Fox Hollies and the Walker family
Fox Hollies is an area which until changes in voting arrangements from 2004 defined half of the suburb of Acocks Green. The two
place names date back to medieval times, and it can be argued
that Fox Hollies is the older term. The name Fox Hollies refers
to a Council Ward, to a large Hall and estate, and to an inter-war
council housing estate. All three meanings have different aspects,
and in essence denote different ways of life. A Local Heritage
Initiative project has been established which seeks to investigate
and promote the community identity of Fox Hollies in all these
periods. Acocks Green History Society, Acocks Green Library, the
Holly Fox Residents' Association, Oaklands Junior and Infant School
and the Landscape Practice Group of the City Council are partners
in this project.
There is a clear line of meaning and identity for Fox Hollies,
especially since the era of Fox Hollies Hall and the Walker family.
There has been a transition from rural pursuits to municipal estates
full of hope, and a long distressing decline now being reversed.
Local history gives extra resonance and meaning, a time sequence
and a depth of perception and understanding, which can be an important
resource for community regeneration and intergenerational understanding.
It can make an obvious contribution to flourishing neighbourhoods.
We would welcome any memories or photographs you have, which
would enrich the understanding of this area for present and future
generations. Please contact Mike Byrne at Acocks Green Library
if you can help. The address is:
Acocks Green Library, Shirley Road, Acocks Green, Birmingham
B27 7XH.
the telephone number is 0121-464 1738. Alternatively send
an email to aghistsoc@hotmail.com
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