Portland Works, Randall Street 7.00pm – 9.00pm (doors open 6.30pm)

As we approach the 400th anniversary of the founding of the Cutlers Company, this talk by Dr Chris Corker explores how industry in the Sheffield and wider Hallamshire area began and developed over the course of over three centuries. Starting with the first record of cutlers in the area in 1297, this talk charts the development of trades, knowledge, the role of families, apprenticeships, granting of cutlers marks by manor courts, and water wheels, through to the decision by local industry to organise and protect itself from 1614 to 1624. Using tax, probate, manor court, parish, and Cutlers Company records, this talk illuminates how Sheffield began to gain its world reputation for cutlery and metalworking.

Tickets £5 from www.portlandworks.co.uk Free refreshments are included in the admission price.