Neil Lanham: The Life and Times of Dick Ruggles (Sussex Life Story Collection)

The World Oral Literature Project is pleased to host the collection of Neil Lanham. Details of the full collection can be browsed on DSpace@Cambridge by clicking here.

This collection of videos was filmed in Toppesfield, North Essex, by Neil Lanham. The films show Dick Ruggles telling stories from his life, including tales of his time on the Atlantic Convoys and as a gardener to Lord Sainsbury. Ruggles speaks in a Sussex dialect and uses storytelling techniques typical of his geography and generation.

Neil Lanham recorded this collection between December 2004 and May 2005.

Further collections by Neil Lanham of traditional song, story, wisdom, history and cultural identity can be found at his Oral Traditions website.

Collection Details:

Collection: Neil Lanham: The Life and Times of Dick Ruggles (Sussex Life Story Collection)
Collector: Neil Lanham
Date(s): 2004-2005
Language(s): English (British)

1. The Disappearance of the Squire's Ham and Other Village Stories
Dick Ruggles relates the story of the title, as told to him by his mother.
[Archive] [Watch video]

2. Gunner on the Atlantic Convoys
Dick Ruggles tells of his experiences as a Naval Gunner on Defensively Equipped Merchant Ships (DEMS).
[Archive, part 1] [Archive, part 2] [Watch video, part 1] [Watch video, part 2]

3. Gamekeeping Tales
Dick Ruggles tells stories from his employment as a gamekeeper for Whitlocks in Great Yeldham.
[Archive] [Watch video, part 1] [Watch video, part 2]

4. Village Life
Dick Ruggles talks about his life in Topplesfield, North Essex, and relays stories told to him by his mother and grandfather.
[Archive] [Watch video, part 1] [Watch video, part 2]

5. Lord Sainsbury's Gardener
Dick Ruggles tells of his experiences as Lord Sainsbury's gardener, including his relationship with his employer and incidents during his employment.
[Archive] [Watch video]