Darlington Past and Present

The extraordinary transformation that has taken place in Darlington since the eighteenth century is illustrated in this fascinating collection of photographs, mostly from the Northern Echo. The images give an insight into the daily lives and living conditions of local people and the town during a period of unprecedented change. For centuries Darlington was a market town; but the opening of the Stockton & Darlington Railway in 1825 changed all that. The railway focused the attention of the world on this small town and set the pattern for the development of railway systems throughout Britain and beyond. Darlington first became famous for its railway engineering, then for a succession of other diverse industries. All aspects of Darlington are featured; famous occasions and individuals, as well as the impact of national and international events on the town. This is a striking account of the many changes that have altered Darlington's appearance, and recalls what the town has lost and gained in terms of buildings, traditions and ways of life. Recent regeneration is also included here and the book is a celebration of the character and energy of Darlington throughout history.