Ashton Freehold Networks - Sisters, Servants and Soap

The suburb was created in 1860 by Ashton Freehold Land Society. Its members included Preston tradesmen and shopkeepers who had prospered enough to consider investing personally and financially in a plot of land outside the town. Many built houses on their land sooner or later, though the estate was a building site for decades. It must have been a brave move to make the step to suburban life, so it's not surprising that previous connections offered mutual support for residents and owners.

The tour will reveal the stories of five sisters whose links were hidden by marriage, and how a housemaid and a shop assistant could afford to be householders on Ashton Freehold. Religion connected soap manufacturers to a coal merchant, and the owner of a large cotton mill to a grocer. And Preston neighbours became fellow Ashton residents.

The tour will only briefly explain the background to the suburb. To discover the overall history of Ashton Freehold, see the Ashton Freehold - the Route to a New Suburb walk.

Timings & Tours

Sunday 08 September:

1400

Location & directions

Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston, Lancashire, PR2

Directions:

The walk starts from 'historic' Ashton-on-Ribble - between Waterloo Road and Tulketh Road. Participants will be notified of the exact starting point in advance.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Booking via Preston Heritage Open Days Eventbrite page.

Booking website:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/preston-heritage-open-days-34095782397

Booking opens:

24 Aug 2024 08:00 AM

Booking closes:

08 Sep 2024 12:00 PM

Accessibility details

The route for the walks is fairly level with paved surfaces. Where possible we will cross roads at dropped kerbs, although in places this requires a slight diversion. There are limited places to sit on the route.

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

12

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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