A Flintshire historian is motivating residents to dive into the local past of the region as part of Local and Community History Month.
With May being the month to celebrate regional history, there is no better time to learn more about the rich and varied stories of the towns and villages which make up part of the county.
With five heritage trails which weave their way through localities across Flintshire, learners can have their pick of historical sites to visit.
Flintshire-based historian Dr Miranda Kaufmann said: “Learning about our local history is so important because we cannot know who we are unless we know where we’re from.
“Understanding what came before allows us to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of where we live.
“Being conscious of the layers of history that surround us, and how our environment has changed over the centuries, creates another dimension of enjoyment for even something as simple as a walk down the high street.
“From Bronze Age treasures like the Mold Gold Cape, to medieval castles testifying to the struggles between Welsh princes and English kings, to the area’s industrial heritage, Flintshire has a rich and varied history.
“And it is not just a local history, but a national and global history too: kings and queens from Richard I to Queen Victoria visited St. Winifred’s Well; the Mostyn family played a key role in the Civil War; copper produced in Greenfield Valley both protected ocean-going ships’ hulls from sea worms, and made manillas used to buy enslaved Africans.
“Our town heritage trails are a great way to explore the area’s past and present; anyone can take to the streets and go for a walk through time.”
Flintshire’s five heritage trails in Buckley, Connah’s Quay, Flint, Mold and Holywell highlight a range of different time periods.
Flint’s trail celebrates the many trades which have transformed the settlement over the centuries since its foundation by King Edward I, while Holywell’s route takes walkers through ancient religious paths and wildlife sites.
Those looking to take to the paths are encouraged to also download the North East Wales Digital Trails app from Cadwyn Clwyd, which provides further options and locations to explore as well as the town tracks.
Flintshire County Council’s Chief Officer for Planning, Environment and Economy, Andrew Farrow, said: “Flintshire has a rich and diverse history which has been shaped over centuries, and the heritage trails are a perfect example of the ever-changing nature of the area.
“From medieval warfare to the progress and technological advancement during the industrial revolution, Flintshire has something for every historical interest.
“The town heritage routes encapsulate how much the places which make up Flintshire have developed over the history of Wales and allow for you to follow in the many thousands of footsteps which have made up the stories of the region.”
Do you have a favourite historical spot in Flintshire you would like to share? Visit the Explore Flintshire pages on Facebook (@exploreflintshire) and Instagram (@explore_flintshire) and share your choices.
