A collection of historical articles, and reminiscences of Wigan

Beyond the Prison Walls

The wartime story of Grenadier Guardsman John Cecil Larkin of Orrell. From his capture in North Africa, to his escape from an Italian POW camp and subsequent journey back to Allied Lines, By Graham Taylor

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The Life and Times of Sicklefield House, Wigan

A look at the lives of the people who have resided at Sicklefield House, Wigan over the past 200 years. By Graham Taylor

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Flt. Lt Ronald Walker... The Wigan Pilot Murdered by the Gestapo.

The story of the Wigan pilot Flt. Lt. Ronald Walker, murdered by the Gestapo in 1944. By Graham Taylor

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Molly Penson - The Woman With A Mania For Houses

The story of the property empire belonging to Molly Penson - the Wigan woman with a mania for houses. By Graham Taylor

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Fox & Morris - Maypole Disaster

Gavin Purdon has traced the story of rescuers James Fox and Thomas Morris, who risked their lives in a desperate midnight mission to save two trapped men. Despite their bravery, the pair were denied gallantry medals—a decision Gavin believes this to be an unpaid debt of honour.

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George Heaton, Engineer & Architect (1840-1910)

The life and works of prolific Wigan architect and engineer, responsible for the design of many iconic Wigan buildings.

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The Street where I lived .....

Tom Walsh recounts his memories of growing up in McCormick Street and Scholes

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Tales From The Workhouse 2 - The Bizarre Tale of the Infant Funeral.

A short story from the 'Tales of the Workhouse' series. The Bizarre Story of the Workhouse Funeral. By Graham Taylor.

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The History of Wigan Volunteer Drill Hall and its Resident Units 1884-1986

The history of Wigan Volunteer Drill Hall and it's Resident Units 1884-1986. By Graham Taylor.

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WW1 War Graves Register

WW1 War Graves Register for Wigan & District. Graham Taylor 2025

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History of William Morton & Sons - Grocers, Ince and Wigan

History of Morton's Grocers 1839-1962 by Tom Morton.

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THE VICTORIAN PLAYBOY Johnnie Walmesley of the Hall of Ince

The Walmesley's of the Hall of Ince were a steady landowning family typical of the time. Unfortunately Johnnie Walmesley allowed his private life to blot the family name somewhat as his behaviour continued on until his death in 1937.

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