Charles Whiten Sanderson (1906-1990): Biographical Entry.

2:688 SANDERSON, Charles Whiten, ‘Half a Lifetime in the 20th Century: A Book of Memoirs’, TS, pp.115 (c.78,000 words). Extracts published in Mansfield and North Nottinghamshire Chronicle Advertiser (Chad), 13 March – 31 July 1980 (Sutton-in-Ashfield Library). Brunel University Library.

 

Born 23 Dec 1906 in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire. Father, a miner, was unemployed at the time of the author’s birth. 3rd of 5 children (one of whom died in infancy). Finished his education at a Higher Grade School. Married in 1933. Lost first baby at birth but later had 2 daughters and 1 son.

Started work in a hosiery factory in 1920; joined the RAF in 1942.

Avid reader; took organ and piano lessons; member of Local Defence Volunteers.

A finely-remembered account of a village childhood and adolescence, describing the district and its inhabitants and offering a general picture of change throughout the twentieth century. Progress is illustrated by the changed attitudes and expectations following World War I, new fashions, transport developments, wider use of gas and electricity, new leisure activities (radios, dance halls and motor-cycling). Firm opinions are also expressed concerning women and their role in society, courtship and sex. Other topics discussed include dress; cottage homes; shops; local industries (mining and hosiery); schooling and punishments; mischievous childhood adventures; children’s games; festivals (Shrove Tuesday; Ash Wednesday; Easter; Whitsuntide; the Wakes; Feast Sunday; Christmas); thoughts on modern society; home entertainments; fairs; hawkers; poaching; policing; patriotism; the miners’ strike of 1921; the General Strike; World War II and air raids; military service. Written in 1979-80.

Available From:

Sanderson, Charles Whiten. ‘Half a Lifetime in the 20^th Century’ Burnett Archive of Working Class Autobiographies. University of Brunel Library. Special Collections. 688.

2:688 SANDERSON, Charles Whiten, ‘Half a Lifetime in the 20th Century: A Book of Memoirs’, TS, pp.115 (c.78,000 words). Extracts published in Mansfield and North Nottinghamshire Chronicle Advertiser (Chad), 13 March – 31 July 1980 (Sutton-in-Ashfield Library). Brunel University Library.