Most people in Chesterfield know the name of Bryan Donkin – their uncles, friends or neighbours probably worked at the factory in the past. But until now, not much has been known about Bryan Donkin himself, the brilliant man who founded the firm more than two hundred years ago. Now his story can be told, thanks to a new book, as co-author Dr Maureen Greenland reveals.
WHEN DONKIN WAS BORN IN 1768, England’s industrial revolution was taking hold, and changes were afoot. Up in Northumberland, Bryan Donkin’s family lived a rural life on the country estate near Hexham where Bryan’s father was the land agent responsible for overseeing the land and properties of the local family at Beaufront Castle. Young Bryan was a bright lad who showed an early interest in practical science, by experimenting with static electricity, and water pipes and wheels to turn a spit for roasting meat over the fire…