Pictures illustrate South Holland’s fascinating heritage

They say that pictures are worth a thousand words. These evocative pictures of Spalding in the past show the town has always been a busy, bustling place.

They come from the online archive of the Chain Bridge Forge Museum. Set on the banks of the River Welland, this is a living history museum that is well worth a visit. It is run by volunteers who are keen to reach out to the community and share their resources with a wider public.

A busy day in Hall Place, Spalding, circa 1900. Picture: Chain Bridge Forge Museum.

Geoff Taylor, from the museum, says the venue wants to interest people of all generations, particularly the young, to take an interest in their heritage.

We’ll be hoping to bring you more pictures from the Forge archive in future issues. Since the venue opened as a museum in 2012 it has built up online stories and pictures.

David Baynes is resident blacksmith at the Forge. He is keen to pass his skills on to future generations. He takes on commercial work, and also gives demonstrations and taster sessions.

Spalding Territorials on parade in 1939 – returning from a service at Pinchbeck. Picture: Chain Bridge Forge Museum.

Chain Bridge Forge Museum, High Street, Spalding

Tel: 07960 587724

Open Wed and Fri, 10am-2pm, Sun 11am-3pm.

www.southhollandlife.com

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