Did You Know?

 

The story of Chesterfield has been over 2,000 years in the making. From its roots as a Roman fort close to the very edge of the Roman Empire its excellent transport links helped it become a prosperous market town in the Middle Ages, serving north eastern Derbyshire and beyond. The natural resources of the surrounding countryside, agricultural and mineral encouraged the growth of important early industries, particularly leather making and iron working.

One of the more iconic landmarks in the town is the Crooked Spire Church which is instantly recognisable as soon as it comes into your view. Built in the late 13th century, it is actually the largest church in Derbyshire. Folklore recounts that a Bolsover blacksmith mis-shod the Devil, who leapt over the spire in pain, knocking it out of shape. Chesterfield is the largest town in Derbyshire with a population of 71,000.

It has a fine tradition of producing goalies with , Bob Wilson, Gordon Banks and John Lukic all achieving international recognition, having been born in the town or played for their local club.

The town is home to one of the largest outdoor markets in England, with around 250 stalls can be found in the town every Monday, Friday and Saturday. It also has the largest civic theature in the UK.

The town started off as a Roman Fort aroung 70 AD, The Saxon word for a Roman fort or town was caester and their word for grazing land was feld.

Inventor of the steam locomotive "Rocket" George Stephenson lived in Chesterfield in his later years and is buried at Holy Trinity Church.

During the 12th century Chesterfield grew from a village into a town. By 1165 the town had a market. (In those days there were very few shops and if you wished to buy or sell anything you usually had to go to the market)..

Hardcase International make plastic case for drums and cymbals. Some of their products are used by well known international artists such as Nicko McBrain from Iron Maiden.

The towns history dates back over 2,000 years, starting as a Roman fort. It became a prosperous market town in the Middle Ages, and was a leader in many industries, including leather making, iron working, and brewing.

Did you know that inside the tower is 10 bells. These bells were cast in 1947 and the heaviest weighs 1,300 kg.

Silver screen legend Sir John Hurt CBE was born here, his father was also the vicar of St Stephen's Church in Woodville, Derbyshire.

Did you know that the canal is 45.5 miles long and has 65 locks.

Has a world famous landmark, the Crooked Spire, that rises to a height of 70m (228 ‘) above the ground and leans 2.89m (9’ 6”) to the south-west. The spiral twist at the base is about 45° from west to east.