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# Revolutionary Players

Brought to you by History West Midlands

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## Posts

- [The Ditherington Mill Industrial Site, Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-ditherington-mill-industrial-site-shrewsbury/) - Image: Ditherington Mill showing the malt kiln built by William Jones following the end of flax spinning in 1886. Photograph by: Nabi Heydari (April 2003) Summary Ditherington Flax Mill is a grade I listed building. It lies in a semi-derelict state on the outskirts of Shrewsbury within a site which includes Grade II* structures. It was one
- [Made in Kidderminster: the History of the Carpet Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/made-in-kidderminster-the-history-of-the-carpet-industry/) - Image: Brinton's Carpet factory, 1870 Brinton’s Carpet Factory, Vicar Street, Kidderminster, 1870. Print taken from a watercolour. By the mid-19th century Kidderminster developed into a factory town and one of the most important centres for carpet making in Britain. The Brinton family first began to manufacture carpets in the town in the late 18th century. Image
- [Both Sides of the Moon: Erasmus Darwin, Joseph Priestley and the West Midlands’ Enlightenment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/both-sides-of-the-moon-erasmus-darwin-joseph-priestley-and-the-west-midlands-enlightenment/) - A Philosopher lecturing on the Orrery (1766), Joseph Wright (1734-1797), Oil on Canvas, Derby Museum & Art Gallery. Image: Wright’s painting is a celebration of scientific knowledge and the interpreter of this knowledge, the philosopher. The latter dominates the picture and explains the working of the sun and planets via an orrery, a mechanical representation of the solar
- [Reflections on the Surface: reviewing the River Severn's history](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/reflections-on-the-surface-reviewing-the-river-severns-history/) - Image: Ironbridge in Telford Historians of the West Midlands have always recognised the importance of the River Severn navigation, yet its significance has often been clouded by cliché – it is not helpful to call the river the ‘M1 motorway of its day’ and no single body of documents illuminates the history of the Severn
- [The Coal Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-coal-trade/) - Image: Ironbridge Gorge late C19. Photograph from J & S Slater's Views of Ironbridge and District Coal was the most visible cargo on the Severn. Most was conveyed from the Ironbridge Gorge to destinations upstream from the Estuary, movements that were not revealed in the port books. Occasional cargoes of Shropshire coal were taken to Bristol,
- [Conclusion](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/conclusion-4/) - Image Welch Bridge Shrewsbury. Thomas Harral, Picturesque Views of the Severn, 1824 The picture of the navigation that emerged from 40 or so years of research is complex, but necessarily incomplete. It will doubtless be amended by future generations. It is possible, if unlikely, that new sources may be uncovered – the records of the trustees
- [Understanding the Vessels](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/understanding-the-vessels/) - Image Stourport from below bridge. Thomas Harral, Picturesque Views of the Severn, 1824 Bringing together the many sources and learning the language used by boatmen made it possible to develop an understanding of the vessels used on the Severn and the ways in which they were deployed. Those who owned barges on the Severn were distinguished
- [Shop goods and transit cargoes](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/shop-goods-and-transit-cargoes/) - Image: Beale’s Corner, Wribbenhall Between 1660 and 1730 port books portray the upstream trade in shop goods: tobacco, wine, grocery, mercery, drapery and millinery wares and saltery goods. These goods were carried to the Upper Severn chiefly by the trows (cargo boats) of the Bewdley owners – especially the Beale family – which fortnightly sailed
- [Investigating the Severn](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/investigating-the-severn/) - Image: Cast-iron memorial to trowman Eustace Beard at Benthall This is in part a personal story, but it owes much to colleagues and students. In 1965 I was appointed by Salop (now Shropshire) County Council as an Adult Education Tutor, charged in particular with investigating the history of the Shropshire Coalfield, the chosen location for a
- [Important Sources](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/important-sources/) - Image: Large barge by Loadroft Wharf, Ironbridge, late c19 A surprising discovery came with the realisation that documents listed in the Shropshire Record Office as ‘Alderman Jones’s Notebooks’ actually comprised the diary for the 1820s and 1830s of Thomas Beard, a member of a Broseley family of barge owners. The Notebook provides graphic views of
- [The Severn Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-severn-trade/) - Image: Stourport locks (1770) This might seem a rich array of sources yet none covers the whole length of the river nor the whole chronological span of the navigation. To increase our understanding of the river it was necessary to gain an understanding of the language of those who worked on it, to define terms
- [River Traffic](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/river-traffic/) - Image: Ironbridge Gorge late C19. Photograph from J & S Slater's Views of Ironbridge and District In 2004 the records of the trustees of the towpath between Coalbrookdale and Shrewsbury, previously in the custody of Shrewsbury & Atcham Council, were deposited in the Shropshire Archives. Charles Hadfield glimpsed the documents in the 1950s but they
- [Charting the Severn Riverscape](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charting-the-severn-riverscape/) - Image: Ironbridge Gorge late C19. Photograph from J & S Slater's Views of Ironbridge and District On the frontiers of archaeology and geomorphology (the study of landforms), David Pannett illuminated our understanding of the physical nature of the River Severn, showing that the islands on the Upper Severn were on the sites of medieval fish
- [Varieties of Severn History](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/varieties-of-severn-history/) - Image Bewdley from below the bridge. Thomas Harral, Picturesque Views of the Severn, 1824 Analysing the Severn Navigation involved many approaches to its history. It was a study in transport history, making it necessary to be aware also of the roads that delivered cargoes to the river and, as they were improved, took it away. Canals
- [Understanding the watermen](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/understanding-the-watermen/) - Image : Gloucester Bridge and West Gate. Thomas Harral, Picturesque Views of the Severn, 1824 An increasing awareness from the 1970s of the significance of custom in social history proved helpful in understanding the Severn. Watermen dressed distinctively in flannel frocks. A hierarchy extended from owners who worked sets of vessels, through men who operated single
- [Francis Brett Young – Life in the Black Country](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/francis-brett-young-life-in-the-black-country/)
- [Cruel world of the nailmakers](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/cruel-world-of-the-nailmakers/)
- [Pearl button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-button-3/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button, created c 1795, with a scalloped edge and a circular inset of silver-plated metal which is decorated with small gilt ovals. A pearl boss is set at the centre of the metal disc, and the button has a copper pin shank with a drilled
- [Pearl and blue glass button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-and-blue-glass-button-2/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button, engraved with a twelve-pointed star, with a small blue glass stone set at its centre. This button dates from c 1795 and has a drilled brass swaged-in shank.
- [Pearl and gilt button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-and-gilt-button-4/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button, decorated with an incised and gilt eight-pointed star, with a central faceted amber glass stone surrounded by a circle of gold and red sequins. The outer section of the button is engraved with concentric circles. This button was created c 1795 and has a
- [Pearl and gilt button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-and-gilt-button-3/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button, manufactured c 1795. This button is set with a central faceted mirror-glass stone, and an outer ring of small pink stones. It has a drilled brass swaged-in shank.
- [Pearl and gilt button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-and-gilt-button-2/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button with a central gilt boss and an indented ring of smaller gilt bosses. This button was produced c 1795 and has a pin shank with a drilled brass ring.
- [Pearl and mirror-glass button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-and-mirror-glass-button/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A six-sided rectangular mother-of-pearl button with clipped corners. Concentric designs surround its central faceted mirror-glass stone. This button dates from c 1795 and has a drilled brass swaged-in shank.
- [Pearl button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-button-2/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button, engraved with a ring of small bosses which surround a central, larger boss. This button, which is decorated with green pigment, was manufactured c 1795 and has a drilled brass swaged-in shank.
- [Pearl and red-sequinned button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-and-red-sequinned-button/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button, produced c 1795. Its central faceted amber-coloured stone is surrounded by an inner circle painted in green. This is in turn encircled by an outer cream-painted, indented circle, which is decorated with red tulip-shaped sequins. The button has a drilled brass swaged-in shank.
- [Pearl and gilt button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-and-gilt-button/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery This mother-of-pearl button is decorated with lightly carved concentric designs, and features a central faceted mirror-glass stone, surrounded by a circle of small gilt bosses. This button dates from c 1795 and has a drilled brass swaged-in shank.
- [Pearl button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-button/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button, engraved with a rope design at its edge, and decorated with eight carved bosses surrounding a central boss. The button has a drilled brass swaged-in shank and dates from c 1795.
- [Pearl and blue glass button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pearl-and-blue-glass-button/) - Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A mother-of-pearl button, produced around 1795, and engraved with concentric designs. The inner section is coloured with red pigment, while the outer section is gilt. This button has a drilled brass swaged-in shank.
- [Atlas to the Life of Thomas Telford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/atlas-to-the-life-of-thomas-telford/) - Atlas to the Life of Thomas Telford, Civil Engineer containing eighty-three copper plates, illustrative of his professional labours, 1838
- [Matthew Boulton's copy of the Baskerville Bible](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boultons-copy-of-the-baskerville-bible/)
- [Droz Segmental Collar](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/droz-segmental-collar/) - At his Soho Mint, Matthew Boulton pioneered the striking of coins within collars, thus ensuring a uniformity of shape and size which had previously been unattainable in the production of British coinage. Such a step made the forgery of coins a more difficult process. Boulton also experimented with cutting grooves in the collar, so that
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Advert for transport between Birmingham and London](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-advert-for-transport-between-birmingham-and-london/) - Safe and Elegant TRAVELLING. Hotel and Swan Inn, Birmingham. Paytons’s Old Original well-known LONDON POST-COACH, in Sixteen Hours (with a GUARD) from the above INN, through Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford, and High-Wycombe, to the Bull-and-Mouth Inn, London, will continue to set out every Evening, at SEVEN o’Clock; to carry four Insides, Fare 1l.11s.6d. – And Outsides at 16s.
- [Brindley's Croft](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/brindleys-croft/) - The birthplace of James Brindley was born at Tunstead, near Buxton in Derbyshire. Samuel Smiles, Lives of the Engineers, vol. I (London, 1904).
- [Postscript by J. Bisset](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/postscript-by-j-bisset/) - From Bisset's Magnificent Directory POSTSCRIPT ----------------- THE various beauties from Labor spring, The willing muse, in artless verse, would sing: But nobler motives lay a stronger claim, Important duties * damp the Muse’s flame, Or ‘She’d a tale unfold!’ *** What beauteous works from ORES refin’d arise, To grace the HEAD and NECK, and charm
- [A Poetic Survey Round Birmingham by J. Bisset](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-poetic-survey-round-birmingham-by-j-bisset/) - From: Bisset's Magnificant Directory POETIC SURVEY ROUND Birmingham, &c. ------------------------- Suppose some TRAV’LLERS, at an Inn set down, And INNS 1 there are that grace this TRADING TOWN Where elegance and taste, at once, combine With well stor’d larders – cellars stock’d with wine; Clean well air’d rooms – for those who pass the night,
- [Publicans of Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/publicans-of-birmingham/) - From: The Political Songster by John Freeth The PUBLICANS of BIRMINGHAM to the CHURCH-WARDENS. Tune … Sit down neighbour’s all, &c. THE SOCIAL COMPANION’s a foe to contention, The SOCIABLE CUP is a spur to invention; Good ale is a blessing, what creature will doubt it? And friendship we prize – pray what is life
- [Mendoza's Trip to Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mendozas-trip-to-birmingham/) - From: The Political Songster by John Freeth Local Studies and History, Central Library, Birmingham MENDOZA’s TRIP to BIRMINGHAM: SINCE bear-garden sport of the times is the rage, And Sparring has been introduc’d on the Stage; With Spain tho’ ‘tis peace, we’ll have fighting at home, Ye Colliers rejoice, for Mendoza is come. And sing Ballynamoni
- [The Botanic Garden](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-botanic-garden/) - THE BOTANIC GARDEN; A Poem, in Two Parts. PART I CONTAINING THE ECONOMY OF VEGETATION. PART II THE LOVES OF THE PLANTS. WITH Philosophical Notes. LONDON PRINTED FOR J.JOHNSTON, ST PAUL’S CHURCH-YARD MDCCXCI ENTERED AT STATIONERS HALL.
- [Lichfield Grammer School](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lichfield-grammer-school/) - Lichfield Grammar School, St John’s Street in the early 19th century. The school was originally located in St John’s Hospital and in the late 17th and early 18th centuries it educated a number of Britain’s outstanding scholars. The building still survives, but it was altered substantially. Image from: T G Lomax, A Short Account of
- [Lichfield Theatre](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lichfield-theatre/) - Lichfield’s Theatre was opened in Bore Street in 1790 and designed by James Miller. The playhouse was evidence of Lichfield’s importance as a venue for cultural events. It was not financially successful and closed in 1871. Image from: T G Lomax, A Short Account of the Ancient and Modern State of the City and Close
- [Samuel Johnson's Birthplace](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/samuel-johnsons-birthplace/) - Michael Johnson’s Bookselling premises on the corner of Market and Breadmarket Streets. Image from: T G Lomax, A Short Account of the Ancient and Modern State of the City and Close of Lichfield (Lichfield, T G Lomax, 1819).
- [Crucifix Conduit and Friary Gates](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/crucifix-conduit-and-friary-gates/) - The Crucifix Conduit built by the Conduit Lands Trust. The Trust was founded in 1546 and contributed significantly to the reconstruction of Lichfield after the Civil War. As a result of income from land, the trust was able to channel supplies of fresh water into the city and provide money for other public enterprises. The
- [Portrait of Thomas Bennett](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/portrait-of-thomas-bennett-2/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on Canvas.
- [Portrait of Thomas Borrow](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/portrait-of-thomas-borrow/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on Canvas.
- [Sarah Carver and her daughter Sarah](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sarah-carver-and-her-daughter-sarah/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on canvas.
- [The Hermit Studying Anatomy](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-hermit-studying-anatomy/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Oil on Canvas
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Classical head](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-classical-head/) - An oval signet matrix made of clear white glass, dating from c 1800. The matrix is stamped but unfinished, and features a bearded classical head. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring dog, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-dog-with-inscription/) - A rectangular mauve glass seal matrix, created c 1775. The matrix is decorated with an image of a dog, above which is the inscription ‘TOUJOURS FIDELE’ (‘always faithful’). It may have been purchased as a love token. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Thistle, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-thistle-with-inscription/) - A rectangular seal matrix of clear white glass, featuring a thistle design encircled by an inscription. This matrix was created c 1775. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Thistle, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-thistle-with-inscription-2/) - A rectangular seal matrix of purple glass, bearing a thistle design. The inscription, which encircles the thistle, suggests that this matrix may have been intended as a love token. It was produced c 1775. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Joseph Priestley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-joseph-priestley/) - A seal matrix of octagonal shape, made of purple glass with a design of the head of Joseph Priestley, facing left. Priestley died in 1804 and the matrix was probably after his death in that year. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Joseph Priestley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-joseph-priestley-2/) - A rectangular signet matrix of purple glass, featuring the head of Joseph Priestley, facing right. The matrix was probably manufactured c 1804. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Joseph Priestley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-joseph-priestley-3/) - A seal matrix, rectangular in shape, of dark green bloodstone. It features the head of Joseph Priestley, facing right, and was probably created c 1804. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Sailing ship, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-sailing-ship-with-inscription/) - A circular seal matrix of clear white glass, with an image of a sailing ship and the inscription ‘ALL’S WELL’ above it. It was produced around 1775. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-with-inscription/) - A circular seal matrix of clear white glass, bearing the inscription ‘ALLS WELL’, and probably produced c 1800. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is known of their manufacture.
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-with-inscription-2/) - A rectangular blue glass signet matrix, with a simple engraved inscription, created c 1800. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is known of their manufacture. They seem to have
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-with-inscription-3/) - A rectangular signet matrix of purple glass, bearing an engraved letter ‘N’, and produced c 1800. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is known of their manufacture. They seem
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix possibly featuring the head of George III](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-possibly-featuring-the-head-of-george-iii/) - An oval seal matrix made of clear white glass, stamped but unfinished, and dating from c 1800. The matrix features a design which may be the head of King George III. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Dog next to tomb, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-dog-next-to-tomb-with-inscription/) - A rectangular mauve glass seal matrix, created c 1800, with a design of a dog near a tombstone. There are inscriptions both above and on the tombstone. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Plough, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-plough-with-inscription/) - An octagonal clear white glass signet matrix, dating from c 1800. The matrix bears a plough design, with an inscription which reads ‘SPEED THE [PLOUGH]’. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-with-inscription-4/) - A hexagonal green glass seal matrix, bearing the inscription of a person’s name. This matrix was created c 1800. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is known of their
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Cupid, Hope and anchor, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-cupid-hope-and-anchor-with-inscription/) - A rectangular signet matrix made of amber glass, c 1800. This matrix features the female figure of Hope, a cupid and an anchor, with an inscription above them. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made
- [Signet Matrix: heart-shaped Seal Matrix featuring Roses](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-heart-shaped-seal-matrix-featuring-roses/) - A heart-shaped seal matrix made of clear white glass, bearing a design of roses. This signet matrix, produced c 1800, was probably intended as a love token. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-with-inscription-5/) - A rectangular seal matrix, dating from c 1800, and apparently made of blue paste, swirled with white. Its inscription, which consists of two lines, suggests that it may have been intended as a love token. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Horses](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-horses/) - A rectangular seal matrix of clear white glass, with a design of horses, created c 1800. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is known of their manufacture. They seem
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Triple head, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-triple-head-with-inscription/) - An oval seal matrix of clear white glass, created c 1800, featuring a moulded triple head design and an inscription above it. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Tree, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-tree-with-inscription/) - A rectangular mauve glass seal matrix, with a tree design and an inscription above it. This matrix dates from c 1800. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little is known
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Signet, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-signet-with-inscription/) - A rectangular seal matrix of purple glass, bearing a design of a signet and the inscription ‘PUSH’, which refers to the action of making an imprint with the signet. This matrix was created in 1770. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Male figure, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-male-figure-with-inscription/) - A circular blue glass seal matrix, bearing a design of a male figure with his arms raised, and the inscription ‘PRODIGIOUS’ above it. This matrix was created c 1775. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Mirror, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-mirror-with-inscription/) - A rounded rectangular signet matrix made of purple glass. This matrix bears an image of a mirror, with an inscription in French around it, and dates from c 1775. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Early type of steamship](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-early-type-of-steamship/) - A rectangular seal matrix of opaque pale blue glass, dating from c 1825, and bearing a design of an early type of steamship. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass. Little
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Early type of railway locomotive](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-early-type-of-railway-locomotive/) - A rectangular signet matrix of opalescent white glass, featuring a design of an early type of railway locomotive. This matrix was created c 1825. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Many were made of moulded translucent glass.
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Head of Queen Victoria in her youth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-head-of-queen-victoria-in-her-youth/) - An oval seal matrix of amber-coloured glass, with a design of the head of the young Queen Victoria, with radiate crown above. This matrix may have been created in 1837 to commemorate Victoria’s accession to the throne. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents
- [Signet Matrix: Seal Matrix featuring Two hearts upon an altar, with inscription](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/signet-matrix-seal-matrix-featuring-two-hearts-upon-an-altar-with-inscription/) - This signet matrix is of blue glass, and has a design of two hearts upon an altar, with an inscription at its border. Its design shows that it was probably intended as a marriage or love token. Seal matrices also known as signet matrices were used to impress their owner’s mark into wax on documents
- [Culpepper Compound Microscope in case](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/culpepper-compound-microscope-in-case/) - The Culpepper company was one of the greatest producers of early microscopes. The first compound microscope was created in the early seventeenth century, and this example is in the traditional style of the pre-1740 microscope, with a central cylinder covered in shagreen, or shark skin. It has a base of lignum vitae wood, and a
- [Culpepper Compound Microscope in case](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/culpepper-compound-microscope-in-case-2/) - A tapered, square-based oak case houses the Culpepper Compound Microscope. At its base is a drawer which holds a number of specimen slides.
- [Case of Culpepper Compound Microscope: drawer with slides](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/case-of-culpepper-compound-microscope-drawer-with-slides/) - The box contains two sets of slides. The long, flat rectangular boxwood slides were probably produced between 1725 and 1730 for the Culpepper microscope. They have slightly rounded and chamfered edges, and each one has a number of circular holes with transparent covers for containing specimens. They are housed in the drawer at the base
- [Culpepper Microscope Slide](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/culpepper-microscope-slide-4/)
- [Bill for the supply of liquor from Charles Bage to Lord Clive 1792](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bill-for-the-supply-of-liquor-from-charles-bage-to-lord-clive-1792/) - Image: Bill for the supply of liquor from Charles Bage to Lord Clive 1792. Image from: Shropshire Archives Charles Bage was born in Derby in 1751, the son of Robert Bage (1730-1801), the manager of a local paper mill and his wife, Elizabeth. Shortly after Charles birth, the family moved to Elford near Lichfield in Staffordshire. Robert
- [Richardson Hall, Wordsley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-hall-wordsley/)
- [Plan of the Wordsley Glassworks](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/plan-of-the-wordsley-glassworks/)
- [William Haden Richardson](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-haden-richardson/)
- [Portrait of Benjamin Richardson I](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/portrait-of-benjamin-richardson-i-2/)
- [Portrait of Benjamin Richardson I](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/portrait-of-benjamin-richardson-i/)
- [Richardson Wine Glasses](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-wine-glasses/)
- [Richardson Cut Glass Jugs](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-cut-glass-jugs/)
- [Richardson Ruby Stained Goblets](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-ruby-stained-goblets/)
- [Richardson Enamelled Vase](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-enamelled-vase/)
- [Richardson Port and Sherry Decanters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-port-and-sherry-decanters/)
- [Richardson Transfer printed decanters and vases](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-transfer-printed-decanters-and-vases/)
- [Richardson Jug](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-jug/)
- [Richardson Vase](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-vase-6/)
- [Richardson Vase](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-vase-4/)
- [Richardson Jug and Basin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-jug-and-basin/)
- [Richardson Wine Glass Cooler](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-wine-glass-cooler/)
- [Richardson Vase](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-vase-5/)
- [Richardson Cut Glass Decanters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-cut-glass-decanters/)
- [Richardson Acid Etched Wine Glass](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-acid-etched-wine-glass/)
- [Richardson Vases](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-vases/)
- [Richardson Decanter](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-decanter/)
- [Richardson Blue and White Vase](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-blue-and-white-vase/)
- [Vase, possibly from Richardson's](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vase-possibly-from-richardsons/)
- [Richardson Jug and Glass](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-jug-and-glass/)
- [Richardson Vase](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-vase-3/)
- [Richardson Vase](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-vase-2/)
- [Richardson Vase](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-vase/)
- [Portrait of Benjamin Richardson II](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/portrait-of-benjamin-richardson-ii/)
- [Portrait of Benjamin Richardson III](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/portrait-of-benjamin-richardson-iii/)
- [Matthew Harvey, Malleable Iron Founder, Walsall](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-harvey-malleable-iron-founder-walsall/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Davy Brothers, Engineers and Millwrights, Park Iron Works, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/davy-brothers-engineers-and-millwrights-park-iron-works-sheffield/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Appreciating the Landscape: Robert Dodsley and the Leasowes](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/appreciating-the-landscape-robert-dodsley-and-the-leasowes/) - Image: Map from ‘A Description of the Leasowes, the Seat of the late William Shenstone, Esq’, by R. Dodsley in The Works in Verse and Prose of William Shenstone, Esq., Vol. I, Second Edition (London, J Dodsley, 1765), facing page 287. 1. Great road from Birmingham to Bewdley 2. Ruinated wall with a small gate
- [Interpretations](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/interpretations/) - Image: Russian Medallion to commemorate the erection of Peter the Great’s statue in 1773. The medal was struck during the Reign of Catherine the Great and shows a bust of the Empress. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office (605) The letter from Matthew Boulton to James Watt does not seem to have been published in its
- [Derby Porcelain in the 18th and early 19th centuries](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/derby-porcelain-in-the-18th-and-early-19th-centuries/) - Image: Derby Oval Dish, c 1760. The dish has a moulded trellis border painted with butterflies. The centre is painted with fruit and insects. Image from: Bantock House, Wolverhampton Text: Olga Baird Summary Derby, like Worcester and the Potteries district of North Staffordshire was home to an important centre of ceramics manufacture during the 18th and early 19th
- ['Practical Utopias': the Writings of Robert Bage](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/practical-utopias-the-writings-of-robert-bage/) - Summary Robert Bage (1730-1801) was a friend of Erasmus Darwin, John Whitehurst and William Hutton and a papermaker at Elford, near Lichfield in Staffordshire. He also entered a partnership with Erasmus Darwin and Samuel Garbett to produce iron at nearby Wychnor and he supplied paper to printing businesses in Birmingham. Bage’s main claim to importance
- [Industry and Genius; or, the Origin of Birmingham. A Fable](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/industry-and-genius-or-the-origin-of-birmingham-a-fable/) - Image: Portrait of John Baskerville (1706-1775), Type Founder and Printer, painted by James Millar in 1774. Oil on canvas. Industry and Genius was Baskerville’s motto. Image from: Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery O B------! in whom, tho’ rare, unite, The Spirit of Industrie and eke the Ray Of bright inventive Genius; while I write, Do Thou with Candour listen
- [Erasmus Darwin's Commonplace Book](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/erasmus-darwins-commonplace-book/) - Image: Joseph Wright (1734-1797), Portrait of Erasmus Darwin (1792). Oil on Canvas. Wolverhampton Art Gallery Text: Olga Baird Summary Darwin’s Commonplace Book is a remarkable source for the history of scientific speculation in the 18th century. It reveals the imagination and creativity of Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802) and the ways in which he contributed to the sharing of ideas which characterised
- [Advertisement: Charles Radenhurst, New Royal Hotel, New Street, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-charles-radenhurst-new-royal-hotel-new-street-birmingham/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [The Lime Strata Near Dudley: The Wren's Nest, Dip East](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-lime-strata-near-dudley-the-wrens-nest-dip-east/) - William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836).
- [Advertisement: Sir Edward Thomason, Vice Consul and Knight Chevalier](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-sir-edward-thomason-vice-consul-and-knight-chevalier/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Advertisement: Radclyffes and Co, General Printers and Stationers, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-radclyffes-and-co-general-printers-and-stationers-birmingham/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Advertisement: J. Darwen and Son, Saddlers, Harness Makers, Bridle Cutters, etc, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-j-darwen-and-son-saddlers-harness-makers-bridle-cutters-etc-birmingham/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Advertisement: Stock and Sharp, Glass and Lead Warehouse, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-stock-and-sharp-glass-and-lead-warehouse-birmingham/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Advertisement: Kendall and Son, Perfumers, Cabinet Case Makers, and Importers of Foreign Fancy Merchandise, London](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-kendall-and-son-perfumers-cabinet-case-makers-and-importers-of-foreign-fancy-merchandise-london/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Advertisement: Sir Edward Thomason, Birmingham, Manufacturer of Articles](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-sir-edward-thomason-birmingham-manufacturer-of-articles/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Advertisement: Messenger and Sons, Manufacturers of Chandeliers, Tripods and Lamps](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-messenger-and-sons-manufacturers-of-chandeliers-tripods-and-lamps/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Advertisement: W. and G. Peters, Importers of Foreign Wines and Spirits](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-w-and-g-peters-importers-of-foreign-wines-and-spirits/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Advertisement: Iohn Traies, Boot and Shoe Manufacturer, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-iohn-traies-boot-and-shoe-manufacturer-birmingham/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836), Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library.
- [Title page: Birmingham and its Vicinity, as a Manufacturing and Commercial District, by William Hawkes Smith](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/title-page-birmingham-and-its-vicinity-as-a-manufacturing-and-commercial-district-by-william-hawkes-smith/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836).
- [Frontispiece: View of Birmingham from Bordesley Fields, near the Coventry Road](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/frontispiece-view-of-birmingham-from-bordesley-fields-near-the-coventry-road/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836).
- [View of Walsall, from the North](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/view-of-walsall-from-the-north/) - William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836). Opposite page 1
- [Note relating to the life of John Wilkinson](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/note-relating-to-the-life-of-john-wilkinson/) - Image from: William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836). Opposite page 13
- [Map of the Mining and Manufacturing District of South Staffordshire, Warwickshire, etc.](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/map-of-the-mining-and-manufacturing-district-of-south-staffordshire-warwickshire-etc/) - William Hawkes Smith, Birmingham and its Vicinity as a Manufacturing and Commercial District (London and Birmingham, 1836). Opposite page 22
- [Needle-Making Illustrated and Explained: A Guide through Washford Mills, Redditch](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/needle-making-illustrated-and-explained-a-guide-through-washford-mills-redditch/) - Front cover of Needle-Making Illustrated and Explained: A Guide through Washford Mills, Redditch Title page of Needle-Making Illustrated and Explained: A Guide through Washford Mills, Redditch General View of Washford Mills Calyx-Eyed Needles Coil of Wires Pointing Mill Machine Stamping Room Eyeing Room Scouring Room Hardening House Wrapping Room Warehouse Pointing Filing Room
- [Letter from Samuel Galton, jnr to The Friends of the Monthly Meeting in Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-samuel-galton-jnr-to-the-friends-of-the-monthly-meeting-in-birmingham/) - To the Friends of the Monthly Meeting at Birmingham:--- RESPECTED FRIENDS, I have been visited on the part of your Monthly Meeting, by my worthy Friends, Sampson Lloyd, Samuel Baker, and Joseph Gibbins; whose candid and liberal conduct to me, on this occasion, I acknowledge:---They left with my Father, a Copy of your Minute, dated
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1764/11/03](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17641103/) - "Darwin attempts to mediate between Boulton and a Mr Baker due to a disagreement between the two. --------------------------------------- Lichfd. Nov. 3. 1764. Dear Boulton I sent to you a few Hours after you was gone to have paid you the Money for the Hay. Please by a Line to tell me who I must pay
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1763/07/01](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17630701/) - Darwin asks Boulton to help him with some apparatus for his scientific experiments. ---------------------------------------- Lichfield Jul. 1. 1763 Dear Boulton, As your are now become a sober plodding Man of Business, I scarcely dare trouble you to do me a Favour in the nicknachatory, alias philosophical way: I have got a most exquisitely fine Balance,
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1793/01/05](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17930105/) - Darwin writes to Boulton to say he regrets being unable to visit Soho and enquire after an chemical lamp. ---------------------------------------- Jan 5-93 Saturday Dear Boulton I am glad to see your handwriting as it assures me you are in the land of the living, I was a day lately at Mr Keir’s to visit Miss
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1791/05/09](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17910509/) - Darwin writes to assure Boulton of the care being taken of a servant of Boulton's, Mr Laws. He also commiserates with Boulton over the loss of the Albion Mill in London, which was powered by a Boulton and Watt engine and destroyed by fire in March 1791. ---------------------------------------- May 9-91 Dear Sir, I saw Mr
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/11/30](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17941130/) - Darwin's second letter to Watt concerning raising funds for Dr. Beddoes' pneumatic institute. Nov. 30-94 Derby Dear Sir, I put into the Derby paper the account of the medical pneumatic institution, & the subscribers copied from the Birmingham paper, but have gain’d no subscribers except those personally applied to, - which I indeed suspected, the
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1789/10/22](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17891022/) - Darwin writes to Boulton for information about steam engines and coining for Darwin's latest poem, The Loves of Plants. ---------------------------------------- Derby Oct. 22-89 Dear Boulton I write this to introduce to your acquaintance my friend Mr Archdale, a gentleman [of] classical abilities, and will therefore not steal any of your inventions, and who is going
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1800/11/09](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-18001109/) - Darwin writes to Boulton about the enclosure of land. ---------------------------------------- At Mr Galton’s Crescent Birmingham Nov. 9-1800 Dear Boulton, My friend Mr John Gisborne of Holly-bush in Needwood Forest has desired me to write to you to solicit from you a refusal of your allotment, if that forest comes to be inclosed (which I hope
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/05/29](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940529/) - Darwin's advice to Watt for the continued treatment of Jessy. ---------------------------------------- Derby May 29-94 Dear Sir All the medecines, which have had evident effect in producing pulmonary absorption, and a consequent healing of pulmonary ulcers, have produced it, I believe, by inducing sickness, of these I believe foxglove to be the most efficacious, I suppose
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/06/06](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940606/) - Increasingly unable to help Jessy Watt as she continues to suffer from tuberculosis, Darwin writes to Watt repeating his advice to induce sickness as a means of curing ulcers. ---------------------------------------- Derby Jun 6-94 Dear Sir I do not think I can suggest any thing further, than what I have before said viz. that as I
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/06/11](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940611/) - Darwin writes to Watt after the death of his daughter, Jessy who died in early June, 1794. ---------------------------------------- My dear friend, I have not felt so poignant a grief of some years, as I feel now for the very affecting loss, which Mrs Watt and yourself have experienced! – a young companion of such uncommon
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1789/12/31](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17891231/) - Darwin writes Boulton for details of coining. ---------------------------------------- Derby Dec 31-89 Dear Boulton I intend in a few months to print another poem, as the first pays me so well – now I shall make a note on the steam-engine, part of which Mr Watt will supply me with, but I wish to say something
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1795/03/13](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17950313/) - Darwin writes to Boulton to recommend Dr Salt to the position of physician to the Birmingham Dispensary. ---------------------------------------- Dear Sir I take the liberty to recommend the bearer, Dr Salt, to your acquaintance; who has pass’d through his medical studies at Edinburgh with great eclat, as I have been well inform’d by several of his
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1794/10/08](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17941008/) - Darwin requests Boulton help in obtaining aerated water for the treatment of a patient. ---------------------------------------- Derby Oct 8-94 Dear Boulton I remember you mention’d, that you procured aerated alcaline water either in London or Birmingham, which was better than you could easily make at home. - Now I have a patient, who had I think
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1762](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-1762/) - Darwin writes to Boulton about the experiments of Dr. Petit and Dr. Franklin ---------------------------------------- Dear Boulton Dr Petit desires I would use my Interest with your Worship, to procure him a Thermometer or two – now why won’t you sell those Thermometers, for I want one also myself. He is gong to try thermometrical Experiments
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1800/02/23](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-18000223/) - Darwin writes to recommend Mr Edwards as a solicitor to Boulton. ---------------------------------------- Derby Feb. 23, 1800 Dear Boulton There was a few days ago a meeting at Barton to consider about inclosing the Forest of Needwood, in which I understand you are interested, and I trouble you with this line to recommend to your notice,
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1764[?]](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-1764/) - A detailed letter in which Darwin explains to Boulton his theory of a mechanically propelled car. ---------------------------------------- Dear Boulton, As I was riding Home yesterday, I concider’d the Scheme of the fiery Chariot, and the longer I contemplated this favourite Idea, the practicable it appeared to me. I shall lay my Thoughts before you, crude
- [Erasmus Darwin, the Scientist](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/erasmus-darwin-the-scientist/) - Dr Erasmus Darwin’s Commonplace Book details his many and varied interests. This film looks at some of the inventions Darwin recorded and his influence as a scientific philosopher and writer…
- [Matthew Boulton: Selling what all the world desires](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boulton-selling-what-all-the-world-desires/) - In this film we explore the industrial and commercial innovations of Matthew Boulton.
- [Lichfield, City of Philosophers](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lichfield-city-of-philosophers/) - In the mid eighteenth century Lichfield became a ‘city of philosophers’. With contributions from Dr Malcolm Dick and Desmond King-Hele, this film explores Lichfield’s rise as a cultural and intellectual centre.
- [Industry and Genius: John Baskerville & the beauty of letters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/industry-and-genius-john-baskerville-the-beauty-of-letters/) - Explore the life and work of John Baskerville – a Birmingham based printer, stone cutter, letter founder, writing master and entrepreneur. John Baskerville [1706–75] was an inventor, entrepreneur and artist with a world-wide reputation who made eighteenth-century Birmingham a city without typographic equal. Baskerville not only designed a typeface, which has become one of the
- [Matthew Boulton helped to shape the life of eighteenth-century Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boulton-helped-to-shape-the-life-of-eighteenth-century-birmingham/) - Matthew Boulton helped to shape the life of eighteenth-century Birmingham. The film considers the Lunar Society, the Assay Office and the civic culture of the town.
- [Erasmus Darwin, At the Heart of the Lichfield Enlightenment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/erasmus-darwin-at-the-heart-of-the-lichfield-enlightenment/) - Dr Erasmus Darwin was at the heart of Lichfield’s rise as a centre of Enlightenment thought. Dr Malcolm Dick and Desmond King-Hele discuss the influence of Darwin’s philosophical and literary work on Lichfield society and the wider world.
- [The Lunar Society Trail: Following the men who made the modern world](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-lunar-society-trail-following-the-men-who-made-the-modern-world/) - The Lunar Society Trail - Birmingham, UK In the 18th century a unique group of friends came together in the vibrant and rapidly growing town of Birmingham bound together by their common passion for enlightenment. They were the men of the Lunar Society who met on evenings when the full moon would provide the light
- [Elihu Burritt - Birmingham and Black Country Lives](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/elihu-burritt-birmingham-and-black-country-lives/) - The 19th century Black Country attracted visitors from home and overseas who marvelled at the extent and diversity of the industries they saw. Many of them also described the diabolical conditions under which men, women and children worked in the mines, mills, forges, and other maunufactories of this vibrant region. Yet the graphic records of what
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1789/03/12](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17890312/) - Darwin writes to Boulton of his son, Robert's dispute with Withering. ---------------------------------------- 12 March 1789 Dear Boulton I was much obliged to you for your kind letter from London, which breath’d the true spirit of our long and ancient[?] friendship; which I dare say will not cease on either side, till the earthy tenement of
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1789/01/18](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17890118/) - A dispute had arisen between Darwin's son, Robert, by 1789 a physician in Shrewsbury, and Dr. William Withering, another Lunar Society member. Darwin's relations with Withering had been previously soured over the use of digitalis in treating heart disease and Darwin writes to Boulton for evidence against Withering. ---------------------------------------- Derby Jan 18-89 Dear Boulton When
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1785/01/26](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17850126/) - Darwin writes to Boulton about Richard Arkwright's difficulties over patents for his machinery. ---------------------------------------- Derby Jan 26-85 Dear Sir, I was desired lately to look at the specification of Mr Arkwright’s patent, about which He had a trial last year; and it was in my opinion unjustly given against him. He has made many improvements
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1784/01/17](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17840117/) - Darwin writes to Boulton to request repayment of a loan and of the attempt of the Derby philosophical society to send an air balloon to Soho. ---------------------------------------- Derby Jan 17-84 Dear Boulton, If it be not very inconvenient to you to pay me the 200£ (as you seem’d to say when I had the pleasure
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1782/12/26](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17821226/) - Darwin writes to Boulton requesting repayment of a loan. He also speaks of his regret at no longer being able to meet with the Lunar Society, after his move to Derby. ---------------------------------------- Derby Dec 26-82 Dear Boulton, I have purchased a house here and furnished it, which has rather distress’d me for money; that if
