Lime Kilns Talk at Society's Social Evening

The society's annual social evening took place on Thursday 12th October 2017.  Our speaker, Norman Redhead, gave a very interesting presentation on work carried out at Marple Lime Kilns as part of the "Revealing Oldknow's Legacy" project.

Norman, who is Heritage Management Director at the University of Salford, described some of the intersting finds at the Lime Kilns and surrounding area during the project.  The site is of major archaeological interest and further work is envisaged on completion of the "Oldknow" project early next year.

Norman drew our attention to two forthcoming events that may interest members.

The "Oldknow's Legacy" project team are hoping to form a "Friends" group for the Lime Kilns.
An event has been organised on 28th october 2017 at the Lime Kilns, see below for details.

Marple Lime Kilns Needs YOU!

We are forming a friends group.

Get involved from the beginning.

This 200-year old protected structure wants you to grow its hidden potential.

Walks, talks and conversation over refreshments and food

Places are limited – Please Book

Speakers: Maria Luczak, Luczak Associates, Landscape Management & Heritage;

Norman Redhead, Heritage Management Director for Archaeology Greater Manchester Archaeological Advisory Service

Representatives of the Revealing Oldknow’s Legacy Project and Stockport Council’s Greenspace Team will also be there to outline available support.

Date: Saturday 28th October 2017

Time: 11am - 2pm

Venue: Marple Lime Kilns & Marple Forces Club, 3 Lime Kiln Lane, Marple, Stockport. SK6-6BX

Where to meet us: Meet us at the foot of the gothic Lime Kilns façade, to find out more about the history and special features of this unique site, the impending landscaping and recent discoveries.

From there we can retire to the Social Forces Club for talks and conversation over refreshments and food whilst we consider its bright future.

Everyone welcome: Anyone with an interest in social & industrial heritage, ecology, green spaces & parklands and the enthusiasm of being part of a new group. Not sure what you can bring to the session. Bring yourself and we will help you work it out.

No age restrictions: A crafty table will be available to keep children entertained. Halloween Lantern bags for all to enjoy.

Contact Details:

Natasha Lolljee 

Project Volunteer Co-ordinator

Revealing Oldknow’s Legacy in Marple 

mailto:Natasha.Lolljee@canalrivertrust.org.uk

Mobile: 07876 477977 

www.oldknows.com

@oldknows_Marple 

Finally, Greater Manchester Archaeological day will take place on 25th November 2017 at University of Salford,  see HERE for details.

Members Social Evening Thursday 12th October

The society's annual members' social and speaker evening will take place this Thursday - everyone is welcome. Doors open 7.15pm                                 

    
  Topic: Marple Lime Kilns - Revealing Oldknow's Legacy  

                                                     3 years and beyond....................

                       Speaker: Norman Redhead - Heritage Management Director 

                                                     (Archaeology) at the University of Salford
                       Venue: Marple Library 12th October - 7.30 - 9.30pm

                          

Norman Redhead

As the 3 year Heritage Lottery Funded Project comes to a close, what have we learnt about the Lime Kilns? What does the future hold for this important scheduled monument that tells us so much about Marple's past? Come along to find out how the research and archaeological investigations of the 3 year project have enhanced our knowledge and understanding of Marple's history and heritage.

Most importantly, learn how the 'management plan' will take the project forward and protect the monument for future generations. 

This is an open meeting, free of charge, and all are welcome 

 join us at 7.15pm for a glass of wine and nibbles - we look forward to seeing you.

Canal & River Trust Open Day 21st January 2017

The Canal & River Trust are holding an open day at Marple Top Lock on Saturday 21st January 2017 between 10am and 4pm.

Visitors will be able to enter the drained lock chamber and speak to CRT experts about the canal history and the work required to maintain the 200 year old canal.

