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As part of the Joseph Rowntree 100 Years celebrations, the Open House at the Folk Hall welcomed two very special guests, as The Rowntree Society hosted an engaging session exploring the history and legacy of Rowntree in York.
Olivia Sharrard from the Rowntree Society and Becky Lennon from Sweet Legacies (York Theatre Royal), joined 32 attendees at Open House for a unique mix of conversation, history, and connection.
As usual, attendees shared breakfast, newspapers, and dominoes but this session added a rich layer of heritage storytelling and nostalgia, with a fascinating display of Rowntree memorabilia:
Vintage chocolate boxes and tins, including the well-remembered 1978 Rowntree Mackintosh Queen’s Award for Export Achievement tin.
Worker magazines, which sparked memories and detective work as attendees searched for familiar names and family members.
A factory worker assessment test - deceptively simple-looking, this activity turned into a fun challenge with Olivia timing would-be workers!
A collection of historical slide photos, documents, and photographs brought in by community members keen to share their connection to Joseph Rowntree and this family
The event was a resounding success, with one resident commenting:
“The Discovery Room and its regular meeting for people is EXCELLENT. Today’s visitors from the Rowntree Society offered a fascinating experience and insight into the Cocoa Works and its employees – an absolutely brilliant combination.”
The atmosphere was lively, welcoming, and full of stories exactly what Open House is all about. A huge thank you to everyone who helped to make this event so memorable.
The atmosphere was lively, welcoming, and full of stories — exactly what Open House is all about. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this event so memorable.
We are delighted that both The Rowntree Society and Sweet Legacies plan to return for future sessions (22 May and 10 July). Everyone is welcome, so please come along, 10-12pm in the Discovery Room, New Earswick Folk Hall.
Olivia Sharrard from the Rowntree Society and Becky Lennon from Sweet Legacies (York Theatre Royal)