Rugeley - through time - Midland Memories.

One of the Cannock Chase towns on the edge of an area of outstanding natural beauty. Founded on the production of leather and coal mining. Rugeley was once a most idyllic little town, very rural in character. Names such as Sheep Fair and Horse Fair give clues to the past. The place has a history from the vikings who sailed up the River Trent, and is also associated with some gruesome 19th century events. The infamous poisoner Dr. Palmer and the sad story of Christine Collins who was murdered by a crew of jobbing bargemen on what is known as the Bloody Steps feature strongly in the Rugeley archives. After the closure of Lea Hall (a mine supposed to be set for the future of the industry in the 1970's) the close community of this once proud market town was lost forever. Now the almost iconic power station cooling towers are set for demolition. Rugeley has been knocked hard by these rapidly changing times but still reveals much of its character to those who wish to explore. Music track courtesy of YouTube's creator's library - Almost_A_Year_Ago - Jazz Theme John Deley and the 41 Players. Apologies for any copyright issues, this video is not made for any financial or other gain, just to freely share with those who are like minded.