|
|
Totnes is an old market town, with roots going back to the Doomsday book. A town that is refreshingly different. It is a town with a strong hippie culture. Resulting in a colourful town, with many and varied local crafts shown in the many shops. It was a market and trading centre, and as a Royal Borough minted its own coins. After the Norman conquest, Totnes was given to a knight called Judhael, who built the Castle and founded the Priory (Guilhall). Medieval Totnes broke free of its walls, and the long street leading down to the river came into being. The townspeople traded with France and along the English Channel, and grew prosperous on wool, slates and all the produce of a rich agricultural centre. In 1206 people aquired their charter of independence from King John, and sent their first MP to Parliament in 1295. The list of Mayors in the Guildhall begins in 1359. Totnes in the 16th century became one of the 20 richest towns in the country, thanks to Dartmoor tin and the cloth trade. Over 60 houses from this period, some with elaborately carved ceilings, remain in the main street. During the Civil War, both sides used the town as a base, with Prince Charles, later Charles the Second, Oliver Cromwell and Sir Thomas Fairfax all coming here. During 20th century, Totnes has sought to retain its beauty and character. The activities of the nearby Dartington Hall Trust have helped to make Totnes the diverse, forward looking community it is today. We liked this information as well: Transition Town Totnes |
| Prev page | Start page | Contact Us | Guestpage Comments |
| (c) Copyright Paul Goodliffe 2008-2012 |
