New Publication
The
Latest Chelmsford Publication
The new book titled “From a Borough to
a City: A History of Chelmsford 1888-2012” was launched at Chelmsford Museum on
19th November. The event was
organised by the author, Stephen Norris, supported by the Friends of Chelmsford
Museums. It took place in the presence
of Lord Petre, President of the Friends, and the mayor of Chelmsford who
received a copy of the book from the author.
This book is the outcome of nine years
dedicated research into the ways in which Chelmsford has changed over the past
125 years. During this period the town
evolved from a small county town dependent upon the local agricultural economy
into a noted industrial centre, but more recently has become a rapidly
expanding de-industrialised city. There
are 28 chapters organised by topics which cover individual economic, social and
political themes. Central to the story
is the development of industry and technology as represented by a number of
specific companies i.e. Christy (engineering), Crompton (electrical
engineering), Marconi (telecommunications), and Hoffmann (precision bearing
manufacture). Surprisingly publications
about these companies have been relatively limited which makes the individual
chapters devoted to each of particular importance to industrial heritage
researchers. There is also a chapter
about EEV, Britvic and other post-war industries. Throughout the book the influence of the big
firms on all aspects of the lives of the town’s population is made clear,
extending even to their participation in and enjoyment of sport and
entertainment.
The
book is not a light-weight read at 553 pages, excluding the index, and the
author in his launch speech said that it was no cover to cover read. However, with so much new information about
the industrial history of Chelmsford firms it will be an essential reference
for researchers and also of general interest to anyone wanting to know more
about their town. It is published by
Authors Online Ltd., but can be obtained direct from Stephen Norris for £14 (fromaboroughtoacity@outlook.com).
Taken from the Newsletter No. 2 of the 'Essex Industrial Archaeology Group', just sent to members.
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