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1782/01/27](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17820127/) - Darwin writes to Boulton requesting the repayment of a loan. ---------------------------------------- Radburn 27 Jan 1782 Dear Boulton, Whether you are dead, and breathing inflammable air below; or dephogisticated air above; or whether you continue to crawl upon this miry globe, measuring it’s surface with you legs instead of compasses, and boring long galleries, as you
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1778/04/21](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17780421/) - Darwin again enquires after the Kauffmann prints he asked to be framed at Soho. ---------------------------------------- Dear Boulton I am sorry to tease you so much about the prints of Mrs Kaufman, which you was so good as to promise to buy for me, and to direct them to be framed. Now as you are going
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1778/04/05](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17780405/) - Darwin sends his apologies to Boulton for being absent from a Lunar Society meeting with a lively description of discussions he will be missing. He also enquires after the Kauffmann prints. ---------------------------------------- Dear Boulton I am sorry the infernal Divinities, who visit mankind with diseases, and are therefore at perpetual war with Doctors, should have
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1778/02/04](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17780204/) - Darwin enquires after the Kauffmann prints. ---------------------------------------- Dear Boulton, Not having heard of you for so many moons has induced me to think you are dead – pray send me word that I may begin your epitaph – if you are still alive I design to visit you next Sunday but one, (which I believe
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1778/01/11](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17780111/) - Darwin gives his opinion on the poetry of a young lady of Boulton's acquaintance. ---------------------------------------- 11 January 1778 Dear Boulton I have polish’d, japan’d, and handed up, the verses of Miss Rogers, which you sent me. This I think the greatest compliment I could pay to the lady: since if I had not thought the
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1778](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-1778-2/) - Darwin writes to Boulton about an order he placed for a selection of prints by the popular painter, Angelica Kauffmann. ---------------------------------------- Dear Boulton I trouble you with this line to remind you of procuring me Mrs Kaufin’s 4 or 5 prints of graces, and at the same time I must beg you to get them
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1771/02/12](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17710212/) - Darwin's query about an order he placed with Boulton. ---------------------------------------- 12 Feb 1771 Dear Boulton I am quite undone for the Crayons and must beg you will send them to Lichfield as soon as possible. Pray acquaint me if Dr Small be return’d for I intend to visit you again at Birmingham the first vacant
- [THE DYING NEGRO](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-dying-negro/) - ADVERTISEMENT. The following Poem was occasioned by a fact which had recently happened at the time of its first publication, in 1773. A Negro, belonging to the Captain of a West-India-man, having agreed to marry a white women, his fellow-servant, in order to effect his purpose, had left his master’s house and procured himself to
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1771/01/04](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17710104/) - Darwin, Boulton and Wedgwood were due to dine with Mr Anson of Shugborough Hall and Mr Stuart, an influential designer. ---------------------------------------- 4 January 1771 Dear Sir I have just now received a letter from Mr Stuart acquainting me that Mr Anson and himself are obliged to go to London immediately to pass a fortnight, and
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1778](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-1778/) - Directions to Mr Boulton for making a Tea Vase. Friend Boulton take these ingots fine From rich Potosi’s sparkling mine, With your nice art a tea-vase mould, Your art more valued than the gold! Around it “to the Fairest’ write, And send it to Eliza bright. I’ll have no bending serpents kiss The boiling wave
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1767/07/29](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17670729/) - Darwin writes to Boulton of various financial matters and a recent visit to Derbyshire. ---------------------------------------- Lichfd Dear Boulton I have paid Mr Cob 6-7-0 for your Acct. and desire you will pay Mr Baumgartner when you settle with him, I mean four guineas for one Chest of Florence and 43 shillings for a half Chest.
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1769/06/09](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17690609/) - Darwin writes to Boulton about Boulton's infant daughter, Anne, who suffered from a condition, possibly a dislocation of the hip. ---------------------------------------- Wolsley Bridge, Jun. 9-69 Dear Boulton, WOMAN, says Aristotle, is a two-leg’d animal without Feathers – He certainly meant very young Women! after having given a definition of the Subject of my Letter, the
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1795/07/09](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17950709/) - Darwin writes to Watt about one of the various law suits over the patents of Watt's steam engines and the use Darwin continued to make of gases to treat patients. Watt was acting as a supplier of the apparatus to make the gases. ---------------------------------------- Dear Sir, I was much obliged to you for your letter
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1795/04/28](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17950428/) - Darwin writes to Watt of his experiments with gases and now seems to be treating patients with oxygen and arsenic. ---------------------------------------- Dear Sir, I am much obliged to you for your letter of instructions, which I have avail’d myself of. And shall be obliged to you further, if you will please to send me, as
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1795/04/02](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17950402/) - Darwin writes to Watt about his continuing experiments with the use of gases in medicine. Darwin mentions William Reynolds of Coalbrookdale, one of the Shropshire Ironmasters. ---------------------------------------- Derby Apr. 2-95 Dear Mr Watt, I was sorry my other engagements would not me to pass a few hours with you last week, when I was at
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/11/17](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17941117-2/) - Darwin writes to Watt concerning their efforts to raise money for Dr. Beddoes' Pneumatic Institute. Darwin also refers to their continuing experiments with gases. ---------------------------------------- Dear Sir I am much obliged to you for both your letters, and have this day sent your advertisement and air-paragraph to the newspaper; I sent a shorter one of
- [Letter from Robert Darwin to James Watt, 1802/04/21](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-robert-darwin-to-james-watt-18020421/) - Darwin's son, Robert writes to Watt about the death of his father. ---------------------------------------- Priory near Derby April 21 1802. Dear Sir You will probably have heard of the death of my excellent and honored father, which took place before your letter could arrive here. Mrs Darwin desires me to say that she does not know
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1796/01/18](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17960118/) - Darwin's recommendation of Dr. Salt as physician to the Birmingham Dispensary. ---------------------------------------- Derby Jan 18-96 Dear Sir, I take the liberty of addressing a line to you to solicit your interest in favor of Dr Salt at the ensuing election of physicians for the hospital at Birmingham. I have been acquainted with Dr Salt almost
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1800/01/21](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-18000121/) - On the evening of 29 December 1799, Darwin's son, Erasmus, who was in debt, committed suicide by throwing himself in the river Derwent. ---------------------------------------- Derby Jan 21 -800 My dear friend, I am indeed much obliged to you for your kind letter of condolence. there are evils in mortal life, which must be born, such
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1800/11/20](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-18001120/) - Darwin writes to Watt asking him to purchase a corn-mill on his behalf. ---------------------------------------- Derby Nov 20 1800 Dear Sir I wrote to a friend at Nottingham to inquire of Mr Lowe concerning Hand-cornmills with stones - who says, that he never knew of any such thing made at Nottingham. Now in these times of
- [Letter from James Keir to James Watt, 1802/04/24](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-james-keir-to-james-watt-18020424/) - Keir writes to Watt concerning the death of their friend and fellow Lunar Society member, Dr. Erasmus Darwin. ---------------------------------------- April 24 1802 My dear Sir I received with great regret the news of the death of our excellent friend Dr Darwin, but it is no small consolation that he died without pain, according to the
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/04/25](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940425/) - Darwin writes to Watt with more suggestions for the treatment of his daughter, Jessy, including advice on her diet. ---------------------------------------- Derby Apr 25-94 Dear Sir, I am truly sorry to hear so indifferent an account of your daughter’s health, and think you do well in trying the effect of a journey by small stages to
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/05/25](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940525/) - Darwin writes to Watt outlining a range of treatments for Watt's daughter, Jessy. This letter includes details of the use and preparation of foxglove (digitalis) and the suggestion that inducing sea-sickness may cure ulcers. ---------------------------------------- Sunday May 25-94 Dear Sir, If Miss Jessy does not soon find some relief in respect to the inflammatory symptoms,
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1795/12/28](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17951228/) - Darwin writes to Watt on behalf of a patient requesting apparatus for making oxygen gas. ---------------------------------------- Derby Dear Sir, I am desired by a patient, who is now in Devonshire, to write to you for a machine for making oxygene gas, the use of which I have recommended to his lady. He wishes to have
- [Bilston Enamel - Snuff box](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bilston-enamel-snuff-box/)
- [Bilston Enamel - Scent flask](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bilston-enamel-scent-flask-2/)
- [Bilston Enamel - Scent flask](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bilston-enamel-scent-flask/)
- [Bilston Enamel - Plaque](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bilston-enamel-plaque-4/)
- [Bilston Enamel - Plaque](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bilston-enamel-plaque-3/)
- [Bilston Enamel - Plaque](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bilston-enamel-plaque-2/)
- [Bilston Enamel - Plaque](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bilston-enamel-plaque/)
- [A Merchant](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-merchant/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806
- [Carpet Weaver](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/carpet-weaver/) - “The art of weaving carpets is carried on to a great extent in England at the present period, as they are now so generally used, not only by the more affluent classes of society, but by the middle, and even the more humble classes; indeed there are few decent journeymen mechanics who have not a
- [Farrier](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/farrier/) - Source: The Complete Book of Trades, or the Parents Guide and Youth's Instructor in the Choice of a Trade, Business or Profession by N. Whittock
- [The Spon Lane School, 1845](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-spon-lane-school-1845/) - Image: The Spon Lane Schools, Smethwick built by Chance Brothers, Glassmakers (1845) from an original design in watercolour. James Frederick Chance, A History of the Firm of Chance Brothers and Co. Glass and Alkali Manufacturers (London, Spotiswoode, Ballantyne and Co Ltd, 1919).
- [View of the Alkali Works, 1862](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/view-of-the-alkali-works-1862/) - Image: View of Chance Brothers Alkali Works, Oldbury (1862). James Frederick Chance, A History of the Firm of Chance Brothers and Co. Glass and Alkali Manufacturers(London, Spotiswoode, Ballantyne and Co Ltd, 1919). The huge chimneys were typical of alkali works, they were built to release hydrochloric acid fumes which were produced during the manufacturing process into the
- [James Timmins Chance](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/james-timmins-chance/) - Image: James Timmins Chance at the age of 40, from a painting by J.C. Horsley, R A. John Frederick Chance, A History of the Firm of Chance Brothers & Co. Glass and Alkali Manufacturers, (London, Spottiswoode, Ballantyne & Co. Ltd, 1919).
- [View of the Chance Brothers Glassworks, 1857](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/view-of-the-chance-brothers-glassworks-1857/) - Image: View of Chance Brothers Glassworks, Smethwick (1857) from a print. James Frederick Chance, A History of the Firm of Chance Brothers and Co. Glass and Alkali Manufacturers (London, Spotiswoode, Ballantyne and Co Ltd, 1919).
- [Dr John Ash, M.D.](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dr-john-ash-m-d/) - Image: Print of a portrait of Dr John Ash (1723-1798) from R K Dent, Old and New Birmingham: A History of the Town and its People (Birmingham, Houghton and Hammond, 1880). Dr John Ash was a prominent Birmingham physican, founder of the General Hospital and close friend of Dr William Small. They lived at 9 Temple Row, Birmingham next
- [Epistle to Nathaniel Lister Esq. of Lichfield by Anna Seward](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/epistle-to-nathaniel-lister-esq-of-lichfield-by-anna-seward/) - "[From ""Poetical Works of Anna Seward, Vol 2""] [333] EPISTLE TO NATHANIEL LISTER, ESQ. OF LICHFIELD ON HAVING READ HIS VERSES IN MANUSCRIPT, WRITTEN DECEMBER 1786.* Encircled by thy filial band, O, Lister, pleas’d I see thee stand, Rich in the blessing that can balm Each mental wound, each sorrow calm, And every irksome care
- [Practical Thoughts on Amputations: 4. Of the Amputation of Different Parts of the Extremities and Diseased Tumors](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/practical-thoughts-on-amputations-4-of-the-amputation-of-different-parts-of-the-extremities-and-diseased-tumors/) - [79] OF THE AMPUTATION OF DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE EXTREMITIES It has been observed agreeable to the doctrine laid down in the foregoing pages, that the principal dependance for a speedy, safe, and easy cure of the wound formed after Amputation of the thigh, has been placed upon the free preservation of integuments chiefly; ascertaining
- [The Staffordshire Potteries Directory: An Account of the Pottery Manufacture](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-staffordshire-potteries-directory-an-account-of-the-pottery-manufacture/) - Published in 1802, this Directory is one of the first written accounts of the pottery towns, Tunstall, Burslem, Etruria, Hanley and Fenton (Lower Lane) and Stoke-upon-Trent. Later in the 19th century they joined together to form the borough of Stoke-on-Trent. Printed when the area had just taken off as a major industrial centre, the Directory
- [Francis Duke of Bridgewater](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/francis-duke-of-bridgewater/) - From Samuel Smiles, Lives of the Engineers, vol. I (London, 1904). From: Private Collection
- [A Ramble of the Gods Through Birmingham by J. Bisset](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-ramble-of-the-gods-through-birmingham-by-j-bisset/) - From: Bisset's Magnificent Directory RAMBLE OF THE GODS THROUGH BIRMINGHAM. A TALE. “Eranti, paffimque oculos per cunєla fermti.” Sometime ago, I’m told, a rambling fit Seiz’d on APPOLLO, GOD of Song and Wit; He spoke to MERCURY, and ask’d if he To Earth a while would bear him company? ‘With all my heart,’ said he,
- [Practical Thoughts on Amputations: 3. Observations and Illustrations](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/practical-thoughts-on-amputations-3-observations-and-illustrations/) - [70] Observations and Illustrations To Mr. MYNORS, Surgeon. DEAR SIR “I BEG the favor of you to insert in your publication, the following particulars, relating to the mode of Amputation, which has since Jan. 25, 1780, been practised in the Birmingham general hospital. – When I first wrote to Mr. Alanson, I described some deviations
- [Practical Thoughts on Amputations: 2. Amputation of the Thigh and After Treatment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/practical-thoughts-on-amputations-2-amputation-of-the-thigh-and-after-treatment/) - ON THE AMPUTATION OF THE THIGH AND THE AFTER-TREATMENT 1. Let the screw tourniquet, with a small linen compress, consisting of eight doubles, placed upon the course of the femoral artery, be applied upon the thigh, as near to the groin as possible. 2. And let a narrow slip of linen spread with sticking plaister
- [Practical Thoughts on Amputations: 1. Frontispiece and Introduction](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/practical-thoughts-on-amputations-1-frontispiece-and-introduction/) - Robert Mynors, a pioneer of surgical treatment in 18th century Birmingham Robert Mynors was one of the lesser-known medical figures of the West Midlands in the late 18th century. His reputation has been eclipsed by John Ash, who founded Birmingham’s General Hospital, Erasmus Darwin, probably England’s best doctor at the time, William Small one of
- [A History of the Practice of Trepanning the Skull: 1. Frontispiece and Introduction](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-history-of-the-practice-of-trepanning-the-skull-1-frontispiece-and-introduction/) - Robert Mynors, a pioneer of surgical treatment in 18th century Birmingham Robert Mynors was one of the lesser-known medical figures of the West Midlands in the late 18th century. His reputation has been eclipsed by John Ash, who founded Birmingham’s General Hospital, Erasmus Darwin, probably England’s best doctor at the time, William Small one of
- [A History of the Practice of Trepanning the Skull: 2. A Narrative of the Case of a Fractured Skull](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-history-of-the-practice-of-trepanning-the-skull-2-a-narrative-of-the-case-of-a-fractured-skull/) - A NARRATIVE OF THE CASE OF A FRACTURED SKULL BY MR. WILLIAM JONES, SURGEON. J. BURTON, four years and three quarters old, on the 12th. Sept. 1783, received a small wound in his head by a brick falling from the top of a chimney twelve yards high, which struck him to the ground. He was
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Runaway Wife](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-runaway-wife/) - Newport, Aug. 13, 1790. Eloped from her Husband, WHEREAS Susannah, Wife of Wm, Hollingshead, of Newport, in the County of Salop, Dealer in Buckles, Knives, Scissars, Razors, and other Birmingham small Wares, left her said Husband the 4th Instant, in Company with Charles Haswell, a Native of the City of Chester, by Trade a Breeches-maker;
- [Poetic Survey Around Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/poetic-survey-around-birmingham/) - POETIC SURVEY ROUND Birmingham, &c. ------------------------- Poetic Survey Around Birmingham Suppose some TRAV’LLERS, at an Inn set down, And INNS1 there are that grace this TRADING TOWN Where elegance and taste, at once, combine With well stor’d larders – cellars stock’d with wine; Clean well air’d rooms – for those who pass the night, Each HOST
- [The Controversiad: A Poem](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-controversiad-a-poem/) - Frontispiece of the Controversiad by Gregory Dominic. THE CONTROVERSIAD; OR, A TIP AT THE RUCK. A POEM. Occasioned by the familiar, and very familiar Letters, lately published, by DR. PRIESTLEY, JOHN NOTT, ALEXANDER ARMSTRONG, and ABEL SHARP. By GREGORY DOMINIC. For forms of Government, let fools contest; Whate’er is best administered, is best: For modes of Faith, let
- [Wenlock Abbey, Shropshire, three miles from the Severn](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/wenlock-abbey-shropshire-three-miles-from-the-severn/) - From Picturesque Views of the Severn, 1824 by Thomas Harral
- [Remains of a Cistercian monastery called White Ladies in Shropshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/remains-of-a-cistercian-monastery-called-white-ladies-in-shropshire/) - From Picturesque Views of the Severn, 1824 by Thomas Harral
- [Village of Ashelworth, Gloucestershire on the banks of the Severn](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/village-of-ashelworth-gloucestershire-on-the-banks-of-the-severn/) - From Picturesque Views of the Severn, 1824 by Thomas Harral
- [Holt Castle on the banks of the Severn](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/holt-castle-on-the-banks-of-the-severn/) - From Picturesque Views of the Severn, 1824 by Thomas Harral
- [Time Past by Anna Seward](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/time-past-by-anna-seward/) - [from "Llangollen Vale with Other Poems"] ( 41 ) TO TIME PAST WRITTEN DEC. 1772. RETURN, blest years!----when not the jocund Spring, Luxuriant Summer, nor the amber hours Calm Autumn gives, my heart invok’d to bring Joys, whose rich balm o’er all the bosom pours; When ne’er I wish’d might grace the closing day One
- [Herva at the Tomb of Argantyr by Anna Seward](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/herva-at-the-tomb-of-argantyr-by-anna-seward/) - [from "Llangollen Vale with Other Poems"] (22) HERVA*, AT THE TOMB OF ARGANTYR A RUNIC DIALOGUE HERVA. ARGANTYR, wake!---to thee I call, Hear from thy dark sepulchral hall! ‘Mid the Forest’s inmost gloom, Thy Daughter, circling thrice thy tomb, Hervor. “Awake, Argantyr!---Hervor, the Daughter of thee and Sauferlama, doth awaken thee! Give me out of
- [Verses written in Dr Darwin's Botanic Garden by Anna Seward](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/verses-written-in-dr-darwins-botanic-garden-by-anna-seward/) - [From ""Poetical Works of Anna Seward, Vol 2""] [1] POEMS BY ANNA SEWARD. VERSES* WRITTEN IN DR DARWIN’S BOTANIC GARDEN, Near Lichfield, July, 1778. O come not here, ye proud, who breasts enfold Th’ insatiate wish of glory, or of gold! O come not here, whose branded foreheads wear The eternal frown of envy or
- [A Portrait of James Keir](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-james-keir/) - James Keir: Chemist, Geologist, Industrialist and Inventor James Keir was born in Stirlingshire, Scotland in 1735. He studied medicine at Edinburgh University and became a close friend of Erasmus Darwin, a fellow student. In 1757 he joined the army to see other countries and served in the West Indies, but unlike most of his fellow officers,
- [Address to Woman. From the Italian by Anna Seward](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/address-to-woman-from-the-italian-by-anna-seward/) - [From "Poetical Works of Anna Seward, Vol 2"] [176] ADDRESS TO WOMAN. FROM THE ITALIAN. Designed for peace and soft delight, For tender love, and pity mild, O seek not thou the craggy height, The howling main, the desert wild! Stay in the shelter’d valley low, Where calmly blows the fragrant air, But shun the
- [A First View of Practical Chymistry (Chemistry), The Universal Magazine, vol. 1, December 1747](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-first-view-of-practical-chymistry-chemistry-the-universal-magazine-vol-1-december-1747/) - The copper-plate print and text form the first part of a “complete Course of Chemistry in several lectures” by an inhabitant of Warwick Lane in London who calls himself “Chemicus”. The writer notes how chemistry originated in Asia and Egypt and was practised under the name alchemy in Arabia. He explores its spread into other
- [Inland Navigation](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/inland-navigation/) - INLAND NAVIGATION, AN ODE. HUMBLY INSCRIBED TO The INHABITANTS of Birmingham, AND PROPRIETORS of the CANAL. The SECOND EDITION. By J. FREETH. BIRMINGHAM: Printed for the AUTHOR. 1769. [Price SIX-PENCE.] TO THE PUBLIC. The Candour and Encouragement I have heretofore met with from the Town (for which I cannot but express my grateful thanks) are
- [Richardson Glassworks](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richardson-glassworks/)
- [Inside a Glassworks](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/inside-a-glassworks/)
- [James Haywood, Jun, Phoenix Foundry and Engineering Works, Derby](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/james-haywood-jun-phoenix-foundry-and-engineering-works-derby/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Carpenter and Tildesley, Patent Lock and Curry Comb Manufacturers, Willenhall](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/carpenter-and-tildesley-patent-lock-and-curry-comb-manufacturers-willenhall/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Metal Rolling](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/metal-rolling/) - Image: Charles Clifford, Rolling Mills, Birmingham Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 The numerous purposes for which metal is required to be laminated into sheets of varied thickness has created in Birmingham a distinct trade – that of METAL ROLLING. It would be difficult to name a single trade
- [Hart's Patent Economizing Gas Burner, London](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/harts-patent-economizing-gas-burner-london/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Bank of Deposit, London](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bank-of-deposit-london/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Benjamin Smith and Son, Manufacturer of Printing Ink, London](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/benjamin-smith-and-son-manufacturer-of-printing-ink-london/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [English Hotel Guide](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/english-hotel-guide/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Chamberlain's Royal Porcelain Works, Worcester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/chamberlains-royal-porcelain-works-worcester/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Chadburn Brothers, Opticians, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/chadburn-brothers-opticians-sheffield/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Chadburn Brothers, Optical, Mathematical and Philosophical Instrument Makers, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/chadburn-brothers-optical-mathematical-and-philosophical-instrument-makers-sheffield/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Smith and Phillips, Gas Engineers, London](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/smith-and-phillips-gas-engineers-london/) - Advertisement, Men and Things of Modern England... The New Illustrated Directory... (Birmingham, M Billing, 1856)
- [Laings and Company, Household Goods, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/laings-and-company-household-goods-birmingham/) - Advertisement, Men and Things of Modern England... The New Illustrated Directory... (Birmingham, M Billing, 1856)
- [Mapplebeck and Lowe, Manufacturers of Agricultural Implements, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mapplebeck-and-lowe-manufacturers-of-agricultural-implements-birmingham/) - Advertisement, Men and Things of Modern England... The New Illustrated Directory... (Birmingham, M Billing, 1856)
- [Caddy Spoon](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/caddy-spoon-2/) - Silver caddy spoon, probably by Samuel Pemberton, c.1800.
- [Caddy Spoon](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/caddy-spoon/)
- [Nutmeg Grater](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/nutmeg-grater/) - This design is made using a filigree technique.
- [Pair of shoe buckles](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pair-of-shoe-buckles-2/) - These silver buckles have an embossed design and are fitted with steel latchets or fasteners.
- [Vinaigrette](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vinaigrette-3/) - The image of a hare hiding in reeds derives from a hunting scene in a vignette produced by the workshop of Thomas Bewick (1753-1828), a designer, illustrator and engraver known as the ‘father of modern English book illustration’. The vignette was engraved for the edition of Robert Burns’ poems published in 1808.
- [Pair of Shoe Buckles](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pair-of-shoe-buckles/) - These silver buckles are fitted with steel latchets or fasteners.
- [Vinaigrette](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vinaigrette-2/) - Vinaigrette, Nathaniel Mills, 1837, inside view, with a view of Kenilworth Castle on lid.
- [Hunter Watch](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/hunter-watch/)
- [Snuff Box](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/snuff-box-3/) - This silver box is engraved with a bright-cut decoration, similar in design to several Samuel Pemberton toothpick boxes.
- [Box](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/box-2/) - This snuff box is made from marble with a silver gilt lining.
- [Box](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/box/) - This snuff box is made from marble with a silver gilt lining
- [Snuff Box](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/snuff-box-2/) - This silver item has a restrained floral design around the edges of the box.
- [Snuff Box](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/snuff-box/) - Inside view of Tortoiseshell snuff box, which is particularly suitable for piqué work (inlaid gold) with its ease of cutting and rich colour. The technique was popular among European gold snuff box makers in the 18th century. The lid is earlier than 1819, Joseph Taylor being only responsible for the mounting.
- [The Smethwick Glass Works of Chance Brothers, West Midlands](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-smethwick-glass-works-of-chance-brothers-west-midlands/) - Image: The Glass and Lighthouse Works at Smethwick in the early 20th century. Glass cones can be seen at various locations across the site. Chance Brothers & Co., Limited, 100 Years of British Glass Making 1824-1924 (Smethwick and Glasgow, Chance Brothers & Co., 1924). Following images from: Broadfield House Glass Museum, Kingswinford, Dudley, West Midlands Summary: These
- [Toothpick box](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/toothpick-box/) - The hidden hinge and decorative features are typical of neo-classical designs.
- [Vinaigrette](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vinaigrette-inside/) - This image shows the intricate inside of a vinaigrette based on the design of a watch case.
- [Vinaigrette](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vinaigrette/) - This image shows the inside of the vinaigrette. The outside shows an image of a hare hiding in reeds.
- [East View of Kenilworth Priory in Warwickshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-kenilworth-priory-in-warwickshire/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble. HENRY Earl of Clarendon & Rochester, Viscount Cornbury, Viscount Hyde of Kenelworth, Baron Hyde of Hindon & Baron of Wotton Basset
- [North West View of Maxtoke Priory in Warwickshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-west-view-of-maxtoke-priory-in-warwickshire/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble. EDWARD Lord LEIGH of Stonely and Barronet; Owner of these Remains. This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by Your Lordships, Obedt. Servts.
- [South East View of Warwick Castle in Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-east-view-of-warwick-castle-in-warwick/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble. FRANCIS Lord Brooke Baron Brooke of Beauchamps Court in the County of Warwick Proprietor of this Castle – This Prospect is
- [South East View of Tamworth Castle in Warwickshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-east-view-of-tamworth-castle-in-warwickshire/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble. JAMES, Earl of Northampton, & Baron Compton; Owner of this Castle – This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by, My Lord, Your
- [South West View of Wenlock Abbey in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-west-view-of-wenlock-abbey-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To William Dilke Esqr: owner of this Castle; This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by; Yor: Obedt. humble Serv ts. Saml. & Nath l. Buck. THIS
- [North West View of Ludlow Castle in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-west-view-of-ludlow-castle-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source THIS CASTLE stands on a rock in the North West Angle of the Town on the River Teme. It was built by Roger de Montgomery
- [East View of Maxtoke Castle in Warwickshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-maxtoke-castle-in-warwickshire/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble: HENRY Earl of Clarendon & Rochester, Viscount Cornbury, Viscount Hyde of Kenelworth, Baron Hyde of Hindon & Baron of Wotton Basset:
- [North West View of Castleton Castle and the Devil's Arse in the Peak](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-west-view-of-castleton-castle-and-the-devils-arse-in-the-peak/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the most Noble WILLIAM Duke of Devonshire, Marqs. of Hartington, Earl of Devonshire, Baron Cavendish of Hardwick Lord President of his Majesty’s most Honble.
- [East View of Kenilworth Castle in Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-kenilworth-castle-in-warwick/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble. HENRY Earl of Clarendon & Rochester, Viscount Cornbury. Viscount Hyde of Kenelworth, Baron Hyde of Hindon & Baron of Wotton Basset:
- [North East View of Warwick Castle in Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-east-view-of-warwick-castle-in-warwick/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source George Duke of Clarence was made Governor of this Castle, at whose death it being Seized into the Kings hand, continued in the Crown till
- [West View of Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/west-view-of-bolsover-castle-in-derbyshire/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Hon ble. EDWARD Earl of Oxford, and Mortimer & Baron Harley of Wigmore, Owner of this Castle: This Prospect is humbly Inherited
- [West View of Codenor Castle in Derby](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/west-view-of-codenor-castle-in-derby/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To L.E.G.H. MASTER Esqr. owner of these Remains. This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by his Obliged humble Servants Saml. & Nath l. Buck. This Castle
- [East View of Dale Abbey, near Derby](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-dale-abbey-near-derby/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source Dale Abby, Depedale or Stanley Park; founded by Radulphus Son of Germundus, on Occasion of an admonishment in a Dream to a Baker in Derby,
- [South West View of Beauchief Abbey in Derby](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-west-view-of-beauchief-abbey-in-derby/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source THIS Monastery of Proemonstratentions was founded by Robert Fitz Ranulph Lord of Alfreton, Norton, & Marnham; as an expiation of the Murder of Thos. Becket
- [The North East Prospect of Bolsover Castle in Derby](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-north-east-prospect-of-bolsover-castle-in-derby/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble. EDWARD Earl of Oxford and Mortimer & Baron Harley of Wigmore: Owner of this Estate: This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by,
- [East View of Nuneaton Nunnery in Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-nuneaton-nunnery-in-warwick/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble. THOMAS Lord Paget; Son and Heir Apparent to the Right Honble. Henry Earl of Uxbridge - This Prospect is humbly Inscribed
- [South View of Coombe Abbey in Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-view-of-coombe-abbey-in-warwick/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt. Honble. WILLIAM Lord CRAVEN, Baron of Hamstead Marshall in the County of Berks – This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by his Obliged
- [South View of Dudley Castle in Stafford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-view-of-dudley-castle-in-stafford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Right Honourable WILLIAM Lord Dudley & Ward, Baron of Birmingham in ye County of Warwick &c. Owner of these remains. This Prospect is
- [View of Hertlebury Castle in Worcester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/view-of-hertlebury-castle-in-worcester/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source HEORTLEBURI OR HERTLEBURY was given by Burrhed or Burdred King of the Mercians about the Year 850. to Alhun or Alwinus Bishop of Worcester &
- [South East View of Brompton Brian Castle in Hereford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-east-view-of-brompton-brian-castle-in-hereford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To The Rt. Honble EDWARD Earl of Oxford and Mortimer, and Baron Harley of Wigmore, Owner of these remains. This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by;
- [South West View of Branstill Castle in Hereford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-west-view-of-branstill-castle-in-hereford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source THIS CASTLE stands in a Solitary Place at the Foot of the west side of the Malvern Hills. (it’s a quadrangular Oblong & encompass’d by
- [North West View of Clun Castle in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-west-view-of-clun-castle-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To John Walcot Esq: Owner of these Remains. This Prospect is Gratefully Inscribed by, Yr most Humble. Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck CLUN CLONE or
- [South East View of Goodrich Castle in Hereford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-east-view-of-goodrich-castle-in-hereford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the most Noble HENRY, Duke, Marquess & Earl of Kent, Earl of Harold Visct. Goodrich, Baron Hastings & Baron Lucas of Crudwell, Lord Lieutenant
- [North West View of Shrewsbury Castle in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-west-view-of-shrewsbury-castle-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source THIS CASTLE was built about the Year 1083 by Roger Montgomery Principal Captain, Friend and Kinsman of Wm. Duke of Normandy. After the Conquest he,
- [South View of Acton Burnell Castle in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-view-of-acton-burnell-castle-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To John Smythe Esqr: This Prospect is gratefully Inscribed by; Yr: most Oblig’d Humble Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck. THIS CASTLE is remarkable for the
- [South West View of Stoke Castle in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-west-view-of-stoke-castle-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Rt: Honble: WILLIAM Lord CRAVEN Hamstead Marshall in the County of Berks This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by; Yr: Lordships most Obedient Servts.
- [East View of Hopton Castle in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-hopton-castle-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To John Smythe Esqr: This Prospect is gratefully Inscribed by; Yr: most Oblig’d Humble Servts. Saml. & Nathl. Buck. THIS CASTLE is remarkable for the
- [South View of Wigmore Castle in Hereford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-view-of-wigmore-castle-in-hereford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Right Honble. EDWARD Earl of Oxford and Mortimer & Baron Harley of Wigmore: Owner of the Castle. My Lord Yr: Lordsps: most Obedt.
- [East View of Tong Castle in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-tong-castle-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the most Noble EVELYN Duke & Earl, of Kingston Marquess of Dorchester, Viscount Newark & Baron Pierpoint, of Holme Peirpoint in the County of
- [South West View of Buildwas Abbey in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-west-view-of-buildwas-abbey-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To Acton Mosely Esqr. owner of these remains. This Prospect is Humbly Inscribed by; Yor: most Obligd. humble Serv ts. Saml. & Nath l. Buck.
- [West View of Shrewsbury Abbey](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/west-view-of-shrewsbury-abbey/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source ROGER De MONTGOMERY made by K. Willm. 1st for his Fidelity & Military Atchievements, E. of Shrewsbury, Arundel &c. founded this Mitred Abby for the
- [East View of Halesowen Abbey in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-halesowen-abbey-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source HALES or HALES OWEN, was founded by Peter de Rupibus Bishop of Winchester (who was also Lord Chief Justice) K. John having in the 16th
- [West View of Lilleshall Priory in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/west-view-of-lilleshall-priory-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Right Honourable JOHN LEVESON GOWER, Lord Gower , Baron of Stittenham in the County of York, and Baronet. Proprietor of these Remains. This
- [North West View of Haughmond Priory in Salop](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-west-view-of-haughmond-priory-in-salop/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source HAGHMON or HAUGHMOND, was founded by Wm. Fits. Allan An. 1100. in the 1st of Hen. 1st. for Canons regular of St. Augustine & Dedicated
- [North West View of Great Malvern Abbey in Worcester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-west-view-of-great-malvern-abbey-in-worcester/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source MALVERN-MAGNA, ABBY, was in the Saxons times an Hermitage of Urso d’Abitot. In the 18th K. Willm. 1st it was made a Priory of Benedictines
- [A Portrait of Dr. Erasmus Darwin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-dr-erasmus-darwin/) - Erasmus Darwin: Doctor, Inventor, Poet and Educationalist Erasmus Darwin was born at Elston, near Nottingham, in 1731 where his family were members of the local gentry. In 1750 he enrolled at Cambridge University and in 1753 he moved to Edinburgh, where he trained as a doctor. In 1756 Darwin started a medical practice in Lichfield, where
- [A Portrait of Anna Seward](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-anna-seward/) - Anna Seward: "Swan of Lichfield" Born in Derbyshire in 1742, Anna Seward was the daughter of Thomas Seward and Elizabeth Hunter. Her father undertook her education and Anna developed her literary tastes at an early age, reading Milton at two and writing religious verse at ten. After her father became Canon of Lichfield Cathedral in 1754, Anna
- [Water Power and the Cotton Factory: Richard Arkwright at Cromford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/water-power-and-the-cotton-factory-richard-arkwright-at-cromford/) - This factory was built by Sir Richard Arkwright in 1783-84 just outside Cromford. He built the mill in an architecturally elegant style with small lunette windows in the central bay set between Venetian windows. A cupola on top of the bay contained a bell to summon employees to work. The structure is a grade II* listed building.
- [A Biography of Robert Bage](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-biography-of-robert-bage/) - Image: The Mill House, Elford, near Lichfield. The home of Robert Bage in the late 18th century. Robert Bage: Radical Author and Friend of the Lunar Men Robert Bage (1730-1801) was an important novelist in the late 18th century. He was also a close friend of at least two of the original Lunar Society, John Whitehurst and Erasmus Darwin.
- [The First Manufacturing Town: Industry in Birmingham in the mid-19th Century, The New Illustrated Directory, 1858](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-first-manufacturing-town-industry-in-birmingham-in-the-mid-19th-century-the-new-illustrated-directory-1858/) - Image: The frontispiece presents an image of an imaginary industrial and commercial city. Huge factories dominate the landscape on the right. A railway bridge bisects the landscape and a train travels towards the city. In the background there is evidence of extensive commerce in a busy port full of ships. A steam vessel moves in the
- [James Brindley, Canal Engineer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/james-brindley-canal-engineer/) - Portrait of James Brindley from Samuel Smiles, Lives of the Engineers, vol. I (London, 1904). Brindley is armed with his surveying equipment. A scene in the background shows one of his major achievements, the Barton Aqueduct on the Worsley to Manchester Canal over the River Irwell. Text: Malcolm Dick James Brindley was born at Tunstead, near
- [A Biography of Joseph Wright](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-biography-of-joseph-wright/) - Joseph Wright of Derby: Painter of the Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution Text: Olga Baird Joseph Wright (1734-1797), one of the most distinguished 18th century British artists, was born in Derby, of a respectable family of lawyers. He trained in the London studio of the fashionable and successful artist Thomas Hudson where he spent almost
- [A Portrait of Josiah Wedgwood](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-josiah-wedgwood/) - Josiah Wedgwood: Industrialist Josiah Wedgwood was born in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent in 1730 into a family of long established potters. In 1739 he started working in the family business. Childhood smallpox reduced his physical mobility and he spent his time researching and experimenting and developing his knowledge of the technical processes involved in the industry. In
- [A Portrait of Samuel Galton jnr](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-samuel-galton-jnr/) - Samuel Galton Junior: Industrialist Samuel Galton junior was born in Birmingham in 1753, the son of the gunmaker, Samuel Galton Senior. The family were Quakers, members of the Society of Friends, and the young Galton was educated at Warrington Academy after Priestley had left. He acquired an extensive commercial education. In 1773 Samuel Galton junior’s father made
- [A Portrait of Matthew Boulton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-matthew-boulton/) - Matthew Boulton: Industrialist Matthew Boulton was born in Birmingham in 1728, the son of a local manufacturer of “toys”: buttons and buckles. He entered his father’s business in 1745 and in 1760 married Anne Robinson of Lichfield from whom he received a considerable dowry. This money enabled him to invest heavily in developing the family
- [Chance Brothers Glass Works, Smethwick, near Birmingham, Designs for Coloured Ornamental Windows, 1853](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/chance-brothers-glass-works-smethwick-near-birmingham-designs-for-coloured-ornamental-windows-1853/) - Text: Malcolm Dick Robert Lucas Chance purchased the British Crown-Glass Company in Smethwick, near Birmingham in 1824. He created the nucleus of Chance Brothers and Co., in Spon Lane, one of the most important producers of glass in Britain. The British Crown-Glass Company produced blown window glass, but in 1832 Chance Brothers introduced sheet-glass manufacture
- [Sir Richard Arkwright: Industrialist](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sir-richard-arkwright-industrialist/) - The art of portraiture was changing during the Industrial Revolution. The expansion of commerce and industry in the eighteenth century brought new characters to artists’ attention. Not only flamboyant figures of the High Society but also pragmatic and materialistic provincial middle-class entrepreneurs became to appear on artists’ canvasses. Richard Arkwright (1732-1792) was the youngest of
- [Representing the Landscape: Rev J C Bayliss’s Views in Shropshire (1839)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/representing-the-landscape-rev-j-c-baylisss-views-in-shropshire-1839/) - Image: Title page from Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. Introduction by Malcolm Dick When the Rev J C Bayliss published his Views in Shropshire in 1839, the county contained one of the most important commercial and industrial areas in Britain. The Severn served as a liquid motorway moving goods from Shropshire’s hinterland to Stourport,
- [A Portrait of William Murdoch](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-william-murdoch/) - William Murdock: The Incomparable Mechanic William Murdoch (1754 -1839) was one of most creative and least known figures of the Industrial Revolution. The son of a Scottish millwright, he was born in Auchinleck, Ayrshire, on the estate of James Boswell's father. In 1777, dreaming to work on a thrilling new steam engine, William walked three
- [William Shenstone, The Leasowes, and Landscape Gardening](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-shenstone-the-leasowes-and-landscape-gardening/) - William Shenstone was born in 1714 and died in 1763. His fame rests on his reputation as a poet and landscape gardener. His estate at the Leasowes (pronounced “lezzoes”) at Halesowen, near Dudley, which he transformed into a cultural phenomenon, attracted visitors from home and abroad. This article explores Shenstone’s impact on the Leasowes and
- [East View of Tutbury Castle in Stafford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/east-view-of-tutbury-castle-in-stafford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the most Noble WILLIAM Duke & Earl of Devonshire, Marquess of Hartington, Baron Cavendish of Hardwick, Lord Lieutenant & Custos Rotulorum of the County of Derby. This
- [A Portrait of Dr William Small](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-dr-william-small-2/) - Pencil sketch of Dr William Small, member of the Lunar Society and a prominent physician in Birmingham during the late 18th century.
- [A Portrait of James Watt](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-james-watt/) - James Watt: Inventor James Watt was born in Greenock, Scotland in 1736. His father was an instrument maker, ship-owner and merchant. As a boy Watt suffered from ill health, but he showed considerable flair for geometry and as a model maker. In 1753 he moved to Glasgow and subsequently to London in 1755 to become
- [A Portrait of Dr. William Small](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-dr-william-small/) - William Small: Teacher, Scientist and Mentor William Small was born in Forfarshire, Scotland, in 1734, the son of a Presbyterian minister. He attended Marischal College, Aberdeen, between 1751 and 1755 and was awarded his M.D. in 1765. At the age of 23 in 1758, Small was appointed Professor of Natural Philosophy at William and Mary
- [A Portrait of Dr. William Withering](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-dr-william-withering/) - William Withering: Physician, Botanist and Mineralogist In 1741, William Withering was born at Wellington, Shropshire, the only son of Edmund Withering a surgeon. In 1758 he was apprenticed to his father and in 1762 he entered Edinburgh University, to train as a doctor, receiving his M.D. in 1765. He developed an interest in botany. Withering
- [A Portrait of Jedediah Strutt](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-jedediah-strutt/) - Jedediah Strutt: Industrialist and Philanthopist Text: Olga Baird Jedediah Strutt (1726-1797) was one of leading pioneer industrialists of the 18th century. He was born at South Normanton, Derbyshire, in the family of small farmers who belonged to a Presbyterian community with strong Nonconformist religious views. He made his fortune in the 1750s by improving and perfecting
- [An “ever-open door”: Erasmus Darwin and Lichfield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/an-ever-open-door-erasmus-darwin-and-lichfield/) - Samuel Johnson described Lichfield as a “city of philosophers” where Erasmus Darwinwas the most prominent of an outstanding group of 18th century writers, medical men and intellectuals who were born in the city or lived locally. Darwin was probably Britain’s most eminent doctor and George III tried to persuade him to leave Lichfield and become his personal physician.
