Chapbooks, are small in size but rich in history, they are humble booklets that have played a surprisingly significant role in the spread of literature, folklore, and political ideas for centuries. Originally inexpensive pamphlets were sold by travelling peddlers or “chapmen” from the 16th to the 19th centuries, chapbooks brought stories, songs, poems, and popular… Read More chapbooks: a pocket-sized legacy of literature & culture
Lancashire Dialect Poetry: The People’s Voice in Verse captures the raw, and heartfelt spirit of everyday life through the words and rhythms of the people themselves. I’m endlessly fascinated by dialect poetry because it preserves the unique sounds, expressions, and humour of a place and time often overlooked in mainstream literature. It’s more than just… Read More lancashire dialect poetry: the people’s voice in verse
During the Industrial Revolution, textile dyeing underwent significant transformations, transitioning from traditional natural dyes to the advent of synthetic alternatives. This period marked a pivotal shift in dyeing techniques, influenced by technological advancements and the demands of mass production. Traditional Dyeing Techniques Prior to the mid-19th century, natural dyes were the primary means of colouring… Read More Colouring the Industrial Age: How Textiles Were Dyed Before Synthetics
Ley lines, those enigmatic, straight alignments connecting ancient sites—have long fascinated historians, mystics, and curious minds alike. In Hyde and the broader Greater Manchester region, these lines weave a tapestry of history, myth, and mystery that continues to captivate. What Are Ley Lines? The concept of ley lines was introduced by Alfred Watkins in the… Read More ley lines in hyde and the surrounding area: exploring ancient alignments and local lore
Nestled in the Newton area of Hyde, Greater Manchester, Newton Hall stands as a remarkable testament to medieval architecture and local heritage. The hall is located on Dunkirk Lane, just off Dukinfield Road, this timber-framed cruck building is among the oldest surviving structures in North West England. Historical Overview Newton Hall was originally established by… Read More newton hall: a medieval gem in hyde’s heart
In the early 19th century, Britain was going through massive changes in industrialisation, urbanisation, and growing unrest among the working class. Among the many grassroots movements that sprang up to challenge inequality, the Chartist Movement stands out as one of the most influential. While often associated with large industrial cities like Manchester and Birmingham, Chartism… Read More Chartist Movement in Gee Cross and Hyde: A Local Stand for National Change
The village stocks are located in the grounds of Hyde Chapel in Gee Cross, Hyde and are a notable historical feature of the area. Stocks were historically used as a form of public punishment and humiliation for minor offences, such as drunkenness or petty theft. Offenders would have their ankles and sometimes wrists secured in… Read More Hyde Chapel Gee Cross: The Village Stocks
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Ashton Brothers’ cotton mills in Hyde, Cheshire, were significant employers in the region. A substantial portion of their workforce consisted of children. These young labourers endured challenging conditions, with their daily routines characterised by long hours, minimal wages, and exposure to hazardous environments. Living Conditions Many child… Read More Children Working in Ashton Brothers’ Cotton Mills in Hyde
Frances Lockett, Cotton Queen 1930-31, returning to Hyde. © Tameside Culture Original Article by Rachel Cornes, 18-01-18 In the heart of Hyde during the 1930s, the cotton industry, alongside the hatting and gloving trades, remained a cornerstone of local employment. These industries, although they were beginning to decline, continued to rely heavily on the labour… Read More The story of Frances Lockett, From Hyde: Britain’s first Cotton Queen and a Story of Pride
The 19th century witnessed a profound transformation to the British economy and society, that was catalysed by the Industrial Revolution. Central to this transformation was the proliferation of factories, particularly in industries like textiles, which depended heavily on child labour. The working conditions for children in these factories were often dire, sparking a series of… Read More The Evolution of Factory Acts and the Lives of Child Workers During 19th Century Britain
Rachel Bakewell 