But the memories of the residents of Wallsend and North Tyneside will always be a part of their lives and this spring the town is to play host to a variety of exciting arts workshops focusing on the role that women played in the shipbuilding industry in Wallsend.
Victoria Smyth from Access Inclusion and Development in Arts (AIDA CIC), Wallsend is helping to organise the project.
She said: "We are trying to capture the memories and stories of these women to create a legacy, making sure that their work is not forgotten.
"We believe there may be some women still in the area that worked in the shipyards or their family and friends who may be able to recount some of their stories.
"We have already found out about an aunt who was a welder and of another woman called Lily who was responsible for making aprons and leather goods.
"We decided to represent and explore these stories using art.
"The initial project started off quite small, but as we began to tell artists about the idea, they get really excited and wanted to be a part of it.
"It generated so much interest that we had to expand it.
"I think it touches a chord with the local community."
The workshops are open to all women and will be taking place in the Wallsend People's Centre and the Buddle Arts Centre, Wallsend.
The workshops available include photography, creative writing & storytelling, sculpture, painting and dance and start the week beginning Monday, April 21.
Victoria added: "All the artists positions are now filled, but we are keen to encourage women from the community to take part in the workshops.
"This is a project about women, for the benefit of women, with workshops delivered by women."
The project finale will coincide with the Wallsend Festival on July 5 where the public will be invited to see the work produced by the women at an exhibition in the Wallsend People's Centre.
To find out more information about the workshops or to discuss a collection of your stories call Victoria Smyth on (0191) 262 1808 or find information at
www.aida-arts.org.ukThe workshops are as follows:
Wallsend People's Centre- Photography, April 21 at 3pm
- Creative writing & Storytelling, April 24 at 10am
Buddle Arts Centre- Painting, April 25 at 10am
- Sculpture (copper), April 25 at 11am
- Dance, April 25 at 1pm
