PNH400 Education Team launches Oral History Project
PORTSMOUTH – The Portsmouth NH 400th Education team has initiated an effort to document the recent history of Portsmouth through an oral history project as part of the Portsmouth NH 400th Anniversary.
The team has identified prominent and influential Portsmouth personalities who are now being interviewed and video-recorded for archiving. A multi-generational team including PNH400 Education Pillar team leaders Marlon Pinto and Jillian Richmond (both students from Portsmouth High School) and adult volunteers are conducting the interviews. They plan to spend the next several months interviewing and gathering information about participants’ life experiences in Portsmouth, the contributions they have made, discussing the changes they have seen over the years and capturing their visions for the community in the future. The project includes a plan to maintain the library of video recordings available for viewing and for future research purposes.
“Hearing stories from longtime Portsmouth residents is the best way to learn about the history of our small city,” said Education Pillar co-leader Jillian Richmond. “Already, by talking to some of the prominent members of our community, we have learned so much more about Portsmouth’s historical sites and events.” The first interviews were conducted with Ruth Griffin, Ted Connors and Harold Whitehouse.
Education Pillar co-leader Marlon Pinto, who is also a member of the Portsmouth NH 400th Inc. board, said, “The Oral History Project is one of many that the Portsmouth NH 400th is planning, to celebrate and commemorate the city's 400th anniversary, but I believe this project truly captures what makes Portsmouth an extraordinary city. As one of the oldest cities in the nation, Portsmouth allows us to learn from those who have lived recent history what makes it so unique in the region. Their oral histories can inspire not only the current generation living here but future generations, as well.”
“This is a priceless opportunity to collect the historical knowledge of key individuals and share it with others,” said Oral History Project advisor Bob Lister. “Capturing these personal histories of our recent past and celebrating the City and its heritage with an eye on the future is truly a legacy project that aligns perfectly with the PNH400 goal of making the 400th inclusive of all ages.”
Anyone who would like to be involved in the PNH400 Oral History Project should contact the committee by email at hello@portsmouthnh400.org.
