On 2nd December residents of Waterfield House care home in Hadleigh, Part of the Runwood Homes group came together to reminisce about their town’s historical connections with American army bases during World War II. Conversations turned to curiosity about whether there might be another town named Hadleigh in the United States. A quick internet search provided an intriguing answer: there is a town called Hadley, Massachusetts. Though spelt slightly differently, the connection was close enough to inspire an idea that would soon unite the residents in a creative and festive way.
Motivated by a desire to forge a transatlantic connection, the residents decided to send a Christmas card to Hadley, Massachusetts. They thought it would be a wonderful experiment to see if their card would receive a reply. Everyone in the home contributed by signing the card, filling it with warm holiday wishes and messages of goodwill. The act of creating the card itself became a meaningful and enjoyable activity for the residents, sparking conversations about shared history and future possibilities.
This initiative is about more than holiday cheer—it also holds deeper significance for the community. With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day, residents of Waterfield House are keen to uncover stories from the past and make connections with American service members who were stationed in Suffolk during World War II. The Christmas card to Hadley, Massachusetts, is part of this broader effort to build bridges across time and geography. The home hopes to establish contact, learn more about shared wartime histories, and perhaps even create a lasting relationship with their namesake town in the United States.
Sarah Dodsworth, Wellbeing and Dementia Support Lead, shared her thoughts on the project and the excitement it has generated:
“The residents really hope to get a reply, but even if they don’t, everyone enjoyed writing in the Christmas card. This time of year, is a reflective season but also a time to look forward—it would be wonderful to have a meet-up via Zoom with their Hadleigh namesakes. The thought of reaching out across the Atlantic and possibly connecting with another community has brought so much joy to everyone here.”
As the festive season continues, the residents eagerly await the possibility of a reply from Hadley, Massachusetts. The project has brought not only the warmth of the holiday spirit but also the excitement of imagining new friendships and connections. Whether through a Christmas card or a future Zoom call, the residents of Waterfield House are hopeful that this small gesture will lead to something meaningful, bridging continents and celebrating shared history and humanity.
