Edward Ernest (John) Hill

1915 – 2000

My grandfather (centre) rebuilt the lychgate at St Peter and St Paul’s, Old Brampton, to mark the Silver Jubilee of the Queen in 1977. The Rev Charles Branson to the right.

Meet the Family

Historical Context

Contemporary Personalities

Ellis Bradbury

Learn More

Notable Events

1916
Zeppelin raid near Chesterfield during World War I.
During World War I, a Zeppelin raid in 1916 targeted areas near Chesterfield, causing alarm. While no direct hits occurred, the event heightened local war fears.
1928
Thames Flood affects Britain; minor flooding in Chesterfield.
The 1928 Thames Flood had ripple effects across Britain, with minor flooding in Chesterfield. The River Rother overflowed, impacting local businesses.
1931
Heatwave across Britain, impacting local health.
A severe heatwave in 1931 led to health issues across Britain, including in Chesterfield. High temperatures caused heatstroke and strained local resources.
1940
Blitz bombings in nearby cities during World War II.
During the 1940 Blitz, nearby cities like Sheffield were bombed, affecting Chesterfield. Residents lived in fear of air raids as the war intensified.
1947
Severe winter, one of the coldest in Britain’s history.
The winter of 1947 was one of the coldest on record, with heavy snow isolating Chesterfield. Fuel shortages made it a particularly harsh season for locals.
1952
Great Smog of London raises air quality concerns nationwide.
The Great Smog of 1952 in London led to thousands of deaths and raised air quality concerns. In Chesterfield, it sparked discussions on industrial pollution.
1963
Big Freeze, coldest winter of the 20th century in Britain.
The Big Freeze of 1963 brought record-low temperatures to Britain, freezing Chesterfield’s waterways. The harsh conditions lasted for months, disrupting daily life.
1976
Heatwave and drought across Britain, water shortages in Derbyshire.
The 1976 heatwave caused severe drought, leading to water shortages in Derbyshire. Chesterfield implemented rationing to cope with the crisis.
1987
Great Storm of 1987 causes widespread damage in southern England.
The Great Storm of 1987 brought hurricane-force winds to southern England, with effects felt in Derbyshire. Trees were uprooted, and power outages occurred in Chesterfield.
1995
Chesterfield hosts events for VE Day 50th anniversary.
In 1995, Chesterfield celebrated the 50th anniversary of VE Day with community events. Parades and memorials honored local veterans of World War II.
2000
Heavy rainfall leads to flooding in parts of Derbyshire.
Heavy rainfall in 2000 caused flooding across Derbyshire, including in Chesterfield. The River Rother overflowed, affecting homes and businesses.