- [The Wyatts, Architects of the Age of Enlightenment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-wyatts-architects-of-the-age-of-enlightenment/) - Image: An engraving of Samuel Wyatt’s classical façade for the Theatre Royal, New Street, Birmingham, from William Hutton’s History of Birmingham. Hutton claimed that Wyatt’s additions in 1780 created “a superb portico…which may cause it to be pronounced “One of the first theatres in Europe” (An History of Birmingham…Fourth Edition, 1781, p 127). Image from: Birmingham Central Library,
- [The Industrial Landscape of the Black Country](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-industrial-landscape-of-the-black-country/) - Summary: The Black Country in the British Midlands was a distinct industrial district. It was incredibly rich in mineral resources, including coal, iron and limestone, which were extensively mined. It developed as a manufacturing area before 1700, producing glass and iron goods, but it was not until the 18th century, partly through the influence of John Wilkinson,
- [South West View of Alton Castle in Stafford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-west-view-of-alton-castle-in-stafford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source ALVETON ELVETON now ALTON is a Castle more Antient than the Norman Conquest. In the 22d of Hen. II. Bertram de Verdun was Lord of it whole residence it
- [North East View of Croxton Abbey in Stafford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/north-east-view-of-croxton-abbey-in-stafford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source CROXTON, (CROXDEN, CROKESDEN or CHROCHESDEN) was founded by Bertram de Verdun for Cistercian Monks. He first built them a Monastery at Chotes (or Coats) An 1176: but about
- [South West View of Dudley Priory in Stafford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/south-west-view-of-dudley-priory-in-stafford/) - Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Text: Taken from the original source To the Right Honourable WILLIAM Lord Dudley & Ward. Baron of Birmingham in ye County of Warwick &c. Owner of these Remains. This Prospect is humbly Inscribed by;
- [The Soho Manufactory: From Snow Hill to Handsworth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-soho-manufactory-from-snow-hill-to-handsworth/) - Image: View of Matthew Boulton’s Soho Manufactory and Royal Mint Offices in Handsworth near Birmingham. J Bisset, Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham…(Birmingham, Printed for the Author by R Jabet, 1808). Matthew Boulton’s Soho Works was built between 1762 and 1764 to provide a base for his expanding buckle and button business.
- [John Baskerville and Benjamin Franklin: A Trans-Atlantic Friendship](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-baskerville-and-benjamin-franklin-a-trans-atlantic-friendship/) - Image: Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790). The Hundred Greatest Men: Portraits of the One Hundred Greatest Men, Vol VII Politics, (Sampson Low, London, 1880). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Text: Olga Baird Summary Benjamin Franklin and John Baskerville were two important figures of the 18th century Enlightenment. Franklin was a thinker, scientist and politician and one of the central
- [The Soho Manufactory: The Ingenious Mr Boulton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-soho-manufactory-the-ingenious-mr-boulton/) - Image: A pair of Apollo and Diana candelabra made by Boulton and Fothergill. Ormolu, bronze and marble. c. 1775 from Soho House, Museum, Handsworth Birmingham. These items represent the highest quality workmanship at Soho Manufactory. Apparently only two pairs were made. The pedestals are made from white marble and the 12 inch bronze figures are fixed
- [Edge-Hill: a Poem, in four Books](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/edge-hill-a-poem-in-four-books/) - Image: Coal and Iron Pit. The Useful Arts and Manufacturers of Great Britain of Great Britain Vol. 2 (London, SPCK, 1846?) Image from: Science, Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library …… the dusky heath /… no … / …waving woods adorn Its dreary surface, yet it bears, within, A richer treasury. …… Here many a merchant turns adventurer, ……
- [Inland Navigation, An Ode. Humbly Inscribed to The Inhabitants of Birmingham, And Proprietors of the Canal](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/inland-navigation-an-ode-humbly-inscribed-to-the-inhabitants-of-birmingham-and-proprietors-of-the-canal/) - Image: Factors or Commercial Agents in Birmingham with a view of the Crescent and Wharf. J Bisset, Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham (Birmingham, Printed for the Author by R Jabet, 1808). J Hancock’s engraving of the Wharf in Birmingham, now Gas Street Basin is dominated by a scroll, supported by
- [Answer to Dardanus’s](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/answer-to-dardanuss/) - Image: Plan of Birmingham, drawn by J. Sherrif of Oldswinford, late of the Crescent Birmingham. J Bisset, Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham… (Birmingham, Printed for the Author by R Jabet, 1808). The engraving provides several indications of the town's industrial and commercial significance and importantly, in the context of this
- [Labour and Genius: or, the Mill-stream, and the Cascade. A Fable](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/labour-and-genius-or-the-mill-stream-and-the-cascade-a-fable/) - Image: View of Matthew Boulton’s Soho Manufactory in Handsworth near Birmingham. J Bisset, Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham (Birmingham, Printed for the Author by R Jabet, 1808). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Betwixt two sloping verdant hills, A Current pour’d its careless rills, …… Till rural Genius … /
- [Anna Seward: Woman of Considerable Renown](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/anna-seward-woman-of-considerable-renown/) - Text: Marion Roberts Image: Engraving of Anna Seward [Image from Birmingham Central Library] Summary Anna Seward was an accomplished and famous poet, a friend of many Lunar men and associate of other literary figures of the time. She was not a metropolitan figure, but spent most of her life in the city of Lichfield, but Anna Seward was
- [A Philosopher Lecturing on the Orrery (1764-1766)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-philosopher-lecturing-on-the-orrery-1764-1766/) - Image:Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797. Oil on Canvas, Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery Public scientific lectures became popular during the Age of Reason. As the ‘enlightening’ was addressed to various levels of the nation, such lectures were attended by very mixed audiences. The Scottish scientist, astronomer and lecturer James Ferguson (1710- 1776) undertook a
- [Introduction](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/introduction-2/) - Image: Portrait of Joseph Priestley. Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins Joseph Priestley’s importance as a scientist, theologian, philosopher and political theorist has long been recognised. John Ruskin Clark called him a “comet in the system” 1 but a meteor might be a more apt description, a brilliant or dazzling shooting star, which was destined
- [A Portrait of John Whitehurst](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-john-whitehurst/) - John Whitehurst: Clockmaker, Engineer and Geologist John Whitehurst was born in Congleton, Cheshire in 1713, the son of a watch and clockmaker. He was apprenticed to his father who also took him for walks in the Peak District, encouraging his interest in geology. In about 1736 he set up a clockmaking business in Derby and
- [Joseph Wright of Derby: Art, the Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/joseph-wright-of-derby-art-the-enlightenment-and-industrial-revolution/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Self Portrait in a Black Feathered Hat(c1767-1770). Oil on canvas. Summary Joseph Wright was the most significant artist of the English Midlands during the late eighteenth century. He painted portraits, landscapes and interiors and was probably the most perceptive painter of industrial and scientific subjects of his time. He was a
- [Plan of Birmingham, drawn by J. Sherrif of Oldswinford, late of the Crescent Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/plan-of-birmingham-drawn-by-j-sherrif-of-oldswinford-late-of-the-crescent-birmingham/) - Image from: Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham, 1808 [From Birmingham Central Library] 02. Plan of Birmingham, drawn by J. Sherrif of Oldswinford, late of the Crescent Birmingham The map shows the main street pattern and identifies the main public and religious buildings by a key where they are
- [Canal Maps](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/canal-maps/) - Image: ‘PLAN of the intended NAVIGABLE CANAL from the TOWN of BIRMINGHAM into the RIVER SEVERN near the CITY of WORCESTER’. Surveyed in 1789 by John Snape. The plan shows only county boundaries, rivers, canals, hills, roads, villages, houses and trees lying near the proposed route. The orientation is adapted to the direction of the canal,
- [A Portrait of Richard Lovell Edgeworth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-richard-lovell-edgeworth/) - Richard Lovell Edgeworth: Inventor, Educator and Reformer In 1744, Edgeworth was born in Bath into a landowning family which owned property in Ireland. At school he showed an interest in mechanics. In 1761, he went to Trinity College Dublin, followed by Oxford University. After his first marriage in 1763, he settled in Maidenhead and he
- [A Portrait of Thomas Day](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-thomas-day/) - Thomas Day: Humanitarian and Reformer Thomas Day was born in 1748. His father was a landowner and customs official and Day was never short of money. As a boy, he showed empathy for others. He gave away his pocket money to the poor and was kind to animals. In 1764 Day went to Oxford. He
- [A Portrait of Rev. Joseph Priestley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-rev-joseph-priestley/) - Joseph Priestley: Scientist, Philosopher and Reformer Born into a Yorkshire wool manufacturing family in 1733, Priestley was raised as a nonconformist and proved to be a gifted scholar. By the age of twenty he had learned Latin, Greek, Hebrew, French, German, Italian, Arabic and other languages. He also showed an interest in science. In 1751
- [A Portrait of Maria Edgeworth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-maria-edgeworth/) - Maria Edgeworth: Author and Educationalist Text: Kate Iles Image: Birmingham City Archives Maria Edgeworth was born in Oxford in 1767, the eldest child of Richard Lovell Edgeworth and his first wife Anna Maria Elers. In 1780 after her step-mother, Honora's death, Maria was sent to school in London. As she was a small child, various attempts were made to
- [18th and Early 19th paintings from Wolverhampton Art Gallery](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/18th-and-early-19th-paintings-from-wolverhampton-art-gallery/) - Image: On the Lledr by David Cox Used with permission from Wolverhampton Art Gallery Summary: Wolverhampton Art Gallery contains a representative selection of paintings by 18th and early 19th century artists, including Thomas Gainsborough and Joseph Wright of Derby. The paintings reveal individual artistic styles and evoke the history of the time. Examples of subjects include innovators such as Erasmus Darwin and John
- [F & C Osler, Glass Chandlier & Table Glass Manufacturers, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/f-c-osler-glass-chandlier-table-glass-manufacturers-birmingham/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Plate Glass is made in different ways; one kind – that supplied by Messrs. Chance, Brothers and Co, of Spon Lane, for the Great Exhibition building, in 1851 – is produced in the following manner:- The workman having collected a ball of molten metal
- [John Taylor and Matthew Boulton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-taylor-and-matthew-boulton/) - Image: Advertisement for J Taylor, Gold and Silversmith, Jeweller, Tortoiseshell and Ivory Box and Toy Manufacturer, Birmingham. J Bisset, Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham…(Birmingham, Printed for the Author by R Jabet, 1808). The engraving represents a tomb, with a cherub and an angel to the right and left
- [The Lunar Society and the Anti-slavery Debate](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-lunar-society-and-the-anti-slavery-debate/) - Text: Malcolm Dick Image: Illustration from The Female Society for the Relief of Negro Slaves Album (1828) Summary: Most studies of the men of the Lunar Society have focused on their scientific and industrial achievements. Matthew Boulton, James Watt, Josiah Wedgwood, Erasmus Darwin and Joseph Priestley are remembered for their importance as entrepreneurs and inventors. Their contribution to social change is not so well-known. In the late
- [Colebrook Dale](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/colebrook-dale/) - Image:The Iron Bridge, near Coalbrookdale Shropshire. Thomas Harral, Picturesque Views of the Severn (1824). Harral’s views were largely based on the account provided by Samuel Ireland when he visited the area in the 1790s. This scene shows an industrial tourist attraction, the Iron Bridge located within a picturesque setting. Image from: Shropshire Archives Scene of superfluous grace, and
- [Birmingham: “The Toyshop of Europe”](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-the-toyshop-of-europe/) - Image: Matthew Boulton by C F Von Breda, 1792. Oil on Canvas. Boulton was the most famous of Birmingham’s toymakers. The portrait shows him examining items from his geological collections with Soho Manufactory, the biggest factory in the world in the background. Boulton produced buttons, buckles, steel jewellery and silverware at Soho. Image from: Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery
- [Half penny with portrait of John Wilkinson, Shropshire Iron Master](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/half-penny-with-portrait-of-john-wilkinson-shropshire-iron-master/) - John Wilkinson Iron Master", British tokens, copper, Birmingham, 1792 Wolverhampton Art Gallery. M160/107/108/109.
- [Ruins of Tutbury Castle](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ruins-of-tutbury-castle/) - Water colour undated, Paul Sandby (1725-1809, b. Nottingham – d. London).
- [The Landing of Louis XVIII at Calais](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-landing-of-louis-xviii-at-calais/) - Edward Bird (1772-1819, b. Wolverhampton- d. Bristol) Wolverhampton Art Gallery OP 121. Acquired from the Fine Art Society in 1935.
- [Portrait of William Cuningham-Fairlie [unconfirmed]](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/portrait-of-william-cuningham-fairlie-unconfirmed/) - Sir Henry Raeburn (1756-1823, b. Edinburgh – d. Edinburgh). Wolverhampton Art Gallery. OP 533. Acquired with a Grant in Aid, 1973.
- [A Prize Bull](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-prize-bull/) - First half of the 19th century, Edmund Bristow (1787-1876, b. Eton - d. Eton). Wolverhampton Art Gallery. OP 225. Acquired in 1910.
- [Three Ladies Adorning the Term of Hymen (The Montgomery Sisters)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/three-ladies-adorning-the-term-of-hymen-the-montgomery-sisters/) - Thomas Watson (1743 - 1781) after Sir Joshua Reynolds
- [A Rainy Day](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-rainy-day/) - Watercolour undated, David Cox (1783-1859, b. Deritend, Birmingham – d. Harborne, near Birmingham). Wolverhampton Art Gallery. Gift of S E James 1946.
- [On the Lledr](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/on-the-lledr/) - David Cox (1783-1859, b. Deritend, Birmingham – d. Harborne, near Birmingham)
- [Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bewdley-2/) - IS not a parish of itself, but a chapelry in the parish of Ribbesford, from whose church it is distant near a mile; it lies in the lower division of the hundred of Dodintree, and in the diocese of Hereford. The town is not of any great antiquity, being built since the Norman Conquest, as
- [Perspective Views of the Market Towns within the County of Worcestershire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/perspective-views-of-the-market-towns-within-the-county-of-worcestershire/)
- [Upton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/upton/) - UPTON, IS a small but neat market town, supposed by Dr. Stukeley to have been known to the Romans, who, says he, called it Upocessa, and made a road from Worcester to this place, and thence to Tewkesbury, where joined the Ricning-Street; but no traces of this road could every be found, or any Roman
- [Tenbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/tenbury/) - TENBURY LIES upon the borders of Worcestershire, towards the north-west, and joins the parish of Burford in Shropshire; is 133 miles distant from London, 15 miles from Bewdley, and 22 miles from Worcester. Anciently it was called Tametdeberie, from the river Tame, on whose banks it is pleasantly situated, but whose rapid floods have sometimes
- [Kidderminster](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/kidderminster/) - KIDDERMINSTER IS a large trading town, having a very considerable manufacture of stuffs and some cotton. It has three fairs in the year; one nine days after Whitsuntide; a second on the feast of Corpus Christi; and a third on St. Bartholemew’s day, for horned cattle, cheese, linen, and woollen cloth. It has a weekly
- [A View of Pershore, from Pensham hill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-view-of-pershore-from-pensham-hill/) - PERSHORE So called, as some imagine, from the Shores of the Avon, and the Pear Trees which grow plentifully in this Neighbourhood. THE town give name to one of the hundreds of the county; is very pleasantly situated on the bank of the Avon, and consists principally of one handsome street. It is much improved
- [Prime and Sons, Magneto Plate Works, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/prime-and-sons-magneto-plate-works-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 ELECTRO-PLATING It would be difficult to find in the history of manufactures an instance of more rapid progression than that afforded by elecro-plating. Twenty years have not elapsed since the application of the process to useful purposes, yet there is now scarcely
- [R. F. Sturges, Manufacturer of Electro Silver Plated Wares, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/r-f-sturges-manufacturer-of-electro-silver-plated-wares-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Electro-Plating The origin of electro-plating may be traced to the experiments of the earliest investigators in the science of voltaic electricity. We find among the earliest records that the reduction of metals was observed as one of the effects produced by the
- [William Spurrier, Electro Steel Plate Manufacturer, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-spurrier-electro-steel-plate-manufacturer-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 ELECTRO-PLATING The process of electro-deposition, which we have described, is also largely employed for the purpose of producing bronzes – and works of art composed wholly of copper, silver or gold. In this case the reduced metal is received inside a mould
- [Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-2/) - Image: William Spurrier, Electro Silver Plate Manufacturer, Birmingham Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Birmingham Great antiquity has, without much solid ground, been claimed for Birmingham as a centre of metal manufactures. According to some fanciful writers it was from this town that the ancient Britons obtained their swords
- [William Spurrier, Electro Silver Plate Manufacturer, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-spurrier-electro-silver-plate-manufacturer-birmingham/) - Image: William Spurrier, Electro Silver Plate Manufacturer, Birmingham Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 ELECTRO-PLATING It may be well here to explain that no substances except the metals and charcoal are real conductors of electricity and that all other substances can conduct electricity only by suffering decomposition, the amount
- [John Yates & Sons, Patent Electro Plate Works, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-yates-sons-patent-electro-plate-works-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 ELECTRO-PLATING The art of ELECTRO-PLATING has, to a considerable extent, superseded the old methods of plating in silver upon copper or other base metals. By this method, the silver is reduced from aqueous solution of one of its salts, upon the articles
- [Adverts for John Yates & Sons, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/adverts-for-john-yates-sons-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Advert for Old Bush Hotel, Dudley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advert-for-old-bush-hotel-dudley/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [L. Baldwin, Warwick Arms Hotel, Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/l-baldwin-warwick-arms-hotel-warwick/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Knapp's Commercial Boarding House, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/knapps-commercial-boarding-house-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Dingley's Commercial Hotel, Moor Street, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dingleys-commercial-hotel-moor-street-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Interior of Britannia Railway Carriage and Wagon Works](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/interior-of-britannia-railway-carriage-and-wagon-works/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Britannia Railway Carriage Works, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/britannia-railway-carriage-works-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [John Dawes & Sons, Bromford Iron Works, West Bromwich](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-dawes-sons-bromford-iron-works-west-bromwich/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Leamington Spa Post-Office and Temperance Commercial Hotel](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/leamington-spa-post-office-and-temperance-commercial-hotel/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Needle Making](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/needle-making/) - Image: Milward's Needle and Fish-Hook Manufactory, Redditch Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 NEEDLE MAKING Is a process of much more complex description. We shall, however, describe it very briefly, as a minute enumeration of its details would only perplex the reader, a statement which will be readily admitted,
- [Messenger and Sons, Corrugated Ship & Railway Lamps, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/messenger-and-sons-corrugated-ship-railway-lamps-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Tipping and Lawden, Gun & Pistol Manufacturers, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/tipping-and-lawden-gun-pistol-manufacturers-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Hollis and Sheath, Gun-Makers, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/hollis-and-sheath-gun-makers-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [C.P. Swinburn & Son, Gun, Rifle and Pistol Manufacturers, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/c-p-swinburn-son-gun-rifle-and-pistol-manufacturers-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [John Mitchell, Metallic Pens and Pen Holders, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-mitchell-metallic-pens-and-pen-holders-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Joseph Gillott, Metallic Pen Maker, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/joseph-gillott-metallic-pen-maker-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 STEEL PENS The Steel Pen – now in almost universal use – affords an example of the ingenuity manifested by Englishmen in creating a new trade and of their perseverance in developing its capabilities by cheapening its productions. Thirty-two years ago quill
- [Thomas Felton, Glassware Manufacturer, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/thomas-felton-glassware-manufacturer-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Lloyd and Summerfield, Park Glass Works, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lloyd-and-summerfield-park-glass-works-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Glass made in furnaces, each containing from six to eight ‘pots’, or crucibles, made of Stourbridge clay. These pots rest upon a bed of masonry, in the midst of which is placed a fire. The whole are enclosed in a cone open
- [Stock & Son, Glass and Lead Merchants, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/stock-son-glass-and-lead-merchants-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 The mode of making Flint Glass is in some respects similar to that resorted to for crown glass. As an example of the process let us select the instance of a water jug. The workman takes a ball of metal on the
- [Benjamin Richardson, Flint Glass Manufacturer, Stourbridge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/benjamin-richardson-flint-glass-manufacturer-stourbridge/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 The manufacture of glass is a subject that might well tempt us to exceed our limits. The various conjectures as to its origin, its extreme antiquity, the innumerable purposes to which it is applied, its decorative uses and difficult graduations by which
- [Frank Clayton, King's Arms Hotel, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/frank-clayton-kings-arms-hotel-sheffield/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Harrop and Hague, Norfolk Street, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/harrop-and-hague-norfolk-street-sheffield/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Bland's Brunswick Hotel, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/blands-brunswick-hotel-sheffield/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Thomas Foreman, Swan Commercial & Family Hotel, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/thomas-foreman-swan-commercial-family-hotel-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Mabbatt's Commercial Boarding House, Coventry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mabbatts-commercial-boarding-house-coventry-2/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [George Dowler, Medallist and Die Sinker, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/george-dowler-medallist-and-die-sinker-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Bank of London and National Provincial Insurance Association](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bank-of-london-and-national-provincial-insurance-association/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Mabbatt's Commercial Boarding House, Coventry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mabbatts-commercial-boarding-house-coventry/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [The George Commercial and Family Hotel, Hull](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-george-commercial-and-family-hotel-hull/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Procter's Swan Hotel, Bristol](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/procters-swan-hotel-bristol/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [H.H. Giles, Saracen's Head Hotel and Commercial Tavern, Bristol](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/h-h-giles-saracens-head-hotel-and-commercial-tavern-bristol/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Local Studies and History, Central Library, Birmingham
- [Acorn Commercial Hotel, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/acorn-commercial-hotel-birmingham/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Local Studies and History, Central Library, Birmingham
- [Arundel Brush Works, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/arundel-brush-works-sheffield/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Local Studies and History, Central Library, Birmingham
- [The Wrekin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-wrekin/) - Image: The Wrekin, from Cunde Park. One of the tallest hills in England, the Wrekin, a long- established strategic location, was the most prominent natural feature in the Shropshire landscape. “The height of the mountain…is 1320 feet. It is craggy at the summit, and so much more lofty than the surrounding hills as to
- [The Wrekin, from Leighton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-wrekin-from-leighton/) - Image from: Picturesque Views and Descriptions of Cities, Towns, Castles, Mansions and other Objects of Interesting Features in Shropshire and Staffordshire. Original drawings by Mr Frederick Calvert
- [Bridgnorth, Shropshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bridgnorth-shropshire/) - Image from: Picturesque Views and Descriptions of Cities, Towns, Castles, Mansions and other Objects of Interesting Features in Shropshire and Staffordshire. Original drawings by Mr Frederick Calvert
- [The Leasowes, South, Seat of M. Attwood, Esq.](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-leasowes-south-seat-of-m-attwood-esq/) - Image from: Picturesque Views and Descriptions of Cities, Towns, Castles, Mansions and other Objects of Interesting Features in Shropshire and Staffordshire. Original drawings by Mr Frederick Calvert
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Advert for Revolutionary Dinner](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-advert-for-revolutionary-dinner/) - Hotel, Birmingham, July, 1791. Commemoration of the French Revolution. A Number of Gentlemen intend DINING together on the 14th instant, to commemorate the auspicious Day which witnessed the Emancipation of Twenty-six Millions of People from the Yoke of Despotism, and restored the Blessings of equal Government to a truly great and enlightened Nation, with whom
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Appeal for calm during riots](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-appeal-for-calm-during-riots/) - BIRMINGHAM, JULY 18. BIRMINGHAM, July 16, 1791. Friends and Fellow Countrymen, IT is earnestly requested, that every TRUE FRIEND to the CHURCH OF ENGLAND, and to the LAWS OF HIS COUNTRY, will reflect how much a Continuance of the PRESENT PROCEEDINGS must injure THAT CHURCH and THAT KING they are intended to SUPPORT; and how
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Dudley Cheese Fair](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-dudley-cheese-fair/) - DUDLEY CHEESE FAIR. WHEREAS great Complaints have arisen from exposing of Cheese to Sale, and weighing the same in the Streets, upon the Footpaths, within the Town of Dudley upon Fair Days, to remedy which, the Proprietors of the Markets and Fairs give Notice to all Cheese Factors, that the great Room in the Town-hall,
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Letter to Aris's about Dr. Priestley and the Birmingham Riots](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-letter-to-ariss-about-dr-priestley-and-the-birmingham-riots/) - To the Inhabitants of the Town of Birmingham. Friends and Fellow Townsmen, IT is with extreme concern and reluctance that I offer a few remarks on the letter which has lately been addressed to us, in several London papers, under the signature of Dr. Priestley. He complains of the injuries sustained by himself, and other
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Proclaimation by the King on the Birmingham Riots](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-proclaimation-by-the-king-on-the-birmingham-riots/) - By the KING. A PROCLAMATION. GEORGE R. WHEREAS it hath been represented unto Us, that a great number of disorderly persons, in and about the Town of Birmingham, in our county of Warwick, did, on the fourteenth day of July instant, assemble themselves in a tumultuous manner, and for several days thereafter, and during the
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Letter to Aris's Gazette about Dr Priestley and the Birmingham Riots](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-letter-to-ariss-gazette-about-dr-priestley-and-the-birmingham-riots/) - To the Rev. Dr. PRIESTLEY. Quid minus utile fuit quam ulcus hoc tangere? REV. SIR, TO deplore the loss of you Apparatus, your Books, and Manuscripts was natural, and every Friend of Science condoles with you; to remind the deluded People that they were injuring their own Cause, was just and proper. The same Admonition
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Request to return property looted in riots](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-request-to-return-property-looted-in-riots/) - WHEREAS it is well known that divers Persons still withhold Books, Paper and other Property belonging to the Dissenters, whose Houses were pillaged during the late Riots; all such Persons are desired to restore the same within fourteen Days from this Date; and they are hereby reminded, that it is Felony for any one to
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Employment Advert](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-employment-advert/) - WANTED in a Gentleman’s Family, near Birmingham, immediately, or at Michaelmas next, a sober industrious Woman Servant; she must be a good Cook, and understand the Dairy Business, as she will have the Management of two or three Cows; clean and neat in her Person and Business, of good Tempter and Character, and have no
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Request from Dr. Priestley for return of letters lost in riots](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-request-from-dr-priestley-for-return-of-letters-lost-in-riots/) - To the Printer of the Birmingham Gazette. SIR, I DO not now write to complain of my sufferings in general, but of one in particular, which may in some measure be alleviated. Private letters are a species of property peculiarly sacred. No person of honour will even look into a letter not directed to himself;
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Trial and Execution of Rioters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-trial-and-execution-of-rioters/) - On Saturday the Commission for holding the Assize for this county, was opened before Mr. Baron Hotham, and Mr. Baron Perryn at Warwick; where between 30 and 40 prisoners are take their trials, among whom are the following (charged with being concerned in the late riots) viz. William Shuker, Joseph Carless, John Clifton, Bartholemew Fisher,
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Appeal for information about forged handbill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-appeal-for-information-about-forged-handbill/) - Birmingham, August 22 1791 WHEREAS it now appears, that amongst other insidious and unwarrantable Practices made use of during the late Riots to delude the Populace, and instigate them to Acts of Violence and Destruction, Letters were forged, charging the Dissenters with a treasonable Design to overthrow the present happy Constitution of this Kingdom, and
- [Fitz Church near Shrewsbury, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/fitz-church-near-shrewsbury-c-1800/)
- [Bildwas Church, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bildwas-church-c-1800/)
- [Bildwas Bridge, c. 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bildwas-bridge-c-1800/)
- [Ludlow Castle, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ludlow-castle-c-1800/) - Panorama with River
- [Holy Trinity Church, Dawley Magna, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/holy-trinity-church-dawley-magna-c-1800/)
- [Welsh Bridge, Shrewsbury, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/welsh-bridge-shrewsbury-c-1800/)
- [Lilleshall Church, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lilleshall-church-c-1800/)
- [Old St. Chad's Church, Shrewsbury, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/old-st-chads-church-shrewsbury-c-1800/)
- [Shrewsbury Abbey, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/shrewsbury-abbey-c-1800/)
- [Shifnal Church, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/shifnal-church-c-1800/)
- [Buildwas Abbey, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/buildwas-abbey-c-1800/)
- [Madeley Church, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/madeley-church-c-1800/)
- [Gatehouse of Langley Hall, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/gatehouse-of-langley-hall-c-1800/) - Hall belonged to Lee Family
- [Broseley Church, c.1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/broseley-church-c-1800/)
- [Jackfield Chapel, near Broseley, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/jackfield-chapel-near-broseley-c-1800/) - Built in 1759
- [Whiteladies' Priory, near Boscobel House, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/whiteladies-priory-near-boscobel-house-c-1800/)
- [Dowles Church, Worcestershire, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dowles-church-worcestershire-c-1800/)
- [Old Church, Wellington, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/old-church-wellington-c-1800/)
- [St Laurence's Church, Ludlow, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-laurences-church-ludlow-c-1800/)
- [New Church, Wellington, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/new-church-wellington-c-1800/) - Built by George Steuart, designer of St. Chad's Shrewsbury
- [Oldbury Chapel, near Halesowen, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/oldbury-chapel-near-halesowen-c-1800/)
- [St Alkmund's Church, Shrewsbury, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-alkmunds-church-shrewsbury-c-1800/)
- [St Kenelm's Chapel, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-kenelms-chapel-c-1800/)
- [St Nicholas's Chapel, Shrewsbury, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-nicholass-chapel-shrewsbury-c-1800/)
- [St Leonard's Church, Malinslee, near Dawley, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-leonards-church-malinslee-near-dawley-c-1800/)
- [St John the Baptist, Halesowen, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-john-the-baptist-halesowen-c-1800/)
- [St Mary's Church, Shrewsbury, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-marys-church-shrewsbury-c-1800/)
- [St Leonard's Church, Bridgnorth, c 1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-leonards-church-bridgnorth-c-1800/)
- [Entrance to the Great Cavern at Castleton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/entrance-to-the-great-cavern-at-castleton/) - This is an example of the type of limestone cavern that impressed visitors and potential visitors to Derbyshire in the 18th century Rev Daniel Lysons and Samuel Lysons, Magna Britannia, being a Concise Topographical Account of the Several Counties of Great Britain, Volume the Fifth containing Derbyshire, (London, T Cadell and W Davies, 1817)
- [Thorley's London Depot and Manufactory](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/thorleys-london-depot-and-manufactory/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Advert for Martin Billing, Letter-Press, Lithographic and Copper-Plate Printer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advert-for-martin-billing-letter-press-lithographic-and-copper-plate-printer/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Advert for The White Hart Hotel, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advert-for-the-white-hart-hotel-birmingham/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Advert for Regent Hotel, Leamington](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advert-for-regent-hotel-leamington/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [William Middlemore, Wholesale Sadler, Harness Maker, Currier, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-middlemore-wholesale-sadler-harness-maker-currier-birmingham/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Advert for Stanley's Family and Commercial Hotel](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advert-for-stanleys-family-and-commercial-hotel/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Advert for Woolpack Hotel, Family and Commercial Inn, Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advert-for-woolpack-hotel-family-and-commercial-inn-warwick/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Metallic Bedsteads](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/metallic-bedsteads/) - Image: Richard and Edward Peyton, Brass and Iron Bedsteads, Birmingham Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Text: Taken from the original Directory acew branches of manufacture have been more rapidly developed within a comparatively short space of time than the trade of making metallic bedsteads. Thirty years ago the production
- [Richard Bach and Co, Agricultural and Mechanical Engineers, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richard-bach-and-co-agricultural-and-mechanical-engineers-birmingham/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Joseph Taylor, Engineer and Machinist, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/joseph-taylor-engineer-and-machinist-birmingham/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [John & Samuel Roberts, Swan and Small Heath Foundries, West Bromwich](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-samuel-roberts-swan-and-small-heath-foundries-west-bromwich/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [The Crown Hotel, Worcester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-crown-hotel-worcester/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Family, Commercial and Private Boarding House, London](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/family-commercial-and-private-boarding-house-london/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Maypole Commercial Hotel and Posting House, Nottingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/maypole-commercial-hotel-and-posting-house-nottingham/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [J & J Stevenson, Comb Manufacturers, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/j-j-stevenson-comb-manufacturers-sheffield/)
- [T.S. & R.M. Morris, Black Swan Hotel, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/t-s-r-m-morris-black-swan-hotel-sheffield/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Commercial Hotel, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/commercial-hotel-sheffield/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Mander Brothers, Varnish Manufacturer, Wolverhampton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mander-brothers-varnish-manufacturer-wolverhampton/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Sarah Woodhead, King's Head Hotel, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sarah-woodhead-kings-head-hotel-sheffield/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [James Dixon and Sons, Sheffield Plated Wares](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/james-dixon-and-sons-sheffield-plated-wares/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [W. Standley, Spur Manufacturer, Walsall](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/w-standley-spur-manufacturer-walsall/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [P. Aitchison and Co, Brass Founders, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/p-aitchison-and-co-brass-founders-sheffield/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Alfred Harrop and Co, Orange Street Works, Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/alfred-harrop-and-co-orange-street-works-sheffield/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Thorley's Food For Cattle](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/thorleys-food-for-cattle/) - The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1808/03/05](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18080305/)
- [Note in Matthew Boulton's copy of the Baskerville Bible about the baptism of Matthew Piers Boulton, 2 May 1822](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/note-in-matthew-boultons-copy-of-the-baskerville-bible-about-the-baptism-of-matthew-piers-boulton-2-may-1822/)
- [Back to Results Note in Matthew Boulton's copy of the Baskerville Bible about Matthew Boulton's children etc](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/back-to-results-note-in-matthew-boultons-copy-of-the-baskerville-bible-about-matthew-boultons-children-etc/)
- [Note in Matthew Boulton's copy of the Baskerville Bible about vaccinations of Matthew Boulton's children](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/note-in-matthew-boultons-copy-of-the-baskerville-bible-about-vaccinations-of-matthew-boultons-children/)
- [Pamphlet urging citizens of Birmingham to support King and Church and to forbear from riotous and violent proceedings, 16 July 1791](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pamphlet-urging-citizens-of-birmingham-to-support-king-and-church-and-to-forbear-from-riotous-and-violent-proceedings-16-july-1791/)
- [Letter from Joseph Priestley to his sister, Mrs Crouch, Northumberland, 3 October 1796, regarding the death of his wife](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-joseph-priestley-to-his-sister-mrs-crouch-northumberland-3-october-1796-regarding-the-death-of-his-wife/)
- [Letter from Joseph Priestley to Reverend W Lindsay, Warwick, 13 July 1790](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-joseph-priestley-to-reverend-w-lindsay-warwick-13-july-1790/)
- [James Keir and the Geology and Industry of the Black Country: Mineralogy of the South-west part of Staffordshire, 1798](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/james-keir-and-the-geology-and-industry-of-the-black-country-mineralogy-of-the-south-west-part-of-staffordshire-1798/) - Image: The Wren's Nest from The Black Country - Sixteen Etchings of Scenes in the Coal and Iron District of South Staffordshire by Richard S Chattock Text: Malcolm Dick In 1845 most of the papers of James Keir (1735-1820) were destroyed in a house fire. Less is known about him compared to other Lunar men and there
- [Directions for Married Persons: Introduction](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/directions-for-married-persons-introduction/) - Introduction: Malcolm Dick Source: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library, UK Directions for Married Persons was written by John Martin and published in Birmingham in 1791. It provided instructions to potential and actual husbands and wives to be chaste, modest and avoid “violent lusts”. The dangers to the earthly health and spiritual well-being of those who ignored
- [An Account of a Society for Encouraging the Industrious Poor](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/an-account-of-a-society-for-encouraging-the-industrious-poor/) - An Account of a Society for Encouraging the Industrious Poor was published in Birmingham in 1787. Its concerns reflect a growing interest in poverty and its associated problems at the end of the 18th century. The terms “poverty” and “poor” were problematic. At one level they were used to describe a social reality where the
- [Sermon on the Slave Trade by Dr Joseph Priestley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sermon-on-the-slave-trade-by-dr-joseph-priestley/) - A SERMON on the subject of THE SLAVE TRADE; delivered to a society of PROTESTANT DISSENTERS, at the NEW MEETING in BIRMINGHAM; and published at their request. By JOSEPH PRIESTLEY, LL.D. F.R.S. - And hath made of one blood all nations of men to dwell on the face of the earth. ACTS xvii. 26. Birmingham.
- [Portrait of Thomas Bennett](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/portrait-of-thomas-bennett/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on Canvas. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [Self Portrait at the age of 20 by Joseph Wright](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/self-portrait-at-the-age-of-20-by-joseph-wright/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on canvas. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [The Notebook of Thomas Shakshaft – Part Two](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-notebook-of-thomas-shakshaft-part-two/) - Thomas Shakeshaft His Book 1751 His pockit book Thos Thos Thomas Bamptons Bill (Entries all crossed out and repeated below) Thomas Bamptons Bill October the 19 I was a sawing - £ - s - d At 14d a day --- 0 - 1 - 2 & the 21 --- 0 - 1 - 2
- [The Notebook of Thomas Shakshaft - Part One](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-notebook-of-thomas-shakshaft/) - Notebook of Thomas Shakshaft of Middleton, Warwickshire Lived 1731 - 1821 (Written during the period 1751 - 1765) Summary Thomas Shakeshaft or Shakshaft (1731-1821) was a carpenter who lived in Middleton, Warwickshire. His notebook in Birmingham City Archives is a very rare example of written record produced by a skilled working man in the late
- [A Rope Maker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-rope-maker/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 [Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology]
- [A Weaver](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-weaver/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 [Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology]
- [A Stocking Maker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-stocking-maker/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 [Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology]
- [Carpet Maker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/carpet-maker/) - The picture shows a carpet weaver at his loom. The loom consists of two long planks of wood and two thick rollers or beams. The planks stand upright and the rollers are placed across, one at the top and one at the bottom about a foot from the ground and can be turned as the
- [A Ladies Dress Maker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-ladies-dress-maker/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 [Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology]
- [A Pin Maker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-pin-maker/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 [Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology]
- [A Wire Drawer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-wire-drawer/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 [Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology]
- [A Paper Maker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-paper-maker/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 [Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology]
- [A Letter Press Printer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-letter-press-printer/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology
- [Calico Printer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/calico-printer/) - Calico is a type of cloth, heavier than linen and made of cotton. A calico printer drew a pattern on paper, as wide as the cloth. The pattern was divided up into squares about 8 inches by 12 inches and cut into wooden blocks. The cloth was laid on a table and the blocks covered
- [A Tin Plate Worker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-tin-plate-worker/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology
- [A Sadler](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-sadler/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology
- [A Glass Blower](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-glass-blower/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology
- [A Watch Maker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-watch-maker/) - Image from: The Book of Trades or Library of the Useful Arts, 1806 Image donated by: Birmingham Central Library, Science and Technology
- [Brass founders from Bissetts](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/brass-founders-from-bissetts/) - The Brass House, Broad Street, Birmingham from Bisset’s Magnificent Guide, or Grand Copperplate Directory….(Birmingham, 1808). The Brass House was built in 1781 to manufacture the metal alloy in Birmingham and avoid the need to transport raw brass from elsewhere. Source: Birmingham Central Library, Local Studies and History
- [Bishop's Castle](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bishops-castle/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. BISHOP’S CASTLE is a town in the south-west of Shropshire, about twenty miles from Shrewsbury, and eighteen from Ludlow. The town is said to derive its name from a castle that once stood within it, belonging to the bishops of Hereford; but scarcely a vestige
