Thousands of images of Merton’s past and present will be made available to the public for the first time in an online archive.

Up to 15,000 images covering over a century of local history as part of the Merton Memories project will be launched at Morden library on Saturday, March 22.

At the launch, heritage representatives will be available to answer Merton history enquiries and identify photographs and there will be short talks on different aspects of Merton’s past.

Residents can learn how to improve their digital photography skills and how to preserve their old family photos.

There will also be a range of children’s craft activities taking place, plus photographic displays and stalls from a range of Merton museums and community groups.

A second event will be taking place at Morden library on Saturday, April 26.

Supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Merton Memories project tells the story of one hundred years of the borough’s history using photography.

Twenty six volunteers aged from 15 years-old to 70 years-old have spent the past year helping to scan and catalogue 15,000 photographs belonging to Merton Library and Heritage Service.

Heritage groups including Merton Historical Society, the Museum of Wimbledon, Wandle Industrial Museum, Mitcham Cricket Green Community and Heritage and Mitcham Camera Club have also supported the project.

Cabinet member for community and culture, Councillor Nick Draper, said: "I am very excited about the Merton Memories project and having access to thousands of photos from the borough’s past.

"It is incredibly interesting to look through some of the photos and see how Merton has changed over the years."

The Merton Memories archive will be available on the Merton Council website following the launch of the project website. To find out more visit the website.


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