Few people have done more to record and preserve the history of St Annes-on-the-Sea than local historian Peter Shakeshaft. Through decades of meticulous research, he has become one of the leading authorities on the town’s heritage, producing books that have become essential references for historians, researchers and anyone with an interest in the Fylde Coast. He was born in St Annes in 1942, where his parents had settled in the early 1920s. He lived in St Annes until 1958, when he moved to Freckleton, before returning to St Annes in 1967, where he has lived with his wife, Maureen, for many years.
Shakeshaft’s work is distinguished by its depth of research and attention to detail. Drawing upon original archive material, historic newspapers, parish records, maps, photographs and official documents, he has pieced together the story of St Annes from its earliest rural beginnings through to its emergence as one of Britain’s best-known Victorian seaside resorts.
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His best-known publication, St Annes on the Sea: A History, was published in 2008 and is widely regarded as the definitive history of the town. Rather than beginning with the creation of the resort in 1875, the book explores the landscape that existed long before St Annes was founded. It examines the ancient settlements of Heyhouses and Kilgrimol, describing the farming communities that occupied the area centuries before visitors flocked to the coast. The book follows the ambitious plans of the Clifton Estate and the St Anne’s-on-the-Sea Land and Building Company, whose vision transformed windswept sand dunes into an elegant seaside destination. Shakeshaft charts the construction of the town’s streets, churches, hotels, gardens, schools, pier and promenade, documenting the people and organisations whose efforts shaped the community that exists today. Richly illustrated with historic photographs and engravings, it has become the standard reference work for anyone researching the history of St Annes.
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His contribution to local history extends well beyond the town itself. In 2001 he published The History of Freckleton, a comprehensive account of one of the Fylde’s oldest villages, tracing its development from medieval times to the modern era. He has also written A History of St Paul’s Church, Warton, documenting the long history of one of Lancashire’s oldest parish churches, together with a history of Freckleton Church of England Primary School.
Peter’s latest book is called: Lytham Priory – A History. Here is the description:
In the late twelfth century the area now embracing the towns of Lytham and St Anne’s was given, by Richard fitz Roger, to the Benedictine Cathedral Priory of Durham for their monks to establish a cell (daughter house). The prior, and his monks, were engaged in a direct farming operation running, what might be described as, a home farm which involved both stock farming and arable.
The priors were frequently involved in local disputes and politics, and, in order to protect their interests, sought the protection of leading county families, including the earls of Derby. The priory was the dominant local force for over three hundred and forty years: a span of years equivalent from our own times to the last quarter of the seventeenth century. The site of the priory is now occupied by the present-day Lytham Hall.
To order a copy (priced £25-00 plus postage and packing UK) contact Peter Shakeshaft via email: [email protected]
For more books by Peter and his colleagues, please visit: https://fyldehistorynetwork.co.uk/new-book/
Peter Shakeshaft’s research is regularly referenced by heritage organisations, local historians and civic groups across Lancashire. His publications have informed town trails, conservation projects, historical exhibitions and educational resources, while organisations such as the Fylde History Network, Lancashire County Council’s Red Rose Collections and the Lytham St Annes Civic Society continue to recognise the value of his work.
For anyone seeking to understand the origins and development of St Annes, Peter Shakeshaft’s books remain among the most authoritative sources available. His careful research has ensured that the stories of the town’s founders, its early residents, its buildings and its communities have been preserved for future generations. In doing so, he has made an enduring contribution to the history of St Annes and the wider Fylde Coast, helping to ensure that the area’s rich heritage will continue to be appreciated long into the future.
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