Women chainmakers of Cradley Heath
Posted: Sat Oct 25, 2025 12:22 pm
I have just finished reading a book by Annie Murray called Black Country Orphan, given to me by my neighbour as she thought I would be interested in it. I normally pass on my books but I shall be keeping this one as it resonates with me as some of my ancestors lived and worked in the area she writes about ie Lomey Town, Graingers Lane, Corngreaves etc. It's a hard read as it covers their working conditions and the struggle for a minimum wage, obviously mentioning Mary Macarthur and Julia Varley. I knew about the foggers and the working and living conditions but seeing it in black and white really brings it home!
The book was a Peoples Friend recommendation.
The book was a Peoples Friend recommendation.