A collection of historical articles, and reminiscences of Wigan

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

Read More  

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.

Read More  

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.

Read More  

The Street where I lived .....

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

Read More  

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.

Read More  

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.

Read More  

WW1 War Graves Register

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

Read More  

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

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

Read More  

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.

Read More  

Wigan Wakes Week

Fond memories of holidays to Blackpool by Tom Walsh during the first weeks of July, when the town closed for business.

Read More  

The Dean Family of Crawford Village, Upholland

The story of the long lost family papers belonging to the Dean family of Crawford Village, Upholland. By Graham Taylor.

Read More  

Thomas Morris of King Street

As part of the wider King Street Heritage Zone project, 'The Street That Was', this article focuses primarily on Wigan businessman Thomas Morris, his daughter Ellen Ann Robinson Morris, and their connection to the Wigan Brewery in King Street during the mid-19th century. By Graham Taylor

Read More