347 Sorauren Ave: How a building reflects our history

In the 1970s, Ian Skelton got a job at 347 Sorauren Ave. with French Jewellery, a company that made high-end bracelets, chains and earrings.

He started on the tumblers that removed any soldering residues from the pieces. Later, he was given the task to run a furnace that automated the process of soldering the fine jewellery pieces. He remembers his work there with fondness for the convivial environment, but also with a sense of disbelief for the way he used to hoist big cylinders of ammonia with a winch up to the second floor with no precautions to prevent the cylinders from crashing down and releasing the poisonous gas. Looking back, he sees his sojourn with a manufacturer of consumer goods as one stage in the building’s history where companies over the years have reflected industrial development in our city and the needs of the citizenry. In this video, Ian traces this evolution, including his own experiences there, and reveals where it has ended up. Can you guess?

Ian Skelton in the 1970s
Ian Skelton in the 1970s
347 Sorauren Avenue
347 Sorauren Avenue

Storytellers

  • Ian Skelton

What

When

Who

  • Ian Skelton
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