We've been collecting people's memories of Eaton Park by interview, at the open day and through the Norwich Evening News and Radio Norwich. Here are edited versions of interviews of local senior residents. The first four have made and/or are still making a great contribution to the activities and running of the Community Centre. AP (Andy) Anderson wrote a book on The Captain and the Norwich Parks, published by The Norwich Society and still available in Norwich bookshops at £8. You can find out more about 'the Captain' here.
Shirley (pdf)
Clem (pdf)
Merryl (pdf)
Betty (pdf)
AP Anderson (pdf)Some of these memories have been collected in a new book on Norwich memories - see leaflet here. The book includes a CD of recordings.
The Dornier that some respondents reported as having crashed in Eaton Park was in fact shot down near Duxford and brought to the park in September 1940. Here are two news cuttings about that occasion:
Photo and letter, Eastern Evening News, December 6, 1985 (pdf)
'Airman link with City's most famous Luftwaffe visitor', Eastern Evening News, March 19, 1986 (pdf)Through the press, we received a few calls with some memories. Here is one from Brendan Woolnough who now lives in Canada:
'As a kid growing up on Elizabeth Fry Road I spent a lot of time on the park, on the swings and slide, crawling through the bushes on the North Park Avenue side, sailing yachts on the boating pond, playing cricket and football and later on playing golf on the pitch and putt. Before the golf course there was a dump we use to spend time rumaging in. There used to be a cycle track were the golf course is and in the same area is where the circus would set up, Billy Smarts, Robert Brothers and Chipperfields. We spent time before the shows started watching them set up the big top and sometimes helping. Watching the elephants help raise the tent was something to see.'
Thanks to all the people who responded to the Evening News and Radio Norwich requests. Do you have any memories of Eaton Park you'd like to tell us about. Please either phone 01603 451015 or send an email. Does anyone remember the rocking-horse - or have pictures of the elephants parading through the streets?