Fireraisers’ trials and executions in the spotlight at Shropshire Council’s Archives

Archivists are putting the spotlight on civil unrest in 1831 which saw fields around Whitchurch set alight and the perpetrators’ subsequent trial and execution in Shrewsbury.

Shropshire Council archivist Sara Downs is delving into the records to explore the case surrounding James Lea and Joseph Grindley, who set fire to hay bales as part of civil unrest sparked by poor conditions affecting the agricultural industry.

Her talk will give a fascinating insight into the social unrest of the time, as well as early firefighting efforts. There will also be chance to examine a range of documents, including accounts of the trial and execution.

Shropshire Archives talk on 4 Oct 2022

The talk is at Shropshire Archives on Tuesday 4 October 2022 from 10.30am to midday and costs £5. To book click here.

The talk is part of events connected to “Fire!”, a free exhibition currently at Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery.