"The Night of THe FLOODS"
On the night of the 31st January 1953 a huge tidal surge flooded the UK’s East Coast causing widespread devastation and loss of life. One of the affected coastal areas was Felixstowe where 41 people lost their lives.
There are very few people around today who have memories of the floods, but Audrey lived in Langer Road and was one of the survivors. In this story she recounts her recollections of that fateful night.
Chronicle was honoured to record Audrey’s story as part of the Time Capsule project with the Suffolk Archives last year. This story is one of several that are to be preserved in the Archives for future generations to reflect upon. When the Time Capsules are opened in 100 years or so, we hope Audrey’s memory and the memory of those who lost their lives in the floods will be remembered again through Audrey’s voice.
In recognition of the fact that the new Hold building is due to open this year, and that this story is such an important memory for Suffolk, we have sought permission from Audrey and her family and the Suffolk Archives to share this special story on the anniversary of the Floods.
.jpg)
Audrey Baker
It was a privilege to work with the Suffolk Record Office and the Hold project on their Time Capsule activity. Chronicle contributed digital stories from local Suffolk people to a number of capsules that will be buried across Suffolk Towns. The intention is that the capsules will be uncovered by future residents of Suffolk in 100 years!
For more information, check out the Hold website here.