Shropshire at Work: Heritage Open Day at Shropshire Archives

Ever wondered what it was like to make a living in Shropshire hundreds of years ago? Join us at Shropshire Archives for a morning of fascinating documents, stories and talks exploring the county's working past. From early modern women earning a living to the workers of Shrewsbury Flaxmill, discover how everyday people shaped Shropshire's history through their working lives. Featuring original archive documents and three guest speakers, this free Heritage Open Days event offers a unique opportunity to explore the stories hidden within the county's archives.

No booking required—just drop in and explore. Please note: due to the unique nature of the materials on display, lockers will be provided for coats and bags (£1/trolley token refundable deposit).

Short Talks Schedule:

10.15am

Dr Hannah Robb
Making a Living in the Early Modern Economy
Using records from the Quarter Sessions collection, Dr Hannah Robb will explore how women found ways to earn a living and contribute to the economy in the early modern period. The talk draws on original archive sources to reveal the often overlooked experiences of women at work.

11.00am

Nigel Hinton
Shropshire's Local Heroes at Work
Local historian Nigel Hinton will talk about Shrewsbury`s local heroes working in the wool trade in 1588, who were also members of trained bands, preparing for invasion. 

12.00pm

Penny Ward
Working Lives at Shrewsbury Flaxmill
Discover the experiences of people employed at Shrewsbury Flaxmill, one of the most important industrial sites in the world's history. Penny Ward explores what life was like for those who worked there and the impact the mill had on the local community.

Whether you are interested in family history, local history, industry, or simply curious about the lives of people who lived and worked in Shropshire before us, this free, drop in event offers a unique opportunity to explore the county's rich heritage through original archive material.