Bat Survey at Marple Lime Kilns

If you would like to know a little more about bats and help with a sunset bat survey you can join one of of the 3 local projects at the Lime Kilns which is part of the Revealing Oldknow's Legacy Project, a 3 year Heritage Lottery funded programme run by Canal & River Trust and Mellor Archaeological Trust. 

The Gothic designed Marple Lime Kilns are a hidden treasure that remain little known even in Marple, although they are recognised as being nationally important. The Oldknow's Legacy project is working to explore their potential, and to explain the kilns so that people understand their importance and are moved to look after them for future generations.

Spaces are limited for the bat survey so early booking is advised to avoid disappointment

Eventbrite links to book a place:
11th August - Click HERE
18th August - Click HERE
26th August - Click HERE

Transport Trust Red Wheel Plaques unveiled at Marple Locks and Marple Aqueduct

Two commemorative Transport Trust Red Wheel plaques were unveiled yesterday at Posset Bridge along Marple Locks and Marple Aqueduct, on the Peak Forest Canals. The plaque awards mark both sites among Britains greatest transport heritage sites. Before the advent of the railways the                                       nationwide canal system was the main means of transport for heavy goods.

The event was organised as part of the Revealing Oldknow's Legacy Heritage Lottery Funded Project. The plaques were unveiled by the President of the Transport Trust, the Hon. Sir William McAlpine Bt. Peter Stone, Trustee of Transport Trust and the Canal & River Trust Chief Executive Richard Parry were also present. Even Samuel Oldknow made an appearance!

It was a well attended event and invitees reflected the project's many partners and supporters including local Councillors, Heritage Lottery Fund, Marple Civic Society, Mellor Archaeological Trust, Stockport Council and volunteers who have been part of the project. 

The first plaque was unveiled at Posset Bridge along the flight of sixteen locks which rise 109 feet over one mile from bottom lock to top lock. The construction of the steps leading down from Posset Bridge to the canal basin was part of the first major project that the civic society undertook in the early 1960's as part of the national regeneration of the nation's canal network. 

The site of the second plaque unveiling was Marple Aqueduct. The aqueduct is Britain's tallest masonry-arched aqueduct (England's tallest aqueduct). This magnificent structure carries the canal 100 feet above the wooded River Goyt valley.

The event included a buffet lunch at Hyde Bank Farm and a trip on the Bell Boat across the Aqueduct

More Photos HERE

              All photos by Arthur Procter

Interpretation Workshops for the Revealing Oldknow's Legacy Project

The Learning and Interpretation officer for the Revealing Oldknow's Legacy project  recently arranged 3 workshops to look at information across the project sites and interconnecting areas to inform digital and on-site information and tours and events.

Mapping the project area at the audience meeting

The first workshop focussed on learning theory, the second looked at potential audiences and the third, which took place today, concentrated on information and key messages. 

The Civic Society supports the project and was pleased to contribute to the three worshops.

Workshop to determine key messages and information

The Revealing Oldknow's Legacy Project is a  £1.5m three year Heritage Lottery funded project and is a joint venture between Canal & River Trust and Mellor Archaelogical Trust. It tells the story of Samuel Oldknow and his historic connection to Mellor Mill, Marple Aqueduct and Marple Lime Kilns.

Revealing Oldknow's Legacy April Dig

The 'Revealing Oldknow's Legacy' April dig is set to excavate Oldknow's mansion house, Mellor Lodge, and tickets are still available. 

The project is always looking for volunteers so if you can't make the April dig but would still like to have a go at excavating, gardening or landscaping at Mellor Mill, you can join other volunteers with Bob Humphrey-Taylor most weekends.

For further details and to book a place on the April dig see HERE or visit the Oldknow's website HERE

For volunteering opportunities and information contact Bob Humphrey-Taylor on:                    bobh-t@ntlworld.com

Marple Civic Society was part of the management team when the Heritage Lottery Bid was put together and supports all aspects of this exciting three year heritage project.

