The stone arches that were once part of the Dukesfield Mill lead ore processing complex just to the south of Hexham

Our Region has an incredibly rich Industrial Archaeology heritage and was central in many developments that were significant in the progress of industrial development, throughout the Country and the World. Though the Industrial Age has largely come to a close, there is left behind a huge amount of information and many structures that have been carefully preserved and documented. There are well stocked museums, well interpreted and managed sites where old industry existed. Thanks to the Internet, a huge body of documentation - both historical records and papers carefully researched and  written , is now easily available for personal and group study. Much of the research, reporting and site preservation is nowadays done by amateur enthusiasts – sometimes working in groups that have come together to document and preserve their own community’s heritage.

The Industrial Archaeology group aims to collectively explore and learn about our Regional Industrial heritage with regular meetings where talks and open discussions can take place. There is considerable scope to visit the many museums and sites of interest and an important aim to provide a sociable environment for group members. Where visits are made to look at Industrial Archaeology, the comforts and pleasures of local coffee shops and lunching pubs are considered very important.

If you're interested in this idea, please contact Adrian using the link above. Dates/times of meetings and venue to be confirmed.