We had a very jolly, festive get-together on December 1st, as the Society’s Anthony Burton took us on a walk through Victorian Manchester. We recorded his talk and you can join us on catch-up here.

The Gaskells must have often walked between their Manchester home and Cross Street Chapel: they certainly did on Christmas Day in 1861. While in lockdown, we couldn’t physically retrace their steps through Chorlton-on-Medlock, but we did make a virtual expedition, with Anthony as our guide.

He shared a wealth of pictures of features that have disappeared since the Gaskells’ time, with a few fascinating diversions along the way. We found out where Elizabeth bought her books and her butter, and much, much more.

Part I is roughly 35 minutes long, then part II (after our seasonal snack break!) is 25 minutes.

Enjoy this trip through time.