Event Details

Our annual RHC study day with Dr Alan Crosby (British Association for Local History), this time considering roads and their traffic in the North West over four key historical periods.

The road network of North West England has been growing, changing and adapting for over two millennia. Archaeological and historical research into roads, their construction and their traffic is becoming more focused and is continuing to expand our knowledge – and in some cases extensively revise the story. Roads have become central to the landscape, society and economy of the region, (whether we welcome this or not!) and they have played a key role in numerous historical events and processes. In this day school, we explore four key stages in the development of the road network, considering how new perspectives have been gained from technological advances and deeper archival research. From the Scottish Border to South Cheshire, Roman soldiers marched, heavy wagons trundled, stagecoaches rattled and motorcars grumbled: our roads have a rich history. Please note this event is for a live audience only and will not be live streamed or recorded.

9.30 am Assemble Library Events Space (tea/coffee is not served at the beginning of the day –

but will be available mid-morning).

9:55-10:00 Welcome remarks

10:00 – 11:00 Still expanding: the Roman road network of North West England

11:00 – 11:30 Coffee/tea & biscuits

11.30 – 12.30 Adapting to a modern age: roads and their improvement in the 17th century

12.30 – 1.30Lunch*(Lunch is not provided but several options are available on campus)

1.30 – 2.30 Superhighways: building new turnpikes in the region 1775-1825

2.30 – 3.00 Coffee/tea & biscuits

3.00 – 4:00 Promises, some unfulfilled: the roads of the motor age

04:00pmClosing remarks and end of study day

The speaker for all presentations is Dr Alan Crosby of the British Association for Local History.