Jenna Goodwin

Well-Behaved Women Rarely Make History

A Talk Celebrating the Lives of Remarkable Women from Staffordshire's Past with Jenna Goodwin – The Red Haired Stokie

Plans are in motion for the futire of The Leopard, Burslem – but what do you think it should be?

One of Burslem’s most iconic buildings – and one of my personal favourites – is finally back in the spotlight, and this time you have the chance to help shape its future. Yes, The Leopard is stirring once more. Following the devastating fire in January 2022 that left the Grade II-

Longton Carnival Parade & Pig Walk 2025

Step into Stoke-on-Trent’s past with the Longton Pig Walk – a vibrant community event that brings a brilliant piece of local history back to life! This joyful tradition is inspired by John Aynsley (1823–1907), a celebrated pottery manufacturer and four-time Mayor of Longton, who helped create

The Hidden History of Alton Towers: From Iron Age Fort to World-Famous Theme Park

🎢 Tickets now on sale! 🎟️ Think you know Alton Towers? Think again... Join me, Jenna Goodwin – The Red Haired Stokie, for a thrilling deep dive into the real story behind one of Staffordshire’s most iconic landmarks. From an Iron Age fort to a world-famous theme park, the story of

The Fenton Mace: A Symbol of Pride, Remembrance, and Rebirth

After 115 years, Fenton finally has its own ceremonial mace – and it’s more than just a long-overdue symbol. The newly unveiled Fenton Mace, affectionately known as The Forget-Me-Not Mace, represents civic pride, artistic excellence, and a community’s powerful message: Fenton is not forgotten. I had

Did You Know the UK’s Ambulance Service Started in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent?

Long before paramedics in green uniforms and flashing blue lights became part of everyday life, a man in Burslem quietly changed the course of emergency care forever. In 1874, Hiram Syson – a Crimean War veteran and town hall caretaker – became England’s very first ambulance man. Operating from Burslem Town

The Terrifying Tale of Thomas Meakin, Buried Alive in Staffordshire

A chilling local legend in North Staffordshire tells of Thomas Meakin, a young man who was allegedly buried alive in 1781. The story spans the quiet village of Rushton Spencer and the bustling canal town of Stone, involving an apothecary’s household, a mysterious illness, and a faithful pony that

The Hidden WWII Pillbox Disguised as a Cottage at Rudyard Lake

Ever noticed this little brick building on the road to Rudyard Lake? It might look like an old cottage or utility building – but this curious structure is actually a WWII pillbox, cleverly disguised with a pitched roof and gable ends to help it blend into the countryside. Today, the timber

Stoke Lantern Parade 2025

Stoke-upon-Trent was glowing last night for the annual Lantern Parade! The streets came alive as crowds gathered outside Stoke Library to take part in a magical evening of light, colour, and community. The parade made its way through town to Stoke Minster, led by the glowing Stoke Elk

Why Bramshall Road Park in Uttoxeter is a Window into Staffordshire’s Past

We were up bright and early this morning and took the dogs for a walk at Bramshall Road Park in Uttoxeter, a place I’d never explored. Imagine my surprise when I spotted some stunning ridge and furrow formations right in the middle of the park! What is Ridge and

A Morning Well Spent in the Churnet Valley

This morning, I woke up, saw the sunshine, and thought, this weather is too good to waste! So I grabbed my bike, my drone, and my phone and headed off to Froghall for a bit of an adventure. I started at Froghall Wharf and cycled along the Caldon Canal towpath

USATC 6046: A Hardworking Steam Survivor in the Staffordshire Countryside

🚂 USATC 6046: A Hardworking Steam Survivor in the Staffordshire Countryside 🚂 Today, I filmed USATC 6046 powering through the Churnet Valley Railway, cutting through the stunning Staffordshire landscape and the post-industrial remains of Froghall. A true spectacle of steam and history! Built in 1945 by Baldwin Locomotive Works in Philadelphia,