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Saddleworth Archaeological Trust

Saddleworth Archaeological Trust was constituted in August 1995 to promote and protect the rich archaeological heritage of Saddleworth. Governed by three Trustees, Ken. Booth, David Chadderton and Donald Haigh, it has made the publication of books relating to the archaeology of Saddleworth its number one priority and, in 2001, with the aid of a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, published two books.

Dr W.P.B. Stonehouse, who unfortunately died prior to completion, wrote the first book The Prehistory of Saddleworth and Adjacent Areas. His work was carried on by David Chadderton and completed ready for publication.

The second book, Roman Saddleworth by Ken Booth, was completed at the same time and both books were launched at Saddleworth Museum on the 26th October 2001.

Currently the Trust is working on the third book in the series dealing with the Industrial Archaeology of Saddleworth.

The protection of Saddleworth’s Archaeological Heritage is also a major concern of the Trust and as well as being represented on a number of conservation committees, it works very closely with like-minded organisations to actively protect the landscape and archaeological sites that are to be found within the Saddleworth boundary.

The archaeological exploration of the area for new sites also plays an important role in the activities of the Trust and currently the sites of a suspected burial mound and a henge monument are under investigation.

Each year the Trust organises a prestigious meeting, The Stonehouse Lecture at the Royal George Hotel, Greenfield and engages a nationally renowned speaker. Past speakers have included Norman Redhead, Terry Manby, Peter Addyman, David Shotter and Roselie David.

To support ‘National Archaeology Week’ the Trust organises a One Day School dealing with some aspect of local archaeology. Recently these have been based in the Castleshaw Valley.

Supporting the Trust are The Friends of Saddleworth Archaeological Trust, a group of some 70 members who meet on a monthly basis at Uppermill Masonic Hall on Tuesday evenings. A programme of lectures covering a wide and interesting range of subjects is arranged and, as membership grows, it is hoped to be able to organise both site and museum visits.

Any one interested in joining the group or requiring further information should contact the secretary, Mrs Edith Howarth on 01457 873354 or e-mail