Why was Timothy Hackworth a significant individual for the Stockton and Darlington Railway?

These teaching resources celebrate the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway (S&DR) on 27 September 1825. The innovation and ingenuity of the S&DR went on to change the face of the world as railways spread across the globe.

The resources were commissioned by the Friends of the Stockton and Darlington Railway and funded by Historic England, in partnership with Head of Steam Darlington Railway Museum, Locomotion Railway Museum Shildon and Preston Park Museum and Grounds and in consultation with local teachers.

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Teaching idea

Children discover the history of the Stockton and Darlington Railway by learning about railway journeys in the past. They will compare the similarities and differences between going on a railway journey on the Stockton and Darlington Railway in the 19th century compared to a train journey today.

They will also focus on Timothy Hackworth as a significant individual and an unsung hero of the railway. They will use a range of sources to find out more information about him. Some suggested activities are included in the pack along with discussion points.

Learning aims and outcomes

  • To develop our local history skills by using historical evidence to find out about our area and the people who lived here in the past
  • To learn about significant individuals from our area and discover the impact they had on or locality and nationally
  • To investigate why key historical sites in our local area are important
  • To develop our geography skills by using maps to find out about our area in the past
  • To find out why we can care about historic sites in our local area and how we can continue to use them in the future

Prior knowledge

  • No prior knowledge is required