Help celebrate workshop of the world
The E&S is celebrating the Black Country's role as the Workshop of the World. Historian CARL CHINN explains how you can get involved
The Black Country was vital in powering Britain through the Industrial Revolution and beyond.
Black Country iron, steel, coal, limestone and fire clay were all fundamental to the making of modern Britain – but the most important feature of this region that helped to transform the world was its people.
Now I am looking for help in putting together a special supplement for the Express & Star.
I need pictures and stories about long established Black Country businesses and the people who made them successful.
The companies may still be in business or they may have ceased trading in years gone by. I would still like to hear about them and include their stories.
An army of workers made the Black Country a powerhouse. Hardworking, innovative, talented, dogged and determined they ensured that each town and village would make its mark upon the world.
Wolverhampton, Bilston and Wednesfield, Dudley, Gornal, Brierley Hill, Sedgley, Coseley, Quarry Bank and Netherton, Stourbridge, Amblecote and Wordsley, Halesowen, Cradley and The Lye, Rowley, Cradley Heath, Old Hill, and Blackheath, Oldbury, Tipton, Smethwick, West Bromwich and Wednesbury, Walsall, Darlaston, Willenhall, Bloxwich, Aldridge along with nearby Cannock, Brownhills and Great Wyrley – they all punched well above their weight on the global stage.
Famous firms sent their products to the four corners of the earth – many have gone but others remain and still proudly shout out Made in the Black Country.
Perhaps you run a long established manufacturing business or retail business. Perhaps you work for a long-standing firm or used to work for a company that has closed down. Perhaps you have photographs of companies from years ago. I would like to hear from you.
The special publication will not just focus on the past but will look at the long established businesses that are weathering the economic storm and are maintaining the great Black Country traditions.
* Contact Carl: Send your stories and photographs to: Professor Carl Chinn, Workshop of the World, C/o Editor's Office, Express & Star Ltd, 51–53 Queen Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1ES. Or newsdesk@express@star.co.uk, marking your email for the attention of Carl Chinn.