- [Moreton Corbet](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/moreton-corbet/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. MORETON CORBET, on account of its castle, has always been deemed worthy a name amongst the remarkable places in the county of Shropshire. The village has few inhabitants, and the district is entirely agricultural: but even this lone place has been the scene of dispute,
- [Oteley Park](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/oteley-park/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. The magnificent building which forms the principle subject in this drawing, is the property and residence of CHARLES KYNASTON MAINWARING, Esq, by whom, in 1827, the old family mansion, which was once a fine specimen of timbered building, was taken down and the present structure
- [Ruins of Wenlock Abbey](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ruins-of-wenlock-abbey/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. Wenlock Abbey was founded about the year 680, by MILBURGA, daughter of King MERWALD, and niece to WOLPHERE, King of Mercia. She presided as abbess, and was buried there. The town was first called Wimnicas, but in later times Wenlock Magna, and Much Wenlock. “The
- [Willey Park](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/willey-park/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. WILLEY PARK lies about three miles from Wenlock, four from Bridgnorth, and two from Broseley. It is pleasantly situated amidst fertile hills and vales, and itself is composed of them. From some positions the landscape possesses a most charming appearance, extending over a wide richly
- [View in the Stretton Hills](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/view-in-the-stretton-hills/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. The principal design of this drawing, taken about half-a-mile from Church Stretton, on the old road to Bishop’s Castle, is to show the wild and sublime character of some of the scenery of Shropshire, in contrast with other richer and more fertile portions of the
- [Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/shrewsbury-2/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. SHREWSBURY, the capital of Shropshire, is situated near the centre of the county. It is a large and handsome town, standing in five parishes, and containing as many churches and several chapels of ease. The antiquity of the town is great: it was built originally
- [Coalbrookdale](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/coalbrookdale-2/)
- [Buildwas Abbey](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/buildwas-abbey-2/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. Buildwas Abbey lies on the south bank of the Severn, two miles from the Wrekin, in the midst of a fertile tract of land, backed by gently rising hills, clothed with wood. The most considerable portions that remain are the church, the chapter house, two
- [Bridgnorth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bridgnorth-2/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. BRIDGNORTH is a town most pleasantly situated on the summit and sloping sides of a rocky hill, rising in the midst of valleys chiefly surrounded by hills, at the base of which the Severn flows. It is of remote origin. Founded by the daughter of
- [Benthall Edge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/benthall-edge/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. THIS subject has been named in several of the preceding descriptions as forming an interesting portion of Shropshire scenery. It is the entrance to the vale of the Severn, forming its southern bank, and rising almost perpendicularly from the shore. BENTHAL EDGE is a favourite
- [Lilleshall Abbey](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lilleshall-abbey/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. THIS venerable ruin now forming so picturesque an object in the fertile and beautiful neighbourhood of Newport, and adorning the estate on which it stands, is fast falling beneath the mouldering hand of time, and becoming “the ivy’s food at last;” yet the hand of
- [Red Castle](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/red-castle/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. THIS relic of feudal grandeur and insecurity, now adorns a landscape which nature alone has made eminently beautiful. The place is mentioned by CAMDEN as “coming into the family of the AUDLEYS by the bounty of MAUD, THE STRANGER, or LE STRANGE, and that it
- [Matthew Boulton’s Soho Works, Iron Foundry and House at Soho near Birmingham, 1801](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boultons-soho-works-iron-foundry-and-house-at-soho-near-birmingham-1801/) - Stebbing Shaw’s The History and Antiquities of Staffordshire (1798 and 1801) is a major source not only for the antiquities and topography of the county, but for its economic, social and cultural circumstance at the end of the 18th century. His history is monumental, building on the limited accounts by Erdeswicke, Chetwynd and Plot in the 17th
- [The Wood Children](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-wood-children/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Oil on Canvas Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [Landscape with a Rainbow](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/landscape-with-a-rainbow/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [Cottage in Needwood Forest](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/cottage-in-needwood-forest/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [Sir Richard Arkwright: Industrialist](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sir-richard-arkwright-industrialist-2/) - Image: Portrait of Sir Richard Arkwright (1789-1790). Joseph Wright of Derby, Oil on Canvas. Text: Olga Baird Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery The art of portraiture was changing during the Industrial Revolution. The expansion of commerce and industry in the eighteenth century brought new characters to artists’ attention. Not only flamboyant figures of
- [Rydal Waterfall](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/rydal-waterfall/) - Virgil was a famous Roman poet who died in 19 BC. His tomb was located in the hills near Naples and it formed part of the journey for Europeans engaged on a tour of classical remains in the region. Wright probably visited it during his stay in Naples in autumn 1774. Between 1778 and 1785
- [Rev. d'Ewes Coke and Family](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/rev-dewes-coke-and-family/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on canvas. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [The Earthstopper on the Banks of the Derwent](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-earthstopper-on-the-banks-of-the-derwent/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Oil on Canvas Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [Fire in Rome](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/fire-in-rome/) - Originally called Fire in Rome, this image is probably one of Wright’s drawings of the Girandola firework displays. The content of the image closely resembles Girandola from the Castel Sant’ Angelo (1774). From a distance the fireworks would resemble a fire. The vantage point is a high point, close to the place where Wright stayed
- [Detail of Landscape with a Rainbow](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/detail-of-landscape-with-a-rainbow/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [Romeo and Juliet, the Tomb Scene](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/romeo-and-juliet-the-tomb-scene/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on canvas. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- [Maria and her dog Silvio (from Sterne's Sentimental Journey)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/maria-and-her-dog-silvio-from-sternes-sentimental-journey/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on Canvas. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery
- ["Allin's Cabinet of Curiosities"](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/allins-cabinet-of-curiosities/) - The site of the Municipal Hall, corner of Congreve Street Old and New Birmingham: A History of the Town and its People Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library
- [The occurrences of common life: Samuel Johnson, Practical Science and Industry in the Midlands](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-occurrences-of-common-life-samuel-johnson-practical-science-and-industry-in-the-midlands/) - Image: 18th Century Birmingham trade token (n.d.). H Biggs halfpenny with a bust of Dr Samuel Johnson and three lions rampant. Though the artistic quality of the image is poor, the token displays Johnson’s importance and connects him with the economic and technological activity of the Midlands which he described, supported and celebrated in his writings.
- [Biography of Dud Dudley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/biography-of-dud-dudley/) - Image: Front page of Dud Dudley's Metallum Martis (Reprint of 1665 edition) Text: Malcolm Dick Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Dud Dudley was born in 1598, the illegitimate son of Lord Dudley. He attended Balliol College, at Oxford University and left at the age of 20 to take over the iron furnaces and forges which his
- [Baskerville Type](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/baskerville-type/) - Image: Slate tablet advertising Baskerville’s works showing his skill as a designer of letters: “Grave Stone Cut in any of the Hands John Baskervill (sic), Writing Master, in Miscellaneous items relating to John Baskerville (1706-1775) from a scrapbook of letters, engravings etc., formed by Samuel Timmins. Baskerville’s type was unlike anything that had come before
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - SONG, on obtaining the BIRMINGHAM and WORCESTER CANAL BILL](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-song-on-obtaining-the-birmingham-and-worcester-canal-bill/) - SONG, on obtaining the BIRMINGHAM and WORCESTER CANAL BILL. Come, now begin delving, the Bill is obtain’d, The contest was hard, but a conquest is gain’d; Let no time be lost, and to get business done, Set thousands to work, that will work down the sun. With speed the desirable work to compleat, The hope
- [Advertisement: The Last Appearance of Mr Harper, Black singer and comedian](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-the-last-appearance-of-mr-harper-black-singer-and-comedian/) - Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 5 Image from: Shropshire Archives
- [Photograph of scientific instruments](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/photograph-of-scientific-instruments/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Photograph of Priestley House, Northumberland, Pennsylvania, from South-East, showing Priestley's Laboratory](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/photograph-of-priestley-house-northumberland-pennsylvania-from-south-east-showing-priestleys-laboratory/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Photograph of portrait of Joseph Priestley at the age of 30](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/photograph-of-portrait-of-joseph-priestley-at-the-age-of-30/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Photograph of portrait of Joseph Priestley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/photograph-of-portrait-of-joseph-priestley/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Photograph of Joseph Priestley's house in the United States of America](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/photograph-of-joseph-priestleys-house-in-the-united-states-of-america/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Photograph of Joseph Priestley's gravestone](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/photograph-of-joseph-priestleys-gravestone/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Photograph of gravestone of Dr Priestley in Cemetery of Northumberland, Pennsylvania](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/photograph-of-gravestone-of-dr-priestley-in-cemetery-of-northumberland-pennsylvania/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Mary Snowden and Isaac Braithwaite](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mary-snowden-and-isaac-braithwaite/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Mary Snowden](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mary-snowden/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [John Watkins, Photographer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-watkins-photographer/) - Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Local Studies and History, Central Library, Birmingham
- [Isaac Braithwaite](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/isaac-braithwaite/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Home of Robert Darwin, and birthplace of Charles Darwin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/home-of-robert-darwin-and-birthplace-of-charles-darwin/) - Photograph by: Nabi Heydari (April 2003)
- [Georgian houses, Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/georgian-houses-shrewsbury/) - Photograph by: Nabi Heydari (April 2003)
- [George Cadbury, Donor of Woodbrooke House and Gardens](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/george-cadbury-donor-of-woodbrooke-house-and-gardens/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Gandhi and young girl](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/gandhi-and-young-girl/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Front entrance of Woodbrooke](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/front-entrance-of-woodbrooke/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Entrance of Shrewsbury Gaol](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/entrance-of-shrewsbury-gaol/) - Photograph by: Nabi Heydari (April 2003)
- [Entrance of Shrewsbury Castle](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/entrance-of-shrewsbury-castle/) - Image from: Photograph by: Nabi Heydari (April 2003)
- [1903 Summer School, Lake Windermere](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/1903-summer-school-lake-windermere/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Engraving of J. F. Williamson's statue of Joseph Priestley (idealised)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/engraving-of-j-f-williamsons-statue-of-joseph-priestley-idealised/)
- [Ditherington - Photograph of Print with handwritten comment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ditherington-photograph-of-print-with-handwritten-comment/)
- [Chemical Philosophers of the Present Day: Dr Priestley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/chemical-philosophers-of-the-present-day-dr-priestley/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Boating on the Woodbrooke Pool](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/boating-on-the-woodbrooke-pool/) - Image from: Woodbrooke uakuaker Study Centre.
- [Back entrance of Woodbrooke, with group gathered outside](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/back-entrance-of-woodbrooke-with-group-gathered-outside/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Back entrance from the lawn](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/back-entrance-from-the-lawn/) - SchoolsImage from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Apparatus](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/apparatus-2/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Apparatus](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/apparatus/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [A Portrait of Thomas Telford: Civil Engineer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-portrait-of-thomas-telford-civil-engineer/) - Image: Portrait of Thomas Telford (1757-1834). Frontispiece of Atlas to the Life of Thomas Telford, Civil Engineer containing eighty-three copper plates, illustrative of his professional labours, (London, 1838). Like James Keir, William Murdock, William Small and James Watt, Thomas Telford was one of several Scots who contributed to the history of the West Midlands during the Industrial
- [David Garrick as Sir Brute in The Provok'd Wife by John Vanbrugh, 1765](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/david-garrick-as-sir-brute-in-the-provokd-wife-by-john-vanbrugh-1765/) - Johann Zoffany (1733 -1810, b. Frankfurt/Main – d. Strand-on-the-Green, London) Wolverhampton Art Gallery. OP 607. Acquired in 1970
- [Armenians en route to the United States of America](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/armenians-en-route-to-the-united-states-of-america/) - Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Brassworking Skills in Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/brassworking-skills-in-birmingham/) - Caption: First page of William Tonks, Sons & Co., Catalogue of the Various Kinds of Work (1880). The image shows the variety of products made by this firm of brassfounders in Moseley Street, Birmingham. Items range from relatively simple items of door furniture to a church lecturn. They show how extensive the skills of workers in the local
- [William Westley's Prospect of Birmingham, 1732](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-westleys-prospect-of-birmingham-1732/) - Image: The East Prospect of Birmingham, 1732. BIRMINGHAM, a Market Town in the County of WARWICK, which by the art and industry of its Inhabitants, has for some years past been render'd famous all over the World, for the rare choice and inventions of all sorts of Wares and Curiositys, in Iron, Steel, Brass &c; admir'd
- [A Letter from a Mechanick in the busy Town of Birmingham, to Mr. Stayner, a Carver, Statuary, and Architect, in the sleepy Corporation of Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-letter-from-a-mechanick-in-the-busy-town-of-birmingham-to-mr-stayner-a-carver-statuary-and-architect-in-the-sleepy-corporation-of-warwick/) - Image: South-West Prospect of Birmingham, 1829, attributed to Frederick Calvert. Watercolour on Paper. Image from: Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery If you can leave your Borough, still and fair, To breathe awhile in more sulphureous Air; / …… When broad awake, for Vulcan’s Province steer Each Cyclop will rejoice, to see famed Stayner here, / …… You’ll
- [A View of Shrewsbury from the South-West](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-view-of-shrewsbury-from-the-south-west/) - Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 5 Image from: Shropshire Archives
- [William Chance IV: The Start of a Commercial Dynasty](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-chance-iv-the-start-of-a-commercial-dynasty/) - Image: South-West Prospect of Birmingham, 1829, attributed to Frederick Calvert. Watercolour on Paper. Image from: Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery William Chance (IV) was born on 16 May 1749 but was orphaned when he was a tiny child. His father John, (the disinherited son), died when William was less than nine months old and his mother, (the
- [Bewdley Snuff Mill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bewdley-snuff-mill/) - Image: Close-up of the abandoned snuff mill, Golden Valley, near Tickenhill, Bewdley (early 20th century). [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 3. Bewdley Snuff Mill Little is known about the history of the Bewdley Snuff Mill. The earliest reference to a “Fish Pooll and Snuff Mill” appears to be in 1785. In many ways the area was a
- [Priestley’s Death and long-term Reputation](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestleys-death-and-long-term-reputation/) - Image: Gravestone of Dr Priestley in the Cemetery of Northumberland, Pennsylvania. “To the memory of the Rev Dr Joseph Priestley who departed this life on the 6th February 1804, Anno Etatis LXXI. “Return unto thy rest O my soul for the\Lord has dealt bountifully with thee. I will lay me down in peace & sleep till
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1788/11/18](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17881118/) - Darwin writes to Watt concerning Watt's health, with advice on treatments and remedies and various theories of chemistry. Dear Sir, Mr. Wedgewood sent me the inclosed, & desired me to sign it, & to forward it to you - who he hopes will get it signed by the Birmingham F.R.S.’s & that you will then
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Ann Watt, 1794/03/12](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-ann-watt-17940312/) - Ann Watt was James Watt's second wife and mother to Jessy. Dr. Darwin treated Jessy during her illnesses, but she was suffering from tuberculosis and died later in 1794, aged 15. Derby Mar 12-94 Dear Madam, I am favour’d with your very accurate history of the present stage of health of Miss Jesse; and am
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1793/12/13](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17931213/) - Darwin writes to Watt concerning the care of Jessy Watt, encouraging her to exercise and play sports. Dec 13-93 Derby Dear Sir, I am truly happy to hear that Miss Jessey continues to get stronger, & keeps free from those alarming affections of her lungs or side, to which she has so long been in
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/01/01](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940101/) - Darwin's recommendations for the treatment of Watt's daughter, Jessy, who was suffering from tuberculosis. ---------------------------------------- Dear Sir, I think it is always useful to cool those parts of the body, which are too hot; and to warm those parts at the same time, which are too cold. Hence in eruptive fevers I have often with
- [The Lunar Society and Education](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-lunar-society-and-education-3/) - Image: Dr Erasmus Darwin, doctor, scientist and poet and friend of Priestley in the Lunar Society. His Plan for the Conduct of Female Education in Boarding Schoolsreflected contemporary interest in the education of middle-class girls. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library In opposition to traditional educationalists, Lunaticks positively rejoiced in science and technology, wanting to
- [Anna Seward and Erasmus Darwin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/anna-seward-and-erasmus-darwin/) - Image: Engraving of Erasmus Darwin M.D. Birmingham Central Library 3. Anna Seward and Erasmus Darwin 1756 saw the arrival of Erasmus Darwin in Lichfield, where he came to set up a medical practice in Beacon Street, becoming the Seward family physician. A bachelor, of average height, thick-set, inclined to corpulence, with a bad stammer, Anna did not at
- [Sir John Floyer (1649-1734), Physician of Lichfield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sir-john-floyer-1649-1734-physician-of-lichfield/) - Image: Lichfield, c. 1686. This is the earliest print of Lichfield and was produced from a copper engraving by the Dutch engraver, M Burghers for Robert Plot’s, The Natural History of Staffordshire (Oxford, 1686). By this time, when Sir John Floyer was practising medicine in the city, Lichfield was already known for the quality of its water supply.
- [Russian Visitors to the English Midlands](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/russian-visitors-to-the-english-midlands/) - Text: Olga Baird Image: Russian Medallion to commemorate the erection of Peter the Great’s statue in 1773. Peter the Great had spent five months in Britain in 1698 to learn about British shipbuilding techniques. Visits and commercial relationships were developed during the reign of Catherine the Great. The medal was struck during Catherine’s reign and indicates a
- [Matthew Boulton’s Medals and Coins on Russian Subjects](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boultons-medals-and-coins-on-russian-subjects/) - Image: Medallion of the Hudson’s Bay Company. 1820. Designed by Conrad Heinrich Kuchler. An example of the high quality medals which were designed by Kuchler. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office (60) Text: Olga Baird Summary Matthew Boulton made many products which achieved high standards of design and manufacturing. Conrad Heinrich Kuchler and Peter Rouw were two of the
- [The A.V. Suvorov Medal](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-a-v-suvorov-medal/) - Image: Count Alexander Suvarow, Liberator of Italy. 1799. Designed by Conrad Heinrich Kuchler. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office (25) The “Suwarrow” medal was first mentioned in an agreement between Kuchler and Boulton on 10th June 17994. It is dedicated to the victory of General-Field Marshal Alexander Suvorov (1729-1800) over French troops in Italy. It is rather strange
- [Catherine the Great’s Medals](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/catherine-the-greats-medals/) - Image: Death of Catherine the Great. Double-headed eagle and bust of the monarch. 1796. Designed by Conrad Heinrich Kuchler. Image from:: Birmingham Assay Office (19) Catherine the Great was one of Boulton’s most important customers. Over the decades he supplied her court with ormolu wares, and her last commission was the supply of machinery for the
- [Medals and Coins of Alexander I](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/medals-and-coins-of-alexander-i/) - Image: Medallion of Alexander I, Emperor of all the Russias. 1812. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office (256) The coronation of Alexander I took place in September 1801. At that time foreign artists were still short of images of the young Russian Emperor, so it was important for Boulton to find an original of a good quality. An
- [The other side of the Coin: Women and the Lunar Men](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-other-side-of-the-coin-women-and-the-lunar-men/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), An Experiment on a Bird in an Air Pump(Exhibited 1768). Oil on Canvas. This painting is open to many interpretations. At one level it shows that women as well as men could share in the communication of scientific knowledge or “natural philosophy”. Several of the Lunar men, for example Erasmus Darwin,
- [The Lunar Society and Education](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-lunar-society-and-education/) - Image: Lunar Society member, Thomas Day, humanitarian poet and writer, who tried to introduce Rousseau’s educational ideas into English society. His book, Sandford and Merton, remained a popular children’s book into the nineteenth century. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Priestley is perhaps known best in Birmingham today through his involvement with the Lunar Society,
- [The Lunar Society and Education](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-lunar-society-and-education-2/) - Image: Richard Lovell Edgeworth, member of the Lunar Society, inventor and writer. The educational publication, Practical Education was written with his daughter, Maria. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Dissatisfied with the limited, traditional classical education which was common fare for boys of the upper and middle classes and which looked backwards to the
- [A “Modern” Education](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-modern-education/) - Image: Print of Hazelwood School. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Unlike the Edgeworths, the Hills believed that older children, especially boys, could be taught better and more efficiently in large schools. They extolled the skills of good, teaching which stimulated “clear, vivid and accurate conceptions” through the association of ideas through drama, costume,
- [Liberalism and an Educative Society](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/liberalism-and-an-educative-society/) - Image: Tablet dedicated to Joseph Priestley in the Church of the Messiah Broad Street, Birmingham. The dedication draws attention to Priestley's advocacy of liberalism and education. The tablet is now in the Unitarian Church, Ladywood, Birmingham. Image from: Birmingham Central Library, Local Studies and History. A further illustration of their Priestleyan inheritance was given in
- [Women’s Education and Emancipation](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/womens-education-and-emancipation/) - Image: Maria Edgeworth, the daughter of Priestley’s friend, R L Edgeworth and an important writer on educational subjects. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The Institute ran some very popular classes for females, 49 although generally the inheritance of Priestley and the Lunar Society in Birmingham is equivocal with regard to women’s
- [Anna Seward, Richard Lovell Edgeworth, Thomas Day and Brooke Boothby](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/anna-seward-richard-lovell-edgeworth-thomas-day-and-brooke-boothby/) - Image: Engraving of Richard Lovell Edgeworth Birmingham Central Library 4. Anna Seward, Richard Lovell Edgeworth, Thomas Lichfield and the Bishop’s Palace attracted other fascinating characters. In 1770, the tall, darkly handsome, polished, rich Irishman Richard Lovell Edgeworth, came to live at Stowe House. Rather eccentric, he used magnetism, loved conjuring tricks, designed a revolutionary phaeton, (bringing him into
- [Thomas Wedgwood: the Godfather of Photography](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/thomas-wedgwood-the-godfather-of-photography/) - Image: The Alchymist in Search of the Philosopher’s Stone, (Exhibited 1771), Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on Canvas, Derby Museum & Art Gallery. This painting was a likely influence on Tom Wedgwood. Summary Thomas Wedgwood (1771-1805) was a son of Josiah Wedgwood, the Staffordshire potter and member of the Lunar Society. His upbringing and contacts
- [Ralph Wedgwood: Pioneer of Office Copying](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ralph-wedgwood-pioneer-of-office-copying/) - Image: Wedgwood’s factory at Etruria in Staffordshire. The Useful Arts and Manufacturers of Great Britain of Great Britain Vol. 2 (London, SPCK, 1846?). Ralph Wedgwood (1766-1837), the son of Thomas Wedgwood, cousin and business partner of Josiah Wedgwood I, was a potter and inventor. Brought up at Etruria, he made crucial contribution to the ceramics industry through his
- [Advertisement: Mrs Graham's Ascent: the first ascent of the Only English Female Aeronaut](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-mrs-grahams-ascent-the-first-ascent-of-the-only-english-female-aeronaut/) - Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 2 Image from: Shropshire Archives
- [Article from The Salopian Journal, 10 October 1838, on Mrs Graham's ascent in a balloon](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/article-from-the-salopian-journal-10-october-1838-on-mrs-grahams-ascent-in-a-balloon/) - Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 2 Image from: Shropshire Archives
- [Image and article relating to Mr Green's ascent in a balloon](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/image-and-article-relating-to-mr-greens-ascent-in-a-balloon/) - Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 7 Image from: Shropshire Archives
- [Advertisement: Batty's Circus, Shrewsbury, including the ascent of Mr Hughes on his head on top of a balloon](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-battys-circus-shrewsbury-including-the-ascent-of-mr-hughes-on-his-head-on-top-of-a-balloon/) - Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 4 Image from: Shropshire Archives
- [Illustrations of the Black Country Landscape](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/illustrations-of-the-black-country-landscape/) - Though these 16 images date from the 1870s, they represent a long-established view of the Black Country, or more particularly the area round Dudley, which provides the focal point of the publication which contains the prints. Richard S Chattock, Sixteen Etchings Illustrative of Scenes in the Coal and Iron District of South Staffordshire by Richard
- [Views of Dudley Castle c. 1686-1876](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/views-of-dudley-castle-c-1686-1876/) - Dudley is one of the four Black Country boroughs, alongside Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton. Today, the town is part of an almost continuous urban area which spreads across much of the West Midlands. Dudley, though, is one of the most interesting geological sites in Britain, a fact that has contributed to its rich industrial history.
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1783/03/04](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17830304/) - Darwin tells Boulton he has become involved with founding a philosophical society at Derby and encourages Boulton to work with Richard Arkwright. Derby Mar. 4-83 Dear Sir I am favour’d with your letter, and the note for 30£. In respect to the principle I should not have written to you for it, but that I supposed
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1789/11/20](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17891120/) - Darwin writes to Watt to request some details of the Boulton and Watt steam engine for his next poem. ---------------------------------------- Dear Sir, Derby Nov. 20-89 As the Loves of the Plants pays me well, & as I write for pay not for fame, I intend to publish the Economy of Vegetation in the spring. - now in
- [Johnson and Science](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/johnson-and-science/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), A Philosopher Lecturing on the Orrery (1764-1766). Oil on Canvas. At one level this painting is an essay on the communication of scientific knowledge. The middle years of Samuel Johnson’s literary career were extremely productive. His essays in The Rambler (1752-54), The Adventurer (1753-54), The Idler (1758-60), book reviews
- [Catherine the Great and her non-visit to Soho House](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/catherine-the-great-and-her-non-visit-to-soho-house/) - Image: Death of Catherine the Great. Double-headed eagle and bust of the monarch. 1796. Designed by Conrad Heinrich Kuchler. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office (19) Text: Olga Baird Summary Historical evidence can be misinterpreted. The 19th century writer, Samuel Smiles seems to have been the first person to have published a claim that the Russian Empress, Catherine the
- [Shrewsbury’s Industrial Context](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/shrewsburys-industrial-context/) - Image: The main mill at Ditherington from the west, c.1945. Image from: Shropshire Archives Ditherington Mill developed as part of Shrewsbury’s commercial and industrial history. By the seventeenth century, Shrewsbury was an important centre for the woollen trade. Woven cloth from North Wales was finished in the town and sold to markets further away. The trade declined
- [The Location of Ditherington Mill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-location-of-ditherington-mill/) - Image: View of Ditherington Mill showing the Shropshire Canal and canal bridge in the foreground from an early 20th century photograph. The Canal was opened in 1797 and it fell into disuse in about 1930. It was officially closed in 1944. 5 Image from: Shropshire Archives In 1796 John Marshall (1765-1845) and the brothers Thomas and Benjamin Benyon
- [Charles Bage and Iron Construction](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charles-bage-and-iron-construction/) - Image: The ground floor of Charles Bage’s Ditherington Mill showing the iron columns used in construction. The picture provides an impression of the interior scale of the building. Image from: Shropshire Archives Marshall and the Benyon Brothers experienced a devastating fire at one of their mills in Water Lane, Leeds on 13 February 1796. The cost was
- [A Window on the World: Richard Greene’s Museum of Curiosities in Lichfield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-window-on-the-world-richard-greenes-museum-of-curiosities-in-lichfield/) - Image: “An East View of the Cathedral Church of St Chad’s & Close of Lichfield; Taken from Stow-pool near St Chad’s Church. 1745. Stebbing Shaw, History and Antiquities of Staffordshire, Vol.1 (London, 1798). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Text: Olga Baird Image Captions and Summary: Malcolm Dick Summary Richard Greene created his Museum of Curiosities in late
- [Richard Greene and 18th Century Museums](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/richard-greene-and-18th-century-museums/) - Image: Portrait of Richard Greene. Stebbing Shaw, History and Antiquities of Staffordshire, Vol.1 (London, 1798). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library In June 1793, The Gentlemen’s Magazine informed its readers of the death at Lichfield, in his 78th year, of “Mr Greene, surgeon and apothecary, and one of the aldermen of that city. He was the proprietor
- [British Antiquities in Greene’s Museum](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/british-antiquities-in-greenes-museum/) - Image: “A Draught of the Curious Clock in the possession of Mr Ricd Green of Lichfield”, one of the largest artefacts in Greene’s Museum. The Universal Magazine of Knowledge and Pleasure, Vol. III, July 1747, Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The first group contained “antiquities” of British history - historic objects, and items, which
- [The Ditherington Industrial Complex](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-ditherington-industrial-complex/) - Image: View of the main mill from the east showing the Shrewsbury Canal and the single-storey building built by William Jones after 1896 when the building became a maltings. Photograph by: Nabi Heydari (April 2003) Ditherington Mill was built in 1796-97 by a partnership, Marshall, Benyon and Bage to spin flax. John Marshall and Thomas
- [Thomas Lombe (1685 - 1739)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/thomas-lombe-1685-1739/) - Image: Old Silk Mill, Derby. John Keys, Sketches of Old Derby and Neighbourhoods(London and Derby, 1895) Two brothers were responsible for the development of successful factory-based silk production in Britain. They were John Lombe (1693 - 1722) and Thomas Lombe (1685 - 1739). The Lombe family had originally come from Norfolk where they were wool merchants and
- [Charles Bage, the Flax Industry and Shrewsbury’s Iron-Framed Mills](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charles-bage-the-flax-industry-and-shrewsburys-iron-framed-mills/) - Image: View of Ditherington Mill in April 2003, the world’s first completely iron-framed building. The factory was built in 1796-1797 to spin flax. It continued to manufacture the product until 1886. After 1897, the buildings were adapted as a maltings by William Jones & Sons. With a brief interruption during World War II, they continued to
- [The Attack on the New and Old Meeting Houses](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-attack-on-the-new-and-old-meeting-houses/) - Image:The New Meeting from The Riots at Birmingham, July 1791. The publication was republished by Arthur Bache Matthews, Birmingham in 1863. Image from: Private Collection The first act of violence was the stoning of the empty hotel but the mob soon moved on to more “worthy” targets in the shape of Priestley’s New Meeting House on Moor
- [The Attack on Priestley’s House at Fair Hill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-attack-on-priestleys-house-at-fair-hill/) - Image: The Rev Dr Priestley’s House and Laboratory, Fair Hill from The Riots at Birmingham, July 1791. The publication was republished by Arthur Bache Matthews, Birmingham in 1863. Image from: Private Collection According to Martineau, the magistrate’s first plan for the riots ended there, and they were as shocked as anyone to hear that the mob had moved
- [The Attack on Baskerville House](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-attack-on-baskerville-house/) - Image: Baskerville House, Residence of John Ryland Esq., from The Riots at Birmingham, July 1791. The publication was republished by Arthur Bache Matthews, Birmingham in 1863. Image from: Private Collection Certain aspects of what happened during the Riots do indeed suggest a degree of reason behind the madness. Several owners of properties were warned in advance of their
- [The Attack on William Russell’s House at Showell Green](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-attack-on-william-russells-house-at-showell-green/) - Image: The House of William Russell, Esq., Showell Green from The Riots at Birmingham, July 1791. Image by courtesy of James Rushton. The publication was republished by Arthur Bache Matthews, Birmingham in 1863. Image from: Private Collection Priestley had fled Fair Hill when first news of the riots reached him and taken refuge in the Russell family’s, as
- [The Lunar Society and Education](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-lunar-society-and-education-4/) - Image: Lunar Society member, Samuel Galton junior, who educated his daughter, Mary, according to Priestley’s ideas. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The concept was essentially male, but the Lunaticks extended such ideals to women too - perhaps as revolutionary a thought as any others they had. Richard Edgeworth’s second wife, Honora Sneyd, for
- [A Philosopher lecturing on the Orrery (1766)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-philosopher-lecturing-on-the-orrery-1766/) - Wright’s painting is a celebration of scientific knowledge and the interpreter of this knowledge, the philosopher. The latter dominates the picture and explains the working of the sun and planets via an orrery, a mechanical representation of the solar system. The audience is transfixed by the demonstration, which may be showing the causes of eclipses.
- [Letter from Charles Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1777/01/13](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17770113/) - Charles Darwin was Dr. Darwin's son and studied medicine at Edinburgh University. Dr. Joseph Black was a Professor of Chemistry and discovered the principles of latent heat. This letter highlights the interest Boulton had in science and that the Lunar Society friendships extended to the next generation. Charles died in 1778 after cutting his finger
- [Introduction: Between Enlightenment and Romanticism](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/introduction-between-enlightenment-and-romanticism/) - Alchymist in Search of the Philosopher’s Stone, (exhibited 1775, reworked 1795). Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Oil on canvas. Derby Museum & Art Gallery. Image: This is one of Wright's overtly allegorical paintings. He shows an alchymist seeking the "Philosopher's Stone", the substance which turns base metal into gold and cure all the world's ills. The word
- [Early Warwickshire Maps](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/early-warwickshire-maps/) - Image: The 'Anonymous' map of Warwickshire Printed by John Overton of London. The date on it is 1603; it is a copy of Saxton's map, with additions and corrections. North is at the top, and there is a scale. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Map-makers often used older surveys, and map-engravers
- [William Westley's Plan of Birmingham, 1731](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-westleys-plan-of-birmingham-1731/) - Image: The 1731 town plan of Birmingham bears this dedication: To the Honourable Edwd. Digby & Willm. Peyton Esqs, Members of Parliament for the County of Warwick, this Plate is humbly Dedicated by their most obedt. humble Servt.W. Westley Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library William Westley was a Birmingham surveyor. He owned land
- [Birmingham in 1751](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-in-1751/) - Image: This is a street plan from 1751, surveyed by Samuel Bradford and engraved by Thomas Jefferys. Samuel Bradford had also made a plan of Coventry in 1750. Orientation - north is at the top. Many landmarks are named. The scale is 4 chains to one inch. There are separate symbols for deciduous trees and conifers.
- [Keys and Explanations](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/keys-and-explanations/) - Image: One of the earliest keys, from the late seventeenth century copy of the 1603 'Anonymous' map. This is the only panel on the side of the map to include both Latin and English, all other text is in Latin. The key is presumably the section which the surveyor thought might need explanation. Although there are
- [Birmingham and the Country Around, 1798](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-and-the-country-around-1798/) - Image: 'A MAP OF UPWARDS OF 25 MILES ROUND THE TOWN OF BIRMINGHAM. To his most sacred MAJESTY GEORGE the THIRD, KING OF GREAT BRITAIN, &c,&c. This MAP, with permission, is respectfully inscribed by Jas. Sherriff.' North is at the top of the map. The scale is in a cartouche bottom left, with a ruler showing
- [Cartouches](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/cartouches/) - Image: Cartouche from 1772 map of Worcestershire. Fruit is important to the agriculture of Worcestershire, and fruit of various kinds entwine the surrounds of the dedication. Below are the River Severn, important for transport, kilns, and a typical landscape for Worcestershire with hills and trees. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The oldest English
- [Birmingham in 1810](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-in-1810/) - TO THE COMMISSONERS OF THE STREET ACTS, THIS MAP OF THE TOWN AND PARISH OF Birmingham, Showing the Boundaries as perambulated by them, IN THE YEAR 1810. Is most respectfully inscribed, by their most obedient Servant, JOHN KEMPSON, Surveyor. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library John Kempson produced a number of maps
- [Tithe Maps](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/tithe-maps/) - Image: Tithe Map of Smethwick Image from: Birmingham City Archives Tithe maps mark the end of an era. From medieval times one-tenth of produce in kind and stock (a tithe) was paid by landholders to the church. Through the centuries there had been many changes in land ownership, and many tithe payments in kind had been commuted
- [Ironbridge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ironbridge/) - The Ironbridge Gorge from Lincoln Hill showing the River Severn, the town of Ironbridge and evidence of mining, quarrying and manufacturing.
- [Buildwas Abbey](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/buildwas-abbey/) - Buildwas Abbey was taken over by Henry VII in 1538 and fell into a picturesque ruin. The landowners who acquired Buildwas continued to exploit the mineral resources of the area. The economic significance of Coalbrookdale and the Ironbridge Gorge goes back to the Middle Ages when monasteries managed much of the commercial and industrial activity
- [A Catalogue of Commerce and Art: Bisset’s Magnificent Guide for Birmingham, 1808](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-catalogue-of-commerce-and-art-bissets-magnificent-guide-for-birmingham-1808/) - Image: Title page of Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham The contents are described as follows: Comprising the Addresses of the most eminent Public Companies, Bankers, Merchants, Tradesmen and Manufacturers in the "Toy-Shop of Europe" alphabetically arranged in elegant and emblematic Engravings containing upwards of fifty superb Plates with
- [Frontispiece to Bisset’s Magnificent Directory](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/frontispiece-to-bissets-magnificent-directory/) - Image from: Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham, 1808 [From Birmingham Central Library] 01. Frontispiece to Bisset’s Magnificent Directory and Literary and Commercial Iconography Respectfully Dedicated to His Royal Highness George Prince of Wales. The engraving by Francis Eginton shows a bust of Prince George, the eldest son of
- [Anna Seward and Lichfield Society](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/anna-seward-and-lichfield-society/) - Image: Samuel Johnson’s Birthplace, Lichfield Lantern Slide, Birmingham Central Library 2. Anna Seward and Lichfield Society So, how did this provincial gentlewoman, living in splendid isolation in Lichfield, deep in the heart of the Midlands, birthplace of Samuel Johnson and David Garrick, and who now, unlike them, is largely forgotten, come to have such an impact on British literary
- [Rope Making and Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/rope-making-and-bewdley/) - Image: Print of a mid-19th century Birmingham rope, line and twine works in Dartmouth Street, Birmingham, established in 1770. Rope manufacturing was a complex process. Most activities were conducted outside where rows of stretching frames for finished rope are shown on both sides of a central building. Workers are engaged in various tasks: • On the
- [Lowe’s Rope and Twine Manufactory](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lowes-rope-and-twine-manufactory/) - Image: A display at Bewdley Museum of items from Lowe’s Rope and Twine Manufactory. The firm was founded in 1801 and closed in 1972. [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 2. Lowe’s Rope and Twine Manufactory (1) The Accounts and Letter Books of one local business, Lowe’s Rope Manufactory survive and are held at Bewdley Museum. Using these
- [Lowe’s Rope and Twine Manufactory](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lowes-rope-and-twine-manufactory-2/) - Image: An exterior view of buildings at Lowe’s rope manufactory. Much of the firm’s production took place in the open air. The stretcher board on the left is at Bewdley Museum. The railway viaduct of the Severn Valley Railway is in the background. [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 3. Lowe’s Rope and Twine Manufactory (2) Tradition indicates
- [Work and Labour](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/work-and-labour-4/) - Image: Mr G Taylor, an employee at Lowe’s Rope and Twine Manufactory, Bewdley, is shown with hemp fibres round his waist for hemp dressing. The photograph was taken in about 1910. To his left (right of picture) are “hackles”, spikes through which raw fibres were drawn to ensure that they were clean and running in the
- [The Origins of the Brass Industry in the Midlands and Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-origins-of-the-brass-industry-in-the-midlands-and-birmingham/) - Caption: Image of a brassworker with a crucible from The Useful Arts and Manufactures of Great Britain, second part (London, SPCK, nd). Brass was originally made by cementing copper, calamine (zinc ore) and charcoal in a crucible to a red hot heat. Brass was formed when the spelter (zinc metal) and copper combined at the bottom of
- [Innovation in the Midlands Brass Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/innovation-in-the-midlands-brass-industry/) - Caption: An original Boulton and Watt Engine from The Useful Arts and Manufactures of Great Britain, second part (London, SPCK nd), p 31. This engine of 100 horse power was installed at the Fazeley Street Rolling Mills in Birmingham at the end of the 18th century to provide the energy to drive rolling mills which turned cast
- [Work and Labour](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/work-and-labour-3/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. Two charcoal burners in front of their hut, with some of their tools, including a wheelbarrow (background) and shovel (foreground). The man on the right has a clay pipe in his hands. The hut is draped with a sack printed with the message, “Joseph Oakes, Wyre Hill, Bewdley No
- [Explanation and Note from A Map of the County of Stafford, 1831 to 1832, by J. Phillips and W. Hutchings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/explanation-and-note-from-a-map-of-the-county-of-stafford-1831-to-1832-by-j-phillips-and-w-hutchings/)
- [Maps and Map Making: the West Midlands Experience](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/maps-and-map-making-the-west-midlands-experience/) - Image: Cartouche from James Sherriff's map of the area for 25 miles around Birmingham, 1798. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The cartouche uses the conventions of eighteenth and early nineteenth century maps of cities. As was often the case, there are pictures of the most significant churches, St. Philip's on the
- [The First Road Maps, John Ogilby, 1697](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-first-road-maps-john-ogilby-1697/) - Image:The road-map showing part of the route between London and Welshpool, from John Ogilby's Britannia, published in 1675. Ogilby was the first to use the statute mile. The orientation is on each section of the road. Towns may have a correct, and a common name: 'Solihull vulgo Silhill', 'Birmingham vulgo Bromwicham'. Image from: Local Studies
- [Keys and Explanations](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/keys-and-explanations-2/) - Image: Key from map of Staffordshire, Phillips & Hutchings, 1832. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The key includes new symbols which reflect contemporary society, and recent history. Railways were very new at that time, but already there is a symbol for them. The Reform Act was passed in 1832; there is a symbol
