Shoe trade gallery opens

Northampton was the centre of the shoe trade

A new gallery dedicated to the history of one of Northampton's most famous industries is opening its doors.

The highlight of the £500,000 Life and Sole gallery at Northampton Central Museum is a recreation of an old shoe factory.

Other features are displays on foot health and specialist shoes.

It will complement the Followers of Fashion gallery, which houses the museum's renowned footwear collection.

Mechanised trade

The collection was begun in 1865, and designated by the government as being of national importance in 1988.

The shoe industry in Northampton began in the mid-17th Century, when large orders were placed for army boots during the Civil War.

The industry took off during the 19th Century, and by 1831 a third of the men in the town are thought to have been in the trade.

The industry became mechanised throughout the 19th Century, and Northamptonshire became the centre of the country's shoe trade.

The industry has declined in recent years.

The new gallery opens to the public on Saturday at 1000 BST.

It has been largely funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.