From shipbuilding to cinemas, from trams to gramophones, ballroom dancing to the Queen’s Coronation. Wallsend’s rich history is being brought to life on shop shutters displaying photos of the town’s past.
The project has unearthed some fond family memories, like the photo of Christine March dancing at Wallsend Memorial Hall in the 1960s. It’s now on the shutters of the Memorial Hall, known in Wallsend as ‘The Mem’. It’s home to a 1920s ballroom where Christine’s granddaughters Katie and Lucie take their dance lessons today, and where Christine’s Mam and Dad met on the dancefloor in the 1940s.
The first Wallsend shutters were unveiled during Local History Week in 2024, and the scheme has since been extended to include 18 shops around the town centre.
They are designed to brighten up the High Street when the shops are shut, while celebrating the heritage of the town and its people. Wallsend Local History Society provided most of the photos, along with historical notes to accompany each one.
A self-guided walk around Wallsend Town Centre allows people to take in some of the highlights, with full details below and a map available here.
The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as part of the Towns and High Streets Innovation Programme, with the North East Combined Authority as the lead authority.
It is part of North Tyneside Council’s Ambition for Wallsend, creating a vibrant and connected town that is attractive to residents, visitors and employers.
The images include: The workforce leaving Swan Hunter's Yard; a former cinema on Station Road; old Wallsend with its narrow streets; the tram system; a gramophone shop, and of course Christine and her pals dancing at the Memorial Hall.
Christine March said: “The photo that’s on the shutters of The Mem was taken when I was 12 years old, which is about 60 years ago. I did ballet from the age of three then went on to do tap and ballroom until I was 14.
“I spent most of my time dancing and competing. My mother was so proud of the dancing, and she met my Dad dancing at The Mem back in the 40s. She made all my dance dresses on an old-fashioned treadle Singer machine. We’d go to the hairdressers and get our hair done for the competitions.
“I can remember the other girls in the photo, they were Kathleen, Vicky and Yvonne, we’ve lost touch since then. I’m so proud to see my own granddaughters dancing now in The Mem and doing competitions of their own. Having this photo up on the shutters is a lovely thing for our family.”
Sherrie Lee Lowther is Christine’s daughter-in-law. She said: “When we saw the shutters we couldn’t believe it, we’re all delighted.
“My daughters are both talented dancers so it definitely runs in the family, on my husband’s side.
“My daughter Katie competes in Freestyle and Street Dance, Lucie has recently started competing Street Dance too. Their most recent competition was held at The Mem.
“Both girls have been telling their friends all about the photo, they are really proud of their Nana and the family history of dancing.”
Helen Telford is Principal of Move It Studios CIC, which has been based in Wallsend Memorial Hall for the past nine years and has just under 200 students. She said: “I’m a member of the Wallsend High Street Transformation Board and when they asked for old photos, I immediately thought of the many generations of Wallsend families who have danced at the Memorial Hall.
“Sherrie Lee gave me the wonderful photo of Christine and we sent it in. Sherrie Lee’s two daughters Katie and Lucie are dancers at Move It Studios, so it’s a lovely connection. When it appeared on the shutters it was an amazing surprise.
“I’m very proud to be playing a part in keeping the legacy of dance alive in Wallsend, it’s been an important part of the town’s heritage for many decades.
“The Memorial Hall is home to Move It Studios as well as Hellcats Cheer. The Mem hosts a Tea Dance each week, attracting a number of dancers from across the region. The venue is regularly used to host dance competitions, shows and events.
“Wallsend has a strong history of arts and culture and it’s brilliant to see that being recognised by this project.”
Councillor Carl Johnson, Deputy Mayor for North Tyneside and cabinet member responsible for Regeneration, Culture and Economic Development said: “The Wallsend shutters scheme has been a real success, with lots of positive feedback from businesses and the wider community. We’ve heard about former shipyard workers calling into the shops to talk about the shutters and share their memories.
“Thanks to Wallsend Local History Society, Wallsend Memorial Hall, Richardson Dees School and Move It Studios for providing the photos. The project is one part of our Ambition for Wallsend, making the town centre and the nearby neighbourhoods great places to visit and live, improving the street scene and public spaces, and working with partners to make sure people feel safe.
“As well as the shutters, we have given grants to more than 30 businesses in Wallsend to smarten up their shop fronts.
“We hope people will enjoy following the walking tour of the shutters and take a moment to reflect on the rich history and vibrant community spirit that continues to shape Wallsend today.”
Wallsend Historic Shutters Walking Tour – follow the map here. Search Ambition for Wallsend on Facebook to find a video tour of the shutters, or watch it here.
Shop 1: Lou’s Barberchop 15 Station Rd, Wallsend NE28 6HD
Image Description: Workforce leaving Swan Hunter's Yard.