- [Work and Labour](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/work-and-labour-2/) - Image: The Snuff Mill, Golden Valley, near Tickenhill, Bewdley (early 20th century) [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 2. Work and Labour Snuff was made by pulverising “cured” tobacco leaves, which had been allowed to ferment in their own juices for several years. Initially, snuff was ground by using a mortar and pestle or hand-operated grinders. As demand
- [The Decline of Snuff Taking](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-decline-of-snuff-taking/) - Image: Upper Pool used as part of the snuff mill complex, Golden Valley, near Tickenhill, Bewdley (late 20th century) [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 5. The Decline of Snuff Taking Snuff taking remained a popular habit until the 20th century, but by the mid-19th century it was becoming less fashionable. • Fashionable society began to look on
- [Snuff Grinding](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/snuff-grinding/) - Image: Snuff Grinding: ruins of the snuff mill, wooden gearing and water wheel, Golden Valley, near Tickenhill, Bewdley (late 20th century) [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 4. Snuff Grinding This photograph and the one linked with the title of this section show the wooden gearing of the grinding wheel at Bewdley Snuff Mill, dating in all probability
- [Scientific Achievements](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/scientific-achievements/) - Image: Photograph of James Watt’s copying machine. Image from: Handsworth Historical Society via Digital Handsworth Project www.digitalhandsworth.org.uk Some of the Lunar Society members invented improved cameras and various devices for making and reproducing visual images. Erasmus Darwin invented a device to copy drawings or writing in which two quill pens were fastened together. James Watt’s
- [Priestley’s Early Career](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestleys-early-career/) - Image: The Earl of Shelburne, Priestley’s patron from 1772 to 1780 Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins After Daventry, Joseph Priestley held several posts in quick succession. Between 1755 and 1758 he ministered to a small presbyterian congregation in Needham Market, Suffolk; then he moved on to a post at Nantwich in Cheshire.
- [Introduction: Interpretations](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/introduction-interpretations/) - The “Priestley” Riots of July 1791 are one of the best-documented episodes in Birmingham history. The initial coverage of the riots in the local and national press led to a plethora of letters to the papers and “corrective” pamphlets. The victims were, after all, what Chris Upton has termed the “chattering classes” of their day.1 Principal
- [Priestley and the Church of England](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestley-and-the-church-of-england/) - Image: Bishop Samuel Horsley, one of Priestley’s main Anglican opponents. Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins. In his religious views Priestley attracted most opposition and almost hatred from the Established Church, the Church of England. Some of his most vociferous opponents were churchmen. William Hutton even cynically claimed that they could make their
- [Priestley’s Educational Philosophy](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestleys-educational-philosophy/) - People, Priestley insisted, were not what they were born but what their education had made them. A careful education from birth in all aspects of being - intellectual, moral and physical - was a prerequisite, therefore, for the virtuous, useful and happy man or woman. Priestley derived his ideas partly from John Locke who was
- [Joseph Priestley: Trail-blazing Experimenter](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/joseph-priestley-trail-blazing-experimenter/) - Image: Print of Joseph Priestley, 1782, showing examples of scientific equipment beneath the portrait. Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives. Text: Goronwy Tudor Jones Summary This article was originally presented in a public day school, “Joseph Priestley and Birmingham” organised by the Centre for Lifelong Learning at the University of Birmingham on Saturday
- [Bowood House: Discovery of Oxygen; Respiratory Science](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bowood-house-discovery-of-oxygen-respiratory-science/) - Image: Antoine Lavoisier, the French chemist, whom Priestley met in 1774. Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins. Priestley vividly describes how he heated what we now call mercuric oxide with his new 12-inch burning lens to discover the most remarkable of all the kinds of air I have produced 13. .
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1790/01/19](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17900119/) - Darwin thanks Watt for information about steam engines for The Economy of Vegetationand attempts to rouse Watt from his depressive tendencies. Derby Jan 19:90 Dear Watt, I am much obliged to you for your letter, & am impatient for the further paper you promise me. - & if you will give me leave to put your
- [John Whitehurst and 18th Century Geology](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-whitehurst-and-18th-century-geology/) - John Whitehurst (1713-1788) was the oldest member of the Lunar Society. Born in Congleton in Cheshire he moved to Derby and made a name for himself as a clockmaker and engineer in the Midlands and London and shared an interest in geology with other Lunar Society figures such as Matthew Boulton, Erasmus Darwin, Josiah Wedgwood and
- [Enlightenment and Dissent: A Poem](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/enlightenment-and-dissent-a-poem/) - By Roi Ankhkara Kwabena, Poet, Writer and Cultural Activist Roi was born in the Caribbean island of Trinidad. He is a cultural anthropologist whose creative work is regularly commissioned by many cultural, educational and local government agencies and has worked with all age ranges in Europe, Africa, Latin-America and the Caribbean for over twenty nine
- [Edward B. Baldwin, Wholesale Saddler, Walsall](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/edward-b-baldwin-wholesale-saddler-walsall/)
- [Bark Peeling Tools](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bark-peeling-tools/) - Image: Barking irons, Wyre Forest [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 3. Bark Peeling Tools Bark peeling was a task requiring the use of special tools, known as peelers or barking irons, which were forged by a blacksmith. Men used a rod made from a solid piece of iron which terminated in a flattened blade. It was around
- [Charcoal Burning](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning-3/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. A man is raking out a clamp with a “rauble” or rake and using an oak-spade basket to gather the charcoal. A full sack is in the foreground. [Image from: Bewdley Museum, 1950s] 5. Charcoal Burning (3) The pit was left to burn for two to ten days. A
- [Charcoal Burning](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning-4/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. Two men are filing sacks with charcoal from an oak spade basket. There are approximately 13 filled sacks in the picture. Windbreak screens can be seen in the background. [Image from: Bewdley Museum]
- [Charcoal Burning Tools](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning-tools-2/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 8. Charcoal Burning Tools (2) Item located in Bewdley Museum. Wood colliers used a distinctive style of wheelbarrow with an open framework for distributing branch wood around the hearth and for transporting the sacks of bagged charcoal.
- [Charcoal Burning Tools](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning-tools-3/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 9. Charcoal Burning Tools (3) Items located in Bewdley Museum. The circular iron plate was used to cover the centre of the hearth as an alternative to using turf to seal the flue of the clamp. A long-handled shovel or ship was used for covering
- [Charcoal Burning Tools](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning-tools-4/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 10. Charcoal Burning Tools (4) Item located in Bewdley Museum. The charcoal burners rake or “corrack” was used to rake out the clamp at the end of the burning process.
- [Charcoal burning: Retorts](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning-retorts/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. Three men are cutting up timber to fill retorts. A horse is in the background. [Image from: Bewdley Museum, 1930s or 1940s] 11. Charcoal burning: Retorts (1) Charcoal burning was a long-established traditional industry, but it was influenced by technological developments. In 1810, Mollerat Freres developed a design for
- [Charcoal Burning: Retorts](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning-retorts-2/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. One man is filling a retort and taking wood from two others. On each side of the retort are mounds of ready cut wood. Full bags of charcoal can be seen to the left of the foreground. [Image from: Bewdley Museum, 1930s or 1940s] 12. Charcoal Burning: Retorts (2)
- [Works Fire Engine](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/works-fire-engine/) - Image: Photos taken about 1950. The works fire brigade was formed in 1848 and this example of a hand-operated fire engine dates from the 19th century. Image from: Chance Brothers Glassworks, Smethwick Slides. Broadfield House Glass Museum, Kingswinford, Dudley (Slide and Transcript no 5 by Arthur Reeves).
- [Derby Porcelain: William Duesbury II and Robert Bloor](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/derby-porcelain-william-duesbury-ii-and-robert-bloor/) - Image: Old China Works, Derby, showing kilns for firing the porcelain. John Keys, Sketches of Old Derby and Neighbourhood (London and Derby, 1895). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Following the death of William Duesbury, his son William Duesbury II (1763-1797) took control of Crown Derby. His period is now recognised as
- [The Lunar Men and the Status of Women](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-lunar-men-and-the-status-of-women/) - Image: Mrs Joseph Priestley, by C F von Breda, 1793. Oil on Canvas. Mary Priestley was the wife of Dr Joseph Priestley and brother of John Wilkinson, the iron master. Joseph Priestley was heavily dependent on Mary to manage his household whilst he concentrated on his research, writing and experiments. She was a highly intelligent
- [Miss Ann Boulton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/miss-ann-boulton/) - Image: The drawing room at Soho House, Handsworth near Birmingham. Ann Boulton (1768-1829) lived at Soho House until after her brother’s marriage in 1817. The room provided Anne with an opportunity to practice her music. Matthew Boulton sent her a pianoforte, similar to the one in the photograph in 1801. There is no known portrait
- [Sabrina and Lucretia: a failed experiment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sabrina-and-lucretia-a-failed-experiment/) - Image: Portrait of Thomas Day, an engraving based on a painting by Joseph Wright of Derby. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library If Matthew Boulton seems to have favoured the traditional approach with his children, some members of the Lunar Society adopted more radical schemes of female education. We do not know
- [Educating Amelia](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/educating-amelia/) - Image: Portrait of James Keir and his granddaughter. Image from: Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery Day’s problems with his two ‘experimental’ potential wives arose from his belief that he could impose his own ideas and values on them. A different approach was to use a girl’s natural curiosity as the instrument of her education. About
- [Maria Edgeworth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/maria-edgeworth/) - Image: Portrait of Maria Edgeworth, an engraving based on a portrait by Chappel. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library While Keir was working on his Dialogues on Chemistry for children, another Lunar Society member, Richard Lovell Edgeworth, was working with his daughter, Maria, on the revision of their work Practical Education. This
- [Mrs Elizabeth Montagu, the “Queen of the Blues”](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mrs-elizabeth-montagu-the-queen-of-the-blues/) - Image: C F Von Breda, Matthew Boulton, 1792. Oil on Canvas. Boulton was the most famous of Birmingham’s toymakers. The portrait shows him examining items from his geological collections with Soho Manufactory, the biggest factory in the world in the background. Boulton produced buttons, buckles, steel jewellery and silverware at Soho. Boulton had many customers
- [Mary Knowles](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mary-knowles/) - Image: Portrait of Dr William Withering from an engraving. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Mary Knowles (1733-1807) was a scholarly Quaker well-known to Samuel Johnson (who however was more attracted by her looks than her intellect). Mary was also a friend of the philosopher Henry Moyes, and the Birmingham physician Dr
- [Lady Catherine Wright](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lady-catherine-wright/) - Image: Portrait of Dr William Withering from an engraving Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Another of Withering’s lively female correspondents was Lady Catherine Wright of Teignmouth, Devon. She was the wife of a diplomat, Sir James Wright. Lady Catherine became a pupil of Dr Withering, in a sort of early “distance
- [Mary and Martha Russell and the Birmingham Riots of 1791](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mary-and-martha-russell-and-the-birmingham-riots-of-1791/) - Image: Destruction of Dr Priestley’s House and Laboratory, Fair Hill, Birmingham, July 14 1791. After a picture sketched on the spot, now in the passion of Madame Belloc, London. Jeyes, S H, The Russells of Birmingham in the French Revolution and America 1791-1814 (London, George Allen & Company, Ltd., 1911). Image from: Local Studies and
- [The Escape of the Russells from Birmingham to France](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-escape-of-the-russells-from-birmingham-to-france/) - Image: William Russell (1740-1818). Jeyes, S H, The Russells of Birmingham in the French Revolution and America 1791-1814 (London, George Allen & Company, Ltd., 1911). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The Russell family set sail from Falmouth the following August, but four days into the voyage their ship was intercepted by
- [The Russells in America](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-russells-in-america/) - Image: New York City in 1768. Jeyes, S H, The Russells of Birmingham in the French Revolution and America 1791-1814 (London, George Allen & Company, Ltd., 1911). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library On 22 June 1795 the Russells left Paris for Le Havre, from where they set sail for America on
- [The Return of the Russells to England](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-return-of-the-russells-to-england/) - Image: James Skey (1754-1838) who married Martha Russell in 1798. From a miniature painting by James Millar (1797). Jeyes, S H, The Russells of Birmingham in the French Revolution and America 1791-1814 (London, George Allen & Company, Ltd., 1911) Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library One of William Russell’s friends in England,
- [Anna Seward and her World](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/anna-seward-and-her-world/) - Image: The West Front of Lichfield Cathedral Lantern Slide, Birmingham Central Library 1. Anna Seward and her World The 18th century was a competitive world, progress being made by the money you had or the notice you attracted; with whom you mixed and to whose gatherings you were invited; how much influence you had and how
- [Lichfield and her Final Years](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lichfield-and-her-final-years/) - Image: An East View of the Cathedral Church and Close of Lichfield, taken from Stowe Pool, near St. Chad’s Church, 1745 (engraving). Anna Seward’s home, The Bishop’s Palace is the large building to the right of the Cathedral. Lantern Slide, Birmingham Central Library 6. Lichfield and her Final Years Life in Lichfield in the 1790s continued
- [The Philosophical Context: From Optimism to Realism](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-philosophical-context-from-optimism-to-realism/) - The Widow of an Indian Chief watching the Weapons of her deceased Husband (1785). Joseph Wright of Derby 1734-1797), Oil on Canvas. Derby Museum & Art Gallery. Image: Celebration of the “noble savage" is a feature of 18th century art. In this painting of an American Indian woman, Wright does something very different. He uses a human image
- [Curiosities in Greene’s Museum](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/curiosities-in-greenes-museum/) - Image: “Miss Seward”. John Jackson, History of the City and Cathedral of Lichfield(London, 1805). Anna Seward, the Lichfield poet donated “curiosities” to Greene’s Museum. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The third large group of Greene’s materials consisted of “curiosities”. Most of them were very modern and clearly reflected the new inventions, scientific and geographical
- [Copper gilt button](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/copper-gilt-button/) - Image from: Luckock Collection, Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery A copper gilt button, set with an opaque white glass medallion, painted in gold pigment with a swirling design. The edge is machine-chased and the button has a copper wire soldered shank. It was created c 1785.
- [Francis B. Oberton, Coach and Saddler's Ironmonger, Walsall](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/francis-b-oberton-coach-and-saddlers-ironmonger-walsall/) - Advertisement, Men and Things of Modern England... The New Illustrated Directory... (Birmingham, M Billing, 1856)
- [Joseph Priestley and his Influence on Education in Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/joseph-priestley-and-his-influence-on-education-in-birmingham/) - Image: Penny featuring a bust of Joseph Priestley on one side, and on the other side an apparatus for experiments. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office (Donor reference: 690) Text: Ruth Watts Summary This article was originally presented in a public day school, “Joseph Priestley and Birmingham” organised by the Centre for Lifelong Learning at the University of Birmingham
- [The Cyclops: Addressed to the Birmingham Artisans, Anonymous](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-cyclops-addressed-to-the-birmingham-artisans-anonymous/) - Image: Ironfounder, The Book of Trades or Library of Useful Arts, Part II, third edition (London Tabart and Co, 1806). Image from: Science, Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library ……… Vulcan …… His skill exerted … And with new arms the victor God supply’d. What skill the sooty artist has reveal’d ………… Red metal flames, the roaring bellows
- [Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham/) - Image: Hinks, Wells & Co, Steel Pen Manufacturers, Buckingham Street Pen Works, Birmingham Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Local Studies and History, Central Library, Birmingham BIRMINGHAM [1] We cannot venture, in the space allotted to us, to attempt a description of all the branches of trade carried on
- [Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-3/) - Image: John Rubery, Umbrella, Parasol, Furniture and Steel Frame Manufacturer, Birmingham Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Local Studies and History, Central Library, Birmingham Birmingham [3] One word as to the progress of Birmingham in population and in material wealth, and we bring this portion of our work to
- [Hallmarking and the Work of Birmingham Assay Office](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/hallmarking-and-the-work-of-birmingham-assay-office/) - Image: Boulton and Fothergill Forks and Spoons showing Hallmarks for 1774 Image from: Birmingham Assay Office On 31 August 1773, the Birmingham Assay Office opened in three modest rooms at the King's Head Inn, in New Street. Boulton was the first manufacturer among the town’s forty licensed silversmiths to submit his wares (and the first to have
- [Matthew Boulton and Silver Making](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boulton-and-silver-making/) - Image: Sweetmeat Basket, Boulton & Fothergill, 1774 This basket was possibly designed by Robert Adam. The body is made from wire supporting stamped repeated ornaments of grapes and vine leaves. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Working in solid silver, Boulton had to compete with well-known London craftsmen. He turned for inspiration to the vases in the famous
- [Silversmiths and Silverware in late 18th and early 19th century Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/silversmiths-and-silverware-in-late-18th-and-early-19th-century-birmingham/) - Image: Silver caddy spoon, probably by Samuel Pemberton, c.1800. The delicate design is created by a filigree technique using wire. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Text: Olga Baird and Malcolm Dick Photographs: Kinson Chan (November 2003) Summary Matthew Boulton created the modern silver trade in Birmingham. His successful campaign to establish a local assay office provided a hallmarking system
- [Introduction](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/introduction/) - Image: Print of Joseph Priestley Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins Two hundred years ago, on 6 February 1804, Joseph Priestley Doctor of Laws, minister of religion, theologian, scientist and political reformer, passed away. Thomas Cooper who was with him at the end wrote that same day to a mutual acquaintance: “Your old
- [Priestley’s Arrival in America](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestleys-arrival-in-america/) - Image: Chemical Philosophers of the Present Day, Dr Priestley. The apotheosis of Joseph Priestley. The scientist ascends into the heavens with the aid of an eagle. Image from: Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives On 8 April, 1794, at 61 years of age, he left the United Kingdom, never to return. His house at Fair
- [Pastoral Group, c.1770](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pastoral-group-c-1770/) - The group with a shepherd playing his pipe to a sleeping shepherdess is a good example of the influence of French Rococo on early Derby ware. It derives from a painting by François Boucher (1703-1770), and may have been modelled by the sculptor Pierre Stephan from Tournai. He worked at Chelsea, and moved to Derby
- [Candelabrum, c. 1755-60](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/candelabrum-c-1755-60/) - Rococo double candelabrum in form of a flowering tree crowned with a nesting bird. The applied flowers and delicately painted figures clearly demonstrate the ambitions of early Derby to be a “second Meissen”. Image from: Derby Museum and Art Gallery
- [The Canal Wharf, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-canal-wharf-cromford-derbyshire/) - The Cromford and Erewash Canal was built in the early 1790s as part of a route to connect Cromford with Manchester. Constructed by William Jessop and Benjamin Outram, it was designed to move limestone and other mineral resources from this remote and hilly part of Derbyshire to markets. The canal also had potential for Sir
- [Gunpowder Joe: Priestley’s Religious Radicalism](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/gunpowder-joe-priestleys-religious-radicalism/) - Image: Cartoon: The Friends of the People, showing Joseph Priestley on the left Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins Text: Gay Hill Summary This article was originally presented in a public day school, “Joseph Priestley and Birmingham” organised by the Centre for Lifelong Learning at the University of Birmingham on Saturday 28 February 2004.
- [A Philosopher, Conduit Street](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-philosopher-conduit-street/) - Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives.
- [Priestley’s Origins](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestleys-origins/) - Image: Birthplace of Joseph Priestley, Fieldhead, Leeds, Yorkshire. Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins Joseph Priestley was born into a family of woollen cloth workers and dressers in the West Riding of Yorkshire, just outside Leeds, in 1733. He came from a modest but comfortable craft background. However the family was disrupted early
- [The Burne-Jones Windows at St Philip’s, Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-burne-jones-windows-at-st-philips-birmingham/) - Image: Cathedral Church of St Philip, Birmingham. The photograph shows the extension to the chancel of 1884 at the east end of the building, which housed three of the four windows by Burne-Jones: the Nativity, Crucifixion, and Ascension. Photographer of the Burne-Jones Windows: Alisdair Carew-Cox (tel: 01386 792404) Please note that Mr Carew-Cox is the copyright holder
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - An Escape](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-an-escape/) - AN ESCAPE. MARY TAYLOR, who escaped from the Custody of the Keeper of the County Gaol in Shrewsbury, on Friday the 12th and was advertised in the Birmingham Newspapers of Thursday the 18th and Monday the 22nd of the same Month, offering a Reward of Two Guineas to any Person or Persons who should apprehend,
- [A Sorry End: The Priestley Riots of 1791](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-sorry-end-the-priestley-riots-of-1791/) - Image: Ticket for the French Revolution Dinner, Birmingham 14 July 1791. The Dinner began the chain of events which led to the Priestley Riots. The Ticket admits the bearer to dine at the Hotel on Thursday, July 14, 1791. No 48. Initialled T D. French Revolution Dinner. Image from: Joseph Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City
- [The French Revolution Dinner 14 July 1791](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-french-revolution-dinner-14-july-1791/) - Image: ”A Birmingham Toast, July 14th, 1791” by James Gillray. Image from: R.K. Dent, Old and New Birmingham: A History of the Town and its People(Birmingham, Houghton and Hammond, 1880), p. 215 One of the abiding national images of the Riots is a cartoon by leading caricaturist, James Gillray, showing Priestley and other well-known radicals, toasting “the King’s
- [The French Revolution Dinner 14 July 1791](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-french-revolution-dinner-14-july-1791-2/) - Image: French Revolution Dinner. This Ticket entitles the bearer to a Bottle of Wine at the Dinner at the Hotel on the Fourteenth of July, 1791. No 49. Initialled TD. Image from: Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins, Birmingham City Archives Somewhere between 80 and 90 men attended the Dinner. They drank no fewer than 18 toasts [so
- [A View of Stourbridge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-view-of-stourbridge/) - STOURBRIDGE HAS its name from the bridge built over the river Stour: It is not a town of great antiquity, probably not older than the reign of Henry VI. Of late it is very much increased; for in the fifth year of Queen Elizabeth’s reign, Old Swinford and Stourbridge together contained about 182 families, whereas
- [A View of Shipston Upon Stower](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-view-of-shipston-upon-stower/) - SHIPSTON FROM its situation near the river called SHIPSTON-UPON-STOUR, is a market-town, though only a chapel or portion of the great parish of Tredington, from whose church it is distant about two miles. The manor was given to the church of Worcester about the year 770. King Edgar placed it in the hundred of Oswaldslawe
- [A View of Droitwich, from Dodder hill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-view-of-droitwich-from-dodder-hill/) - DROITWICH, IS a place of great antiquity, probably it was known to the Romans, but certainly in the Saxon times, long before the Norman conquest: It was a populous and rich town. In the survey made by William the first, we find it recorded as a place of consequence; its first charter was granted by
- [A View of Evesham, from Bengworth Lays](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-view-of-evesham-from-bengworth-lays/) - EVESHAM; Or, EOVESHAM; So called from Eoves, a Swine Herd of St. Egwin. THIS town may date its origin from the famous abbey, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, founded here about the 709, by Egwin the third Bishop of Worcester, before which it was famous only as a place of solitude and retirement; the abbey grew
- [William I to William III: Farmers, Craftsmen and Traders](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-i-to-william-iii-farmers-craftsmen-and-traders/) - Image: A View of Bromsgrove from Hill Top. Thomas Sanders, Perspective Views of the Market Towns within the County of Worcester drawn and engraved by Thomas Sanders (Worcester, 1777). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The origins of the Chance family can be traced back to yeoman farmers in Worcestershire. Each generation of the
- [The Origins of Carpet Making in Kidderminster](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-origins-of-carpet-making-in-kidderminster/) - Image: Kidderminster (c. 1777) Thomas Sanders, Perspective Views of Market Towns within the County of Worcester (c. 1777). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Kidderminster had been a textile producing town since medieval times. During the reign of Henry VIII, its industry had been protected by statute, along with that of a number of
- [Bankers and Public Companies in Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bankers-and-public-companies-in-birmingham/) - Image from: Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham, 1808 [From Birmingham Central Library] 04. Bankers and Public Companies in Birmingham The engraving presents a monument surmounted by an urn. Two female figures draped in classical dress stand on either side. Justice stands on the left. In her right hand
- [Buildwas](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/buildwas/) - The village of Buildwas grew up by a medieval bridge which was the only route over the Severn, except by ferry, between Shrewsbury and Bridgnorth before the construction of the Ironbridge in 1779. The presence of the Abbey inevitably meant that a place of settlement at Buildwas developed to serve the various needs of the
- [The Origins of Carpet Making in Kidderminster](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-origins-of-carpet-making-in-kidderminster-2/) - Image: House on Mount Skipet, Kidderminster. This photograph shows a house before restoration in the 1980s which was occupied by a weaver in the mid-18th century, possibly by John Tanner or William Foster who are mentioned in a document of 1758. Image from: Bewdley Museum (photograph taken in 1981) In 1749 further developments took place, thanks to
- [Dr. Erasmus Darwin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dr-erasmus-darwin/)
- [Priestley and John Wesley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestley-and-john-wesley/) - Image: Portrait of John Wesley struck off by electricity by Joseph Priestley Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins. In stark contrast to his firm beliefs in strict social discipline, Priestley was a strong believer in complete freedom of worship. This was extended to its logical conclusion, including Roman Catholics and even non-Christians.
- [Priestley in Northumberland, Pennsylvania](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestley-in-northumberland-pennsylvania/) - Image: Joseph Priestley House, Northumberland, Pennsylvania, from the south-east showing Priestley’s laboratory Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins In Northumberland, Priestley was able to settle and build a wooden-framed house with exterior clapboards. His activity, at least in part, began to resemble his life in England. He preached sermons, promoted education in the
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Abandoned Child](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-abandoned-child/) - A Child left. WHEREAS on Friday Evening the 11th instant, a Male Child, supposed to be about six Weeks or two Months old, was left at the House Door of a poor Man, within the Parish of Longdon, in the County of Stafford, by some Person or Persons unknown. Two Women, the same Evening, were
- [Charcoal and its Uses](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-and-its-uses/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. The photograph shows a completed clamp ready for firing in the Wyre Forest with a charcoal burner standing in front. [Image from: Bewdley Museum from an image in the Stone Collection, Birmingham Central Library (late 19th century)] 1. Charcoal and its Uses Charcoal has been used as a fuel
- [Charcoal Burning](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. The charcoal burner is building a clamp during the early stages before firing. [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 3. Charcoal Burning (1) Before charcoal burning could take place there was a great deal of preparatory work: • First, a hearth was prepared by clearing and levelling an area of ground
- [Charcoal Burning Tools](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charcoal-burning-tools/) - Image: Charcoal burning in the Wyre Forest. [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 7. Charcoal Burning Tools (1) A man is tending the clamp using a long-handled shovel. To his left are some of his tools: • An axe. • A barrel for holding water, two buckets and a yoke for carrying them. • A basket for collecting
- [An Innovative Metal Industry: Pewter and Mass Production in Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/an-innovative-metal-industry-pewter-and-mass-production-in-bewdley/) - Text: Malcolm Dick Image: A reconstruction at Bewdley Museum of an 18th century dining room with pewter plates stored on a rack on the wall and pewter tankards, plates, serving dishes and a candlestick on the table which is set for a meal. Pewter was a substitute for silver in middle-class households. [Image from: Bewdley Museum] Summary
- [A Perspective View of Ludlow Castle for the European Magazine, and article on The Late Storms](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-perspective-view-of-ludlow-castle-for-the-european-magazine-and-article-on-the-late-storms/) - Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 5 Image from: Shropshire Archives
- [Birmingham: Priestley’s Educational Inheritance](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-priestleys-educational-inheritance/) - Image: The Old and New Meeting Houses, the Unitarian chapels in Birmingham. Image from: William Hutton, An History of Birmingham (Birmingham, 1809). Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library It was from the Unitarians (rational dissenters who rejected both the trinity and original sin), who met in Priestley’s chapel, the New Meeting and its sister the Old Meeting, that
- [Taking Snuff](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/taking-snuff/) - Image: Portrait of Queen Charlotte, wife of George III, on the inside of an Enamel snuff box celebrating the Coronation of the King (Birmingham, 1761). Wolverhampton Art Gallery 1. Taking Snuff The hinterland of Bewdley was home to at least one snuff mill. Snuff-taking in the 18th century became a near universal habit as snuff was
- [The Orgins of the Corkscrew](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-orgins-of-the-corkscrew/) - Image: Two Corkscrews Manufactured by Charles Hull, Birmingham c. 1865 Patent Power Corkscrew The Simplest Out! Well adapted for Ladies Use Directions for Use Place the Corkscrew on the Bottle as above; after starting the Screw into the Cork, keep on turning till the Cork is drawn. This is an example of the corkscrew first developed
- [Enamel Box](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/enamel-box/) - Les Amusements Champetres engraved by B.Audran (1678-1772) after Jean Antoine Watteau (1684-1721). Lid of oblong box, transfer printed in grey on white enamel. Birmingham, 1765-1770. By the middle of the 18th century freehand painting in enamel colours had long been practised in England, and gold boxes with painted enamel decorations were well known and highly prized.
- [Enamel Box - Side](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/enamel-box-side/) - Children as Arts. Side of oblong box, transfer printed in grey on white enamel. Birmingham, 1765-1770.
- [Enamel Box - Side](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/enamel-box-side-2/) - Children as Arts. Side of oblong box, transfer printed in grey on white enamel. Birmingham, 1765-1770.
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/09/01](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940901/) - Darwin writes to Watt concerning their experiments into the use of gases in medicine. Darwin also mention Thomas Wedgwood, the son of Josiah, and his notion of an air-bed. Derby Sept. 1-94 My Dear friend, I have been so perpetually from home, that I could not sooner answer the favor of your two last kind
- [Erasmus Darwin's Signature](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/erasmus-darwins-signature/) - Taken from a letter to James Watt.
- [Dr. Erasmus Darwin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dr-erasmus-darwin-2/)
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1775/03/29](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17750329/) - Boulton and Watt were now in partnership and Boulton was attempting to have a Private Bill passed in Parliament to extend the patent for Watt's steam engine. Darwin's letter also refers to Dr William Small's death and the possibility of writing an elegy to him and the recent offer Watt received to work in Russia,
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1767/08/18](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17670818/) - Darwin writes to Watt about his ideas for improving carriages and commenting on Watt's developing theories for steam engines. ---------------------------------------- Lichfield Augt. 18-67 Dear Watt, I have been so continually engaged in travelling about the Country from sick People to sick People, that it was not till this Afternoon in my Power to measure the
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/07/03](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940703/) - Darwin writes to Watt to encourage him in his scientific experiments, especially Watt's experiments with "inflammable air". Derby Jul 3-94 My dear friend, It gave me great satisfaction both on your account and on that of the public, that you are employing your mind on the subject of medicinal airs, of which indeed Dr Beddoes
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/08/17](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17940817/) - Darwin writes to Watt to thank him for sending the scientific apparatus, previously requested for obtaining gases. Derby Augt. 17-94 Dear Sir, I should have written to you sooner to thank you for your magnificent apparatus, but knew, that you was gone from home; and as my elaboratory was so out of order, that I
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1796/06/01](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17960601/) - Darwin writes to Watt about the treatment of abscess and comments on the use of a centrifugal bed. Derby June 1 . 96 My dear friend, I return you many thanks for both your ingenious elegant apparatus, & for your kind letter. Amongst the first, alass! I could not find the mouth piece, & shall
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to Matthew Boulton, 1765/12/12](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-matthew-boulton-17651212/) - Darwin writes to Boulton on steam power and Harrison's Clock and the proposed Birmingham canal. Lichfd. Dec 12 – 65 Dear Boulton I am undone to know what Observations Dr Franklin supply’d you with about your Steam-Engine, besides giving you his approbation, and particularly to hear your final Opinion, and Dr Small’s on the important
- [Anti-slavery and the Midlands](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/anti-slavery-and-the-midlands/) - Introduction The West Midlands region was home to a remarkable collection of individuals during the closing decades of the eighteenth century. Several men of various backgrounds and persuasions formed the Lunar Society, so called because it met at the time of the full-moon. They created new philosophies, scientific and medical approaches and industrial innovations which
- [Floyer and Erasmus Darwin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/floyer-and-erasmus-darwin/) - Image: Joseph Wright (1734-1797), Portrait of Erasmus Darwin (1792). Oil on Canvas. Image from: Wolverhampton Art Gallery Erasmus Darwin, who started his medical practice in Lichfield in 1756, must have found vivid memories of Sir John Floyer and met his son John II (1681-1762) and granddaughter Susannah (1717-1800). Later he would purchase a piece of land a mile west
- [Japanning - Tea Canisters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/japanning-tea-canisters/)
- [Handloom Weaving](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/handloom-weaving/) - Image: Carpet Weaver. N Whittock et al, The Complete Book of Trades (London, Marshall and Co., 1837). The image shows the type of handloom for carpet making which was used before the advent of technological change and the factory system Image from: Science, Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library Carpet weaving was originally conducted in the homes of independent
- [Princess Ekaterina Dashkova’s Visit to Soho, Handsworth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/princess-ekaterina-dashkovas-visit-to-soho-handsworth/) - Image: Soho Manufactory. William West, Picturesque Views… of Staffordshire(Birmingham, 1830). Engraving by T Radclyffe was based on a drawing by F Calvert. This is an untypical view of the building from the rear and presents the complex of forges, mills and engine houses behind the neo-classical façade of the factory. The Soho Works became a tourist attraction
- [Advertisement: Opening of Hughes' s Great Mammoth Equestrian Establishment, Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/advertisement-opening-of-hughes-s-great-mammoth-equestrian-establishment-shrewsbury/) - Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 5 Image from: Shropshire Archives
- [Corn Mill, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/corn-mill-cromford-derbyshire/) - This corn mill was an example of the commercial facilities which developed to serve Cromford's expanding population in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
- [Water wheel at the Corn Mill, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/water-wheel-at-the-corn-mill-cromford-derbyshire/) - Using the water supplied from the Bonsall Brook, this overshot waterwheel provided the energy to power corn-grinding machinery. Overshot waterwheels, where water fell on the wheel from above were more effective than undershot water wheels. They used gravity as well as the force of water to create power. Undershot waterwheels were driven by waterpower from
- [Russian Military Visitors](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/russian-military-visitors/) - Image: Blair and Sutherlands, Gun Makers, Brook Street and Harper’s Hill, Birmingham. Advertisement from Bisset’s Magnificent Guide, or Copperplate Directory, for the Town of Birmingham (Birmingham, R Jabet, 1808) Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Russian military visitors were interested in the products of the British armaments industry. The most important national centre of gun making
- [Optical Department: Two Pot Furnace](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/optical-department-two-pot-furnace/) - Image: Photo taken about 1940. This two pot furnace accommodated 38” diameter covered pots. The furnace number is either 32 or 33. The tease hole side of the furnace is shown with one door partly raised and shows the regenerative furnace fired by raw producer gas. This is the side of furnace on which the empty
- [Optical Department: Pot being set into a Furnace](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/optical-department-pot-being-set-into-a-furnace/) - Image: Photo taken about 1940. The same furnace as on photo 2. This shows an empty pot being set into the furnace by a sample pot-setting machine which is hand operated by a team of three or four men. The pot has been taken out of a pot arch at about 800 degrees centigrade. The
- [Optical Department: Open Pots after Cooling](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/optical-department-open-pots-after-cooling/) - Image: Photo taken about 1940. The photo shows two full open pots after cooling and just prior to being broken up. Open pots are used in old fired furnaces using 200 secs (Redwood NI) fuel oil. The refractory “Robinsons” used for stirring the glass when molten are seen sticking out of the solid glass. The pots
- [Glory Hole (1852-54) for Crown Window Glass Production](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/glory-hole-1852-54-for-crown-window-glass-production/) - Image from: Photo taken during 1945-1946 demolition. It depicts the glory hole which is integral to the rectangular chimney shown on photos 7 and 8 (numbers 6 and 7 of this exhibition). The glory hole was originally built during 1852-1854 in conjunction with No12 house for making Crown window glass. A partially built protective wall was
- [Rectangular Chimney built for Glory Hole](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/rectangular-chimney-built-for-glory-hole/) - Image: Photo taken during 1945-1946 during the demolition of Number 3, 8 and 12 glasshouses. It shows the rectangular chimney built to serve the glory hole shown on photo 6 (number 5 of this exhibition). The chimney was an integral part of the glory hole and built immediately above it. Image from: Chance Brothers Glassworks, Smethwick Slides.
- [Rectangular Chimney for Glory Hole and Circular Chimney](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/rectangular-chimney-for-glory-hole-and-circular-chimney/) - Image: Photo taken during 1945-1946 during the demolition of Number 3, 8 and 12 glasshouses. The rectangular chimney for the Crown glass glory hole is seen and the circular chimney which dealt with flue gases from Number 12 furnace. The chimney was built after Number 12 was converted to raw producer gas firing. The entrance to
- [Globe Department: the Glass Blower](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/globe-department-the-glass-blower/) - Image: Photo taken about 1940. It shows the right foot of the glass blower ready to press the pedal to open the cast iron mould, thereby releasing the glass globe after manufacture. Of the other two pedals, one is for raising the mould out of the cooling water where it had fallen after opening; and the
- [The Manufactures of Birmingham and Sheffield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-manufactures-of-birmingham-and-sheffield/) - Image: Dain, Watts and Manton, Patentees and Button Manufacturers, Birmingham Image from: The New Illustrated Directory Entitled Men and Things of Modern England, 1858 Local Studies and History, Central Library, Birmingham THE MANUFACTURES OF BIRMINGHAM AND SHEFFIELD (Attributed to J. T. Bunce) -------------------- As our readers are aware, the main object of this work is to place
- [Darwin, Priestley and Romantic Materialism](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/darwin-priestley-and-romantic-materialism/) - Image: Bridge through a Cavern, Moonlight (1791). Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Oil on Canvas. Derby Museum & Art Gallery. Wright visited Italy in 1773-1775 and Bridge through a Cavern, Moonlight is one of several scenes he painted of the Naples area. Wright was fascinated by caves and caverns. He explored them artistically whilst his Lunar friends, John
- [Conclusion: Classical Order versus Romantic Nature](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/conclusion-classical-order-versus-romantic-nature/) - Virgil’s Tomb (1782), Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Oil on Canvas. Derby Museum & Art Gallery. Wright painted several versions of this scene, believed to be the tomb of the Roman poet, Virgil located above the Grotto of Posillipo in Naples. It was a stopping point on the aristocratic Grand Tour and therefore provided a concrete example
- [Joseph Wright’s Journey to Italy](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/joseph-wrights-journey-to-italy/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734- 1797), Self Portrait (c1767-70). Charcoal on paper. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery In 1773 Joseph Wright was 39 years old and an established artist. He had tried, without a great deal of success to establish himself as a portraitist and had painted images of experimental and industrial
- [Virgil’s Tomb (1782)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/virgils-tomb-1782/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Oil on canvas. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery Virgil was a famous Roman poet who died in 19 BC. His tomb was located in the hills near Naples and it formed part of the journey for Europeans engaged on a tour of classical remains in the region. Wright probably
- [Chance Brothers & Co Glass Works, Smethwick, Registered Designs for Ornamental Modern Window Glass, 1867](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/chance-brothers-co-glass-works-smethwick-registered-designs-for-ornamental-modern-window-glass-1867/) - Chance Brothers of Smethwick reassessed their manufacture of coloured and decorative window glass in the 1860s. In 1864, John V Chance argued that the Company should show no more “windows of the modern kind, but to endeavour to produce Church work of a character to place us in the front rank”. Alexander Chance saw otherwise.
- [The Chance Family: Merchants and Glassmakers](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-chance-family-merchants-and-glassmakers/) - Image: Front cover of Chance Brothers & Co., Limited, 100 Years of British Glass Making 1824-1924 (Smethwick and Glasgow, Chance Brothers & Co., 1924). A window opens onto a view with a lighthouse. The picture illustrates two of the many products manufactured by the family business during its first one hundred years. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham
- [Robert Lucas Chance: Glassmaker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/robert-lucas-chance-glassmaker/) - Image: Robert Lucas Chance (died 1865). From a photograph. Chance Brothers & Co., Limited, 100 Years of British Glass Making 1824-1924 (Smethwick and Glasgow, Chance Brothers & Co., 1924) Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library William’s eldest son, Robert Lucas Chance was a man of great mental capacity with a voracious appetite
- [William Chance: Public Figure](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-chance-public-figure/) - Image: William Chance (died 1856), from an oil painting by Thomas Philips RA, John Frederick Chance, A History of the Firm of Chance Brothers & Co. Glass and Alkali Manufacturers, (London, Spottiswoode, Ballantyne & Co. Ltd, 1919) Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library William Chance (V) managed the Birmingham enterprise with his
- [Sir James Timmins Chance: Engineer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sir-james-timmins-chance-engineer/) - Image: James Timmins Chance at the age of 80, from the bust by Hamo Thorneycroft R.A. John Frederick Chance, A History of the Firm of Chance Brothers & Co. Glass and Alkali Manufacturers, (London, Spottiswoode, Ballantyne & Co. Ltd, 1919). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library The eldest son of William (V)
- [Globe Department: Welding a Cathode Ray Tube](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/globe-department-welding-a-cathode-ray-tube/) - Image: Photo taken about 1940. It shows the welding of a special metal button into a Cathode Ray Tube. This tube is a precursor to the modern television screen. The tube was used for radar detection during the 1939-1945 war years. Note that the tube has been made in one piece and not welded from
