In 1800 Wrexham was 'a decayed genteel town' of under 3000 people. By 1900 it was 'an improved and improving commercial centre' of over 15,000 people. It was a century of change and the old ways were under pressure.

Wrexham faced many problems: poverty, appalling sanitation, crime and muddy, uneven streets. The Manorial Courts and the Parish Churchwarden struggled on, but they did not have the power or the means to tackle these problems.

The final straw was the threat of cholera in 1849. The town petitioned for a Charter of Incorporation - to create a Borough Council. There was much debate. Opponents said it would cost the town dear. In September 1857 Wrexham was granted Borough status.

The 646 burgesses, people with the right to vote, chose 12 councillors. There were two parties: the Whites (Liberals) and the Reds (Tories). The Councillors then chose four aldermen (councillors for life). At last, someone was responsible for all Wrexham - there was a lot of work to do.

Part 2