Reminiscences of Arthur Douglas Addams about his life
Audio Player:
Date(s): late 20th century
Creator(s): Addams, Arthur Douglas
Scope & Content: Tracks 1 and 2: recording starts with ‘That’s What Life is All About’ by Bing Crosby. Arthur then reminiscences about his life in the Isle of Man. He talks about growing-up with his family in a flat in James Street, North Quay, Douglas and the nearby markets, shops and shop people and the Salvation Army; the Coffee Palace and the harbour and sale of oysters; his father (born in Walsall) and his mother (born in Douglas), and his grandparents, including the effect of the collapse of Dumbell’s bank in the Isle of Man; his siblings.
Arthur recalls watching his father work as a docker with others at the Isle of Man Steam Packet warehouse in Douglas [racist language used]. He recalls memories of the stony ‘circus’ beach near the Red Pier which he played on as a child, where sheets were dried, and playing in ‘Old Douglas’; Clinch’s Brewery; and the cinema. He recalls the families that lived in the other flats and attending St Matthew’s church, Douglas; performing in the choir at The Grand Theatre.
His memories of attending Hanover Street Infants School, Lord Street, Douglas, the teachers and what happened to his classmates; the music he grew-up with including Harry Roy ragtime band (which he plays recordings of as he talks) and his singing at The Palace Ballroom.
He ends by talking about his epilepsy as a child and Dr Dorothy Pantin and walking the streets in Douglas in clogs and free hotpot dinners.
Administration / Biographical History: Arthur Douglas Addams (1920-2011) was born on 22 February 1920 in Douglas.
Language: eng
Extent: 1 hr. 34 min. 3 sec.
Item name: cassette tape
Collection: Sound Archive
Level: ITEM
ID number: SA 2019-0110/1
Access conditions: All reasonable attempt has been made by Manx National Heritage to trace and request permission (where needed) from the copyright holder(s) in this sound recording. If however you think you are a rights holder then please contact Manx National Heritage.
Subject tags : #UOSH