Every town has stories hiding in plain sight.
As part of a heritage trail project for Middleton, Jess was asked to research 24 sites that together tell the story of the town’s remarkable past. Funded through Historic England, Middleton Township and the Shared Prosperity Fund, the project aimed to make local heritage more accessible and engaging for residents and visitors alike.
Researching the trail meant digging deep into local archives, historic records and newspaper collections to uncover the people, industries and events that helped shape Middleton.
Some discoveries were expected. Others were surprising.
Among the most interesting findings were historic links between Middleton and Manchester’s Italian community, connections that had not previously been fully understood or celebrated. These stories helped add a new dimension to the trail and revealed how the town’s history connects to wider social and cultural movements.
The completed heritage trail shines a light on Middleton’s rich past, from its association with the Arts and Crafts movement to the everyday stories of the people who lived and worked there.
By bringing these stories together, the project helps ensure that Middleton’s heritage isn’t simply remembered, but actively explored and enjoyed by future generations.
