Saving the History of Our Town

The High Wycombe Society has recently become the guardian of over 100 cans of film, dating from the mid 1930s through to the end of the twentieth century. Formerly belonging to the High Wycombe Film Society (an organisation which no longer exists), they depict events in and around the town of High Wycombe, and are in need of expert attention if their contents are to be preserved and made accessible for future generations.

The films are in varying conditions but the first barrier to access is their format. Few people nowadays have access to 16mm projection equipment, and even when this is available, using it to show old films increases their wear. The Society is therefore seeking funds to digitise the films, which we see as a necessary first step, enabling the content to be fully assessed without causing further deterioration. This is a costly exercise.

Please note that any surplus funds raised will be directed to related High Wycombe Society heritage projects,

While some labels give a good indication of what to expect, others retain an element of mystery. Below are a number of images from the small first tranche of films that have been digitised. They include Royal visits, significant events in our High Street and local sporting fixtures.

The next films in the pipeline for digitisation are a series of annual documentaries. We wish to acknowledge a significant contribution in the form of a grant from Wycombe District Council which is enabling this work to go ahead.

IMPORTANT UPDATE- Please note that the original conversion work for which this fundraising appeal was started has now been completed at a lower cost than was originally estimated. It is likely that further funds will be required at a later date for related work when it can be resumed to make the films more widely accessible but in the meantime anyone wishing to donate to this cause is advised to contact the High Wycombe Society for further details of how the funds will be used.