The start of the marathon in 1922 (PHO9067)
The start of the marathon in 1922 (PHO9067)

Did you know that Amersham used to have a “Marathon” every year.  Actually it was a road race and only about 8-9 miles in length – starting in Old Amersham, going up the hill and then along to Little Missenden and back again along the valley.  It stopped some time in the 1920s.

Arch Edge winning the Marathon in 1910 (PHO9026)
Arch Edge winning the Marathon in 1910 (PHO9026)

Listen to Jim Gilbert talking to Jean Archer, his niece, about The “Amersham Marathon”  R1_0024 and running the Marathon after doing his bakery delivery round  R1_0024

Also listen to Billy Wright, interviewed by Jean Archer when he was 90 years old in these four audio clips.  Billy and his brothers Bert and Harry were well known for their successes in the Marathon.

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Spectators in Rectory Meadow for the Marathon (PHO3456)
Spectators in Rectory Meadow for the Marathon (PHO3456)

Another recording by Jean Archer tells you more about the Wright family and their running prowess.

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Plan Your Visit

Opening hours:

Wednesday to Sunday, and Bank Holiday Mondays, 12noon to 4:30pm

49 High Street
Old Amersham
Buckinghamshire
HP7 0DP

01494 723700
[email protected]

 

“Enjoyed our visit to this wonderful interactive museum where you are positively encouraged to touch things!”

“Visited Amersham museum yesterday – lovely place, provides many details on the history of the place. Plenty of cute cafes, pubs and shops around also… not difficult to find free parking nearby. ”

“A well-run, informative and interesting small museum on the main street. It’s mostly volunteer-run and they do a great job in keeping it and making you feel welcome…Check out the herb garden too.”

“Enjoyable film and television location guided walk around Amersham hosted by Amersham Museum – here are the Sun Houses on Highover Park and further up the hill is High & Over.”

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