Local History

My name is Mervyn Edwards, and my new book "Burslem in Words and Pictures" is my seventh published work on North Staffordshire history. 

My writing experience represents only one aspect of my activities in our area, as I am also an artist, cartoonist, singer and guitarist and Potteries Marathon runner - 16 times over! 

I feel that North Staffordshire has given me plenty of opportunity to indulge my flair for creativity.

Oral history

As a local historian, I have written much on the social history of the area, but this latest book has represented a break from research-based projects inasmuch as it is an oral history of 20th century Burslem.

I am well aware of the pitfalls of recording personal recollections, but my own belief is that faith has to begin somewhere, and my research into Burslem's history at least enables me to recognise wheat from chaff pretty well.

Crown full of jewels

Why Burslem? Well, Burslem retains many of its Georgian and Victorian buildings, and I find it fascinating. 

Architecturally, the town has a crown full of jewels: the Big House, the George Hotel, the Wedgwood Institute, and the imperious Old Town Hall (now Ceramica). 

I am a member of Burslem History Society whilst the group I represent as Spokesman, the Potteries Pub Preservation Group, has a staunch following in the area. 

I am also co-presenting a series of historical walks around the town this summer, with fellow local historian Fred Hughes.

Burslem History Club

Many of the interviewees are members of Burslem History Club, and there are recollections of swimming in the "doggy broth" and eating "resurrection lobby". 

Intrigued? Then read the book. There are also memories of childhood games, local industry and leisure, as well as some never-seen-before photographs of the town.

It is a book which has hopefully engendered discussion and encouraged a few further trips down memory lane among those who are proud to call themselves "Boslemites".

Mervyn Edwards