Local researcher launches new book

Popular local historian, and Local Studies and Record Office regular, Keith Taylor launches his new book today; “The Matlocks and District in the Second World War – a diary of events in Matlock, Matlock Bath and district 1935-1955.”

The book takes a nostalgic look at life in war-time Matlock and Matlock Bath, and was researched at our very own Local Studies Library, and using original archives from Derbyshire Record Office.

Keith will be signing copies of his new book at Matlock Library this weekend, Sat 3rd Nov, 10am-2pm.

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Local History Fair

Calling all local history enthusiasts… this Saturday we will be holding a fantastic local history day at Chesterfield Library. The event includes talks, workshops, old films of Derbyshire, and the chance to find out about our new local studies and archive centre.

The event is FREE, but booking is required for some sessions – please call 01629 533400 for more information, or to book a place… don’t miss out!!

Derbyshire Record Office user survey starts on Monday – please tell us what you think

Discovery Days Festival – Preserving Old Photographs and Documents

This Autumn the Record Office will be taking part in the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site ‘Discovery Days’.

Our Conservation team will be running two drop in sessions during the festival:

Tuesday 30th Oct at Belper Library and Thursday 1st November at Wirksworth Library.

 All welcome – no need to book – just come along, 9.30am-1.00pm, and find out about how to care for your own precious documents and photographs at home, and how to recognise old photographic techniques. Bring along your own documents and photographs for individual advice.

On This Day: ‘District News’

From the Derby Mercury, 12th October 1881:

DISTRICT NEWS

CHESTERFIELD

Chesterfield was on Saturday night, for the first time, illuminated by the electric light.  The experimental operations proved very successful; and as the Corporation are hopelessly in conflict with the local gas company, it is probable that the electric light will be a permanent institution in Chesterfield.

ALFRETON

SINGULAR DEATH – John Shaw, the landlord of the New Inn, Greenhill lane, Alfreton, some three weeks ago was attempting to catch a wasp which was in the window of his house, when he stumbled and cut his wrist on a broken pane of glass.  He bled very much at the time, and from blood poisoning and the shock to his system he died on Wednesday.  It is not deemed necessary to hold an inquest.

The County Local Studies Library holds the Derby Mercury – just ring to book a microfilm reader.  If you have a Derbyshire library card you can also view 19th century issues of the newspaper online.

On This Day: ‘Death of a Distinguished Derbyshire Woman’

From the Derby Mercury, 4th October 1893:

Death of a Distinguished Derbyshire Woman

The death is announced from New York of Mrs. Mary Monroe, on the 15^th September, in her 98^th year.  Born in Derbyshire, England, February 1, 1795, she early in life developed a passion for travel, and was counted at the time of her death the most travelled woman in America.  In 1830 she passed Easter week in the city of Rome as a guest of the Pope.  She was a friend of Lafayette, and was twice a guest of Sir Walter Scott, and she counted among her friends the Duchess of Kent.  When 70 years of age she travelled for 20 weeks alone, visiting every part of Great Britain and Ireland in order to investigate the condition of the working classes.  Her husband was an officer of the Customs service of the United States.

The County Local Studies Library holds the Derby Mercury – just ring to book a microfilm reader.  If you have a Derbyshire library card you can also view 19th century issues of the newspaper online at the libraries area of the council website.

Are you starting to think about making your mincemeat?

Here is a recipe from Clara’s book for the mincemeat filling for your Christmas minced pies

Minced Pies

One pound and a half tart apples, one pound of Currants, Three quarters of suet, Brandy, Cinnamon & nutmeg to your Taste