On 16 August 1819 on St Peter’s Field in Manchester, the assembly of tens of thousands of men, women and children, with little means to defend themselves, scattered as quickly as they could. Many of the exits from the area were sealed off by the regular troops, forcing people to seek any route to escape the massacre unfolding around them.
Some retreated to The Friends’ Meeting House where they presented some resistance. One young woman is reported to have stood her ground and hurled stones at the cavalry. The walls (which remain) around the Friends’ Meeting House (now rebuilt) provided some protection. Those who retreated were eventually overwhelmed by the mounted yeomanry.
With fondest memory of wonderful comrade Rosey Kirwan’s legacy and Mike Simons’ constant support.
True of aim is one of the artworks that is part of The Hidden Tableaux’s Peterloo Massacre 1819 series. The Hidden Project is an ongoing series of photographic tableaux by internationally acclaimed artist Red Saunders.
Suitable for all ages
Part of PHM’s year long programme exploring the past, present and future of protest, marking 200 years since the Peterloo Massacre; a major event in Manchester’s history, and a defining moment for Britain’s democracy.
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