The History Of Fenton (Stoke-on-Trent)

Fenton is one of the six towns that make up Stoke-on-Trent, often referred to as the “Six Towns.” Unlike the other five towns—Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley, Stoke, and Longton—Fenton is often considered the “forgotten town” due to its relative obscurity in cultural references and historical documents. Despite this, Fenton has a rich and fascinating history that contributes significantly to the overall story of Stoke-on-Trent.

Early Beginnings

Fenton’s history dates back to the medieval period, though it was not until the 18th and 19th centuries that the town began to develop significantly. Originally, Fenton was a rural area with scattered farms and small settlements. The Domesday Book of 1086 does not mention Fenton by name, but it does record the broader region of North Staffordshire, where Fenton would later emerge.

The name “Fenton” is believed to derive from the Old English words “Fentan,” meaning “fen” or “marshland,” and “tun,” meaning “settlement” or “farm.” This name reflects the early landscape of the area, which was characterized by wetlands and undeveloped land.

Industrial Revolution and Growth

The Industrial Revolution had a profound impact on Fenton, as it did on the entire region of North Staffordshire. In the late 18th century, the town began to transform from a rural area into an industrial hub, primarily due to the booming pottery industry. The rich clay deposits found in the area, along with the development of canal and rail networks, made Fenton an ideal location for pottery manufacturing.

One of the most significant figures in Fenton’s industrial history is William Baker, a local landowner and entrepreneur. In the early 19th century, Baker developed much of Fenton, constructing worker’s houses, factories, and public buildings. His influence was so substantial that parts of the town were once referred to as “Baker’s Fenton.”

During this period, Fenton became home to several prominent pottery manufacturers, including the well-known family of potters, the Johnson Brothers, who established their factory in the town in 1883. The pottery industry not only provided employment to the local population but also attracted workers from other parts of the country, contributing to Fenton’s growth and urbanization.

Victorian and Edwardian Era

By the mid-19th century, Fenton was firmly established as an industrial town. The population grew rapidly, and the town expanded with new housing, schools, and churches to accommodate the growing community. In 1839, Fenton was formally recognized as a township, and in 1894 it became an urban district under the Local Government Act.

One of the most iconic buildings in Fenton from this period is the Fenton Town Hall, completed in 1888. The building was financed by local pottery magnate William Meath Baker, who commissioned architect Robert Scrivener to design it. The Town Hall served as a focal point for the community, housing municipal offices, a courtroom, and a public library. In recent years, the building has gained attention for its role in the “Save Fenton Town Hall” campaign, which successfully preserved the historic building after it was threatened with closure.

20th Century to Present

The 20th century brought significant changes to Fenton, as it did to the rest of Stoke-on-Trent. The decline of the pottery industry in the post-war years led to economic challenges for the town, with many factories closing and jobs being lost. However, Fenton managed to adapt, with new industries and businesses emerging over time.

In 1925, Stoke-on-Trent was granted city status, and the six towns, including Fenton, were officially united under the name Stoke-on-Trent. Despite this unification, each town retained its own distinct identity, with Fenton often being seen as the more residential and industrially modest of the six.

Fenton’s contribution to Stoke-on-Trent’s cultural heritage should not be overlooked. The town has produced notable figures, including the poet Arthur Berry, who is often referred to as the “Lowry of the Potteries” for his evocative depictions of life in North Staffordshire.

In recent years, Fenton has seen efforts to revitalize its historic sites and promote its cultural heritage. The restoration of the Fenton Town Hall and the preservation of historic buildings like the Fenton Manor and the Christ Church, built in 1826 by John Wyatt, are examples of the community’s commitment to preserving its past.

Conclusion

Fenton may be the “forgotten town” of Stoke-on-Trent, but its history is integral to the story of the Potteries. From its early days as a rural settlement to its transformation during the Industrial Revolution and beyond, Fenton has played a key role in the region’s development. Today, as Fenton continues to evolve, its rich heritage remains a source of pride for its residents and a testament to the town’s enduring significance within Stoke-on-Trent.