- [The Infinite Uses of Glass: Chance Brothers, Glassmakers of Smethwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-infinite-uses-of-glass-chance-brothers-glassmakers-of-smethwick/) - Image: Hyper-radial single flashing light. Typical Illustrations of the Lighthouse Work of Chance Brothers and Co. Limited Birmingham (1919). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Text: Jan Symes Summary It is difficult to determine when glass itself was first made. For many centuries, churches and monasteries were the only buildings to have their windows glazed.
- [Chance Brothers and Company](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/chance-brothers-and-company/) - Image: View of a Crown Glass House. Title page of William Cooper, Crown Glass Cutter & Glazier’s Manual (1835). The British Crown Glass Works probably resembled the glassworks in this image prior to the purchase of the business by Robert Lucas Chance. Image from: Science, Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library Robert Lucas Chance purchased the British Crown Glass
- [Plate or Sheet Glass](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/plate-or-sheet-glass/) - Image: Manufacture of Rolled Plate Glass. Chance Brothers & Co., Limited, 100 Years of British Glass Making 1824-1924 (Smethwick and Glasgow, Chance Brothers & Co., 1924). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Blowing the “metal” into the form of a cylinder was the first stage of making sheet glass. J F Chance
- [Granville Leveson-Gower, 2nd Earl Gower, Marquis of Stafford (1721-1803)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/granville-leveson-gower-2nd-earl-gower-marquis-of-stafford-1721-1803/) - Image: Trentham Hall, Staffordshire, engraved by M Burghers. Robert Plot, The Natural History of Staffordshire (Oxford, 1686). The hall served as the main residence for the Leveson Gowers in the 18th century. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Granville Leveson-Gower, the third son of John, 2nd Baron and the 1st Earl Gower, became a major player
- [Birmingham: Water; more on Respiration](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-water-more-on-respiration/) - Image: The dining room at Soho House, Handsworth, Birmingham. This is the room where the meetings of the Lunar Society took place and many experiments conducted. Image from: Soho House Museum, Birmingham. One of the reasons why Priestley was happy in Birmingham was that he had been invited to become a member of the Lunar
- [1900s Summer School group, including Rendle Harris](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/18th-and-early-19th-paintings-from-wolverhampton-art-gallery-2/) - 1900s Summer School group, including Rendle Harris Image from: Woodbrooke Quaker Study Centre.
- [Stafford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/stafford/) - Image from: Picturesque Views and Descriptions of Cities, Towns, Castles, Mansions and other Objects of Interesting Features in Shropshire and Staffordshire. Original drawings by Mr Frederick Calvert
- [Anna Seward and her Poetry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/anna-seward-and-her-poetry/) - Image: Frontispiece from Llangollen Vale with other Poems by Anna Seward, London, Third Edition, 1796 Birmingham Central Library 5. Anna Seward and her Poetry Throughout her early life, Anna had continued to write her poetry, still encouraged by Darwin, who she considered her mentor. It was he who sent her poem, written in 1774, as she sat in
- [Captain Thomas Chance: Merchant](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/captain-thomas-chance-merchant/) - Image: View of Bristol, 1827, Patrick Nasmyth (1787-1831) Image from: Wolverhampton Art Gallery Thomas Chance, the third son of John Chance entered commerce and connected the family with international trade. Thomas Chance was born in 1721 and became the captain of a merchant vessel trading in many ports of the world, especially the West Indies. He led
- [Floyer and the Medical Importance of Bathing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/floyer-and-the-medical-importance-of-bathing/) - Image: Stowe Pool, Lichfield from John Jackson, History of the City and Cathedral of Lichfield (London, 1805). In front of St Chad’s Church was St Chad’s well. In 1695, Floyer recommended the medicinal quality of the water which flowed into the well from a chalybeate spring. He caused the spring to be enclosed and people went to Stowe
- [Work and Labour](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/work-and-labour/) - Image: Bark peeling in Ribbesford Wood, Wyre Forest (early 20th century) [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 2. Work and Labour The supply of oak for the tanning industry was managed by coppicing. Evidence of this can be seen in the background of the photograph. The harvesting of bark was one aspect of a wider system of resource
- [Bark Peeling](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bark-peeling-2/) - Image: Man slitting bark in the Wyre Forest (1980s) [Image from: Bewdley Museum] 4. Bark Peeling (1) Men were engaged to strip the bark from the trunks of trees. In this photograph a peeler uses a large iron to slit the bark of a tree trunk.
- [Bark Peeling](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bark-peeling-3/) - After slitting the bark on the tree trunk, the peeler uses the large iron to remove the bark in strips.
- [A Cottage on Fire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-cottage-on-fire/) - Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Oil on Canvas
- [A letter from the Artist, Castel Sant' Angelo](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-letter-from-the-artist-castel-sant-angelo/)
- [The Apotheosis of Penelope Boothby, 1792, Henry Fuseli](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-apotheosis-of-penelope-boothby-1792-henry-fuseli/) - Henry Fuseli (1741-1825, b. Zurich - d. London) Wolverhampton Art Gallery. OP 79. Presented by George Cheadle in 1927
- [Priestley: Body, Matter and Death](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestley-body-matter-and-death/) - Miravan Breaking Open the Tomb of his Ancestors (1772). Joseph Wright of Derby(1734-1797), Oil on canvas. Derby Museum & Art Gallery. Image: Miravan Breaking Open the Tomb of his Ancestors is one of Wright's overtly allegorical paintings. Wright describes the background in his notes. It describes the story of Miravan, a young man who came across a tablet on
- [Joseph Wright of Derby and his Visit to Italy 1773 - 1775](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/joseph-wright-of-derby-and-his-visit-to-italy-1773-1775/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Eruption of Mount Vesuvius (1774). Gouache on paper. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery Text: Malcolm Dick Summary Joseph Wright left for Italy in 1773. Over the next two years he travelled throughout the country, observing, drawing and writing letters to his family and friends in England. Wright was interested in
- [Study of Fragment of a Classical Frieze, Rome (1774)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/study-of-fragment-of-a-classical-frieze-rome-1774/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Pencil, pen and grey ink and grey wash. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery The Study of Fragment of a Classical Frieze, Rome, carefully records the decorative features of the masonry and the play of light and shade on the object. It is probably a piece of the Ara Pacis Augusta.
- [Belisarius receiving Alms (1775)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/belisarius-receiving-alms-1775/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797), Pen, ink and brown wash over pencil. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery This drawing of a classical subject from late Roman history was completed in 1775 four months before Wright left Rome. By then, his celebration of all things classical had been tempered by his visit to the archaeological
- [Girandola with St Peter’s Rome (1774/5)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/girandola-with-st-peters-rome-17745/) - Image: Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-1797). Sepia wash with brown ink. Image from: Derby Museum & Art Gallery This sketch is part of a series painted by Joseph Wright during the Girandola at the Castel Sant’Angelo by the River Tiber. It was a major fireworks display, so called because of the huge revolving wheel from which rockets
- [Matthew Boulton and Birmingham Silverware in the late 18th and early 19th centuries](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boulton-and-birmingham-silverware-in-the-late-18th-and-early-19th-centuries/) - Image: The painted sign for the King’s Head Inn, New Street, Birmingham showing the Head of George III. The premises of Birmingham Assay Office were located in this tavern from 1773 to 1815. The Office assayed or determined the proportion of silver in a manufactured object and hallmarked silver items. This guaranteed the quality of silverware
- [The Brass Industry and Brass Workers in Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-brass-industry-and-brass-workers-in-birmingham/) - Caption: Brass Door Furniture from William Tonks and Sons, Catalogue of the Various Kinds of Work (Birmingham, 1880), p 318. An example of the wide range of items produced by one Birmingham brass manufacturer. [Image from: Birmingham Central Library, Local Studies and History] Text: Doreen Hopwood Image Captions: Malcolm Dick Summary The brass trade has left its mark on the
- [The Early Brass Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-early-brass-trade/) - Caption: The brazier was one of the specialised workers in the brass trade. He made kettles, pails, candlesticks and kitchen utensils in brass. 17th century wills show that kitchen utensils were important items manufactured from brass during the early history of the industry. From The Book of Trades, or Library of the Useful Arts, part III, third
- [Floyer’s Pioneering Medical Publications](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/floyers-pioneering-medical-publications/) - Image: St John’s Hospital, Lichfield. Floyer based much of his evidence in his book, The Physician’s Pulse-Watch, from evidence he obtained from the pulses of elderly men who lived in the almshouse. The building is still a home for retired men in contemporary Lichfield. Photograph from: Malcolm Dick (1983) The Touchstone of Medicines In his first book The Touchstone
- [Aris's Birmingham Gazette - Report of woman posing as a man](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ariss-birmingham-gazette-report-of-woman-posing-as-a-man/) - A respite during his Majesty’s pleasure has been received at Warwick, for Bartholomew Fisher, one of the rioters under sentence of death for demolishing the house of Dr. Priestley. A discovery of a singular nature was made, it is said, in Stafford gaol a few days ago: A prisoner who was convicted and condemned for
- [Sir John Floyer and Lichfield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sir-john-floyer-and-lichfield/) - Image: South-west view of Lichfield, an eighteenth century print engraved by J Ryland and published in John Jackson, History of the City and Cathedral of Lichfield (London, 1805. Floyer probably lived in a house in the Close, near the West Front of the Cathedral which is depicted on the left of picture. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham
- [Toys in Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/toys-in-birmingham/) - Image: Button made from Shell, Copper, Glass and Brass c. 1790-1800. This example shows both the intricate nature of toy manufacturing and the variety of materials that would often be used to create one item. Buttons were worn by men rather than by women. They are difficult to date unless they were made from silver and
- [Samuel and Nathaniel Buck’s Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in the Midlands 1726-1739](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/samuel-and-nathaniel-bucks-views-of-ruins-of-castles-abbeys-in-the-midlands-1726-1739/) - Image: South East View of Goodrich Castle in the County of Hereford Source: Samuel & Nathaniel Buck, Views of Ruins of Castles & Abbeys in England, Part 2, 1726-1739 (nd), Arts, Languages and Literature, Birmingham Central Library. Summary In 1726, two brothers, Samuel and Nathaniel Buck began their task of creating a visual record of ancient monuments in
- [Birmingham Fire Office](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-fire-office/) - Image from: Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham, 1808 [From Birmingham Central Library] 03. Birmingham Fire Office The engraving shows an image of the Birmingham Fire Office, Union Street, established in 1805 mounted on a plinth. Above the building sit two cherubs and two fire buckets are located on
- [The Kidderminster Carpet Industry and the Wider World](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-kidderminster-carpet-industry-and-the-wider-world-2/) - Image: Advertisement for Thomas Harris, Furnishing, Draper & Carpet Dealer, 9 New Street, Birmingham. Kidderminster carpets were sold from this warehouse in one of Birmingham’s most important streets. W West, History, Topography and Directory of Warwickshire (Birmingham, 1830). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Good transport links enabled Kidderminster carpets to be
- [Worcester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/worcester/) - Image: Worcester. The county town of Worcestershire and a regional religious, cultural and economic centre. “In proceeding down the Severn, the bridge, the cathedral, and the several church steeples of Worcester, rising beyond the race-ground, impress the mind of the spectator with an idea of a larger city than that which actually lies before
- [Worcester to Upton-on-Severn](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/worcester-to-upton-on-severn/) - Image: Junction of the Teme with the Severn. Powick Church From Clerkenleap below Worcester. “On leaving Worcester, the Severn, having received the waters of the Salwarp, the Droitwich canal and the Beverburn, acquires additional breadth; and at about two miles and a half below the bridge, its volume is further increased by the reception
- [The Origins of Carpet Making in Kidderminster](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-origins-of-carpet-making-in-kidderminster-3/) - Image: Cartouche from John Doharty’s Plan of Kidderminster of 1753. The image displays the importance of carpet making in the town by the mid 18th century. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library. Lord Foley, lord of the manor of Kidderminster, recognised the need for new housing for the carpet weavers who were now flocking
- [The Kidderminster Carpet Industry and the Wider World](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-kidderminster-carpet-industry-and-the-wider-world/) - Image: Kidderminster Church, Worcestershire. Engraved by Sands from a drawing by J P Neale for the Beauties of England and Wales. This print shows commercial activity on the banks of the River Stour. A factory or warehouse is visible to the right of the church. Early 19th century. R W Boodle, Worcestershire Scrap Book, vol.
- [Working Conditions in Kidderminster Carpet Factories](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/working-conditions-in-kidderminster-carpet-factories/) - Image: Interior of a carpet factory. Though this photograph dates from the early 20th century, it provides some indication of the potential hazards which a factory worker could face in the 19th century. Image from: Bewdley Museum Conditions were hard for workers in the weaver’s home or in the larger carpet factories. The number of
- [Kidderminster in the mid 19th Century](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/kidderminster-in-the-mid-19th-century/) - Image: An image of a Kidderminster Factory showing evidence of the application of both waterpower and steam power in the weaving process. Mid 19th century. R W Boodle, Worcestershire Scrap Book, vol. II (1903). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library In the 1830s new industrial processes, Tapestry warp printing and Chenille Axminster
- [Kidderminster: the Factory Town](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/kidderminster-the-factory-town/) - Image: The Carpet Manufactory of Messrs Brinton and Lewis, Kidderminster (c.1860). R W Boodle, Worcestershire Scrap Book, vol. II (1903). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library In the 1860s the Kidderminster carpet industry was inextricably linked with steam power. It developed a skyline of industrial chimneys as it developed into a factory
- [Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bewdley/) - Image: Bewdley, Worcestershire, from below the Bridge. Bewdley was the most important port for the West Midlands in the 17th and 18th centuries, serving Birmingham and the Black Country until the opening of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal in 1771. It also had a long history of manufacturing, but many of its trades declined after
- [The Wyre Forest and Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-wyre-forest-and-bewdley/) - Image: Bewdley, from Perspective Views of Market Towns in the County of Worcester, by Thomas Sanders, 1770. The Wyre Forest was, and is, a woodland area covering the border areas of two English counties, Worcestershire and Shropshire. Now a tourist attraction, this area of oak, hazel and birch was formerly an area of extensive economic activity. Several industries were located
- [Industry and Agriculture: Rope Making and Horn Working in Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/industry-and-agriculture-rope-making-and-horn-working-in-bewdley/) - Text: Malcolm Dick Image: This photograph, taken in 1910, shows Bewdley's river frontage in commercial decline. It also provides indicators that reveal the links between the town's industrial experience and the supply of agricultural products in the 18th and 19th centuries. • It shows the River Severn, Bewdley's main transport link for sources of raw materials, such
- [17th and 18th Century Hornworking in Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/17th-and-18th-century-hornworking-in-bewdley/) - By the late 17th century, hornworking was well-established in Bewdley. The property of one horn worker, which is described in an inventory of 1676, shows that he had commercial connections with Birmingham, Gloucester and London. The Gloucester Port Books for the late early 18th century reveal that horns and manufactured products made from horn were
- [19th century Hornworking in Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/19th-century-hornworking-in-bewdley/) - Hornworking in Bewdley continued after the 18th century. Two local families, the Lankersters and Humpherstons continued the trade into the 19th century. The former Snuff Mill, in Golden Valley, changed its purpose and was used to cut the teeth of combs. A trade card of the last horn works run by the Humpherston Family shows
- [Bewdley’s Importance for the Pewter Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bewdleys-importance-for-the-pewter-industry/) - Image: A highly decorated pewter tobacco box made by John Ingram, the most important Bewdley pewterer in the late 18th century. The tobacco box is one example of a variety of artefacts which were created to meet demands for new products and decorative items for the home [Image from: Bewdley Museum] The standard history of
- [Hornworking](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/hornworking/) - Image: Showcase displaying the products of the local hornworking industry in Bewdley Museum. Hornworking The showcase represents a reconstruction of the shop window of G J Humpherson and Son, Hornworker, Bewdley (established in 1749). Summary Horn-made objects are no longer in daily use, but before the 20th century, they served many purposes. Cattle and deer horns
- [Coalbrookdale](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/coalbrookdale/) - Coalbrookdale, looking towards Holy Trinity Church, 1854 (centre left), Coalbrookdale Literary and Scientific Institution, 1859 (centre right) and Abraham Darby’s first house in the township (right).
- [Coalbrookdale and the Ironbridge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/coalbrookdale-and-the-ironbridge/) - Image: The Iron Bridge, near Coalbrookdale Shropshire. Harral’s description is largely based on the account provided by Samuel Ireland when he visited the area in the 1790s. “Having left The Birches….the river passes by the opening of Coalbrook Dale, a district which has long been famous for its coal and iron-work, and flows between
- [Broseley Church](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/broseley-church/) - All Saints Parish Church, built in 1845, in Broseley, south of the Severn. The town was at one time was the most important industrial centre in the area.
- [Ironbridge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ironbridge-2/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. IRONBRIDGE is a town, in the franchise of Wenlock, thirteen miles east of Shrewsbury, on the northern bank of the Severn. The beauty of its situation, at the mouth of a winding glen through which the Severn takes its course, is peculiarly
- [Floyer and Samuel Johnson](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/floyer-and-samuel-johnson/) - Image: Print of Samuel Johnson from John Jackson, History of the City and Cathedral of Lichfield (London, 1805). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library Living and practising in Lichfield for over 50 years, and holding important public duties there, Floyer must have been well acquainted with very many of the 3,000 or so inhabitants of the
- [Stourport](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/stourport/) - Image: Stourport, Worcestershire, from above the Bridge. Stourport was a creation of the Industrial Revolution. The opening of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal in 1771 led to the growth of a new town where the canal met the Severn. “A little below Lickhill, on a sudden turn of the Severn, the bridge and town
- [Stourport Bridge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/stourport-bridge/) - Image: Stourport, Worcestershire from below the Bridge. “The bridge of Stourport, seen in the two accompanying views, was built soon after the completion of the basin. Its first stone was laid in the month of March 1773; and, in September, 1775, it was passable. The cost was £5,000. It consisted of fifty-two arches, three
- [Introduction: William Shenstone and the Leasowes](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/introduction-william-shenstone-and-the-leasowes/) - "...they observed a Gentleman in his own hair...the now celebrated Mr. Shenstone, whose place began to be frequented by people of distinction from all parts of England, on account of its natural beauties, which, by the mere force of genius and good taste, Mr. Shenstone had improved and exhibited to much advantage. And this had
- [Preface of Views in Shropshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/preface-of-views-in-shropshire/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. PREFACE It has long been a matter of regret to the lovers of nature and to travellers in search of the picturesque, who in passing through the County of SHROPSHIRE, have lingered to admire its hills and valleys, that its beauties have been so little
- [Table of Contents of Views in Shropshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/table-of-contents-of-views-in-shropshire/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. TABLE OF CONTENTS TITLE PAGE, (THE ABBEY PULPIT, SHREWSBURY) . . . 1 IRON BRIDGE . . . . . . . . 2 APLEY PARK . . . . . . . . 3 FARLEY DINGLE . . . . . . . .
- [Farley Dingle](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/farley-dingle/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. The lovely valley between Wenlock and Buildwas, called Farley Dingle, is one of the many which run in an opposite direction to the course of the Severn, intersecting the mountains which border its sides. A traveler will be amply repaid by a
- [Haughmond Abbey](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/haughmond-abbey/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. “Haughmond Abbey, of the order of Canons regular of St. Augustine, was founded in the year 1100, by William Fitz Allen” – Beauties of England and Wales. HAUGHMOND ABBEY is one of the most interesting ruins the County of Shropshire presents, on
- [Ludlow Castle](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ludlow-castle/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. The town of LUDLOW is situated on a hill, its streets sloping downwards on every side. Half round the town it is washed by a river broken into waterfalls, with mills on its stream, which is crossed by two stone bridges. A
- [The Quarry, Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-quarry-shrewsbury/) - Image from: Bayliss, Rev J C, Views in Shropshire (c. 1839). Shropshire Archives. The accompanying drawing is a representation of that noble and delightful promenade, justly included amongst the finest in the kingdom, which forms one of the many attraction the town of Shrewsbury possesses. It was formed and planted by order of the Mayor
- [A Song Addressed to the Pimhill Light Horse Volunteers, on His Majesty's Birthday, June 4, 1801](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-song-addressed-to-the-pimhill-light-horse-volunteers-on-his-majestys-birthday-june-4-1801/) - "Watton's Newspaper Cuttings, Volume 2
- [Atcham Bridge, Shropshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/atcham-bridge-shropshire/) - Image: Atcham Bridge, Shropshire. Another important design by John Gwynn, Atcham Bridge was not only a distinguished crossing of the Severn, but another route assisting the expansion of the Shropshire economy. “The first place which the Severn reaches, after leaving Shrewsbury, is the pleasant village of Uffington, on its left or north-eastern bank. The river,
- [Bridgnorth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bridgnorth/) - Image: Bridgnorth, Shropshire. Bridgnorth is spectacularly and strategically situated within a gorge of the River Severn. Originating as a port in medieval times, the town became another of Shropshire’s industrial centres during the 18th century. “Between two rich embowering woods, the Severn, with a full body of water and a strong current, rushes down
- [Bridgnorth’s Economy](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bridgnorths-economy/) - Image: Bridgnorth, Shropshire. A second view of the town. Bridgnorth was formerly celebrated as a clothing town; but its chief manufactory now is of stockings. It also has a considerable trade in leather, iron tools, etc. The air of Bridgnorth, and of the surrounding country, is remarkably salubrious. The town is well supplied with
- [Bridgnorth Castle](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/bridgnorth-castle/) - Image: Remains of Bridgnorth Castle, Shropshire. The castle was one of the picturesque sites for visitors to the Severn, a location for numerous legends about the locality. “The founder or date of the foundation of the castle, does not appear to be known….its only remains were what seemed to be part of a tower. This
- [Quatford and the nearby Landscape](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/quatford-and-the-nearby-landscape/) - Image: Quatford, near Bridgnorth, Shropshire. Another tourist attraction, given the beauty of the natural landscape in this part of the Severn Valley “About two miles below Bridgnorth, near the tumbling Sailors, on the eastern side of the river, is the village – or rather the church, for there scarcely seems to be a sufficient
- [Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/shrewsbury/) - Image: Shrewsbury Castle and Public School. As one of the most important towns on the Severn, Shrewsbury was a political, cultural and economic centre for Shropshire and beyond. “When within two miles of Shrewsbury, the Severn visibly expands, acquiring consequence, and continuing to augment as it approaches the town, which is indebted to its current
- [The English Bridge, Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-english-bridge-shrewsbury/) - Image: New Bridge and Abbey, Shrewsbury. Designed by John Gwynn, the New Bridge or English Bridge was evidence of Shrewsbury’s participation in the economic growth of the late 18 century. Between 1925 and 1927, it was remodelled and the steep gradient was reduced. “The original east bridge, which passed over the Severn towards the London
- [The Welsh Bridge, Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-welsh-bridge-shrewsbury/) - Image: Welch Bridge, Shrewsbury. Like the New or English Bridge, the new Welsh Bridge, which replaced the structure shown in the engraving, provided further evidence of economic growth in the town. It enabled a commercial bottleneck, close to Shrewsbury’s main port area, the Mardol, to be reduced. The bridge was designed by John Carline and
- [Tewkesbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/tewkesbury/) - Image: Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire from the Upper Lake. “By the tortuous windings of the Severn, the large, respectable, and populous town of Tewkesbury is about seven miles south-east from Upton, and thirteen or fourteen miles northeast from Gloucester…It is delightfully situated in the vale of Evesham, on the eastern side of the Upper or Warwickshire
- [The Wyre Forest](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-wyre-forest/) - Image: Near Bewdley, Worcestershire from Blackstone Park. The natural attractions of this part of the Severn brought tourists to the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. Nearby Spring Grove House, built by the local chemical manufacturer, Samuel Skey, between 1787 and 1790. In the late 20th century, it became part of another tourist attraction;
- [Gloucester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/gloucester/) - Image: Gloucester, from above the Bridge. Gloucester was an ancient foundation, distinguished by its medieval cathedral. By the time of Harral’s visit, the city had become an elegant regional centre. “This ancient and respectable city, occupying a gentle eminence which rises on its eastern side from the Severn, is in the vale of Gloucester. The
- [Gloucester’s Economy and the Severn Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/gloucesters-economy-and-the-severn-trade/) - Image: Gloucester Bridge and West Gate. Gloucester developed as an industrial and trading base, route over the river and major port. Many Severn barges and trows exchanged their cargoes at the port. Larger vessels transported goods to Bristol and other British towns. The Gloucester Port Books survive as a major historical source for the economy
- [The Tunnel-Head](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-tunnel-head/) - The blast furnace, as the reader is probably aware, is allowed under ordinary circumstances to continue burning for several years, being constantly supplied above with the ore, fuel, and flux necessary for the process of smelting, which the melted iron is periodically withdrawn from below. The upper portion of the furnace, termed the “tunnel-head”, is
- [Tapping the Blast-Furnace](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/tapping-the-blast-furnace/) - Twice in the course of every twenty-four hours the base of the furnace is opened, and the accumulation of molten iron allowed to run out in the process known as 'tapping'. During the first stage of this operation the powerful blast is withdrawn from the furnace, but when the iron has partially run out, it
- [The Puddling-Furnace](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-puddling-furnace/) - In order to eliminate from the pig-iron the carbon and impurities with which, as it runs from the blast-furnace, it is charged, it is subjected to the process known as 'puddling'. The pigs of metal are melted in an air-furnace, and the fused mass, of about the consistency of 'white-wash', is violently stirred by means
- [Dudley Castle. Interior of the South Gateway mid 19th century](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dudley-castle-interior-of-the-south-gateway-mid-19th-century/) - "This picturesque view of a medieval gateway and Renaissance ruins is the first image in Six Views of Dudley Castle, Drawn from Nature, and on Stone by E Bissell. A pencil note on the title page suggests that the prints were published in 1876, but the design and costumes of figures in the different landscape
- [Dudley Castle. Principal Entrance and Keep mid 19th century](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dudley-castle-principal-entrance-and-keep-mid-19th-century/) - Visitors to the Castle walk and relax in the grounds. An artist sketches in the foreground and birds encircle the ruins of the medieval keep. Six Views of Dudley Castle, Drawn from Nature, and on Stone by E Bissell. E Bissell Designer & Lithographer. Printed at T Underworld’s Lithographic Establishment. Cherry Street, Birmingham. Image from:
- [Dudley Castle. From the Keep mid 19th century](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dudley-castle-from-the-keep-mid-19th-century/) - A panoramic view of the Renaissance buildings at Dudley Castle. Six Views of Dudley Castle, Drawn from Nature, and on Stone by E Bissell. Drawn on Stone by E Bissell. Printed at T Underworld’s Lithographic Establishment. Cherry Street, Birmingham. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library
- [Dudley Castle. From the Old Lime Quarry mid 19th century](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dudley-castle-from-the-old-lime-quarry-mid-19th-century/) - The view of the Old Lime Quarry sets the distant castle within a geological and mining context. Six Views of Dudley Castle, Drawn from Nature, and on Stone by E Bissell. Drawn on Stone by E Bissell. Printed at T Underworld’s Lithographic Establishment. Cherry Street, Birmingham. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library
- [Dudley Castle South East View mid 19th century](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dudley-castle-south-east-view-mid-19th-century/) - This view of Dudley castle is taken from the same perspective as M Burgher in 1686. 200 years later the town of Dudley has grown around the castle and smoke pours from domestic and industrial chimneys. Six Views of Dudley Castle, Drawn from Nature, and on Stone by E Bissell. Drawn on Stone by E
- [Dudley Castle. North Gateway mid 19th century](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dudley-castle-north-gateway-mid-19th-century/) - A picturesque view of a gateway and ruins. Six Views of Dudley Castle, Drawn from Nature, and on Stone by E Bissell. Drawn on Stone by E Bissell. Printed at T Underworld’s Lithographic Establishment. Cherry Street, Birmingham. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library
- [Dudley Castle c. 1686 (M Burghers)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dudley-castle-c-1686-m-burghers/) - This is the earliest surviving print of Dudley Castle. An engraving on copper, it was produced by the Dutch engraver, M Burghers and included in Plot’s Natural History of Staffordshire (1686). It shows the castle, the seat of the Ward family, barons of Dudley, set upon a richly wooded hill where deer graze in a
- [A View of Dudley from Easey Hill c. 1777 (Thomas Sanders)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-view-of-dudley-from-easey-hill-c-1777-thomas-sanders/) - DUDLEY, Anciently called DUDELEI IS situated at the northern extremity of the country; but the Castle belonging to it is in Staffordshire, being built on the summit of a hill, from whence there is a prospect over several of the neighbouring counties. The town was anciently a borough, and sent members to parliament: Bennet Andrew
- [Cromford: A Factory Community](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/cromford-a-factory-community/) - Image: Housing in North Street, Cromford, Derbyshire. Richard Arkwright built houses to attract people to work in his factories. North Street contained two parallel rows of substantial dwellings. The school, which was built in 1832, is located at the right-hand edge of the picture. 1. Introduction: Cromford, a Factory Community Cromford was the creation of Richard
- [Masson Mill and the River Derwent, Matlock Bath near Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/masson-mill-and-the-river-derwent-matlock-bath-near-cromford-derbyshire/) - The picture shows the rural landscape in which many 18th century factories were located. The Derwent Valley provided the water supply on which spinning machinery depended, not just from the river itself, but from streams such as the Bonsall Brook. Viscount Torrington visited Cromford in June 1790 and commented on the ways in which nature
- [The Greyhound Pond, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-greyhound-pond-cromford-derbyshire/) - The pond was a man-made dam created in about 1785 to provide the main source of water to drive the water wheels for Sir Richard Arkwright's mills lower down the valley. It was fed by water from the Bonsall Brook and Cromford Sough via the “Bear Pit”.
- [The "Bear Pit", Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-bear-pit-cromford-derbyshire/) - Known to locals as the "Bear Pit", this example of hydraulic engineering was constructed in 1785 by Sir Richard Arkwright. The structure is a stone-lined pit sunk into Cromford Sough and regulated the supply of water to the mills. A dam in the foreground of the photograph held water and forced it into an underground
- [Upper Mill, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/upper-mill-cromford-derbyshire/) - The photograph shows four buildings. The Upper Mill in the centre was constructed in 1771 as a timber-framed structure from coursed gritstone lined with brick. The building was originally five floors in height until the top two were destroyed by fire in 1929. An overshot waterwheel provided the power for the factory. Water was supplied
- [The Loom Shop, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-loom-shop-cromford-derbyshire/) - This three-storey building was probably Sir Richard Arkwright's loom shop and was built between 1776 and 1786. The windows would have allowed a generous supply of light to enable hand loom weaving to take place. The left of the photograph shows two cottages prior to restoration, dating to about 1780. They probably provided accommodation for
- [Cast-iron Aqueduct, Cromford Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/cast-iron-aqueduct-cromford-derbyshire/) - The aqueduct carried water from the Greyhound Pond and Cromford Sough to power the water wheels of Arkwright's cotton mills. Built in 1821, it replaced an earlier wooden structure. The aqueduct is a grade I listed.
- [Mill and Warehouse Building, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mill-and-warehouse-building-cromford-derbyshire/) - This five-storey building was built in 1785 to 1790. The four upper floors contained machinery for spinning. The ground floor provided storage for cotton bales. Arkwright’s concern for security is shown by the absence of windows on the ground floor. The end of the building held the staircase. Its curved shape may have avoided damage
- [Vassilii Pushkin: a Collector of Books](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vassilii-pushkin-a-collector-of-books/) - Image: Portrait of John Baskerville (1706-1775), Type Founder and Printer, painted by James Millar in 1774. Oil on canvas. Gift of the Rev A H Caldicott, 1940. Image from: Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery After the short reign of Paul I when it was forbidden to go abroad, on the 22nd March 1801 the young Emperor Alexander
- [Corkscrew Manufacturing in Birmingham: Charles Hull’s Catalogue c. 1865](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/corkscrew-manufacturing-in-birmingham-charles-hulls-catalogue-c-1865/) - Image: Improved Patent Power Corkscrew No 204, Manufactured by Charles Hull, Birmingham c. 1865 The simplest out and well adapted for Ladies’ Use. Directions for Use. Place the Corkscrew on the Bottle in the usual way: after starting the Screw into the Cork, keep on turning till the Cork is drawn. Text: Malcolm Dick Images: Local Studies and
- [Birmingham’s Importance in Corkscrew Manufacturing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birminghams-importance-in-corkscrew-manufacturing/) - Image: Patent Presto Corkscrew, Manufactured by Charles Hull, Birmingham c. 1865 The old & tiresome process of drawing Corks by the ordinary Corkscrew is entirely obviated in the Construction and novel action of the “Presto Corkscrew”. Its superiority will at once be seen and its use understood by the following instructions, viz: Pull the screw A
- [The Mill Manager’s House, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-mill-managers-house-cromford-derbyshire/) - This substantial three-storey building provided the home for the mill manager. It was built immediately opposite Arkwright's mills. To the right is a structure, which became the coach house and stables for the manager's house. It also contains the probable remains of one of the first cottages built by Arkwright in 1771. Both are grade
- [Masson Mill, Matlock Bath, near Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/masson-mill-matlock-bath-near-cromford-derbyshire/) - Masson Mill in 1783 was originally driven by one waterwheel, but in 1801 two water wheels replaced it. The River Derwent, provided a much greater source of energy than the streams in Cromford itself. The building was extended in 1835 and during the 20th century. In 1981 when the photograph was taken, part of Masson
- [Shenstone, Landscape and Farming](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/shenstone-landscape-and-farming/) - Image: This engraving of the remodelled Leasowes reveals the combination of the practical activity of farming, in this case, raising sheep, with landscape design. The house itself is artfully located on a hill and amongst trees whilst the sheep graze in the foreground. Engraving on the inside back cover of The Works in Verse and Prose of
- [Shenstone’s Embellishments to the Leasowes](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/shenstones-embellishments-to-the-leasowes/) - Image: Engraving of a classical urn set amongst trees accompanying 'Elegies, written on many different Occasions' by William Shenstone in The Works in Verse and Prose of William Shenstone, Esq., Vol. I, Second Edition (London, J Dodsley, 1765) p 11. 8. Shenstone’s Embellishments to the Leasowes Embellishments to the Leasowes are frequently reported to friends. The following
- [Stonemason’s Shop: Dressing a Rolled-plate Machine Sill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/stonemasons-shop-dressing-a-rolled-plate-machine-sill/) - Image: Photo taken mid 1950’s. It shows the Stonemason’s Shop with the stonemason, George Farnsworth is shown dressing a rolled plate machine sill. The sills have to be flat; level and smooth as molten glass has to pass over them before rolling. The refractory sills are burnt to about 1300 degrees centigrade before dressing. Image
- [Derby Porcelain: André Planche and William Duesbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/derby-porcelain-andre-planche-and-william-duesbury/) - Image: Plan of the Town of Derby showing the silk mill and china works in the top right-hand portion of the map. Rev Daniel Lysons and Samuel Lysons, Magna Britannia, being a Concise Topographical Account of the Several Counties of Great Britain, Volume the Fifth containing Derbyshire, (London, T Cadell and W Davies, 1817) Image from: Local Studies and
- [Lichfield in the late 18th century](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lichfield-in-the-late-18th-century/) - Image: View of Lichfield Cathedral and part of the Close from Erasmus Darwin House. Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield Photograph: David Remes (2003) 1. Lichfield in the late 18th century On 12th November 1756 the young Dr Erasmus Darwin arrived at Lichfield. He had recently graduated at St John’s College in Cambridge and the Medical School in
- [The Counting House and Warehouse, Cromford Wharf, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-counting-house-and-warehouse-cromford-wharf-derbyshire/) - The Counting House was built originally in about 1794 from sandstone. The Warehouse, dating from about 1824 is in the background of the photograph. Both are grade II listed buildings.
- [Masson Weir, Matlock Bath, near Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/masson-weir-matlock-bath-near-cromford-derbyshire/) - Upstream from Masson Mill a convex weir was constructed to direct water into a channel to drive a water wheel. Its unusual shape was dictated by the rocks within the River Derwent. The weir may have been built to serve the paper mill which predated Arkwright’s factory.
- [Masson Mill from Masson Weir, Matlock Bath, near Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/masson-mill-from-masson-weir-matlock-bath-near-cromford-derbyshire/) - The building on the left was originally a paper mill, which was taken over by Sir Richard Arkwright, probably when Masson Mill was built in 1783. The huge chimney was built in 1900.
- [The A6 at Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-a6-at-cromford-derbyshire/) - The building of the Cromford Canal in the 1790s did not solve local transportation problems. Between 1816 and 1818 a new north-south road link was constructed. The local turnpike trust route was improved by blasting a wider route through local limestone cliffs. This road is now the A6. Transport was developed further between 1824 and
- [The Greyhound Hotel, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-greyhound-hotel-cromford-derbyshire/) - The growth of an industrial community and improvements in transport led Richard Arkwright and his successors to develop commercial facilities to serve the town. The Greyhound Hotel dominated the market place when it was built in 1778. Not only did it provide accommodation for visitors, it was used by the Arkwright’s for commercial transactions and
- [Housing in North Street, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/housing-in-north-street-cromford-derbyshire/) - Built between 1771 and 1776 these substantial dwellings were built to house handloom weavers and their families. The gritstone houses were built to a high standard. This enabled Arkwright to attract skilled workers to this remote part of Derbyshire. Sash windows and leaded lights were not normally found on dwellings built for industrial workers. The
- [Papermaking](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/papermaking/) - Image: Paper Maker, from The Book of Trades or Library of Useful Arts, part III, third edition (London Tabart and Co, 1806). Paper was made from linen rags which were cleaned with water and pulverised so that the cloth was turned into a thin pulp. In the copper-plate engraving, the pulp is kept warm in a wooden
- [Franklin and Baskerville: Friendship and Co-operation](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/franklin-and-baskerville-friendship-and-co-operation/) - Image: Title page for the New Testament in Baskerville’s Holy Bible from the title page in Matthew Boulton’s Baskerville Bible. Franklin discussed the technical aspects of printing the Bible with Baskerville. This was one example of the technical co-operation between the two men. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office This meeting of two fellow printers at
- [Ditherington Mill: Industrial Housing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ditherington-mill-industrial-housing/) - Image: Terraced housing built between 1830 and 1850 on St Michael’s Street, Shrewsbury, probably by private speculators, close to the Ditherington Mill complex. Photograph by: Nabi Heydari (April 2003) Marshall, Benyon and Bage first leased buildings for some of their employees in 1797 near to the factory. In later years small groups of dwellings were
- [Johnson, the Society of Arts and the Transformation of the Cotton Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/johnson-the-society-of-arts-and-the-transformation-of-the-cotton-industry/) - Image: Masson Mill, Matlock Bath, near Cromford, Derbyshire. This factory was built by Sir Richard Arkwright, the man who was responsible for introducing factory production to the cotton industry. Image from: Photograph by Malcolm Dick In the 1760s when Johnson was active in the Society of Arts, two prizes were offered by the committee for
- [Housing in North Street, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/housing-in-north-street-cromford-derbyshire-2/) - A view of a row of houses built between 1771 and 1776 for handloom weavers. They were well-paid skilled workers until the advent of the power loom in the early 19th century. The power loom enabled the weaving process to be driven by steam and ended the domestic production of cotton cloth. North Street contains
- [Rear of Housing in North Street, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/rear-of-housing-in-north-street-cromford-derbyshire/) - The houses had back yards and were close to fields. They are over two hundred years old and are still habitable. Not all industrial housing built in the late 18th and 19th century was of poor quality.
- [Housing in The Hill, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/housing-in-the-hill-cromford-derbyshire/) - These terraced dwellings were intended for spinners and their families. They were much smaller than the homes built for handloom weavers.
- [Housing in Victoria Row, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/housing-in-victoria-row-cromford-derbyshire/) - Richard Arkwright II built eight terraced houses in this street by to accommodate workers. Each dwelling was set back from the road and had a front garden. The buildings were constructed in coursed rubble and rendered. The house on the right retains its original cast iron windows.
- [St Mary's Anglican Church, Mill Lane, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/st-marys-anglican-church-mill-lane-cromford-derbyshire/) - Sir Richard Arkwright originally built the church as a private chapel. He was an Anglican and discouraged the creation of places of worship for other denominations on his land. His son opened the church to public worship in 1797. Originally Sir Richard Arkwright was buried in Matlock Church but he as reburied in a vault
- [School, North Street, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/school-north-street-cromford-derbyshire/) - A Sunday school provided an education for children employed in factories during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. One observer, Joseph Farrington in 1801, described the children entering the Chapel in “regular order” looking healthy, well, decently clothed and clean. Richard Arkwright II built a day school in 1832. Traditionally young children were employed
- [School and School House, North Street, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/school-and-school-house-north-street-cromford-derbyshire/) - The building on the right provided accommodation for young mill workers who, as a result of legislation were required to work under the "half-time system", spending part of their time at school and part in factory employment. The school and the schoolhouse were constructed of gritstone. In 1893, the school was extended.
- [Willersley Castle, Cromford, Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/willersley-castle-cromford-derbyshire/) - Richard Arkwright lived at Rock House, Mill Road in Cromford, a three-storey brick building constructed in 1776. He began to build Willersley Castle, a much larger mansion in the late 1780s, but he died in 1792 before it was completed. It was designed by the architect William Thomas and was constructed of sandstone. The castle
- [Elizabeth Pole](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/elizabeth-pole/) - Image: Silhouette of Elizabeth Pole with a dog. Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield (By kind permission of Jane Darwin). Photograph: David Remes (2003). Darwin’s interest in gardening might have been strengthened by Mrs Elizabeth Pole of Radburn Hall (Derby), the wife of Colonel Edward Sacherevel Pole. Darwin met her in 1777 when she brought
- [Darwin’s Legacy](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/darwins-legacy/) - Image: Bust of Erasmus Darwin. Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield. Photograph: David Remes (2003) A new page in the life of Erasmus Darwin was opening, another start. It would be during the next twenty years of his life in Derby that his most important works and poems would be written and published - The
- [Darwin’s Sons](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/darwins-sons/) - Image: Silhouette of Erasmus Darwin (right), playing chess with his son Erasmus (left). Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield (By kind permission of Jane Darwin). Photograph: David Remes (2003). Erasmus and Polly both were freethinkers and sceptical about religion. The three of five their children who survived the childhood were brought up with “no seeds
