Funding boost for London street markets project

The descendants of those first licensed to trade in Lewisham market in the 1930s still work there today, and the market is an enduring part of the area’s local character.  

Meg Woof from Lewisham Heritage said, “This is an exciting opportunity for Lewisham Heritage to bring awareness to the history of Lewisham Market, which already lives in our archives, and to add new stories, voices, and perspectives to the collection, recording them for Lewisham’s future generations.” 

The grant will allow historians, Professor Victoria Kelley and Dr. Rachael Johnson, and artist, Camille Serisier, to gather evidence of the market’s history.

Oral history interviews and photo-history workshops will yield new material for the archives, as well as curating public displays, to make the market's history visible within the market itself. 

Councillor Ese Erheriene, Cabinet Member for Business, Jobs and Skills, Lewisham Council, added: “This funding comes at a pivotal moment for Lewisham Market, as we redevelop it to secure its future and create more opportunities for residents and traders.

“Stall Tales allows us to celebrate the market’s history and the stories behind its stalls, bringing together traders, shoppers and our archive. It gives us a chance to honour the market’s heritage, reminding us why it is so special, while looking ahead and ensuring it continues to thrive at the heart of the community.”