1,000 Years of Markeaton's History at Mill
19 April 2010
Historian Don Farnsworth in discussion
This was a great chance to share our heritage with the community and allow us to learn together
”Peter Walker, Community Relations Officer
Derek Palmer talks with guests
Visitors were treated to over 1,000 years of local history on Wednesday 17 April at a special community event hosted by the University.
The event, held at the University's historic Britannia Mill site, was well attended by community members who came along to learn about their local area.
Dr Paul Elliott, of the University's History department, began proceedings with an introductory talk on the importance of local history.
Guest speakers from the Derby Heritage Forum then gave talks, beginning with Kevin Archer, a talented artist who makes historical maps of Derby and Derbyshire. Based on contemporary sources, Kevin's maps are wonderfully illustrated and were on display at the event.
Don Farnsworth gave a fascinating talk on Markeaton, tracing the areas history from Roman times to the rise of industry. Emphasis was placed on the role of Markeaton Brook in the area's development, from the medieval mills powered by its water, to its use as an industrial transport route.
Derek Palmer delivered the final talk of the evening, on the West End of yesteryear. It was a great pleasure hearing so many stories about the area, many of them thoroughly amusing!
The evening was a great success, and it was fantastic to see so many people getting invovled to learn more about the streets we walk every day.
Peter Walker, Community Relations Officer for the University, said:"This was a great chance to share our heritage with the community and allow us to learn together.
"We want to do similar events in the future, and hope the Derby Heritage Forum will continue to work with us.
"Our local history is so important, and the University is proud to promote that importance for all of our benefit".
Plans are now underway for another local history event in the autumn.
If you'd like to know more about the Derby Heritage Forum, visit their website, at: www.derbyheritageforum.co.uk.
Luke Foddy
Community Projects
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