This fascinating collection of over 220 old photographs shows, in fine detail, some of the changes that have taken place in Wirksworth and the surrounding villages over the last hundred years. Lead-mining gave the area prosperity, and, at the height of the mining boom, Wirksworth was its capital. This increased the town's role as a market and business centre, something which is reflected in its many interesting old buildings. In more recent years, the town began to decline and buildings fell into disrepair. This was arrested dramatically by the success of the Wirksworth Project, culminating in the award of the Europa Nostra medal for the 'exemplary regeneration' of the town. This collection of photographs illustrates the industries, the streets and markets and the people who lived in Wirksworth and the surrounding villages over the last century. The old scenes will bring back vivid memories for some and introduce others to what life used to be like in times gone by.