Before 1750, the population of Stalybridge was sparse with the maximum number of villagers reaching 140.

The villagers lived in cottages, some of which had an attached loom–house where up to 8 spinners worked at a time. Other villagers were weavers or farmers.

The 19th Century brought a rapid increase in population to over 20,000 and in 1819 the Stalybridge Band played at the famous Peterloo march/massacre.

Up to18 people were killed and more than 600 injured including women and children. Many were trampled by the Cavalry horses, but local legend has it that the band were already in the pub by the time fighting broke out and avoided most of the action!

[Courtesy of Stalybridge Old Band]