| Administrative History | In 1788, a canal was proposed to link the southern side of the Peak District to the Erewash Canal. The canal was supported by numerous local businessmen including Sir Richard Arkwright, owner the cotton mills at Cromford. Arkwright's interest stemmed from concerns over Cromford as a difficult location to transport goods in and out of. The canal was envisaged as a reliable and cheap transport system. In August 1794, the Cromford Canal was fully opened with much success. |
| Custodial History | Deposited at Derbyshire Record Office in April 2008 |