I remember Lewisham used to much more civilised and cleaner.. We all loved Chiesmans, pity it’s gone, I worked in the restaurant there.
I also remember the big flood, lots of strange creatures emerged from the flooded river!
(SC136)
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My brother and I would often walk from our house in SE4 to Lewisham Centre (unaccompanied at age 8!).
I have strong memories of the ‘black market’ wedged between the centre and the high street.
Spliffy jeans, ragga tapes and patties. A different setting from a ‘street food’ market.
(SC135)
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Some promotional material from the Lewisham Memory Line.
(G67)
If for any reason you wish to withdraw your name or memory, contact us at engage@gold.ac.uk
Some concept album covers reflecting important events in Lewisham’s post-war history developed for the Memory Store pop-up in Lewisham Shopping centre.
The albums triggered the memories of passersby and encouraged them to share a memory of their own.
(SC134)
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As I stroll down memory lane, one vivid recollection from my childhood comes rushing back—the countless visits to Lewisham Shopping Centre with my beloved mum and mischievous brother. Those were the days filled with laughter, playfulness, and the simple joys of being a carefree youngster.
One particularly amusing memory that stands out was our imaginative adventure as “mannequins” in the shop windows. While patiently waiting for our mum to finish her shopping escapades at Evans, my brother and I couldn’t resist the temptation to transform ourselves into living statues.
With frozen poses and exaggerated expressions, we delighted in fooling unsuspecting passers-by, who often broke into giggles or perplexed looks as they encountered our comical act. It was our own secret amusement, shared only between siblings, making those dull moments magically entertaining.
Another cherished memory revolves around the centrally located cafe, a place we longed to experience as children. However, our innocent desires were often met with disappointment as we were told that indulging in the delights of the cafe would be too extravagant for our family’s budget.
Nevertheless, our longing for that enchanting corner remained alive, creating an aura of mystique and allure that heightened our anticipation during each visit.
But amidst these little disappointments, there was always a sprinkle of excitement and glamour that illuminated our young hearts—the grand opening of Burger King. It was a monumental event for us, and the tantalizing scent of flame-grilled burgers filled the air, drawing us like bees to honey.
The moment we stepped foot inside, the vibrant colours, playful ambiance, and the promise of a delectable meal enveloped us. Each bite was a taste of pure delight, forever etching the memory of that special treat in our minds.
Lewisham Shopping Centre holds a treasure trove of memories, where ordinary moments were transformed into extraordinary adventures. From our whimsical escapades as living mannequins to the unfulfilled desire for the cafe’s indulgence and the thrilling experience of Burger King’s grand opening, these memories are like fragments of a vivid tapestry that encapsulate the joyous innocence of childhood.
They remind me of the bond I shared with my family, the laughter we shared, and the precious moments that shaped the person I am today.
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This podcast tells the story of the LGBT bars in the London Borough of Lewisham in the 1980s and 90s: what they were like, how they supported people through tough times, and the impact of them closing on the LGBT community.
In the 1980s and 90s Lewisham was a destination for a big gay night out. In the first episode, we hear from people who remember them about what they were like and how they changed their lives.
For the second and final episode of Where to, now the sequins have gone? we hear about how the bars supported people through the AIDS crisis and how they offered an escape from wider homophobia.
We also hear reflections on their closures and the impact this has had on the LGBT community.
The podcast is a Bijou Stories Avant Gardening Production. It was produced and presented by Rosie Oliver.
(W10)
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Hello, I was in Lewisham town centre last Thursday and was given something called Riverdale Video. I just would like to give me impressions for Riverdale Video.
It asked for ‘lost town centre shop / amenity’ and I put down cinemas, department stores and fabric shop. And for my ‘memories and reocollections’, when I mentioned this project to family and friends, they all mentioned the cinemas and stores such as Chiesmans, Army and Navy and Woolworths.
What I remember most is the fabric shop, Rolls and Reams, started in 1966 and closed only last year. It had an immense range of fabrics and everything else needed for sewing, knitting, etc and the staff were so very well informed.
Fortunately, some workers have set up another fabric shop near the old one. I wish it a great success.
(SC132)
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Lewisham has changed a lot. Chiesmans was a do-it-all store, from travel service, restaurants, clothing, you name it, almost all everyday requirements could be bought there. The flood has destroyed it all.
The main Post Office has gone into the main centre which is WHSmith. The sanitary equipment has gone, meaning the toilets. I know most people find it hard to find one, that is important.
The roads have changed, the lovely stores and there are high flats.
(G55)
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Buses used to come down Deptford High Street, the 47 and the N01 – 47 to Catford and N01 to Rennards in Lewisham.
Saturday pictures in the Gaumont for six-pence.
They moved the clock tower (how)
Rollerskating outside Chiesmans.
(G50)
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I came to Lewisham in 1988. The shopping centre has changed since then.
The police station was a large department store and a Co-op. There was a walkway bridge from the centre to that side of the road. In the shopping centre was a large Pontis Cafe and a children’s play centre.
Also, where the inside clock was, every hour, a little row of figures would pop out and there were many more shops. Also there was a Lewisham Leisure Centre inside the shopping centre.
(G51)
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