Bradford Literature Festival | Community | Heritage | Talk

A Somali Village in Colonial Bradford

4 Jul 2024

14:00 - 15:00

City Park

In May 1904, the Great Exhibition in Lister Park showcased Bradford businesses, art and culture, and featured a standout exhibit: the Somali Village. Within this village, 60 Somali individuals, including men, women, and children, resided in a walled compound for six months. Their presence drew an impressive 348,550 visitors, making it the most lucrative attraction at the exhibition. 

In this fascinating event, Fozia Bora tells the stories of some of these Villagers – often polyglot cosmopolitans, and Bradford’s earliest-known Muslim community – who speak from the past through the recovery of written, oral and photographic archives. 

Reflection Session 

After the talk, join us for an optional reminiscence session, which offers a unique opportunity to share and celebrate your personal memories related to Bradford’s storied past. Whether it’s tales from your own experiences or stories passed down through generations, your contributions enrich our collective history. 

So, we invite you to come share your stories and be part of Bradford’s living history. 

Age Guidance
No Age Restriction

Ticket Information

General £7

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Venue Details

City Park

City Park, Bradford
BD1

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