The Merseyside town of St Helens came into being during the Industrial Revolution. First coal-mining, then glass-making and other industries, with the first industrial canal in the country and first passenger railway in the world, brought a rapidly growing population. In 1868 the town was incorporated as a metropolitan borough. Famous manufacturers such as Pilkington’s and Beecham’s made St Helens their home. During the First World War four St Helens men were awarded the Victoria Cross and later in the century St Helens was host to the largest free show in Europe. Alongside its famous Rugby League team, the town has been associated with many famous names, from royalty, sporting stars and entertainers to New Zealand’s longest serving prime minister and a twice Oscar-winning movie sound pioneer.Celebrating St Helens chronicles the proud heritage of St Helens, its important moments and what draws so many to this flourishing town today. Illustrated throughout, this fascinating book offers a marvellous and refreshingly positive insight into St Helens’ rich heritage, its special events and important moments. Celebrating St Helens will be a valuable contribution to the history of the town and provide a source of many memories to those who have known it well over the years.
