories about the places where they live so they can be enjoyed by more people, for longer.”
Launched in 2022, the Everyday Heritage programme aims to celebrate working class histories. This time, projects have a focus on buildings or places in rural or coastal locations. The programme has already funded over 100 projects, totalling £1.8million.
