Church Stretton Area Local History Group
Speaker: Mathew Stephens
Mathew will speak about the “The Iron Maidens: uncovering the lives of the daughters of the Dale”. The Darby family of Coalbrookdale was one of the most successful and important industrial dynasties of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. From the original innovation of smelting iron using coke instead of charcoal to the construction of the world-first iron bridge across the Severn and beyond, these pioneers of the industrial revolution helped to forge the modern world. Yet they were also devout Quakers and, as such, the women in the family network had unusually significant roles in their lives of faith, family and business. Delving into examples of original correspondence to and from these “Iron Maidens”, this talk will bring their surprising and inspiring stories to life, demonstrating that they were equally pioneers of modern society and deserve to be celebrated for their contributions.
Visitors are welcome – admission: £4.00
Further information: 01694 723627 or CSALHG@outlook.com