Historical Note: Wallsend has a rich history in shipbuilding, with Swan Hunter being one of its most iconic shipyards. Established in 1880, Swan Hunter played a pivotal role in the shipbuilding industry, producing some of the most famous ships of the 20th century. The workforce at Swan Hunter was renowned for their craftsmanship and dedication, contributing significantly to Wallsend’s reputation as a major industrial hub.
Shop 2: Craig’s Barbers 86 Station Rd, Wallsend NE28 6TD
Image Description: A large ship being built at Swan Hunter's Yard.
Historical Note: Swan Hunter was responsible for building many notable ships. Among them was the RMS Mauretania, which held the Blue Riband for the fastest transatlantic crossing for 22 years. Another famous ship was HMS Ark Royal, an aircraft carrier that played a crucial role during World War II. Swan Hunter’s legacy is marked by these and many other significant vessels that served in both commercial and military capacities.
Shop 3: Travelability UK Ltd 124 Station Rd, Wallsend
Image Description: Station Rd with a Picture House where the Anson Pub now stands.
Historical Note: Station Road was once home to a bustling Picture House, reflecting the vibrant social life of Wallsend. This cinema was a popular spot for entertainment before being replaced by the Anson Pub. The transformation of this site mirrors the broader changes in Wallsend’s urban landscape, shifting from entertainment venues to social hubs over the decades.
4. The Wallsend Memorial Hall 10 Frank St, Wallsend NE28 6RN
Image description: Four young girls dressed up for a dancing competition at Wallsend Memorial Hall in the 1960s, in white dresses with sashes and bows, flowers in their hair.
Historical note: Wallsend Memorial Hall was opened in 1925 and contained a “lavish” ballroom on the first-floor, still a centrepiece of the building, which could accommodate an audience of 1,200.
The building quickly became a focal centre for many activities in Wallsend, winning the hearts of its residents. It is still known locally as 'The Mem'.
The original roof of The Mem was a stunning, fully glazed arched construct, but unfortunately had to be boarded over in c1941 to protect it from enemy bombing.
In the 1950s The Mem was allegedly the venue for the first rock and roll dances in the region. It now hosts a variety of functions and events, as well as a café and serviced offices for local community groups and businesses.
Shop 5: Lily’s Locks 104 High St West NE28 8HY
Image Description: Old Wallsend looking very different to today.
Historical Note: Old Wallsend was a quaint and bustling town with narrow streets and traditional buildings, quite different from the modern town centre we see today. The transformation over the years has seen a blend of old and new architecture, reflecting the town's evolution while still maintaining its historical roots. Walking through High Street West, one can still sense the echoes of Wallsend’s rich past amid the contemporary setting.
Shop 6: Dolls House Of Hair & Beauty 16 High St E, Wallsend NE28 8PQ
Image Description: Old Wallsend with trams traveling through the town.
Historical Note: The image of trams traveling through old Wallsend is a fascinating glimpse into the town's past. Trams were once a common sight, providing essential transportation for residents and contributing to the bustling activity of the high street. The tram system connected Wallsend with surrounding areas, making it easier for people to commute and conduct business. This image highlights the changes in transportation and infrastructure that have shaped the town over the years.
Shop 7: Tom Owen’s Floristry 48 High St, Wallsend NE28 8PQ
Image description: Wallsend High Street as it used to be in the 1930s.
Historical Note: Tom Owens is a family-run business with deep roots in Wallsend. Established many decades ago, the business has been passed down through generations, maintaining a tradition of quality service and community spirit. Family-run shops like Tom Owens are a testament to the enduring entrepreneurial spirit of Wallsend’s residents, contributing to the town’s unique character and charm.
Shop 8: Eclipse Prom Shop 112 High St E, Wallsend
Image Description: Mr. Dodds' gramophone shop and a happy couple who got married in Wallsend.
Historical Note: Mr. Dodds’ gramophone shop was a beloved fixture in Wallsend, offering the latest in music and technology of the time. It was a place where locals could discover new music and enjoy the sounds of the era. The image of a happy couple who got married in Wallsend highlights the town’s role as a backdrop for countless personal stories and milestones, reflecting the rich tapestry of community life.
Shop 9: Tyne Events 215 High St E, Wallsend NE28 7RS
Image Description: Wallsend Town Hall decorated for Queen Elizabeth's coronation.
Historical Note: Wallsend Town Hall, adorned for Queen Elizabeth's coronation in 1953, was a focal point of civic pride and celebration. The coronation was a momentous occasion, and the town hall, beautifully decorated, hosted community gatherings and festivities. This image captures a significant historical event and the sense of unity and national pride felt throughout Wallsend during that time.