The Friends of the East London Museum Committee ended off last year by inviting people to share their memories and highlights of the city’s summer holiday season over the years.
Committee member and former teacher, Noreen Burton, said her research had shown that East London had a rich heritage of tourism, recreation and sport.
“I learnt East London has had at least two, if not three drive-in cinemas over the years,” Burton said.
“I also learnt the Grand Prix was run on the esplanade one year with cars or motorcycles racing at high speed past each other as the track turned back on itself.
“Only sandbags separated the lanes, which was extremely dangerous.
“In the past, the Windsor Hotel, which has been replaced by the Cabanas, had the best dance floor in town and shows and bands used East London as a litmus test for success.
“If East Londoners liked the show, it was bound to be a success.
“In the 1950s and 1960s, East London was considered the best holiday destination in the country.
“I wanted to show that all races enjoyed the seaside in summer and that all races contributed to the festivities and entertainment in the city,” Burton said.
The presentation was well- attended and stirred up memories among older East Londoner’s who were invited to speak about their experiences, highlights and various events held in the city during past summer holiday seasons.
Their testimonies were recorded and will form part of data that the museum will use in future to enhance its offerings to the public.