- [Mary Parker](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mary-parker/) - Image: Elston Hall, Nottinghamshire the home of the Darwin family. Pen and Ink Drawing (1700). Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield. (Donated by Mrs Kindersley). In July 1770, the seventeen year old Mary Parker arrived in Lichfield from Elston, Darwin’s native home, where his mother still lived. Mary was employed to look after the
- [Darwin and Education](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/darwin-and-education/) - Image: A textbook belonging to Mary Parker with her signature and date, 1797 (Title page of G Neville Usher, The Elements of English Grammar (London, 1786). Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield (By kind permission of Jane Darwin). Photograph: David Remes (2003). Darwin wrote A Plan for the Conduct of Female Education in Boarding Schools
- [Darwin’s Daughters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/darwins-daughters/) - Image: View in the Grounds of Ashbourne Hall, Derbyshire (Frontispiece of Erasmus Darwin, A Plan for the Conduct of Female Education in Boarding Schools (Derby, 1797). This provided the location for the girl’s school managed by Darwin’s two daughters by Mary Parker. Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield (By kind permission of Dr E D
- [Home Life](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/home-life/) - Image: The hallway of Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield (reconstruction). Photograph: David Remes (2003). Despite Erasmus Darwin’s busy medical practice, meetings with scientific friends, research, experiments and inventions, there was still time for happy family pleasures. Erasmus and Polly both enjoyed their married life. They often entertained guests, and kept open house. They both liked fine,
- [Biological Evolution](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/biological-evolution/) - Image: Image of Erasmus Darwin’s bookplate. Darwin added a Latin motto to the family arms of three scallop shells, E conchia omnia, which translates as Everything from shells. The motto expressed Darwin’s belief that all life was descended from a single ancestor. Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield (courtesy of Dr E D Barlow). Photograph:
- [Inventions, the Commonplace Book and the Lunar Society](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/inventions-the-commonplace-book-and-the-lunar-society/) - Image: Title page of Erasmus Darwin’s Commonplace Book. Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield. (By kind permission of English Heritage). Photograph: David Remes (2003) Darwin wrote down his medical observations in his Commonplace Book. Today it can be seen in the museum. The Commonplace Book also reflects the various scientific ideas, experiments and the inventions
- [Medical Research and Dissection](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/medical-research-and-dissection/) - Image: View of the medieval cellar, Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield. Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield Photograph: David Remes (2003). In the house he undertook serious scientific and medical research. On 23rd October 1762, the Birmingham Aris’s Gazette published the following advertisement: "The body of the Malefactor, who is order’d to be executed at Lichfield
- [“Doctor Darwin – On the Road”](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/doctor-darwin-on-the-road/) - Image: Erasmus Darwin’s Visiting Card from Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield. ???? Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield 4. “Doctor Darwin – On the Road” Photograph: David Remes (2003) It was from this house that he visited his numerous patients. Darwin’s appearance and visiting card were well known all around the Midlands. He calculated that he travelled about 10,000
- [Darwin’s Medical Practice](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/darwins-medical-practice/) - Image: Page from Erasmus Darwin’s Prescription Book, showing a prescription for Brooke Boothby. Image from: Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield. Photograph: David Remes (2003). 3. Darwin’s Medical Practice Darwin lived in his Beacon Street house for more than 20 years. Here he carried on a successful and extensive medical practice, gradually becoming known as the best British physician of
- [Darwin’s Home](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/darwins-home/) - Image: The front of Erasmus Darwin House, Beacon Street, Lichfield, showing the neo-classical façade which Darwin created on the front of an older building. He lived in the house from 1758 until 1781. In the foreground is a plaque commemorating Darwin as the author of The Botanic Garden. The Cathedral and a row of houses in the Close
- [Franklin and Baskerville: Printing Activities](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/franklin-and-baskerville-printing-activities/) - Image: Frontispiece from Quintus Horatius Flaccus, Printed by John Baskerville, Birmingham, 1770. Unlike Franklin, Baskerville published and printed a limited range of high quality books: “It is not my desire to print many books; but such only, as are books of Consequence, of intrinsic merit, or established reputation, and which the public may be pleased
- [Franklin and Baskerville: Literary Tastes](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/franklin-and-baskerville-literary-tastes/) - Image: Title Page from The Book of Common Prayer, printed by John Baskerville for Cambridge University, 1760. It used a type size “calculated for people, who begin to want Spectacles but are ashamed to use them at Church.” Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library It is worth noticing that Franklin was a
- [Franklin and Baskerville: Religion](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/franklin-and-baskerville-religion/) - Image: Title page for Baskerville’s edition of the Holy Bible from the copy owned by Matthew Boulton. Baskerville was an agnostic and highly critical of organised religion, yet his Bible is frequently seen as his greatest achievement as a printer. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office Neither Franklin nor Baskerville were orthodox believers. Franklin once remarked:
- [Baskerville and the Sale of Type from his Type Foundry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/baskerville-and-the-sale-of-type-from-his-type-foundry/) - Image: Baskerville’s Type Foundry at the end of Caxton Passage, High Street, the back of Marsh’s Jewellers, July 1887 in the course of demolition. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library By the late 1760s, Baskerville’s feelings towards his printing business had changed considerably. His Folio Bible, the masterpiece he printed for Cambridge
- [Franklin and Baskerville: Epitaphs](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/franklin-and-baskerville-epitaphs/) - Image: Pencil drawing of the remains of John Baskerville, in Miscellaneous items relating to John Baskerville (1706-1775) from a scrapbook of letters, engravings etc., formed by Samuel Timmins. Baskerville was buried in the grounds of his house, Easy Hill. In 1820 his body was disinterred by workers digging for gravel. The coffin was stored in
- [Baskerville and Franklin: Status and Success](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/baskerville-and-franklin-status-and-success/) - Image: Portrait of John Baskerville (1706-1775), Type Founder and Printer, painted by James Millar in 1774. Oil on canvas. Image from: Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery When they first met in 1758, Franklin and Baskerville were both middle-aged, self-made men, fifty-two years old, both of them successful and prosperous. Baskerville’s numerous visitors were very much
- [Franklin and Typefounding](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/franklin-and-typefounding/) - Image: Typefounding. The Book of Trades or Library of Useful Arts, Parts I, third edition (London Tabart and Co, 1806). Image from: Science, Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library In 1724, the eighteen year old Franklin came to England at the first time, and spent a year and a half here, working first at Samuel
- [Benjamin Franklin, Printer](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/benjamin-franklin-printer/) - Image: Letter Press Printer. The Book of Trades or Library of Useful Arts, Parts III, third edition (London Tabart and Co, 1806). Image from: Science, Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), the American statesman and diplomat, scientist, inventor, philosopher and musician, was certainly one of the most eminent visitors to Birmingham in
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1810/08/05](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18100805/) - Dear Sir You have given me the priviledge of plaguing you on condition of allowing you a great deal of time for answering; but as people are never satisfied with what they possess but always struggle to augment their power; so I am now very desirous of encroaching on you for a line per return
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1810/03/21](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18100321/) - Dear Sir I have a wish to apply a Thermometer to the purpose of opening and shutting a valve, in order to admit or exclude warm air from a room where an excess would be injurious. I do not see why several lengths of wire properly combined may not answer the purpose, and as I
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt,1816/06/27](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt18160627/) - My Dear Sir The purpose of this is to ask a favour. It is that you will put the annexed plan into the hands of Mr Whitehurst, and if occasion requires to explain it to him. We have no one here I believe with whom such a job would not be a grievous task, but
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt,1816/06](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt181606/) - My Dear Sir I do confess that you have puzzled me exceedingly; but I mean to be revenged and completely. It is no slight gratification to me to find that much greater men than myself can make mistakes, and so I proceed to my task. In the first place when you wrote the description of
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1816/07/14](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18160714/) - My Dear Sir I am greatly obliged to you for yours of the 3rd and for the attention you have bestowed on the counter. Your have indeed puzzled me by talking of thousands of millions with 3 wheels and 2 pinions. I can imagine a plan with one axle, two barrels upon it; one stationary
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1815/01/02](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18150102/) - My Dear Sir Soon after my last letter to you our youngest son, from apparently perfect health was seized with convulsions, which though not violent, were alarming. Mrs Bage in consequence gave up all thoughts of paying her respects to you, and my intention was to go alone and to be with you today as
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1818/02/25](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18180225/) - My Dear Sir I have to acknowledge and to thank you for yours of the 20th InsÄ As you see no objection to the wedge like Callender I shall immediately set about one; but if the patent is unexpired and you think that circumstance of importance be so good to let me know. _ As
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1818/08/11](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18180811/) - Buxton Centre Hotel Aug 11 1818 My Dear Sir I take the opportunity of Mrs Bageês return to Derby to acknowledge the letter you were so good to send one. We kept her a very short time at Shrewsbury being directed to remove to Buxton as soon as Mrs Bage became able to bear the
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt,1802/11/11](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt18021111/) - Explanation Fig 1 ABCD Walls of the stove E The Grate FG An Iron Pot 6 feet Diameter HHHH From Cast metal pipes passing through the wall for the purpose of being cleaned occasionally. IIII Openings to which are fixed 4 earthen chimnies rising through the stove, intended to give out heat in their passage
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1805/03/15](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18050315/) - My Dear Sir Since I had last the pleasure of seeing you I have very often been on the point of writing to you, but uneasy feelings have always obtruded themselves and my pen has failed me. I wished to have informed you of the success attending the pump with its long suction pipe, the
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1803/10/22](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18031022/) - Dear Sir I am now troubling you on a subject very different from Mechanics. Mrs Bage is much interested to ascertain the real talents of a Mrs Turner of London who undertakes to dissipate tumours of the breasts and other similar affections. I believe she at present enjoys a high degree of reputation, which however
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1806/10/16](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18061016/) - Dear Sir Being impatient to eat under your system of cookery. I cannot resist the desire of troubling you again. I wish W Bamford could be stimulated to send me the ovens, their grate, door and register – or if that cannot be accomplished it would be very useful to me to know what exact
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1803/01/02](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18030102/) - Dear Sir Newcastle Jany 5 1803 I last night read with inexpressible concern your melancholy and affecting letter, and fervently hope that the brighter prospect just beginning to dawn upon you continues and improves. I cannot help feeling hurt that however anxious for your advice and assistance, your time and attention should have been a
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt [no date]](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-no-date-3/) - Sir I feel myself much obliged by the attention you have been so good to bestow on my letter, and for the useful hints you have given me. Inverted arches we have had under consideration and I have no doubt your opinion will be decisive in their favour. The question I meant to trouble you
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1807/02/21](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18070221/) - Dear Sir I thank you for your last letter, and trouble you with the above in hopes you will favour me with another. I have reduced my Oven Grate and do not doubt it answers perfectly, though I have not yet ascertained the coals it consumes, not whether it makes much soot; but the fire
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1803/05/19](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18030519/) - Dear Sir I flatter myself it will not be long before you favour me with the result of your experiments on Arches the subject being somewhat complex and not obvious. I think it became a question when I had the pleasure of seeing you how far the failure of one pillar would affect the rest?
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt, 1802/10/15](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18021015/) - Dear Sir I am greatly obliged to you for your letter, and am now taking the liberty to draw on you for another. We have ordered a retort & receiver from Mr Balshaw of Bolton and having every thing to build, wish the plan to be as complete as may be. I have annexed a
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt [no date]](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-no-date-2/) - Plan of Iron framing for a roof where there are two pillars to support it … AB a frame cast in one piece, CD being its counterpart E a connecting beam – F & G spars meeting in the Ridge compleating the roof. – Have you chosen your plan, and is it better? –
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt [no date]](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-no-date/) - Concerning the strength of Beams If ABCD Fig 1 be the section of a beam where the strength is to be ascertained, it is not difficult to conceive that the strength may be represented by the contents of a solid figure ABCDEF. _ For the strength or cohesion of the particles in the line CD,
- [Letter from Charles Bage to William Strutt ,1803/08/29](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-charles-bage-to-william-strutt-18030829/) - Experiment on a single Frame Dimensions A 7 Inches deep The bottom projection _ square on each side B 5 5/8 wide C 5 degrees H 5/8 degrees DEFGIKLM 4 Wide Section of all the limbs except A, the projection being 2 Inches by _, placed all on one side to suit the convenience of
- [Letter from Erasmus Darwin to James Watt, 1794/11/17](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/letter-from-erasmus-darwin-to-james-watt-17941117/) - Darwin writes to Watt concerning their efforts to raise money for Dr. Beddoes' Pneumatic Institute. Darwin also refers to their continuing experiments with gases. Dear Sir I am much obliged to you for both your letters, and have this day sent your advertisement and air-paragraph to the newspaper; I sent a shorter one of my
- [Matthew Boulton and the Saint Petersburg Mint](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boulton-and-the-saint-petersburg-mint/)
- [Conclusion](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/conclusion-3/) - Image: Tablet dedicated to Joseph Priestley in the Church of the Messiah Broad Street. The tablet is now in the Unitarian Church, Ladywood, Birmingham. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library. Some of Priestley’s contributions to science have been presented, emphasising his outstanding contributions as an experimental scientist. His discoveries across the board,
- [Leeds: Soft Drinks](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/leeds-soft-drinks/) - Image from: Chemistry Laboratory Plate XVI from Abraham Rees, The Cyclopaedia or Universal Dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature. Plates vol. II (London, Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme and Brown, 1820). The illustration shows examples of the chemical equipment that Priestley would have used for handling gases. Image from: Birmingham Central Library. “It was a little
- [Leeds: Photosynthesis; Biology becomes Botany and Zoology](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/leeds-photosynthesis-biology-becomes-botany-and-zoology/) - Image: Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790). Franklin encouraged Priestley’s scientific work The Hundred Greatest Men: Portraits of the One Hundred Greatest Men, Vol VII Politics, (Sampson Low, London, 1880). Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library. We now come to what is perhaps the major discovery of this classic paper: “Plants restore air that has
- [Electricity in Warrington](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/electricity-in-warrington/) - Image: Electricity. Electric Machines Plate VII from Abraham Rees, The Cyclopaedia or Universal Dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature. Plates vol II. (London, Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme and Brown, 1820). The illustration shows examples of machines for generating static electricity used by Priestley. Image from: Birmingham Central Library. After meeting Benjamin Franklin over the Christmas
- [Setting the Scientific Scene](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/setting-the-scientific-scene/) - Image: Photograph of the statue of Joseph Priestley sculpted by Francis Williamson and unveiled in Birmingham in 1874. The statue symbolises Priestley conducting the scientific experiment which led to his discovery of “dephlogisticated air” or oxygen. Priestley focuses the rays of the sun through a lens which he directs towards a crucible which contains red
- [Priestley’s Religion and Metaphysics](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/priestleys-religion-and-metaphysics/) - Image: Destruction of Dr Priestley’s House and laboratory, Fair Hill, Birmingham July 14, 1791. Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins. First and foremost, Joseph Priestley was a minister of religion with views that were very unconventional in his day - he was a Unitarian, a Christian who rejected many of what
- [The First Thirty-one Years](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/the-first-thirty-one-years/) - Image: Birthplace of Joseph Priestley, Fieldhead, Leeds, Yorkshire. Image from: Birmingham City Archives, Priestley Collection by Samuel Timmins Joseph Priestley was born near Leeds in Yorkshire on 13 March 1733, and continued to live there until he became, at the age of 19, the first student to enrol at the new dissenting academy in Daventry.
- [Kingsland Mill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/kingsland-mill/) - Image: Sales Particulars for the contents of Kingsland Linen Mill from a Shrewsbury newspaper advert 5 October 1827. Image from: Shropshire Archives After Bage left his partnership with the Benyons in 1815, he built a new smaller steam-powered factory to weave linen cloth at Kingsland in Shrewsbury. The mill was a single-storey structure and employed
- [Castlefields Mill: Sale and Demolition](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/castlefields-mill-sale-and-demolition/) - Image: Diagram of the Castlefield’s Mill from the sales particulars of 1835. Image from: Shropshire Archives In 1815-16, Charles Bage left the partnership with the Benyon brothers. The Castlefields Mill continued to operate until the early 1830s until the deaths of Thomas and Benjamin Benyon in 1833 and 1834 respectively. They left the property to
- [Castlefields Mill: Gas Lighting](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/castlefields-mill-gas-lighting-2/) - Image: Notes with sketches regarding particulars of a lighting apparatus for Messrs Benyon, Benton and Bage, 24 May 1811 (Boulton & Watt Papers pf 5 805). Image from: Birmingham City Archives Bage discussed his experiments with furnaces and retorts in several letters to William Strutt between 1807 and 1810. The Benyons and Bage ordered relevant
- [Castlefields Mill: Gas Lighting](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/castlefields-mill-gas-lighting/) - Image: General View of Mill for Messrs Benyon, Benyon and Bage, 1811 (Boulton & Watt pf 5 805). The view of the mill provides information on the number of burners. Image from: Birmingham City Archives Boulton & Watt were one of the important pioneers of gas lighting in Britain. Though the role of their employee,
- [Castlefields Mill: the Flax Warehouse](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/castlefields-mill-the-flax-warehouse/) - Image: The only surviving part of Bage’s Castlefields Flax Mill, Shrewsbury. The building now contains private dwellings in Severn Street. Image from: Shropshire Archives The factory was extended by 1811 to include additional buildings. Most of the structure has since been demolished, but part of it survives as numbers 5-8a Severn Street in Shrewsbury. This
- [Castlefields Mill: Steam Power](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/castlefields-mill-steam-power/) - Image: Side View of Engine for Messrs Benyon, Benyon and Bage, 1804 (Boulton & Watt pf 5. 338). Image from: Birmingham City Archives The two Benyon brothers and Bage ordered a 20 horse power steam engine from Boulton & Watt’s Soho Foundry. A second 75 horse power engine was supplied by Fenton and Murray in
- [Castlefields Mill: Origins](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/castlefields-mill-origins/) - Image: Print of the Castlefields works designed built by Thomas and Benjamin Benyon and designed by Charles Bage. No date. Image from: Shropshire Archives In 1804 following the end of the partnership with John Marshall of Leeds, Thomas and Benjamin Benyon, together with Charles Bage built a new mill at Castlefields, Shrewsbury about 800 yards
- [Ditherington Mill: Steam Power](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ditherington-mill-steam-power-2/) - Image: General Plan of the Engine and Boiler for Messrs Benyons, Marshall and Bage, 29th April 1797 ((Boulton & Watt pf 5. 136). Image from: Birmingham City Archives Ditherington’s first engine was operated by Watt’s rotary machine and was used to power flax spinning machinery. The plan shows an aerial view of the two boilers
- [Ditherington Mill: Steam Power](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ditherington-mill-steam-power/) - Image: General View of the Engine and Boilers for Messrs Benyons, Marshall and Bage, 29th April 1797 ((Boulton & Watt pf 5. 136). Image from: Birmingham City Archives In May 1796, John Marshall and the Benyon brothers told Boulton & Watt near Birmingham that they would need a steam engine by February 1797. They built
- [Ditherington Flax Mill](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ditherington-flax-mill/) - Image: Ditherington Mill. Three lines of cast-iron columns run along each floor, supporting cast-iron beams. Each beam is cast in two halves which are bolted together through heavy flanges. Image from: Shropshire Archives Charles Bage’s Ditherington Mill was expensive to build. Marshall, Benyon and Bage invested £17,000 in buildings and equipment before 1804. It was
- [Processing and Spinning Flax](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/processing-and-spinning-flax/) - Image: Heckling Machine at Marshall’s Mill, Leeds. The Useful Arts and Manufactures of Great Britain, vol. 1 (London, SPCK, 1846?). Image from: Science, Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library After drying, the flax stems were bruised and broken using a machine called the brake. Alternatively they were crushed with rollers revolving in contrary directions. The
- [Growing and Preparing Flax](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/growing-and-preparing-flax/) - Image: The flax plant. The Useful Arts and Manufactures of Great Britain, vol. 1 (London, SPCK, 1846?). Image from: Science, Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library Linen cloth is produced from the fibres of a plant, flax. Flax spinning and the weaving of woollen cloth developed as an industry in the Middle East in ancient
- [John Marshall](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/john-marshall/) - Image: Interior of Marshall’s one-storied flax mill at Leeds. The roof of the building was supported by iron pillars and light was provided through a conical skylight. A number of processes were carried out in the factory including spinning. Heckling and other tasks which generated dirt and dust were carried out in another mill. The
- [Thomas and Benjamin Benyon](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/thomas-and-benjamin-benyon/) - Image: New Bridge and Abbey, Shrewsbury. Designed by John Gwynn in 1768, the New Bridge or English Bridge, which was opened in 1774, was evidence of Shrewsbury’s participation in the economic growth of the late eighteenth century. Shrewsbury’s improving communications assisted the Benyon brothers in their pursuit of commercial success. Thomas Harral, Picturesque Views of
- [Charles Bage: Business and Local Affairs](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/charles-bage-business-and-local-affairs/) - Image: St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, built in 1792. The building was designed by the architect George Steuart, who built Attingham hall, near Shrewsbury. Charles Bage was buried in the churchyard. Photograph: Nabi Heydari (April 2003) Charles Bage was interested in science, culture and local politics. Like his father Robert, he commanded a great deal of
- [Baskerville and Printing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/baskerville-and-printing/) - Baskerville’s Type Foundry at the end of Caxton Passage, High Street, the back of Marsh’s Jewellers, July 1887 in the course of demolition. Image from: Local Studies and History, Birmingham Central Library ---- Artisans like Baskerville could turn their hands to almost anything. After his success with “japanning” everything from snuff-boxes to coach panels, he
- [Baskerville and Alternative Technology](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/baskerville-and-alternative-technology/) - Image: Portrait of John Baskerville (1706-1775), Type Founder and Printer, painted by James Millar in 1774. Oil on canvas. Image from: Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery Baskerville was a great innovator. He introduced “japanning” to Birmingham, a technique for giving a shiny finish to papier-mâché, wood, and metal surfaces using a mixture of varnish, turpentine
- [Papermaking in the West Midlands](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/papermaking-in-the-west-midlands/) - Image: Paper Mill, from The Useful Arts and Manufacturers of Great Britain of Great Britain, Vol. 1 (London, SPCK, 1846?). This engraving shows a paper mill, situated in a hilly area where there would be an abundance of clean water. Image from: Science Technology and Management, Birmingham Central Library Papermaking may have been secretly practised
- [Printing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/printing/) - Image: Letter Press Printer, from The Book of Trades or Library of Useful Arts, part III, third edition (London, Tabart and Co, 1806). The trade of letter press printing included two types of workers, the compositors and the pressmen. Both were highly skilled trades involving complex operations. The former arranged metal letters into words, lines
- [Papermaking, Printing and Associated Trades in the West Midlands during the 18th and Early 19th Centuries](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/papermaking-printing-and-associated-trades-in-the-west-midlands-during-the-18th-and-early-19th-centuries/) - Image: Advertisement for Swinney's Type Foundry in Birmingham, from J Bisset, Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham(Birmingham, Printed for the Author by R Jabet, 1808). The advertisement shows the different buildings forming part of M Swinney's Printing Works in High Street, Birmingham. Swinney published the Birmingham Chronicle, a rival to Aris’s Birmingham
- [Soup Tureen, G.R.Collis & Co. 1837](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/soup-tureen-g-r-collis-co-1837/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Photograph by Kinson Chan Robert Stephenson (1803-1859) did a good deal of the design work for the famous locomotive Rocket produced by his father George. Following its success on the Liverpool & Manchester railway, Robert was appointed in 1833 Chief Engineer of the Birmingham – London railway, the first line
- [Taperstick, Joseph Willmore, 1831](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/taperstick-joseph-willmore-1831/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Tapersticks were smaller and more portable versions of candlesticks. This naturalistic design based on leaves also contains a snuffer attached to the handle. The object is made from silver gilt.
- [Two of a Set of Sixteen buttons, Thomas Willmore, 1790](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/two-of-a-set-of-sixteen-buttons-thomas-willmore-1790/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. These selections from the set show a sportsman and dog.
- [Set of Sixteen Buttons, Thomas Willmore, 1790](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/set-of-sixteen-buttons-thomas-willmore-1790/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Birmingham was well-known for its buttons which were made from glass, shell, and various metals. These silver buttons are engraved with nine different scenes of a sportsman and his dog. The scenes are reminiscent of the manner of Thomas Bewick (1753-1828).
- [Pair of shoe buckles, Thomas Willmore, 1782](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pair-of-shoe-buckles-thomas-willmore-1782/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. These silver buckles have a faceted decoration and are fitted with steel latchets or fasteners.
- [Child’s Rattle, George Unite, 1837](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/childs-rattle-george-unite-1837/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Child's silver rattle with bells, whistle and coral. Coral was regarded as a talisman against the 'evil eye', an amulet to protect a child against disease.
- [Lancet Case, Joseph Taylor, 1826](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/lancet-case-joseph-taylor-1826/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This item was part of a doctor’s or surgeon’s medical equipment.
- [Box, Joseph Taylor, 1819](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/box-joseph-taylor-1819/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Tortoiseshell is particularly suitable for piqué work (inlaid gold) with its ease of cutting and rich colour. The technique was popular among European gold snuff box makers in the 18th century. The lid is earlier than 1819, Joseph Taylor being only responsible for the mounting.
- [Churchwarden’s Pipe, Joseph Taylor, 1790](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/churchwardens-pipe-joseph-taylor-1790/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. The official pipe of the Presidents of the ‘Smoking Society’ founded 1790. The stem is made of tapered tubes with an ivory mouthpiece.
- [Nutmeg Grater, probably Samuel Pemberton, c.1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/nutmeg-grater-probably-samuel-pemberton-c-1800-2/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This image shows the intricate structure and complicated filigree design of the nutmeg grater.
- [Nutmeg Grater, probably Samuel Pemberton, c.1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/nutmeg-grater-probably-samuel-pemberton-c-1800/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Nutmeg graters were produced between 1780 and 1830, when toddy drinking became fashionable. This was a mixture of rum and water, drunk hot with various ingredients including grated nutmeg. This design is made using a filigree technique.
- [Silver Oral Hygiene items, Joseph Taylor, 1797](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/silver-oral-hygiene-items-joseph-taylor-1797/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This collection includes a tooth powder box, toothbrush, and tongue scraper, in a red morocco leather case,
- [Toothpick Box, Samuel Pemberton, 1793](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/toothpick-box-samuel-pemberton-1793/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This design shows an engraved design which is similar to decorations on Pemberton’s snuff boxes.
- [Caddy Spoon, probably Samuel Pemberton, c.1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/caddy-spoon-probably-samuel-pemberton-c-1800/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This jockey cap caddy spoon is in filigree technique which uses thin gold, silver or copper wire, plain or twisted. It is flattened during manufacture. Ornaments are usually openwork or soldered on a metal base. The word ‘Filigree’ originated from the Latin "Filum" - thread and "granum"-grain. Filigree was exempt
- [Caddy Spoon, No maker’s mark, 1797](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/caddy-spoon-no-makers-mark-1797-2/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This leaf-shaped caddy spoon bears the ‘double duty mark’. By a statute of 1797, the duty on silver, which involved the necessity of an additional mark of the sovereign’s head, was doubled to 1/ - per oz. In that year pieces marked by Birmingham and Sheffield Assay Offices had the
- [Caddy Spoon, No maker’s mark, 1797](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/caddy-spoon-no-makers-mark-1797/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. From the end of the 1770s, when tea drinking became fashionable, Birmingham toy-makers produced considerable quantities of caddy spoons, catering for the fashion of keeping spoons in tea canisters. They were never exempt from hall-marking. The Act of 1790 exempted many small articles weighing less than five penny weight, but
- [Snuff Box, Thomas Shaw, 1825](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/snuff-box-thomas-shaw-1825/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Snuff-taking was a fashionable pastime in the 18th and early 19th centuries. The scene on the lid depicts Alexander the Great’s conversation with Diogenes.
- [Vinaigrette, Nathaniel Mills, 1835](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vinaigrette-nathaniel-mills-1835-2/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This image shows the inside of the vinaigrette. The intricately decorated grill covered a sponge which was soaked in aromatic vinegar to protect the owner against unpleasant odours. The outside, which is not seen in this photograph, is decorated with a cameo of Orpheus and Eurydice from Greek mythology.
- [Vinaigrette, Nathaniel Mills, 1835](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vinaigrette-nathaniel-mills-1835/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Mills is recognised as one of the greatest makers of small silver boxes. This vinaigrette is decorated with a shell cameo of Orpheus trying to bring Eurydice back from the underworld and is complete with its carrying case.
- [Pair of Vinaigrettes, Joseph Willmore, 1825](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pair-of-vinaigrettes-joseph-willmore-1825/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Two vinaigrettes in the form of a pair of leaves. The curved stem acts as pendant. A rare feature of these is the clip to hold the aromatic sponges in place, rather than having grills like other vinaigrettes.
- [Vinaigrette, Maker unidentified, 1817](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/vinaigrette-maker-unidentified-1817/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Vinaigrettes were small boxes containing sponges soaked in aromatic vinegar protecting their owners against bad smells. From 1800 to 1850 they were produced in vast quantities and in numerous shapes and forms. This early item is made in the form of a flexible fish.
- [Birmingham Silversmiths: William Lea & Co](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-silversmiths-william-lea-co/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Vinaigrette, William Lea and Co, 1818. This box incorporates a music box. It not only disguised disagreeable odours with a vinegar-soaked sponge, it also drowned the senses with pleasant tunes. William Lea and Co, silversmiths entered seven marks in Birmingham Assay Office’s Register Book. In 1811, the business had premises
- [Birmingham Silversmiths: Nathaniel Mills](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-silversmiths-nathaniel-mills/) - Image: Vinaigrette, Nathaniel Mills, 1837, with a view of Kenilworth Castle. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. Nathaniel Mills the elder registered his mark as a silversmith in 1803 as a partner in “Mills and Langston, Jewellers Northwood”. He registered his own mark from a new address in Caroline Street. His son, also called Nathaniel Mills
- [Birmingham Silversmiths: The Willmores and Linwoods](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-silversmiths-the-willmores-and-linwoods/) - Image: Trade cards for several Birmingham businesses including silversmiths. J Bisset, Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham…(Birmingham, Printed for the Author by R Jabet, 1808). The most elaborate is engraved by Francis Eginton for James Twist, Silver Plater, 5 New Hall Street, which displays the products of the
- [Birmingham Silversmiths: The Pembertons](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-silversmiths-the-pembertons/) - Image: Caddy Spoon, Samuel Pemberton, 1802 decorated with a delicate filigree technique. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. The Pembertons were a long-established West Midlands family. Roger Pemberton was Mayor of Walsall in 1509 and one of his descendants was Samuel Pemberton (1704-84) who was a jeweller and toymaker in Snow Hill, Birmingham who registered several
- [Birmingham Silversmiths: the Taylors](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/birmingham-silversmiths-the-taylors/) - Image: Advertisement for J Taylor, Gold and Silversmith, Jeweller, Tortoiseshell and Ivory Box and Toy Manufacturer, Birmingham. J Bisset, Bisset's Magnificent Guide or Grand Copper Plate Directory for the Town of Birmingham…(Birmingham, Printed for the Author by R Jabet, 1808). This illustrated trade card is for Joseph Taylor. The engraving represents a tomb, with a
- [Warwick Vase and Cover, M. Boulton & Plate Co.  1827](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/warwick-vase-and-cover-m-boulton-plate-co-1827/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. A very large Roman marble vase from the second century BC was found in the grounds of Hadrian’s villa in 1770. It was purchased by Sir William Hamilton, the British consul in Naples, who was well-known for his famous collection of antiquities. Hamilton later gave the vase to his nephew,
- [One of a pair of candlesticks, Matthew Boulton, 1789](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/one-of-a-pair-of-candlesticks-matthew-boulton-1789/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. These candlesticks in a neo-classical style are typical of Robert Adam’s design.
- [Cup and Cover, Boulton & Fothergill, 1777](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/cup-and-cover-boulton-fothergill-1777/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. A two handled cup and cover of neo-classical shape made for Cornelius O’Callaghan, MP for Felthard in Ireland. (It may be useful to compare a cup and cover with the description of a vase in a poem by Erasmus Darwin. It was written in the form of a letter to
- [Dish and Cover, Boulton & Fothergill, 1777](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dish-and-cover-boulton-fothergill-1777/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. The dish and cover are engraved with a crest of a unicorn’s head held by a duke’s coronet. The device was used by several families.
- [Sweetmeat Basket, Boulton & Fothergill, 1774](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/sweetmeat-basket-boulton-fothergill-1774/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This basket was possibly designed by Robert Adam. The body is made from wire supporting stamped repeated ornaments of grapes and vine leaves.
- [One of a pair Sauce Tureens, Boulton & Fothergill, 1776](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/one-of-a-pair-sauce-tureens-boulton-fothergill-1776/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This is one of the finest items designed by Robert Adam in the Neo-classical style which was popularised by Matthew Boulton. He expressed his feeling about the new fashion in his letter to Mrs Montagu in 1776: “I flatter myself its neatness, its simplicity and durability will be more agreeable
- [Two of a set of four salts, Boulton & Fothergill, 1776](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/two-of-a-set-of-four-salts-boulton-fothergill-1776/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. These salts with blue glass liners are engraved with a crest of a bent armoured hand holding a scimitar. As this coat of arms was used by about fifty families it is not easy to identify the client for whom the pieces were made.
- [Pair of salts, Boulton & Fothergill, 1773](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pair-of-salts-boulton-fothergill-1773/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. These examples of tableware contained liners of blue glass to prevent the salt corroding the silverware through direct contact with the metal.
- [Mazarin, or Fish Strainer, Boulton & Fothergill, 1769](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/mazarin-or-fish-strainer-boulton-fothergill-1769/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. This machine-pierced circular dish was hallmarked in Chester. This circular dish is machine-pierced. The hand-engraved shield shows the arms of Smith of Theddlethorpe, Lincolnshire.
- [One of a pair of candlesticks, Boulton & Fothergill, 1768](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/one-of-a-pair-of-candlesticks-boulton-fothergill-1768/) - Image from: Birmingham Assay Office. An example of the earliest of Matthew Boulton’s silver items, hallmarked in Chester, before the creation of Birmingham Assay Office in 1773. These candlesticks were designed in the intricate rococo manner and based on a candlestick by the French artists Nicholas Dumée and Francis Butty. Dumée may have worked at
- [Hallmarking and the Work of Birmingham Assay Office](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/hallmarking-and-the-work-of-birmingham-assay-office-2/) - Image: Hallmark from Boulton and Fothergill fork for year 1774. Image from: Birmingham Assay Office The hallmark on the Boulton and Fothergill’s fork represents all information specified by the Act of 1773: “MB” and “IF” stand for Matthew Boulton and John Fothergill, the Anchor represents the Birmingham Assay Office, the Lion means sterling silver marked in England,
- [Matthew Boulton and the Formation of Birmingham Assay Office](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/matthew-boulton-and-the-formation-of-birmingham-assay-office/) - Image: J S C Schaak, Portrait of Matthew Boulton aged 42 (1770). Image from: Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery By the beginning of the 18th century Birmingham was already noted for the manufacture of large quantities of small metal objects known as “toys”. This trade was a part of a long local tradition of working in iron
- [Chocolate Mug with Cover, c.1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/chocolate-mug-with-cover-c-1800/) - One of a pair of chocolate cups in the Neo-classical style with scenes of a military encampment on “canary” yellow ground. The scenes have been attributed to John Brewer (1764-1816), a master of landscape, flowers and plants.
- [Teapot, c.1795](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/teapot-c-1795-2/) - The Derby factory was famous for its “canary” yellow ground, and the shape of this teapot was a standard shape at the time of William Duesbury II. The views represent Breedon on the Hill, and (on the reverse) a distant view of All Saints’ Church, Derby. The delicate gilding is by J.Blood. Image from: Derby
- [Teapot, c.1795](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/teapot-c-1795/) - This teapot is painted with views of Derbyshire by Zachariah Boreman, and flower garlands by William Billingsley. Boreman was not the first artist to decorate ceramics with topographical views. Josiah Wedgwood’s “Green Frog” service which was completed for the Empress Catherine II of Russia in 1774, was widely publicised and exhibited. But Boreman’s views are
- [Coffee Can, c.1793-4](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/coffee-can-c-1793-4/) - This elegant neo-classical coffee can is decorated with a “View from Cheltenham” by Zachariah Boreman (1737-1810). Possibly apprenticed at Chelsea, Boreman was one of the best artists employed by the Duesburys, and is known as “the father of landscape painting on china”. Image from: Derby Museum and Art Gallery
- [Dessert Plate (Imari)](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dessert-plate-imari/) - There was a great demand for Oriental patterns in the second half of the 18th century. The lavishly decorated Japanese, or Imari pattern was introduced at Derby factory in 1775. Imari is actually a harbour in the Hizen province of Japan, but in Europe it has become the trade name of a ware with a
- [A Dessert Plate from the Trotter Service, c.1825](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/a-dessert-plate-from-the-trotter-service-c-1825/) - A splendid service was made for Sir John Trotter of Dyrham Park, near Barnet in Hertfordshire. The rich flower decoration was painted by Moses Webster (1792-1870), one of the leading flower artists of the Bloor period. The Trotter service is his best known work. The pattern became popular, and other flower painters were engaged in
- [Dessert Dish, c.1790](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dessert-dish-c-1790/) - This dessert dish was made as a Chelsea replacement, and painted by William Billingsley. The painting of insects was in part an extension of the technique of floral painting. Insects, particularly butterflies, were added to a more elaborate floral composition and often disguised flaws in the glaze. Chinese or Japanese examples were the prototypes for
- [William Billingsley’s Prentice Plate, 1790-1795](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-billingsleys-prentice-plate-1790-1795/) - William Billingsley (1758-1828) was one of best flower painters at Derby together with William Pegg. Roses were his favourite subject, and china decorated with borders of his 'running roses' became a special feature of the Derby factory. Later Billingsley worked at Pinxton, Mansfield, Worcester, Nantgarw, Swansea and Coalport, and these factories also adopted his style.
- [Dessert Plate, c.1813-1820](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dessert-plate-c-1813-1820/) - This plate was painted by William Pegg the Quaker, after his return to the factory in 1813. His style appreciably changed during his second term at the factory. Flowers now seem to have been intended to create a mood. They are still botanically accurate but now have been grouped and positioned for maximum visual impact.
- [Dish, c.1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/dish-c-1800/) - The fashion for botanically accurate painting of plants corresponded with the general interest in natural history and biology during the second half of the 18th century. Painters copied or adapted their designs from various publications on botanical subjects, such as Philip Miller’s “Gardener’s Dictionary” (1756) or William Curtis’ “The Botanical Magazine, or, Flower Garden Displayed”
- [William Pegg’s Thistle Dish, c.1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/william-peggs-thistle-dish-c-1800/) - William Pegg arrived at Derby in 1796, only to leave in 1800 when he became a Quaker. Following the doctrine of simplicity and lack of decoration, he considered his flower painting as “lust of the eyes” and destroyed many of his sketchbooks. However, he returned to the factory in 1813. His surviving sketchbooks have recently
- [Pot-Pourri, c.1800-1810](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/pot-pourri-c-1800-1810/) - At the end of the 18th century, exuberant Rococo forms were supplanted by the more sober contours of the Neo-classical style. The new fashion is clearly reflected in the elegant yet simple body of this pot-pourri decorated with fine seascapes by George Robertson (1777-1833). On the base there is an inscription: “Before the Wind Forming
- [Ice Pail, c.1796-1800](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/ice-pail-c-1796-1800/) - One of a pair of ice pails with intricate flower decoration by William Pegg (1775-1851). He was the son of a gardener and had worked in a pottery from the age of ten. By the age of thirteen he was already an accomplished self-taught flower painter on ceramics. Unlike some of his contemporaries, he always
- [Blue & White Table Centre in two parts, c.1760](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/blue-white-table-centre-in-two-parts-c-1760/) - Unlike many other English porcelain factories, very little transfer printed blue & white china was produced at Derby. Transfer printing made the wares cheaper, and it was usually applied to ordinary wares for the middle-class market. But William Duesbury aimed at aristocratic clients, and preferred his artists to paint the design by hand. However, among
- [Frill Vase and Cover, c.1760](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/frill-vase-and-cover-c-1760/) - One of a set of three frill vases lavishly decorated with applied flowers and a female mask, and painted by the artist known as the “Moth and Bird” painter. The cover with a bird finial is delicately perforated. This early example of Derby production clearly reflects a strong influence of the Meissen style. Image from:
- [Virgins Awakening Cupid, c.1780](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/virgins-awakening-cupid-c-1780/) - Unglazed porcelain (biscuit) was originally developed at Sèvres. Its aesthetic and decorative merit was recognized in the second half of the 18th century, and highly valued. Sometimes unglazed items were more expensive than painted examples of the same design. The Derby factory was not slow to follow the new fashion and style, and the first

