The Northern Star was the paper that made Chartism. In addition to providing news of the movement’s activities locally and nationally, and a forum for ideas and debate, it created a great national political community, and both organised and mobilised its readers behind the Charter and other radical causes.

From its launch at the tail end of 1837 until its relocation to London in 1844, the paper was edited, printed and published in Leeds, from where it was distributed via a growing rail network to all parts of the country. Under its first editor, William Hill, and publisher, Joshua Hobson, it reached a peak weekly circulation of 50,000, and was read and heard by many more when it was read out loud in beer houses, coffee shops and workplaces.

Historians of Chartism have long sought to commemorate the Northern Star in its home city – and it was a cause particularly close to the heart of the late Professor Malcolm Chase, who taught at the University of Leeds for many years. Now finally there is to be a blue plaque marking the place where the paper originated.

Erected by Leeds Civic Trust, the plaque will be unveiled by Malcolm Chase’s family on 30 November 2024. The Commoners Choir will mark the event by singing Chartism-related songs, and historian Dr Vic Clarke will lecture on the Northern Star at Leeds Library. 

The unveiling coincides with a symposium in Malcolm’s memory at the University of Leeds titled ‘The Radical North 1779-1914’. Speakers include Professor Katrina Navickas, Professor Robert Poole, and Dr Matthew Roberts, and there will be a round-table discussion of the significance of Malcolm Chase’s work and future directions in the field.

Financial contributions for the plaque are, however, still needed. Donations can be made via a Crowdfunder page.

Crowdfunder: A blue plaque to remember the Northern Star.

Conference: The Radical North 1779-1914.