Robert Hamnett
Glossop’s First Historian and Archaeologist
The third Blue Plaque, created by Glossop Heritage Trust to recognise the work of Robert Hamnett, was unveiled by the Mayor of Glossop, Councillor George Wharmby on Sunday 4th September 2016.
Robert Hamnett was Glossop’s first historian and archaeologist, chronicling its history and unearthing important relics at Melandra. His articles have formed the basis for most of the books and other publications on local history produced ever since, and are a valuable source of reference for all historians. His booklet, “Glossop, a Sketch from the Earliest Period, provides an illustrated history of the town and includes many photographs of the main High Street shops and their beautiful art nouveau style adverts.
The Plaque has gone up on the wall of the Conservative Club, as Robert was once a steward there. He was also an early member of the local Conservative Association when it held its meetings at the Railway Inn. When the Inn was demolished the Conservative Club was built on the same site.
After the unveiling, refreshments were served at Bradbury House and a small exhibition of photographs was on view, including some from the family album shown below.
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| Robert married Mary Kent in 1878 and they had seven children, sadly two died very young. | |
This photo shows the five remaining siblings, thought to be from left to right, Annie, Ann Elizabeth, George Alfred, Joseph William and James Edward. Joseph William Hamnett emigrated to Canada and was tragically killed by lightening in 1915. James Edward Hamnett died eight years after his father in 1922.
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