Revealing Oldknow's Legacy Project

The Civic Society supports the HLF funded "Revealing Oldknow's Legacy" project which includes three sites; Mellor Mill, Marple Aqueduct and Marple Lime Kilns.

The project officer is looking for volunteers to help monitor and evaluate the project.  A variety of roles are available including speaking to members of the public at planned events to obtain their feedback, issuing and collecting questionaires and data input. Training will be provided in Marple during the second week in April with the work continuing until April 2017.

For Further Information See HERE

  

Marple Lime Kilns Community Archaeological Dig

The first community dig at the Lime Kilns, as part of the  Revealing Oldknow's Legacy project, starts on Monday 19th October. The top soil has been removed in preparation and cabins set up for school children visits and volunteers to take part in the dig over the next two weeks.

         If you would like to take part in the dig you can book a place via the website www.oldknows.com - or call 07825 044 379 

Free - No experience necessary - For more details see poster below.

At the end of the dig we'll be exploring what's been uncovered at the Tramway Open Day on 1st November - for one day only. With a special guest from the past, this is an event not to be missed. Guided tours will take place throughout the afternoon around the Lime Kilns and site of the dig and Sarah Cattell - the archaeologist leading the dig - will be on hand to chat to.

Further information on these events and more is on the website www.oldknows.com 

Marple Lime Kilns Discovery Day - A day to remember

What a splendid day the Marple Lime Kilns Discovery Day turned out to be. After a week of rain the sun shone brightly all day. The opportunity to learn about the Lime Kilns' history and architecture, and to catch glimpses of the pad stones which supported the rails of the tramway system, attracted visitors all day long.

Half hourly tours took place throughout the day and afterwards visitors could view the 

information stands, video screens and research material on display at the Forces Club.  

This is the first public event at the Lime Kilns as part of the Heritage Lottery Funded 'Revealing Oldknow's Legacy' 3 year project.

The project, which is run by the Mellor Archaeological Trust and Canal and River Trust, covers three sites from the Industrial Revolution and tells the story of Samuel Oldknow, the industrial entrepeneur, responsible for so much of the Marple we see today. The civic society worked in partnership with the project to deliver the Lime Kilns Discovery Day.

A further project is planned in October this year; one of 3 consecutive annual community events to uncover more archaeological evidence at the Lime Kilns site and discover more of its history. The October event is likely to be a community dig following the tramway across Oldknow's recreation ground.

If you are interested in becoming a 'Friend' of the Lime Kilns, would like to get involved in the community dig in October or just find out more about the projects please get in touch with the projects's activity officer:

 Pamela Pearson: pamela.pearson@canalrivertrust.org.uk or call/text 07825 044379

Thanks to Arthur Procter for taking the photos

Speaker meeting Tuesday 19th May 2015 - All are welcome

The Society's next speaker meeting will take place from 4.00pm - 5.00pm on Tuesday 19th May in Marple Library - there is a lift available.

Samuel Oldknow (AKA Bob Humphry-Taylor) will be dropping in at our next speaking meeting to give an illustrated talk about:

Samuel Oldknow: His Life, Times and Legacy

and the work being carried out at The Mellor Mill site

The talk will take us back in time as Samuel Oldknow, dressed for the occasion, tells the story of his life in Marple and beyond. Bob Humphrey-Taylor continues the talk with the latest updates and finds at the Mellor Mill archaeological site and says he should have some groundbreaking news to tell!!

This is an open meeting and all members of the public are welcome so bring your family, friends and neighbours - you will be most welcome - there is no charge for the meeting.

Do join us if you can at 3.40pm for light refreshments before the meeting starts at 4.00pm 

Lime Kilns Discovery Day 23rd May 2015

As part of the "Revealing Oldknow's Legacy (ROL)" Heritage Lottery Funded project a Lime Kiln Discovery Day has been arranged on Saturday 23rd May 2015.

