history - The Red Haired Stokie

19 Dec 2023 · 9 min read

Secrets of Stone, Staffordshire: Exploring the Hidden Underground Remains of a Medieval Priory

Hidden underneath a large house in Stone, Staffordshire is what remains of Stone Priory. It is a significant historical monument, embodying the complex interplay of legend and historical fact. The

6 Dec 2023 · 5 min read

Unraveling the Stafford Knot: Tracing the Origins of Staffordshire's Emblem

The Stafford Knot, correctly known as the Stafford Knot and often mistakenly called the Staffordshire Knot, is an emblem steeped in the rich tapestry of English history. This symbol, distinguished

30 Oct 2023 · 4 min read

Preserving our Heritage: The Resurrection of Etruria's Iconic Chapel

Take a look at the history of Etruria's Old Chapel and its new use as a beautiful funeral venue. This should be used as an example of what can be done without historic buildings.

8 Sep 2023 · 7 min read

Rediscovering the Potteries: Must-See Stops at Stoke-on-Trent's Heritage Festival

Behind the Scenes: Exclusive Tours and Talks at Stoke-on-Trent's Heritage Festival

4 May 2023 · 9 min read

A Staffordshire Serial Killer - William Palmer, The Rugeley Poisoner - The Red Haired Stokie

Welcome to the dark side of 19th-century Staffordshire, where crimes were committed with cunning and deadly intent. Today, we dive into the story of William Palmer, also known as the

27 Apr 2023 · 11 min read

Hidden History, the Tunnels and Passages Underneath Staffordshire

You cannot walk anywhere in Staffordshire without there being a rumour of a tunnel or some secret passageway beneath your feet. Whether you are in a town or village, or

23 Apr 2023 · 8 min read

Tunstall Then & Now

Tunstall is one of the youngest towns in the Potteries, and although it is not mentioned independently in the Domesday Book, it is believed to have been a part of

6 Apr 2023 · 9 min read

Uncovering Stoke-on-Trent's Hidden Legacy: The Birthplace of Photography

As a professional photographer in Stoke-on-Trent, I have always been interested in the history of photography. But what few people know, is that the invention of photography has its roots

4 Apr 2023 · 1 min read

Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent - Why is the investment into this town being wasted on the wrong things?

The town of Hanley, in Stoke-on-Trent, is one that holds much potential and history, yet the investment into this town is being spent in all the wrong places. Derelict buildings,

3 Apr 2023 · 13 min read

Stoke Then & Now

Stoke-upon-Trent, often referred to as simply Stoke has a long and rich history. Reaching as far back at least to the Romans and their road that ran from Deva (Chester)

26 Mar 2023 · 12 min read

Burslem Then & Now

Burslem, Stoke on Trent, is known as the 'Mother Town' of the Potteries. This small town has a rich history and heritage that dates back centuries. It was

23 Mar 2023 · 4 min read

Chatsworth House - Explore the Rich History & Breathtaking Landscapes of the Most Iconic Stately Home in England

Chatsworth House is one of the most iconic stately homes in England. Located in the Peak District, it has been home to the Cavendish family since 1549.

8 Mar 2023 · 8 min read

Influential Stoke-On-Trent Women - International Women’s Day

Stoke-on-Trent is the home and birthplace of many famous people from all walks of life. And while there are many articles and posts about them, I can't seem

2 Mar 2023 · 5 min read

The Tutbury Hoard - Thousands of Silver Coins Found in the River Dove

On a sunny day on the 1st of June 1831, a group of unsuspecting workmen from the cotton mill in Tutbury were digging in the river Dove to clear the

22 Feb 2023 · 5 min read

The Chained Oak - The Facts Behind the Folklore

The Chained Oak of Alton is a 700-year-old English oak tree which has been the subject of legend, superstition and folklore for centuries. The tree has become a popular tourist

14 Feb 2023 · 5 min read

Could a Cannonball, Found in a Field in Werrington, Staffordshire, Be Proof That Oliver Cromwell Fought a Battle There in the English Civil War?

Metal detecting is a hobby of mine, and although I am yet to find gold, I have found some very interesting bits of local history. We know that Oliver Cromwell

12 Feb 2023 · 4 min read

Chatterley Whitfield

This weekend we had the fantastic opportunity to have access to the amazing time capsule that is Chatterley Whitfield. It is probably one of the most recognisable sights on the

8 Feb 2023 · 6 min read

Fenton Then & Now

Fenton is most certainly one of the most beautiful towns in Stoke-on-Trent. As a town that was usually forgotten, it flourished with a beautiful community and a stunning heritage. Both