## Pages

- [History West Midlands is proud to bring you Revolutionary Players: The people, ideas and innovations that shaped the modern world](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/) - History West Midlands is proud to bring you Revolutionary Players: The people, ideas and innovations that shaped the modern world The Revolutionary Players were the men and women whose ideas, innovations, industry and achievement shaped the Industrial Revolution in the English Midlands and the world beyond from 1700 to 1830. They each shared a passion for knowledge and a hunger to apply this new-found wisdom to science, technology, business, art and philosophy at a time of dramatic change. Revolutionary Players provides the opportunity to freely explore the lives of these fascinating characters, their times and the places where they lived, through painstakingly digitised prints, paintings, drawings, objects, buildings, letters, maps, plans, newspapers and other printed materials.
- [Links](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/links/) - Black Country Living Museum Cromford Mill, Derbyshire History West Midlands Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust Science Museum, London The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery Sense of Place Projects Digital Handsworth Literary Heritage West Midlands Staffordshire Past Track Windows on Warwickshire New Opportunities Fund (NOF) NOF-DigiPartner Organisations Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery Library of Birmimgham Soho House
- [About Us](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/about-us/) - About Revolutionary Players Revolutionary Players of Industry and Innovation assembles materials from libraries, museums and archives across the West Midlands about the development of the Industrial Revolution and the significant individuals who contributed to it. Prints, paintings, drawings, photographs of objects and buildings, letters, maps, plans and books have been digitised and linked together to
- [Events](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/events/)
- [Podcasts](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/podcasts/) - Listen and download a selection of podcasts from History West Midlands here.
- [Locality & Landscape](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/theme/locality-landscape/) - Reflections on the Surface: reviewing the River Severns history The Industrial Landscape of the Black Country The development of Ironbridge and Coalbrookdale A Journey down the Severn from Thomas Harral’s Picturesque Views of the River (1824) William Shenstone, The Leasowes, and Landscape Gardening Representing the Landscape: Rev J C Bayliss’s Views in Shropshire (1839) Water
- [Midlands & The World](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/theme/midlands-the-world/) - The Lunar Society and the Anti-slavery Debate Both Sides of the Moon: Erasmus Darwin, Joseph Priestley and the West Midlands’ Enlightenment Russian Visitors to the English Midlands A Window on the World: Richard Greene’s Museum of Curiosities in Lichfield Catherine the Great and her non-visit to Soho House Matthew Boulton’s Medals and Coins on Russian
- [Culture & Society](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/theme/culture-society/) - Anna Seward: Woman of Considerable Renown 18th Century Lichfield: Cultural Capital of the Midlands Erasmus Darwin's Commonplace Book An “ever-open door”: Erasmus Darwin and Lichfield “Practical Utopias”: the Writings of Robert Bage Poetry and the Industrial Revolution in the West Midlands c. 1730-1800 The Chance Family: Merchants and Glassmakers Samuel Johnson, Practical Science and Industry
- [Industry & Innovation](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/theme/industry-innovation/) - Woodland Industries in the Wyre Forest Industry and Agriculture: Rope Making and Horn Working in Bewdley An Innovative Metal Industry: Pewter and Mass Production in Bewdley The Brass Industry and Brass Workers in Birmingham Corkscrew Manufacturing in Birmingham: Charles Hull’s Catalogue c. 1865 Birmingham: “The Toyshop of Europe” The Smethwick Glass Works of Chance Brothers,
- [Art & Architecture](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/theme/art-architecture/) - 18th and Early 19th Century Paintings from Wolverhampton Art Gallery A Catalogue of Commerce and Art: Bisset’s Magnificent Guide for Birmingham, 1808 Chance Brothers Glass Works: Designs for Coloured Ornamental Windows, 1853 Chance Brothers & Co Glass Works, Smethwick, Registered Designs for Ornamental Modern Window Glass, 1867 The Burne-Jones Windows at St Philip’s, Birmingham Joseph
- [Contact](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/contact/) - Technical matters: Questions of a technical nature should be directed to web@historywm.com. Use of materials on this website The website contains images of material held in different institutions. The location of each image is described on the site. Images and contextual material can be used only for educational or research purposes without securing permission. The
- [Films](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/films/) - A collection of films bought to you by History West Midlands.
- [Herefordshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/place/herefordshire/) - Explore those places in Herefordshire that were important for industrial development, transport, trade, culture or politics. Click on one of the places to filter the below resources.
- [Worcestershire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/place/worcestershire/) - Explore those places in Worcestershire that were important for industrial development, transport, trade, culture or politics. Click on one of the places to filter the below resources.
- [Warwickshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/place/warwickshire/) - Explore those places in Warwickshire that were important for industrial development, transport, trade, culture or politics. Click on one of the places to filter the below resources.
- [Staffordshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/place/staffordshire/) - Explore those places in Staffordshire that were important for industrial development, transport, trade, culture or politics. Click on one of the places to filter the below resources.
- [Shropshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/place/shropshire/) - Explore those places in Shropshire that were important for industrial development, transport, trade, culture or politics. Click on one of the places to filter the below resources.
- [Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/place/derbyshire/) - Explore those places in Derbyshire that were important for industrial development, transport, trade, culture or politics. Click on one of the places to filter the below resources.
- [Place](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/place/) - Explore those places in the West Midlands that were important for industrial development, transport, trade, culture or politics. View each county by clicking on the map on the right.
- [Browse Archive](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse-archive/)
- [Time](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/time/) - The history of the West Midlands during the Industrial Revolution can be separated into different time periods. The clock face is divided into segments representing years. Access individual periods by clicking below or on the relevant part of the clock face.
- [People](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/people/) - The West Midlands was home to many people who contributed to its importance during the Industrial Revolution. They included industrialists and engineers, artists and thinkers and writers and educationalists. Click on a name to investigate how men and women shaped the region in the 18th and early 19th centuries.
- [Theme](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/theme/) - Discover more of the history of the region through five themes, which use images and related information to provide an insight into aspects of the West Midlands during the Industrial Revolution. Click on one of the themes to see and read more:
- [Gallery](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/gallery/)

## Categories

- [Browse](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/browse/)
- [People](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/)
- [Arkwright, Sir Richard](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/arkwright-sir-richard/)
- [Bage, Charles](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/bage-charles/)
- [Bage, Robert](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/bage-robert/)
- [Baskerville, John](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/baskerville-john/)
- [Beddoes, Thomas](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/beddoes-thomas/)
- [Boothby, Brooke](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/boothby-brooke/)
- [Boulton, Matthew](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/boulton-matthew/)
- [Brindley, James](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/brindley-james/)
- [Darwin, Erasmus](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/darwin-erasmus/)
- [Day, Thomas](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/day-thomas/)
- [Dudley, Dud](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/dudley-dud/)
- [Edgeworth, Maria](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/edgeworth-maria/)
- [Edgeworth, Richard Lovell](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/edgeworth-richard-lovell/)
- [Galton Jnr, Samuel](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/galton-jnr-samuel/)
- [Hutton, William](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/hutton-william/)
- [Johnson, Samuel](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/johnson-samuel/)
- [Keir, James](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/keir-james/)
- [Lombe, Thomas](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/lombe-thomas/)
- [Murdock, William](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/murdock-william/)
- [Priestley, Joseph](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/priestley-joseph/)
- [Seward, Anna](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/seward-anna/)
- [Shenstone, William](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/shenstone-william/)
- [Small, William](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/small-william/)
- [Strutt, Jedediah](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/strutt-jedediah/)
- [Telford, Thomas](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/telford-thomas/)
- [Watt, James](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/watt-james/)
- [Wedgwood, Josiah](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/wedgwood-josiah/)
- [Wedgwood, Ralph](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/wedgwood-ralph/)
- [Wedgwood, Thomas](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/wedgwood-thomas/)
- [Whitehurst, John](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/whitehurst-john/)
- [Wilkinson, John](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/wilkinson-john/)
- [Withering, William](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/withering-william/)
- [Wright, Joseph](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/wright-joseph/)
- [Wyatt, James](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/wyatt-james/)
- [Wyatt, Samuel](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/wyatt-samuel/)
- [Russell, William](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/people/russell-william/)
- [Films](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/films/)
- [Podcasts](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/archives/podcasts/)

## Tags

- [Letters - KEEP](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/letters/)
- [Steam Engine](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/steam-engine/)
- [Printing & Publishing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/printing-and-publishing/)
- [Plants & Botany](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/plants-and-botany/)
- [Private Schools & Academies](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/private-schools-academies/)
- [Poetry - KEEP](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/poetry/)
- [Educational Theory](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/educational-theory/)
- [Primary Education](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/primary-education/)
- [Industries & Manufacturing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/industries-manufacturing/)
- [Child Welfare](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/child-welfare/)
- [Newspapers - KEEP](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/newspapers/)
- [Business & Employment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/business-and-employment/)
- [Industrial & Urban Housing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/industrial-and-urban-housing/)
- [Books - KEEP](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/books/)
- [Children & Childhood](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/children-childhood/)
- [Parks](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/parks/)
- [Gardens & Outdoor Activities](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/gardens-outdoor-activities/)
- [River Severn](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/river-severn/)
- [Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/industry/)
- [Fire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/fire/)
- [Pamphlets - KEEP](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/pamphlets/)
- [Technology](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/technology/)
- [Slavery & Anti-Slavery](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/slavery-and-anti-slavery/)
- [Culture & Diversity](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/culture-diversity/)
- [Tourism & Hospitality](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/tourism-and-hospitality/)
- [Public Buildings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/public-buildings/)
- [Public Houses & Inns](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/public-houses-and-inns/)
- [Household Goods](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/household-goods/)
- [Family](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/family/)
- [Public Health](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/public-health/)
- [Working](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/working/)
- [Clothes](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/clothes/)
- [Workshops](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/workshops/)
- [Work Pay & Conditions](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/work-pay-conditions/)
- [Silverware](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/silverware/)
- [Design & Crafts](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/design-and-crafts/)
- [Trades & Manufacturing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/trades-manufacturing/)
- [Literature](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/literature/)
- [Religion & Beliefs](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/religion-beliefs/)
- [Charities](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/charities/)
- [Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/bewdley/)
- [Bridgnorth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/bridgnorth/)
- [Coalbrookdale](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/coalbrookdale/)
- [Gloucester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/gloucester/)
- [Shropshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/shropshire/)
- [Worcestershire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/browse/worcestershire/)

## Exhibition

- [564](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/564/)
- [289](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/289/)
- [332](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/332/)
- [343](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/343/)
- [393](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/393/)
- [516](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/516/)
- [798](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/798/)
- [834](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/834/)
- [959](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/959/)
- [1000](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1000/)
- [1067](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1067/)
- [1110](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1110/)
- [1284](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1284/)
- [1431](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1431/)
- [1456](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1456/)
- [1475](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1475/)
- [1504](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1504/)
- [1551](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1551/)
- [1578](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1578/)
- [1603](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1603/)
- [1654](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1654/)
- [1692](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1692/)
- [1823](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1823/)
- [1846](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1846/)
- [1874](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1874/)
- [1906](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1906/)
- [1931](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1931/)
- [1965](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1965/)
- [1995](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/1995/)
- [2010](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2010/)
- [2033](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2033/)
- [2052](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2052/)
- [2087](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2087/)
- [2105](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2105/)
- [2256](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2256/)
- [2283](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2283/)
- [2307](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2307/)
- [2333](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2333/)
- [2355](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2355/)
- [2398](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2398/)
- [2403](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2403/)
- [2449](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2449/)
- [2464](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2464/)
- [2513](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2513/)
- [2583](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2583/)
- [2681](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2681/)
- [2727](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2727/)
- [2827](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2827/)
- [2901](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2901/)
- [2919](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2919/)
- [2981](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/2981/)
- [3170](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/3170/)
- [3216](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/3216/)
- [3281](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/3281/)
- [3298](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/3298/)
- [3370](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/3370/)
- [548](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/548/)
- [3416](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/3416/)
- [3699](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/3699/)
- [4008](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/4008/)
- [4310](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/4310/)
- [5516](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/5516/)
- [5656](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/5656/)
- [565](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/565/)
- [5747](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/5747/)
- [4951](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/4951/)
- [6286](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/exhibition/6286/)

## Place

- [Cromford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/cromford/)
- [Derbyshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/derbyshire/)
- [Birmingham](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/birmingham/)
- [Shrewsbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/shrewsbury/)
- [Lichfield](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/lichfield/)
- [Derby](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/derby/)
- [Kidderminster](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/kidderminster/)
- [Worcestershire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/worcestershire/)
- [Smethwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/smethwick/)
- [Shropshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/shropshire/)
- [Ludlow](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/ludlow/)
- [Warwickshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/warwickshire/)
- [Warwick](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/warwick/)
- [Bewdley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/bewdley/)
- [Belper](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/belper/)
- [Coalbrookdale](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/coalbrookdale/)
- [Ironbridge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/ironbridge/)
- [Bridgnorth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/bridgnorth/)
- [Dudley](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/dudley/)
- [Gloucester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/gloucester/)
- [Handsworth](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/handsworth/)
- [Hereford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/hereford/)
- [Worcester](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/worcester/)
- [Stafford](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/stafford/)
- [Staffordshire](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/staffordshire/)
- [Stourbridge](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/stourbridge/)
- [Stoke-on-Trent](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/stoke-on-trent/)
- [Walsall](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/walsall/)
- [West Bromwich](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/west-bromwich/)
- [Wolverhampton](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/wolverhampton/)
- [Tewkesbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/tewkesbury/)
- [Stourport](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/stourport/)
- [The Wrekin](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/the-wrekin/)
- [River Severn](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/river-severn/)
- [Coventry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/coventry/)
- [Tenbury](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/places/tenbury/)

## Topics

- [Arts](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/arts/)
- [Buildings, Architecture & Monuments](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/buildings-architecture-monuments/)
- [Business, Trade, Industry & Commerce](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/business-trade-industry-commerce/)
- [Culture & Diversity](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/culture-diversity/)
- [Events, Celebrations & Disasters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/events-celebrations-disasters/)
- [Health & Medicine](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/health-medicine/)
- [Religion, Ideas & Beliefs](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/religion-ideas-beliefs/)
- [Science, Nature and Environment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/science-nature-and-environment/)
- [Society](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/society/)
- [Sport & Leisure](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/sport-leisure/)
- [Transport](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/transport/)
- [Art History](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/art-history/)
- [Design and Crafts](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/design-and-crafts/)
- [Fine Art](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/fine-art/)
- [Literature](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/literature/)
- [Music](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/music/)
- [Photography](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/photography/)
- [Theatre](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/theatre/)
- [Ceramics](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/ceramics/)
- [Clock making](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/clock-making/)
- [Enamelled wares](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/enamelled-wares/)
- [Glass](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/glass/)
- [Jewellery](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/jewellery/)
- [Lacquered wares](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/lacquered-wares/)
- [Metalwork](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/metalwork/)
- [Silverware](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/silverware/)
- [Woodwork](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/woodwork/)
- [Drawings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/drawings/)
- [Paintings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/paintings/)
- [Prints](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/prints/)
- [Watercolours](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/watercolours/)
- [Fiction](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/fiction/)
- [Non-Fiction](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/non-fiction/)
- [Poetry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/poetry/)
- [Architecture](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/architecture/)
- [Building Plans and Drawings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/building-plans-and-drawings/)
- [Commercial Buildings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/commercial-buildings/)
- [Domestic Buildings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/domestic-buildings/)
- [Historic Buildings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/historic-buildings/)
- [Industrial Buildings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/industrial-buildings/)
- [Monuments and Structures](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/monuments-and-structures/)
- [Public Buildings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/public-buildings/)
- [Religious Buildings](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/religious-buildings/)
- [Banks and Offices](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/banks-and-offices/)
- [Hotels](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/hotels/)
- [Markets](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/markets/)
- [Public Houses and Inns](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/public-houses-and-inns/)
- [Shops](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/shops/)
- [Theatres](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/theatres/)
- [Houses](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/houses/)
- [Temporary](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/temporary/)
- [Castles](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/castles/)
- [Stately Homes](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/stately-homes/)
- [Factories](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/factories/)
- [Mills](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/mills/)
- [Warehouses](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/warehouses/)
- [Workshops](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/workshops/)
- [Bridges](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/bridges/)
- [Statues](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/statues/)
- [Hospitals](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/hospitals/)
- [Schools and Colleges](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/schools-and-colleges/)
- [Town and Village Halls](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/town-and-village-halls/)
- [Abbeys](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/abbeys/)
- [Cathedrals](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/cathedrals/)
- [Chapels](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/chapels/)
- [Churches](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/churches/)
- [Meeting Rooms](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/meeting-rooms/)
- [Advertising](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/advertising/)
- [Agriculture & Countryside](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/agriculture-countryside/)
- [Banks, Finance and Legal Services](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/banks-finance-and-legal-services/)
- [Domestic Service](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/domestic-service/)
- [Innovation & Inventions](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/innovation-inventions/)
- [International Contact & Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/international-contact-trade/)
- [Legal Services](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/legal-services/)
- [Printing and Publishing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/printing-and-publishing/)
- [Shops & Retail](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/shops-retail/)
- [Tourism and Hospitality](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/tourism-and-hospitality/)
- [Trades, Industries & Manufacturing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/trades-industries-manufacturing/)
- [Unemployment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/unemployment/)
- [Work, Pay & Conditions](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/work-pay-conditions/)
- [Farming](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/farming/)
- [Tools, Machinery & Equipment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/tools-machinery-equipment/)
- [Working Animals](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/working-animals/)
- [Imports and Exports](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/imports-and-exports/)
- [Slavery and Anti-Slavery](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/slavery-and-anti-slavery/)
- [Books](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/books/)
- [Newspapers](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/newspapers/)
- [Food](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/food/)
- [Household Goods](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/household-goods/)
- [Hotels](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/hotels-shops-retail/)
- [Public Houses and Inns](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/public-houses-and-inns-tourism-and-hospitality/)
- [Brass Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/brass-trade/)
- [Button Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/button-trade/)
- [Carpet Making](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/carpet-making/)
- [Ceramics and Pottery Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/ceramics-and-pottery-industry/)
- [Charcoal](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/charcoal/)
- [Chemical Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/chemical-industry/)
- [Coins and Minting](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/coins-and-minting/)
- [Engineering](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/engineering/)
- [Glass Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/glass-trade/)
- [Gun, Sword and Weapons Trade](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/gun-sword-and-weapons-trade/)
- [Iron and Metal Trades](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/iron-and-metal-trades/)
- [Jewellery, Decorative and Toy Trades](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/jewellery-decorative-and-toy-trades/)
- [Mining](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/mining/)
- [Needle and Fish Hook Trades](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/needle-and-fish-hook-trades/)
- [Pewter Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/pewter-industry/)
- [Rope Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/rope-industry/)
- [Textile Industry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/textile-industry/)
- [Tools, Machinery and Equipment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/tools-machinery-and-equipment/)
- [Discrimination](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/discrimination/)
- [French Revolution](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/french-revolution/)
- [Gender](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/gender/)
- [Immigration](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/immigration/)
- [Race Relations](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/race-relations/)
- [Religious Non-conformity](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/religious-non-conformity/)
- [The Enlightenment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/the-enlightenment/)
- [Marriage, Birth and Death](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/marriage-birth-and-death/)
- [Natural Disasters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/natural-disasters/)
- [Death](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/death/)
- [Dentistry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/dentistry/)
- [Disability](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/disability/)
- [Disease and Illness](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/disease-and-illness/)
- [Hospitals](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/hospitals-health-medicine/)
- [Medicine and Treatments](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/medicine-and-treatments/)
- [Mental Health](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/mental-health/)
- [Public Health](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/public-health/)
- [Surgery](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/surgery/)
- [Christianity](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/christianity/)
- [Animals and Zoology](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/animals-and-zoology/)
- [Astronomy](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/astronomy/)
- [Chemistry](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/chemistry/)
- [Environment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/environment/)
- [Evolution](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/evolution/)
- [Experimentation](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/experimentation/)
- [Geography](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/geography/)
- [Geology](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/geology/)
- [History of Science](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/history-of-science/)
- [Mathematics](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/mathematics/)
- [Natural History](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/natural-history/)
- [Physics](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/physics/)
- [Technology](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/technology/)
- [The Enlightenment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/the-enlightenment-science-nature-and-environment/)
- [Rivers and Canals](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/rivers-and-canals/)
- [Rural](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/rural/)
- [Urban](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/urban/)
- [Children & Childhood](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/children-childhood/)
- [Clothes and Fashion](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/clothes-and-fashion/)
- [Clubs, Societies & Associations](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/clubs-societies-associations/)
- [Communication](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/communication/)
- [Community](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/community/)
- [Crime, Law & Punishment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/crime-law-punishment/)
- [Economics](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/economics/)
- [Family](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/family/)
- [Home](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/home/)
- [Housing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/housing/)
- [Migration & Immigration](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/migration-immigration/)
- [Politics](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/politics/)
- [Public Welfare](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/public-welfare/)
- [Schools & Education](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/schools-education/)
- [Services](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/services/)
- [Women](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/women/)
- [Political Organisations](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/political-organisations/)
- [Protest & Riots](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/protest-riots/)
- [Radicalism](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/radicalism/)
- [Entertainment](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/entertainment/)
- [Parks, Gardens and Outdoor Activities](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/parks-gardens-and-outdoor-activities/)
- [Canals & Barges](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/canals-barges/)
- [Railways](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/railways/)
- [Rivers](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/rivers/)
- [Roads](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/roads/)
- [Police](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/police/)
- [Legislation](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/legislation/)
- [Prison](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/prison/)
- [Quakerism](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/quakerism/)
- [Protestant](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/protestant/)
- [Dissenters](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/dissenters/)
- [Lunar Society](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/lunar-society/)
- [Poverty](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/poverty/)
- [Pregnancy, Childcare & Parenting](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/pregnancy-childcare-parenting/)
- [Courtship, Marriage & Divorce](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/courtship-marriage-divorce/)
- [Food & Drink](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/food-drink/)
- [Household Goods](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/household-goods-home/)
- [Industrial and Urban Housing](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/industrial-and-urban-housing/)
- [Postal Service](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/postal-service/)
- [Steam Engine](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/steam-engine/)
- [Charities](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/charities/)
- [Industrial Communities](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/topics/industrial-communities/)

## Time

- [1830 and after](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1830-and-after/) - 1832 Death of Samuel Galton junior. 1833 Abolition of slavery in the British Empire.
- [1816-1830](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1816-1830/) - 1817 Death of Richard Lovell Edgeworth. 1819 Death of James Watt. 1820 Death of James Keir in West Bromwich. Introduction of the Jacquard loom into the Coventry silk weaving industry. 1825 Establishment of the Birmingham Female Society for the Relief of Female Slaves. 1828 Chance Brothers took over the glass firm of Thomas Shutt and Partners in Smethwick and gradually built up a huge business for the manufacture of sheet, optical and plate glass. 1829 Stephenson’s Rocket was built.
- [1724-1740](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1724-1740/) - 1730 The first mechanically-produced cotton hose (stockings) was made in Nottingham. 1733 John Kay invented the Flying Shuttle to speed up the weaving process in textile manufacturing. It was not widely adopted until after 1750. An estimate suggests that 20 Newcomen pumping engines were operating in the West Midlands out of a total of 110 for England and Wales. 1738 John Wyatt and Lewis Paul developed a roller spinning device for use in cotton spinning. 1740 Introduction of enamel box manufacturing in Birmingham, Wednesbury and Bilston.
- [1741-1755](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1741-1755/) - 1741 Founding of Birmingham’s Aris’s Gazette. Samuel Garbett and James Roebuck established the large-scale manufacture of sulphuric acid in Birmingham for the brass industry. 1742 Benjamin Huntsman invented the crucible steel technique for smelting the metal at high temperatures. 1743 Thomas Boulsover produced the first Sheffield Plate. The development was taken up by Matthew Boulton at Soho. 1744 Violent anti-Methodist Riots at Wednesbury, Darlaston, Walsall and West Bromwich. Admiral George Anson and his elder brother Thomas created an estate at Shugborough Hall, Staffordshire. 1745 The Jacobite Rebellion: Bonnie Prince Charlie reached Derby. The poet William Shenstone began to transform an estate he inherited at Leasowes near Halesowen into a place of beauty which influenced many future landscape designers. 1747 J and N Philips installed Dutch swivel looms at Tean Hall in Cheshire for the manufacture of tape. 1748 Daniel Bourne and Lewis Paul patented the first carding machine. 1751 Concrete evidence of the first “Jews House” in Birmingham.
- [1756-1764](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1756-1764/) - 1756 Erasmus Darwin moved to Lichfield to practice medicine. 1758 William Small was appointed Professor of Natural Philosophy at William and Mary College, Virginia, where he taught Thomas Jefferson. Erasmus Darwin met Matthew Boulton. Benjamin Franklin visited Birmingham and met Boulton, Darwin and Whitehurst. 1759 Beginning of the construction of the Bridgewater Canal by James Brindley. 1761 Joseph Priestley joined the staff at Warrington Academy. Opening of the Bridgewater Canal. Its economic success encourages canal development in the Midlands. John and Charles Wood at Wednesbury took out patents in 1761 and 1763 for converting pig iron into wrought iron. 1763 Coventry was the first town in the West Midlands to secure an act establishing town commissions to collect a rate for better paving, lighting and cleaning. The Treaty of Paris with France confirmed Britain’s colonial dominance in Canada and India. James Hargreaves invented the Spinning Jenny.
- [1765-1775](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1765-1775/) - 1765 William Small moved to Birmingham from Virginia. James Watt invented a separate condenser which improved the efficiency of Newcomen’s engine by providing a separate chamber for condensing steam. John Taylor, button maker and Sampson Lloyd II, ironmaster set up Birmingham’s first bank. 1766 Erasmus Darwin met Richard Lovell Edgeworth and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Three canals were started in the West Midlands: The Birmingham to Wednesbury Canal, the Trent and Mersey Canal and the Staffordshire to Worcestershire Canal. Thomas and George Cranage at Coalbrookdale took out a patent for converting pig iron into wrought iron. 1767 James Watt visited Erasmus Darwin. James Keir settled in West Bromwich. Publication of Joseph Priestley’s History of Electricity. Publication of Burdett’s Map of Derbyshire, the first properly surveyed English county map. 1768 The import of foreign silk was prohibited. This encouraged the development of the silk industry in Derby, Leek and Macclesfield and ribbon weaving in Coventry, Bedworth and Nuneaton. Richard Arkwright developed the water frame to spin cotton. 1769 James Watt patented the single-action steam engine in Scotland. 1770 Thomas Day settled in Lichfield and Richard Lovell Edgeworth visited him there. 1771 Richard Lovell Edgeworth and Thomas Day visited Jean-Jacques Rousseau in France. Jesson and Wright in Wednesbury took out a patent for “potting and stamping iron” which was adopted by other Black Country firms. Richard Arkwright’s water frame was first used in Nottingham. A water-powered version was also created at Cromford in Derbyshire. Josiah Wedgwood created a new factory at Etruria to manufacture his pottery. 1772 The Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal and the Birmingham to Wednesbury Canal were opened to traffic. Supported by Lord Shelburne until 1781, Joseph Priestley had the leisure to develop his scientific experiments. 1773 James Keir established a chemical works at Tipton
- [1776-1783](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1776-1783/) - 1776 Erection of the first two Watt engines at Broseley and Tipton. 1777 Arrival of William Murdock in Birmingham. 1778 The Trent and Mersey Canal was opened to traffic. The Catholic Relief Act enabled Catholics to register their places of worship. 1779 Opening of Birmingham’s General Hospital. Establishment of the Birmingham Library. Construction of the Ironbridge by Abraham Derby III spanning the River Severn at Coalbrookdale. Samuel Crompton developed the Spinning Mule combining features of the Spinning Jenny and Water Frame for cotton spinning. James Keir patented Muntz Metal, which could be forged or wrought when it was cold as well as red-hot. Founding of the Derby Philosophical Society. 1780 Joseph Priestley settled in Birmingham. Gordon Riots in London. James Keir discovered the distinction between carboin acid gas and atmospheric air. He set up a chemical works at Tipton in the same year. Erasmus Darwin met Samuel Galton junior 1781 The population of Birmingham reached 50,000 making it the second largest English town. Erasmus Darwin left Lichfield for Derbyshire. Richard Arkwright built a cotton mill at Rocester near the River Dove. The New Hall Porcelain Company in Derby began to produce commercially successful porcelain. James Watt developed his rotary motion. 1782 Josiah Wedgwood ordered a Boulton and Watt engine produced by Matthew Boulton and James Watt to drive a clay mill and colour-grinding mill. Etruria was the first factory to install a rotary steam engine. James Watt developed his double-acting engine. 1783 James Watt patented a rotary steam engine. The Treaty of Paris ended the American War of Independence and Britain recognised the independence of the USA. Publication of Thomas Day’s Sandford and Merton.
- [1784-1791](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1784-1791/) - 1784 Henry Cort developed the puddling process for manufacturing iron. 1785 Edmund Cartwright developed the power loom for weaving. Engines produced by Matthew Boulton and James Watt were first used to power spinning machines in cotton factories. William Withering’s Account of the Foxglove and some of its medicinal uses was published. Anna Seward’s poem Colebrookdale was published. 1786 James Watt developed the centrifugal governor. 1787 Josiah Wedgwood helped to form the Society for the Abolition of the Slave Trade and he produced his medallion Am I a Slave and a Brother for the campaign. 1788 John Whitehurst died. 1789 Thomas Day died in Surrey. 1791 Priestley Riots. Destruction of the homes of Priestley, Baskerville and the homes of Withering, Hutton, the Taylors and others. Joseph Priestley left Birmingham. Rebuilding of Jewish synagogue in Hurst Street, Birmingham. Catholic chapels and schools were legalised. Opening of the world’s first Irvingite or Swedenborgian chapel in Birmingham.
- [1792-1802](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1792-1802/) - 1794 Josiah Spode began manufacturing bone china. Introduction of Mason’s fly press into the lock making industry enabling the domestic worker to cut parts more easily. 1795 Death of Josiah Wedgwood. 1796 Opening of a foundry in Smethwick by Matthew Boulton and James Watt to manufacture steam engines. 1797 William and John Parkes and John Brookhouse opened a wool spinning mill at Saltisford, Warwick in 1797. They used a Boulton and Watt engine and eventually sold yarn to the Leicestershire hosiery trade and Kidderminster carpet manufacturers. 1798 Richard Lovell and Maria Edgeworth published Practical Education. 1799 William Withering died. 1802 The Soho Works in Handsworth became the first factory to be lit by gas lighting to celebrate the Peace of Amiens. Thomas Wedgwood, the third son of Josiah Wedgwood I, published “An Account of a Method of copying Paintings upon Glass, and of making Profiles by the agency of Light upon Nitrate of Silver” in the Journal of the Royal Institution. He showed how the chemical action of light could be used to produce images. Wedgwood is seen as the first photographer. Death of Erasmus Darwin in Derbyshire. The Health and Morals of Apprentices Act became law, the first example of factory legislation.
- [1803-1815](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1803-1815/) - 1804 Death of Joseph Priestley in Pennsylvania. 1807 Hugh Bourne, a Methodist preacher, attracted huge crowds at Mow Cop, Shropshire, leading to the creation of the Primitive Methodists. Abolition of Britain’s slave trade. 1809 Death of Matthew Boulton. 1813 The repeal of the relevant clause in the Blasphemy Act removed limitations on the religious activities of the Unitarians. 1815 End of war with France.
- [1700 and before](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/before-1700/) - 1660 Foundation of the Royal Society to promote what was then called natural knowledge or natural philosophy or what we call science. Its members met weekly to conduct experiments and discuss scientific topics. It became a learned society including those who were making steps forward in knowledge and wealthy amateurs with an interest in science. Several members of the Lunar Society became fellows. 1665 Publication of Dud Dudley’s Metallum Martis; or Iron made with pit-coale, sea-coale etc. The book was the first published attempt to indicate that coal could be used to smelt iron. 1689 The government awarded its first contract for snapchance muskets giving a major boost to the gun industry in Birmingham and the Black Country. The Toleration Act enabled Quakers, Presbyterians, Baptists and Congregationalists to register their places of worship, thus enabling them to practice their religion openly. 1698 The Quaker Sampson Lloyd I moved from Wales to Birmingham and established an iron manufactory. Thomas Savery developed a steam pump for draining mines.
- [1701-1723](https://www.revolutionaryplayers.org.uk/times/1701-1723/)