Reminiscing About Days Gone By

Residents were thrilled to enjoy a special outing to the National Museum of Flight, where the impressive aircraft displays truly took centre stage. From sleek fighter planes to vintage commercial aircraft, the collection was a sight to behold. But what made the visit especially moving were the personal connections our residents shared with many of the exhibits.

As we walked through the hangars, stories began to flow. For some, it was the memory of a relative who worked in aviation; for others, the planes themselves were a vivid reminder of a time they once knew well. One resident was particularly delighted to spot a familiar cockpit, having piloted a similar aircraft during his time in service.

Back at Manor Grange, our reminiscence journey continued with a fascinating visit from the National Mining Museum of Scotland. Their team brought along a carefully selected collection of mining artefacts, allowing residents to handle objects once used in the day-to-day lives of miners and their families. From lamps and tools to keepsakes and household items, each object told its own story, and helped spark many of our own.

The session brought back strong memories for many. In years gone by, tens of thousands of people across Scotland worked in the coalfields, with entire communities built around local pits. For families in areas around Midlothian and Fife, mining shaped daily life, whether through shifts underground or supporting roles above. Several residents spoke of growing up in these close-knit communities, where everyone knew someone who worked doon the pit. Holding an old miner’s lamp or lunch tin brought those childhood memories flooding back, from the smell of their father’s work clothes to the comforting clatter of boots at the end of a long shift.

For some residents, it was the first time in years that they had seen items so familiar from their past, and the recognition was immediate and deeply personal. One resident smiled gently as she turned a brass safety lamp over in her hands, remembering seeing one similar regularly in her youth.

We love facilitating these trips and events because they’re lovely moments that reconnect us to who we are, where we've come from, and the memories that have shaped our lives. It’s a privilege to share these stories, and even more so to witness the joy they bring.

Find out more about life at Manor Grange?

Our welcoming team would love to show you around. Whether you’re exploring care options for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help you feel at home. Contact us today to arrange a visit or learn more about our personalised care.