Priory’s history is brought to book

Dec 4 2008 by Adrian Short, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

ARCHAEOLOGICAL work carried out at Runcorn’s historic Norton Priory is the focus of a book being launched tomorrow.

Norton Priory – Monastery to Museum 1970-87 uses modern archaeological knowledge to take a fresh look at findings of site excavations carried out at the time.

The book, published by Oxford Archaeology North and funded by English Heritage, is being unveiled at an event at the museum from 4-6pm.

The book also traces the site’s history from its expansion in the 12th century, its elevation to abbey status and the dissolution of the monasteries.

It also looks at the Brooke family who bought the estate in Tudor times and lived there until the 1920s.

The books includes photographs of objects including a collection of medieval floor tiles, human bone, pottery, decorative architectural stone and items made from wood and leather.

For further information on the book contact Lynn Smith on 01928 569 895.