A-Z of Rotherham

Medieval Rotherham was a prosperous market town in the West Riding of Yorkshire with a large minster and a theological college. In later centuries its traditional industries of flour making and glassmaking were supplemented by coal mining and iron and steel manufacturing, its continuing wealth and importance shown by the construction of Wentworth Woodhouse mansion and Boston Castle. In recent decades the decline of these industries has seen Rotherham attract new industries, although the town was badly affected by flooding in 2007.


In A-Z of Rotherham local author James Barker reveals the history behind the town, its streets and buildings, industries and the people connected with it. Alongside the famous historical associations, he includes some unusual characters, tucked-away places and lesser-known events. Readers will discover tales of famous residents such as the Chuckle Brothers and Jive Bunny and the Mastermixers, its twinned towns such as Saint-Quentin in France, the Roman fort at Templeborough, and the granting of the freedom of the borough to the Yorkshire Regiment, among many other fascinating facts in this A-Z tour. It is fully illustrated with photography and will appeal to all those with an interest in this historic Yorkshire town.