HISTMGA HEAVY topic was discussed by members of a special interest history group.
Elizabeth R, a resident of Mapperley Park, explored the evolution of brick making in this area of Nottingham from medieval times.
The meeting took place in light of the current restoration of the Belle Vue Reservoir on Mapperley Park Road. The project, run by Severn Trent Water, involves the repair of a 150-year-old valve.
Of particular interest to the history group is the glazed brick lining the interior of the well. The brick was manufactured using the abundant materials from Mapperley’s old clay fields.
Elizabeth, 61, has had an interest in history since childhood when her father would tell her stories about buildings in the city. Later, while studying fashion and textiles at college, she started paying close attention to brick work.
Elizabeth’s discussion of the topic followed the trade in Nottingham from the earliest hand-made methods of working clay through the mid 19th century when the old reservoir was established.
Around this time, demand for brick led to a surge in production made possible by the introduction of mechanised brick making and improved railway systems which enabled a wider distribution of local bricks.
Although the reservoir’s underground bricks are not easily seen, Elizabeth recognises an inherent value in the material used. With Nottingham’s newer developments and more perceptible infrastructure in mind she said: “I think it’s important that we look out on brick and that we continue to look out at brick, rather than offices and flats made of modern materials.
Modern building materials would be so incongruous. They would jar.”
Work at the Belle Vue reservoir is expected to continue into the new year. For more information call project manager CM at 0133 268 3307.
