Filmed in the early 1950s, this footage offers a vivid snapshot of childhood and family life across various locations and occasions. Scenes include children cycling, playing games, and fixing a tyre in a lively urban street, where a Lipton’s van makes an appearance and people walk past. Though the street remains unidentified, it’s bustling with activity and everyday charm. One sequence captures cousin a birthday party at the family home on Shore Street (now Shore Road), where children play “Ring-a-Ring o’ Roses” in the back garden.
Other clips reflect family life following the death of the filmmaker’s grandmother, when the family moved back into the Stevenson home so Sarah Cave (née Stevenson) could care for her father and three brothers. The yard became a lively playground where Betty McLaughlin (née Matchett) and Margaret ride their bikes – play ended only when everyone was called in for tea.
Later, in 1955, we see the family enjoying their first Easter picnic of the year at Scrabo Tower, a tradition marked by rolling decorated eggs and sharing a simple meal of egg sandwiches wrapped in greaseproof paper and cups of tea. Stanley also appears, enjoying a cup of tea and a bite to eat with the girls.