It promises to be a great day out for all the family.  Come and join us to discover more about the Lime Kilns and their place in Marple's history .

Join one of the guided tours to find out what is in store for preserving this wonderful sheduled
monument and get details of a community dig planned for later in the year.

Pamela Pearson, ROL Activity Officer,
and Civic Society volunteers
prepare for Lime Kilns Discovery Day

Free tours are planned every half hour from 11.00am until 2.30pm but it is advisable to book. There will be two family friendly tours starting at 11.30am and 2.00pm.

Norman Redhead, the director of archaeology at Greater Manchester Archaeological Advisory Service will by on hand to answer questions and the desk based assessment carried out by Dr Peter Arrowsmith will be available to look at. A display stall and cold drinks will be available in the Social & Forces Club and you can be sure of a warm welcome.

Further details of the event can be viewed HERE.

To book a tour email: pamela.pearson@canalrivertrust.org.uk

or call/text 07825 044379

'Revealing Oldknow's Legacy' Community Dig at the Mellor Mill site

Marple Civic Society supports the 'Revealing Oldknow's Legacy' HLF project and is represented on the project stakeholder group .

The first community dig of the project will take place at the Mellor Mill site 7th - 10th April. It's a free event and everyone is welcome. Tools and training provided. See poster for further details.

To book a place contact Pamela Pearson:

email: pamela.pearson@canalrivertrust.org.uk or call or text on 07825 044 379

Marple Aqueduct - Conservation and Repair

Marple Aqueduct is undergoing over half a million pounds worth of repair, conservation and access improvement work as part of the Heritage Lottery funded Revealing Oldknow’s Legacy project. 

A safety fence is to be installed as part of the gateway improvements.  There are a number of safety fence options and the Canal and River Trust (CRT) would like to gather feedback on these and the other improvements.

To find out more and provide your feedback follow the link HERE to the CRT website.

Marple Lock & Aqueduct Public Open Day

Canal & River Trust are carrying out major maintenance and repair works to the Marple Aqueduct, a Grade I listed scheduled monument, and to Marple Lock No. 2 as part of the HLF funded Revealing Oldknow's Legacy project.  

A public open day has been arranged which will provide a unique opportunity to see repair works at Marple Aqueduct which carries the Peak Forest Canal ninety feet above and over the River Goyt -  the highest masonry-arch aqueduct in Britain. Nearby Lock 2 is currently drained and it will also be possible to climb down within the structure to inspect the repair works that are now underway.

The HLF funded "Revealaing Oldknow's Project" has now officially started and all officers are in post

The Public Open Day takes place on Sunday 30th November -  
9.30 - 3.30pm - no pre-booking is required

For more information see Canal & River Trust invitation here

Marple Civic Society Annual Social Evening

The Civic Society held its annual members evening on Thursday 10th October when members and friends listened to a fascinating talk about Marple Lime Kilns by Norman Redhead who is the Heritage Management Director, Greater Manchester Archaeological Advisory Service.

An archaeological investigation of the Lime Kilns is part of the £1.5m "Revealing Oldknow's Legacy Project" that will investigate the archaeology of Mellor Mill and improve access to, and stabilise, Marple aqueduct.  Norman explained that the project will concentrate on the the latter two sites but the proposed work on the Lime Kilns could lead to a more extensive project in the future. 

Preparatory work clearing vegetation, making an accurate photographic record and mapping the site with Ground Penetrating Radar has already been carried out.  Future work will include a "Community Dig" and the installation of interpretation boards.  It is envisaged that by the end of the project a "Friends" group will have been set up to help preserve and promote the Lime kilns.

At the end of the talk Fiona Turpin, Project Manager for the "Revealing Oldknow's Legacy" project gave a brief description of her role and took part in an informative question and answer session.

Speaker Meeting - Lime Kilns - talk about recent survey work and planned community dig

The society's annual social evening will take place this Thursday, 9th October 2014 at 7.30  in Marple Library.

