Friends of Bowdon Churchyard

20/08/2026

On Tuesday 11 August, we were proud to unveil our latest Blue Plaque, honouring William Wood (1782-1868), a pioneering social reformer who campaigned tirelessly against the cruel practice of using children to sweep chimneys.

Known as "climbing boys", these children were forced to climb narrow, twisting, soot-filled chimney flues. The work often resulted in deformity, chronic illness, and, tragically, death through suffocation or burns.

William Wood's determined efforts helped bring attention to these inhumane conditions and played an important role in the movement for reform.

Discover his remarkable story in our online exhibition: https://exploringtraffordsheritage.omeka.net/items/show/4211

20/08/2026

Our churchyard in the news! 📰

A blue plaque has been unveiled in Bowdon to commemorate the life and legacy of William Wood.

18/08/2026

You can find his grave in our churchyard at St. Mary’s, Bowdon.

It's a "remarkable piece of local history".

14/08/2026

Memories! 2 years ago and we’re still watering!

14/08/2026

13/08/2026

On Tuesday morning, some of our members attended the unveiling of a blue plaque in Bowdon in honour of pioneering social reformer William Wood.

One of our members, Ann Nosowska did a fantastic speech about William Wood, which led to Matthew Wilkinson asking Chris S and Sue R to lead a 20+ Group to the Wood grave in our churchyard.

The group also visited the Jubilee Rooms reception, where there was an interesting display relating to William Wood, along with some rather unique commemorative buns!

A fascinating and memorable morning celebrating the life and legacy of an important local social reformer.

Our churchyard is full of interesting stories for more information and full story on William Wood’s grave by Ann Nosowska you can press on the link below.

https://friendsofbowdonchurchyard.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/William-Wood-the-Chimney-Sweeps-Friend.pdf

https://friendsofbowdonchurchyard.org.uk/

13/08/2026

You can find his grave in our churchyard!

08/08/2026

In the hot dry weather many of us are putting out shallow bowls of water in our gardens to benefit wildlife.

Have you considered whether you could do the same in your local churchyard in a shady place? Although ponds are not suitable for churchyards, a container with shallow edges so small mammals such as hedgehogs can climb out can be very beneficial. If shallow edges aren't going to work, why not include a ramp for them to climb?

02/08/2026

A fantastic turnout today for our 3rd working party, and an amazing amount of work achieved by everyone.

A huge thank you to everyone who came along and gave up their time to help. Your hard work really does make a difference. (Sorry I didn’t get everyone’s picture.)

Today's jobs included:
• Removing tree saplings 🌳
• Strimming 🌾
• Clearing leaves 🍂
• Tidying up the Wood grave 🪦
• Watering the new plants 💦

Caring for God's Acre