Exhibition puts dale history on the map

Fitzhugh Library’s latest exhibition delves into “The Magic Of Maps”.

People are being given a glimpse into the archives’ extensive collection of maps, some of which date back to the 18th century and show how much places have changed.

Also, on show are aerial photographs, some of which show parts of history that no longer exist.

Explaining the reason for the new display, Cath Maddison said: “We have this huge collection. We have 2,238 maps and 1,175 aerial photographs. We are just trying to show the breadth and depth we have got.

“The idea is to promote that we have got them because, obviously, they are not out when people come in.”

The maps cover a broad range of things, including geology, railways, footpaths, coalfields and estates.

An interesting map of Barnard Castle town centre from the early 1800s by engraver John Wood has been included and there is also a current map of the town.

Derek Sims of the library added: “It is about a 200-year difference between the two maps.”

Alongside that is an aerial photograph by drone operator Nigel Allison, which appeared in the Teesdale Mercury’s Eye In The Sky supplement.

A major part of the exhibition has been given to the development of Cow Green Reservoir and includes a botanical map by Dr Margaret Bradshaw which formed part of her presentation to parliament aimed at stopping the dam’s construction.

It appears alongside a map prepared by the Tees Valley and Cleveland Water Board.

A number of estate maps appear in the display including ahead of the sales of Egglestone Estate by the Hutchinson family and the Streatlam Estate in the early 1920s.

There is also a map of the properties in Middleton-in-Teesdale that belonged to the Earl of Darlington.

The exhibition continues through July and August, before it will be replaced for a new exhibition commemorating the 100th year since the birth of Hannah Hauxwell in time for Heritage Open Days.

This will run from September 11-23.

The library is located above The Village Book Shop in Middleton-in-Teesdale and is open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 10.30am to 2.30pm.