The speaker for the evening is Norman Redhead, Heritage Management Director (Archaeology) Greater Manchester Archaeological Advisory Service (GMAAS)

Norman is well known for his work on archaeological projects and community digs throughout the borough including those in Marple and Mellor. He returns to Marple to lead the archaeological project at the Lime Kilns as part of the HLF funded 'Revealing Oldknow's Legacy' project.

Due to an unavoidable delay in the Oldknow project getting started, it hasn't been possible to carry out a community dig this summer as hoped. Nonetheless, English Heritage funded survey works and research have been completed leading to a better understanding of this Scheduled Monument. 

Do come along to find out more about the Lime Kilns which are now getting the attention they deserve after many years of being boarded up, out of sight and prey to the elements. 

Join us for a glass of wine and what promises to be an exciting presentation and congenial evening.

Venue : Marple Library - upstairs meeting room - lift available

         Date: Thursday 9th October 2014 - 7.30 - 9.30pm

All speaker meetings are open to members of the public and are free of charge  

bring your friends, neighbours and relatives - they will be most welcome.

The start of 'Revealing Oldknow's Legacy' project is imminent

Although it was announced last year that the £1.5m bid for HLF  funding for the Revealing Oldknow's Legacy had been successful, the start date has been delayed because of contractual issues dealing with the lease on the land at the Mellor Mill site. 

However, the formalities are now complete and permission given to start the project. Very soon the project officer, Fiona Turpin, will be officially in post and we can expect to see the start of community activity by September of this year.

The society contacted Fiona Turpin today and this is what she had to say:

"After making so many discoveries and developing so many ideas in our prolonged development phase it is very exciting to at last be on the verge of beginning to deliver this project which will celebrate Samuel Oldknow, a significant figure of the early textile industry. The project will offer a glimpse of the industrial revolution in the North West of England and its effect upon the region and nation's social, economic and political history: from mechanisation and how people earned their living to international trade and war. The stories will be brought to life in Mellor and Marple's picturesque landscape setting using the Aqueduct, Canal, Lime Kilns and Mill sites in particular to show how it was modelled to accommodate the activities of the day and how Oldknow's legacy still very much exists. The project will offer many avenues for everyone to get involved, learn skills or have fun whilst gaining an understanding of our shared heritage and learning more about the area's history and the next three years looks set to create some great activity in the area and leave its own mark for visitors and locals alike for some time after that".

Due to the delay in the start of the project a community archaeological dig at the Lime Kilns is unlikely to take place this year. Nontheless, work has commenced with vegetation being removed earlier in the year and survey work carried out funded by English Heritage (EH). This important structure is on the EH 'Heritage at Risk' register and after many years of little work or maintenance the Lime Kilns are now getting the attention they deserve. A topographic survey and geophysical survey have been carried out which will provide a greater understanding of the site and inform a programme of community activity. The survey findings and results will be presented at the Civic Society Social Evening on Thursday 9th October this year.

 

Samuel Oldknow at Manchester Histories Festival

It's good news that the Revealing Oldknow's Legacy project will be present at the  Manchester Histories Festival tomorrow, Saturday 29th March 2014. A successful application was made before christmas to have a stand at the Festival Celebration Day to promote the project.

There will be lots going on at the festival including tours of the newly refurbished Central Library.

Samuel himself (aka Bob Humphrey -Talyor) will be there in all his finery. You will find the  Oldknow's Legacy stand in the Great Hall at the Town Hall in the far right hander corner.

Also present will be Fiona Turpin, newly appointed Project Officer for the project. Fiona worked as a volunteer for Canal & River Trust in putting the Heritage Lottery Fund bid together. With her experience and knowledge, together with her commitment to the project, it is good news that she as been appointed to the post.

It will be an exciting day with lots to see and do, not least discovering Marple's own history.

You can find out more about the festival here