Wigan

Wigan centrum - panoramio (cropped)

All Saints Church Wigan

Tyldesley monument, Wigan

Trencherfield Mill 2008

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Wigan Market (geograph 5781841)

Wigan Civic Centre

Wigan is a town in Greater Manchester, England, situated on the River Douglas, 10 miles (16 km) southwest of Bolton, 12 miles (19 km) north of Warrington and 17 miles (27.4 km) west-northwest of Manchester. Wigan is the largest settlement in the Metropolitan Borough of Wigan and is its administrative centre.

History

The history of Wigan dates back to the Roman occupation of Britain, when the area was used as a military settlement. The name Wigan is believed to have derived from the Celtic word wig, meaning "war", and the suffix -an, meaning "place of". This suggests that Wigan was a place of conflict during the Celtic era. In the Middle Ages, Wigan was a major market town and borough in the Lancashire region, known for its involvement in the wool trade.

During the Industrial Revolution, Wigan experienced significant growth and became a major centre for coal mining and textile manufacturing. The town's coal mines were among the deepest in the United Kingdom, and its cotton mills were an integral part of the nation's textile industry.

Economy

The economy of Wigan has transitioned from its historical reliance on heavy industry to a more diversified base. Today, the town's economy is supported by the retail, manufacturing, and service sectors. The Grand Arcade Shopping Centre is a key retail destination in the town, reflecting the shift towards the service industry.

Culture

Wigan is renowned for its cultural heritage, particularly in music and sports. The town has a vibrant live music scene and is famously associated with the Northern Soul movement, which emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Wigan's sporting culture is dominated by rugby league, with the Wigan Warriors being one of the most successful clubs in the sport's history. Football is also an important part of the town's culture, with Wigan Athletic F.C. having a dedicated following.

Landmarks

Prominent landmarks in Wigan include Wigan Pier, a historic wharf on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, made famous by George Orwell's book The Road to Wigan Pier. The Haigh Hall and Country Park is another notable landmark, offering extensive green spaces and leisure facilities.

Transport

Wigan is well-connected through public transport, with two main railway stations, Wigan North Western and Wigan Wallgate, providing links to major cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and London. The town also benefits from its proximity to the M6 motorway, facilitating road travel across the UK.

Education

Education in Wigan is served by a number of primary and secondary schools, as well as Wigan and Leigh College for further education. The college offers a wide range of vocational courses and higher education options in partnership with local universities.

Conclusion

Wigan's rich history, from its Roman roots to its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution, has shaped the town into a vibrant community with a diverse economy and a strong cultural identity. Despite the decline of traditional industries, Wigan has successfully transitioned into a modern town that honors its past while looking towards the future.

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