Material that could assist in the research and appreciation of the history and heritage of Wigan.

The Keith Douglas Collection

Keith Douglas was known locally as “Mr Standish”. As a member of the Community Forum he was instrumental in creating a trail of heritage plaques which still grace historic locations in the area. We are delighted to publish the pictures and the guide here as a tribute to Keith – Mr Standish.

Read More

Leigh Town Trail

Includes two guided walks in Leigh Town Centre, plus the history of Leigh and some notable Leigh people. An excellent read.

Read More

History of the Church of St. Andrew, Springfield. (1870-1934)

The history of St. Andrew's Church (1970-1934) by Roy Taylor. Also, information on the Wickham Collection of photographs depicting the lives of ordinary people.

Read More

Unveiling of the Wigan Mining & Heritage Monument

A 4 page brochure celebrating the unveiling ceremony on 21st September 2021.

Read More

Wiganers & the Spanish Civil War

Memorial to the 11 men and one woman who served with the Interntional Brigade in the Spansih Civil War. Includes "pen portraits" of those that served.

Read More

Wigan Diggers Festival

Annual Festival celebrating the life and work of Wigan born Gerard Winstanley and the Digger movement.

Read More

Wigan Police - Scrapbook by William Matthews.

William was based close to Wigan during the WWII and met his future wife at the Empress Ballroom. After the forces he entered the Wigan Borough Police Force and served 11 years before receiving an injury on duty.

Read More

History of Association Football in Wigan 1883-1900

A collection of material charting the early days of soccer in Wigan during Victorian times including the involvement of Wigan Cricket Club and Wigan Parish Church.

Read More

Wigan Amateur Operatic Society Programme - Dec 1924.

Kindly provided by Susan Rynn. The programme is split into two sections, the programme and adverts. Contains images of well known names in the town at the time.

Read More

An Honourable Opponent - Sir Thomas Ratcliffe-Ellis

A comprehensive biography of Wigan born Thomas, his life, work and family by Miles Ellis, his great-grandson. Very interesting read.

Read More

Presentation on Roman Wigan

Was Wigan Coccium? Presentation by professional archaeologist, Ian Miller, to the Society on the 10th January 2022.

Read More

Roman Wigan

A must read for anyone interested in discovering and understanding Roman Wigan.

Read More