In Victorian Wolverhampton, Caribee Island – just off Stafford Street – was considered the most notorious, unhealthy and dangerous neighbourhood in the town. Much of this was based on its population, many of whom were Irish – a group held in low regard during this period. Simon Briercliffe, a social and cultural historian and geographer, has conducted extensive research into this area for a PhD. He explains how it came to gain such a reputation, and how the Irish of Caribee Island fared in a British industrial town. You can find out more about his work on his website: uptheossroad.wordpress.com