Did you know that in 2013 London Underground will be 150 years old? And that the Metropolitan Line was the first Underground line to open back in 1863? Here at London Transport Museum we think this is pretty amazing, so in the run up to this anniversary year we’ve been delivering a range of projects across the city, finding out what people think of the Underground at 150 years old.
One of these projects is called ‘My Line’ and has involved working with 5 different community groups. These are located near 5 different Underground lines, to make 5 short films about their local tube line.
In October half term, London Transport Museum and film maker Jackson Ducasse arrived at the Beacon, to interview people who live in the area and what they think of the Metropolitan Line. ‘Bumpy’, ‘fast’, ‘useful’ all came up as descriptions, as well as ‘old fashioned’. There were 7 young people involved who all did some research on the Transport for London website to find out more about the history of the line. Jackson gave them a lesson in how to make a great short film.
The group then hit the streets to find out what others think, and to capture some images of the trains passing by The Beacon. Lots of hard work and creativity has resulted in a brilliant film, which is to be added to the Museum’s collection and may be on display in the galleries in the future. The group attended a celebration event held at the Cubic Theatre at London Transport Museum in January.
Thank you to all those who contributed to the project.
Jen Kavanagh
Community Curator at London Transport Museum
The Beacon Centre 