The Group has been operational for over 25 years and continues to grow stronger.

 

Originally known as The Woodgate & The Valley History Group, we expanded our research to include Bartley Green 'village' and, in 2009, renamed ourselves the Bartley Green District History Group. Our focus is on the historical villages and hamlets encircling The Woodgate Valley Country Park in Birmingham, namely Woodgate, Moor Street, Kitwell, California, and Bartley Green, with Woodgate Valley South nestled among them.

 

This region, historically a part of Worcestershire and bordering Shropshire and Staffordshire, represented the most northwestern point of the ancient Northfield parish. Incorporated into Birmingham in 1911, it now forms the southwestern boundary of the city, largely encompassed by the Bartley Green district.

 

In collaboration with the former City Archaeologist, Mike Hodder, we have endeavored to elevate public awareness of the historical significance of Woodgate Valley Country Park, home to medieval burnt mounds, moated sites, clay pits, and potential brick and tile kiln locations.

 

Our group's mission is to collect and disseminate as much information as possible about our area, ensuring the preservation of its history for future generations.

 

Comprising 'Friends' of the Bartley Green District History Group, our membership is continually growing, and we warmly welcome new 'Friends.' It brings us immense joy to engage with people during our meetings and to share the fruits of our research.