Books by Christine Richardson
Christine Richardson is a waterways historian and writer whose research into the Chesterfield Canal spans more than four decades. Beginning in 1985, her work has developed into a substantial body of published research exploring the canal itself, the people connected with it, and its place within the wider development of Britain’s early waterways.
Her books combine detailed archival research with clear, accessible writing, making them valuable to historians, family researchers, canal enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in the history of inland navigation.
The Waterways Revolution – From the Peaks to the Trent, 1768–1778
Christine Richardson (1992)
ISBN: 1 85421 161 7
287 pages, indexed
This book examines the planning and construction of the Chesterfield Canal during its formative years in the late eighteenth century. Rather than focusing solely on engineering, it explores the people behind the project — the promoters, surveyors, labourers and landowners — and explains why the canal was built, how it was funded, and the challenges faced along the way.
Widely regarded as the definitive account of the canal’s creation, The Waterways Revolution places the Chesterfield Canal firmly within the broader context of the early national canal network.
James Brindley – Canal Pioneer
Christine Richardson (2004)
ISBN: 1 870002 95 4
123 pages, indexed
James Brindley was one of the most influential engineers of Britain’s canal age. This biography explores his life and work, with particular emphasis on his role in promoting, planning and constructing the Chesterfield Canal.
Based on extensive original research, the book offers insight into Brindley’s methods, reputation and influence at a time when canal engineering was still in its infancy, making it essential reading for anyone interested in early industrial and transport history.
Minutes of the Chesterfield Canal Company, 1771–1780
Edited by Christine Richardson
Introduction by Philip Riden (1996)
ISBN: 0 946324 20 4
238 pages, indexed
Published by the Derbyshire Record Society
This volume presents a full transcript of the only surviving minute book of the Chesterfield Canal Company, held at The National Archives (RAIL 817/1). The minutes provide a rare first-hand record of how the canal was managed during its early years, documenting decisions about finance, construction, maintenance and disputes.
The book is fully indexed by people, places and subjects, making it an invaluable resource for researchers studying the canal, local history or eighteenth-century infrastructure projects.
Chesterfield Canal – Boat Registers
Transcribed by Christine Richardson (1997)
ISBN: 1 872776 48 5
105 pages, indexed
This book contains transcripts of three historic registers of boats operating on the Chesterfield Canal:
Derbyshire register, 1795
Chesterfield register, 1878–1880
Retford register, 1880–1930
Indexed by boatmen’s surnames, it is an important source for family historians and researchers tracing individuals who worked on the canal over more than a century.
Stone to London – To Create the Houses of Parliament
Christine Richardson (2007)
ISBN: 978 1 9999465 3 1
36 pages
This booklet explores the transport of stone by water from Kiveton Park to Westminster in the 1840s, illustrating the importance of canals in supplying materials for major national building projects.
Norwood Tunnel – Four Centuries of Challenge
Christine Richardson (2009)
ISBN: 978 0 9999465 4 8
36 pages
A concise history of Norwood Tunnel, examining its construction, operation and the engineering challenges it has faced over several centuries.
Chesterfield History Nuggets
Christine Richardson (2006)
ISBN: 9999465 2 4
44 pages
A collection of six short studies covering different aspects of the canal’s history, offering accessible insights into a range of lesser-known topics.