Milestones
Cockermouth’s Historic Evolution
Cockermouth’s history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of early human settlement along its riversides during the Mesolithic period. From the Roman fort at Papcastle to the Norman foundations of the town, each era has left its mark on the region. Through the centuries, Cockermouth has evolved from a strategic military site to a hub for trade, industry, and culture.
Cockermouth and District Civic Trust has played a pivotal role in preserving this rich heritage, from conservation efforts to fostering community engagement and cultural awareness. Today, the Trust continues to protect and celebrate Cockermouth’s unique history while contributing to its ongoing development and improvement.
Prehistoric and Ancient Times
Prehistoric and Ancient Settlements in the Region:
- Middle Stone Age (Mesolithic): Early human settlers along the coast used flint tools and fished in the region, including along the River Derwent.
- Neolithic Period (4000 BC onwards): The introduction of agriculture, pottery, and weaving; notable archaeological finds include polished stone axes and axe hammers. Settlement evidence indicates small-scale farming and tool-making activities.
- Bronze Age (1800-800 BC): Evidence of settlements, trading, and megalithic circles such as Elva Plain. The introduction of bronze tools and expanded trade with Ireland marked this period.
- Iron Age: Arrival of Celtic tribes, including the Goidels and Brythons, led to the development of hillforts and more organised local communities.
Roman Occupation (1st-5th Centuries AD)
Roman Influence and Infrastructure in the Region:
- Establishment of the Roman fort at Papcastle, which served as a significant military and administrative centre.
- The Roman road system connected the area to other settlements, facilitating trade and governance.
- Evidence of a vicus, or civilian settlement, near the fort highlights local integration into Roman Britain.
Early Medieval Period (5th-11th Centuries)
Transformation and Settlement in the Early Medieval Period:
- Dark Ages: Decline in settlement activity after the Roman withdrawal, with evidence of sporadic habitation.
- Arrival of the Normans (11th Century): Normans established Cockermouth Castle as a central stronghold, laying the foundations of the modern town.
Medieval Period (12th-15th Centuries)
Medieval Conflict and Commerce in the Region:
- Border Wars (13th-14th Centuries): The town and castle were involved in continuous conflicts with Scotland. Cockermouth Castle served as a key defensive site during raids and battles.
- Development of Markets and Fairs: Cockermouth became a thriving hub for trade due to its strategic location at the confluence of rivers.
Early Modern Period (16th-18th Centuries)
Political Turmoil and Early Industrialisation:
- Mary, Queen of Scots (1568): Briefly stayed in Cockermouth during her flight from Scotland. She was hosted by Sir Henry Curwen at Workington Hall and later accommodated in Cockermouth before being taken to Carlisle.
- Civil War (1642-1651): Cockermouth Castle was garrisoned for Parliament, while much of the surrounding region supported the Royalists. The castle played a strategic role in the conflict.
- Industrial Beginnings (18th Century): Early industrial activity included the establishment of mills for bobbin production and flax spinning. Cockermouth also saw attempts at developing iron forges.
- Notable Figure:
- Fletcher Christian (1764-1793): Born near Cockermouth, Christian was the leader of the mutiny on the HMS Bounty in 1789.
Industrial Revolution (19th Century)
Industrial Growth and Cultural Legacy:
- Expansion of Industry: The town witnessed growth in textile mills, flax spinning, and bobbin production. Mills such as Rubby Banks became significant local employers.
- Transportation Developments: Improved turnpike roads and the introduction of railway services boosted connectivity and trade.
- Public Services: The establishment of the Cockermouth Poor Law Union and the construction of workhouses reflected societal responses to poverty.
- Notable Figures:
- Fearon Fallows (1745-1831): An astronomer born in Cockermouth, he was appointed a royal astronomer at the Cape of Good Hope.
- John Dalton (1766-1844): Born in Eaglesfield, near Cockermouth, John Dalton was an influential chemist, physicist, and meteorologist, known for his pioneering work on atomic theory.
- William Wordsworth (1770-1850): The renowned Romantic poet was born in Cockermouth in 1770. The large Georgian House on Main Street, the birthplace of William Wordsworth, is now called Wordsworth House and is owned and run by the National Trust.
- Dorothy Wordsworth (1771-1855): Sister of William Wordsworth, Dorothy was an accomplished writer and diarist who documented life in the Lake District, including Cockermouth.
Modern Period and Civic Trust Activities (20th Century to present)
Resilience and Growth in the Modern Era:
- World Wars: Cockermouth played a role in wartime efforts, with local industries contributing to the production of essential goods and materials. The community endured the challenges of rationing and post-war recovery.
- Post-War Developments: Modernisation projects included new housing developments, improved roads, and enhanced public amenities.
1967:
- On 13th September, the first General Meeting of the Civic Society marks the birth of the present Trust. The meeting adopts a constitution, elects an executive committee, and outlines a programme of work. The initial response is promising, with over £100 collected in subscriptions and a prospective membership of approximately 250 individuals.
