During the 19th century, just prior to the Victorian era, momentous events were happening in England. The Industrial Revolution was about to reach its peak in the railway age, along with its need for raw materials - metallic ores such as zinc and iron extracted by James Henry Attwood and Charles Attwood, and - for some with their new wealth - the desire for finished products, such as the glass made by Edward Attwood.

For years after the Napoleonic wars there was political turmoil, mass gatherings of tens of thousands of people were held that the government had to control by military force – the working population were demanding representation. Charles and Thomas Attwood were on the side of the people, even though they were the equivalent of multi-millionaires, but their brother Matthias was politically opposite.

Matthias, Edward, Charles, and James Henry Attwood moved with their wealth and influence from Birmingham to the north of England, from Sunderland in the east across to Whitehaven in the west, with Hallbankgate, Wolsingham and Alston in between.

On Alston Moor three Attwood brothers and a nephew became involved in zinc and iron ore mines. If things had gone according to plan, the South Tyne valley could have been another Consett.

We look forward to seeing you, in person, at this event. Tea and biscuits mandatory!!

Members Free, Visitors £3, to include refreshments.