Secret Black Country

During the Industrial Revolution, the towns and villages west of Birmingham, known as the Black Country, became heavily industrialized, particularly in coal mining and ironworking. Secret Black Country explores the lesser-known episodes and characters in the area's history, including Dudley Castle, royal connections, English Civil War visits, and the evidence of Charlie Chaplin's birthplace. The book is fully illustrated and reveals the hidden heritage of this historic area.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2022
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The towns and villages situated west of Birmingham, encompassing Dudley, Wolverhampton, Sandwell, and Wallsall, gained recognition as the Black Country during the Industrial Revolution. This region experienced a profound industrialization, particularly in coal mining and ironworking, leading to the rapid growth of these settlements. Over time, these towns merged into a continuous urban area, developing a distinct identity of its own. Secret Black Country delves into the lesser-known episodes and characters that shaped the history of this area throughout the years. From the historical significance of Dudley Castle, with its connections to Lady Jane Grey and Queen Elizabeth I, to the visits by Charles I and Charles II during the English Civil War, and even the visits by the future Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson to Himley Hall, which served as a Red Cross hospital for patients with severe facial injuries during the Second World War, the book explores a range of captivating stories. Additionally, it uncovers evidence of Charlie Chaplin's birthplace on Black Patch Park in Smethwick, adding another layer of intrigue to the region's rich heritage. The entries in Secret Black Country are accompanied by fully illustrated photographs, providing a visual glimpse into the hidden treasures of this historic area. This comprehensive book aims to unveil the hidden heritage of the Black Country, shedding light on its rich past and captivating stories that have remained largely untold.

Weight: 278g
Dimension: 203 x 577 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445697543