Moseley 1850-1900 Space, place and people in a middle-class

“This book is a valuable in-depth investigation into the development of Moseley. The author has used local resources to great effect to reflect on the role of the middle classes in the area.” Kathrina Perry, Midland Historical Review

“I enjoyed reading this book; Berry's extensive research pulled together a broad range of archive resources which she has used to benefit the narrative. I particularly enjoyed the layering of histories of middle-class men and women who lived in Moseley during the second half of the 19th century with a range of data which makes this an invaluable reference tool. Whilst some families are more familiar, such as the Cadburys and Chamberlains, Berry has introduced us to the lives and experiences of many more fascinating people and for that this will remain a well-used book.” Jo-Ann Curtis, Folk Life

“[A]n excellent study of Moseley…” Paul Jennings, Family and Community History

During the second half of the nineteenth century, Moseley, a small hamlet just south of Birmingham, developed into a flourishing middle-class suburb. Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, Janet Berry’s ambitious research asks why and how this particular suburb grew and who was instrumental in its development. What influenced the types of houses that were built and the styles of their gardens? How did residents experience life in the new suburb? How did they create a community?

In analysing an extraordinary quantity of records, Dr Berry builds a notably nuanced portrait of a place and its people that goes beyond stereotypical images of the Victorians. The suburb was a physical, social, cultural, and psychological space where people conveyed messages about their identity; relationships, lived experiences, and responses to change are all revealed.

The economics of buying or renting accommodation in Moseley are addressed, showing what was involved in setting up a single-family home, the key marker of belonging to the middle class. Aspects of this, such as how the interiors of homes were demarcated, decorated and furnished, have not previously been considered in the context of suburban studies to any extent. Additionally, this book has a particular focus on the suburban middle-class woman, her achievements and opportunities, roles and responsibilities, both inside and outside the home.

By the first decades of the twentieth century Moseley had become part of the metropolis of Birmingham. This engaging account of the process from village to fully integrated suburb will be of particular interest to urban historians.