Curriculum area: English

The session provides historical local context for 19th century fiction.

We look at Darlington in the 19th century, with a focus on public health and sanitation, the workhouse, education, railways and Charles Dickens’ use of railways.

Hopetown’s Learning and Access Officer will take students though a journey packed with sources of evidence, as well as having copies of documents and photos to take a closer look at. Students can try some oakum picking, feel the fabrics used in workhouse clothing and even smell the carbolic soap used to try and keep things hygienic!

Produced with funding from Tees Valley Museums National Portfolio Organisation.