Early Years of the Civic Trust (Late 1960s - Early 1970s):
- In its inaugural year, the Civic Society organises lectures, a tradition that continues every winter, regardless of fluctuations in membership. Meetings initially convene at Derwent School before relocating through various venues.
1970s:
- Bygones exhibitions become a popular feature, drawing significant attendance. Notably, in 1973, 597 adults and 117 children attend one of these exhibitions. The last exhibition under the Civic Trust’s auspices occurs in 1993, after which the Kirkgate Museum Group assumes responsibility for the programme.
- The Trust undergoes a philosophical shift regarding tourism, initially rejecting it as a major industry in favour of attracting light industry to the town. However, as early as 1968, the Trust supports the establishment of a tourist information office, initially staffing it on a rotational basis.
Conservation Efforts and Civic Engagement:
- Central to the Trust’s mission is the conservation and restoration of properties of historical significance or that contribute to the area’s cultural heritage. Early efforts include advocating for conservation areas, resulting in the establishment of five such areas by 1976. The Trust actively supports conservation initiatives, successfully preserving landmarks like the Market Place’s south side from demolition in a 1974 public inquiry.
- Notable successes in preservation include the rescue of Norham House, dating back to 1725, from demolition by the Post Office in 1969. After a prolonged campaign, a Trust member purchases the building in 1972. Today, it stands restored and occupied by a local firm. Percy House, dating from 1598, is also saved and now serves as an art gallery.
Transportation and Recreational Development:
- Following the cessation of rail services through Cockermouth in 1966, the Trust identifies an opportunity to convert the disused railway track into a public footpath spanning the town. Despite numerous setbacks, including dashed hopes over the years, the footpath finally opens in 1994, proving to be a popular traffic-free amenity.
Community Engagement and Cultural Preservation:
- The Trust extends its efforts beyond urban conservation, restoring Stanger Spa, an ancient holy well south of Cockermouth, from a dilapidated state to a functional site in recent years. Ongoing concerns include tree preservation, traffic management, dog fouling, and enhancing the aesthetics of shop fronts.
Literary Contributions and Cultural Documentation:
- In 1979, J. Bernard Bradbury publishes “A History of Cockermouth,” a comprehensive account that becomes the definitive work on the town’s history. Updated editions follow in 1995 and 2006. Bernard also authors several booklets, including “Cockermouth in Pictures,” and guides on walks around and from Cockermouth, contributing significantly to local heritage documentation.
Kirkgate Centre and Civic Achievement:
- Recognised as a pinnacle achievement, the Trust acquired the former All Saints School in 1993, subsequently forming Kirkgate Arts and Heritage to manage it. This establishment serves as a cornerstone of the Kirkgate Arts and Heritage’s community engagement efforts, offering cultural and civic amenities to Cockermouth residents.
Late 20th Century to Present (1995 - Present):
- During this period, the Trust continues to expand its influence and community involvement. Activities range from celebrating local luminaries like Fearon Fallows, born in Cockermouth in 1745 and later becoming Astronomer Royal, to initiating the Town Trail heritage walk in 1993, later enhanced with numbered plaques.
Regeneration and Modernisation Efforts:
- The Trust actively participates in the Market Towns Initiative, establishing the Cockermouth Partnership to unify efforts towards regenerating the Market Square area. Initiatives like the Facelift Scheme, promoting shopfront refurbishment, underscore the Trust’s commitment to enhancing Cockermouth’s urban aesthetics.
Cockermouth Town Trail:
- Starting in 1995, the Trust created a 2km walk through the town’s history. Small cast iron numbered plaques created by the children of Cockermouth School help guide you as you take the Town Trail. Each plaque is numbered 1-19.
Web Presence and Outreach:
- Embracing digital outreach, the Trust launches its website in 2006 – cockermouthcivictrust.co.uk, providing a platform for disseminating information and engaging with stakeholders beyond traditional methods.
Environmental and Recreational Enhancements:
- Following the devastating floods in 2009, the Trust collaborates with local authorities and community groups to restore Cockermouth’s townscape, underscoring its commitment to sustainable development and civic resilience.
- The Trust recognised that out of disaster lay the opportunity to improve on what was there before, in particular to provide new shop frontages that respect the heritage and architecture of the buildings. This led to the establishment of the very successful ‘shop front heritage grant scheme’ which was recognised by the achievement of four national awards.
Video - Heritage of Cockermouth - a Gem Town:
- The Trust created an 11-minute video in 2022, now available on YouTube, detailing Cockermouth’s rich history, spanning from Roman-era Britain to Wordsmouth, the Industrial Revolution, and modern times.
Cockermouth Town Trail Audio Commentary & App:
- Teaming up with Cumbria Archives, in 2023, an accompanying smartphone app with audio commentary and photos was produced for the Town Trail. The leaflet to access the app is available from The New Bookshop.
Get Involved & Support Cockermouth’s Heritage
Whether you’re passionate about heritage, conservation, or community projects, there are many ways you can get involved in preserving our history, architecture, and community for future generations.