The tiny village of Mapperley, near Ilkeston, is looking forward to a big celebration later this year when it marks the 750th anniversary of the signing of its royal charter by King Henry III.
The whole community is coming together for a major gala event on Spring Bank Holiday Monday, May 29, with stalls, music, food, children’s activities and guests. More details will be unveiled soon.
Mapperley History Project has joined forces with Mapperley C of E Primary School, with support from the parish council, to organise the extravaganza. Formerly known as Maperlie, the charming village is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and received its royal charter in 1267.
The document was granted to Simon of Arderne, then Lord of the Manor, allowing him to hold an annual fair on the festival of the Holy Trinity – this makes the event older even than Ilkeston Fair. The charter also permitted a weekly market every Monday.
Not to be confused with Mapperley in Nottingham, the Derbyshire village rose to further prominence in the 19th century thanks to the wealthy Miller Mundy dynasty of nearby Shipley Hall – who made the bulk of their money from coal production.
Mapperley Colliery, which was open from 1871 until 1965, became one of the area’s major employers and at the height of its operation, the population of the village grew to around 531 people.
Often called Derbyshire’s best kept secret, Mapperley is today still something of a hidden gem – with even those living in nearby Ilkeston and Derby more or less unaware of its existence.
It currently has a population of around 300 people, with a thriving pub (The Old Black Horse), a church and a small primary school. Elaine Sarson, who runs Mapperley History Project (www.mapperleyhistory.com) said she hoped the forthcoming charter celebrations would truly put the village on the map, attracting visitors from far afield.
She added: “A similar event held in 1967 to mark the 700th anniversary of the granting of the royal charter proved extremely successful and we would really like local people to get involved and create another memorable event
this year.
“2017 should be a very exciting time not just for Mapperley Village but for anyone who is interested in England’s rich history and in community life.”
Look out for further details on the event in the coming months. Anyone who would like to get involved should contact Elaine via email atmapperleyhistory@live.com.
Oonagh Robinson
