Peterborough at Work

Peterborough’s origins can be traced back to ancient settlements on dry land by the River Nene after the building of the medieval cathedral. Its main growth period started in the nineteenth century when it became a railway city and a major industrial centre. It was particularly known for brickmaking and the London Brick Company’s factory supplied bricks for the whole country, but other industries were also important, including prominent names such as Perkins Engines. Other historic industries reflected Peterborough’s location at the edge of the Fens, such as British Sugar Ltd and barge transporters along the waterways. Today, light industry and services predominate, but the city remains one of the fastest growing areas in the country. Peterborough at Work explores the working life of this East Anglian city and its people, and the industries that have characterised it through the ages. This book will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of Peterborough.