Model Villages: Saltaire and more

Hosted by Pontefract Civic Society, this illustrated talk explores the evolution of England from a rural, agricultural nation to an urban, industrial powerhouse. Speaker Eric Jackson examines the rapid growth of towns and cities and unpacks both the benefits and challenges of this transformation.

The talk delves into the history and purpose of the model village movement, highlighting the infrastructure, social ideals, and influential philanthropists behind these pioneering communities. Attendees will hear about early reformers and organisations such as the Society for Improving the Conditions of the Labouring Classes, the Peabody Trust, the Great Exhibition of 1851, and Prince Albert’s Cottages.

Eric also traces the development of later model villages — including Port Sunlight, Bournville, and New Earswick — and how their success helped inspire the Garden City concept and the vision of “Homes Fit for Heroes.”

The evening concludes with a virtual visit to Woodlands, the final major iteration of the model village idea and a significant colliery village example.