My name is Maureen Newton. I am a keen local historian using oral, visual and documentary evidence to present history-based topics.

I enjoy writing and produce a quarterly newsletter called 'Hucknall Torkard Times', plus books and many articles, all history-orientated. Workwise, I have retired now, but I am always researching local history for the community. I organise fairs, workshops or open days, set up exhibitions, design displays, give talks, guide walks, research various subjects but specialise in the history of Hucknall.

For over 30 years, I have been a member of Hucknall Heritage Society, as committee member, secretary and presently as Chairman. Interest in family history research has lead to my being on a committee for Derbyshire Family History Society for about 20 years and I have worked on the Marriage Index Project for the Society. I am also a volunteer at the Family History Surgeries in Hucknall Library, where once a month people are helped with researching their family tree.

The latest publication on this site is the parish records of St Mary Magdalene for the years 1728 to 1851 which can be accessed from the 'Sources' page.

Why do I feel I need a website?

Well - sometimes I look at sites which have not been updated for a long time and I feel disappointed. Some sites have no sources listed, therefore it is impossible to check any facts. Will this site be different? I hope so. It will be updated on a regular basis and have sources listed.

For many years, I have been actively researching sources related to Hucknall. During this time, I have been collecting an extensive archive for the town, which I am happy to share with other researchers through various media. Local people can drop in to browse when I set up local history days or workshops. Often, people write and request help but perhaps those who live further afield would also like the opportunity to link to such a local resource.

I also make regular visits to venues such as local libraries and the Nottinghamshire Archives Office and am happy to help with research for a small fee and expenses. So, do you, by any chance, have a family or local connection with Hucknall? If so, you might like to send me an e-mail.

I am always on the lookout for items for inclusion in the history-based newsletter 'Hucknall Torkard Times'. Perhaps you might consider sending articles, memories, snippets, 'help wanted' requests, suggestions, ephemera, illustrations - in fact anything that may add a small piece towards the jigsaw of Hucknall's history.

To send me an e-mail, just click on the 'E-mail Maureen' button in the left-hand column of any page.

Whilst writing the material for this site, I have talked about poets and prizefighters, framework knitters and flying bedsteads, computers and colliers, Harriers and hosiery, just to name but a few items. It’s good to know that, despite difficulties, the town continues as a welcoming, friendly community. I’m proud of Hucknall and I love the people - it’s my kind of town.