Somerset revival of 200-year tradition dubbed ‘TikTok of its day’

A 200-year tradition, dubbed the “Facebook or TikTok of its day”, is set to be revived.

Albums, made up of paintings, drawings and poems, were first established in Glastonbury, Somerset, in 1811 and 1857 in Street.

They were a view into local people’s lives as they shared their everyday experiences for everyone to read, for the benefit of future generations.

The last collection was made in 1998, but now Strode College, The King’s Trust and Street’s planned Shoemaker’s Museum are leading a project to create a 2025 version.

Liz Fox, marketing manager of Shoemaker’s Museum, told BBC Radio Somerset: “The village album was the equivalent of Facebook or TikTok of the day where people were making their own entertainment.

“People from the community are contributing little snapshots of things that are interesting to them.”

Members of Street’s community shared poems, paintings and photographs for the latest edition of the album on 20 February after an open day.

Entries have also been submitted by local schools in Street, Strode College and by residents of retirement homes.

Ms Fox said the entries are “exquisite”.

“[They’re] absolutely beautiful. They represent the skills and interests in any community.

She added: “It’s such a beautiful thing to do… it’ll be great to revive this tradition. It’s a really good, collaborative community project.

“It’s all about creating a lasting legacy.”