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Derbyshire 

"The general appearance of Derbyshire is exceedingly dissimilar, its south and north parts exhibiting a striking contrast; the former not being remarkable for hills or valleys, while the latter is eminently marked by a continued succession of both..." according to Pigot's Directory of 1828. "The High peak is a region of bleak barren heights; but the scenery is in many parts romantic and sublime, yet not partaking of picturesque effect, beauty being resident only in the valleys; the high grounds appearing dreary and sterile, without a tree or verdant sward to relieve the wearied sight of the traveller...

The climate of Derbyshire may be considered healthful: the atmosphere is pure and the higher situations generally free from epidemic diseases, though agues and fevers sometimes prevail in the valleys. One disease is, however, endemic in those parts; this is the Bronchocele or "Derby Neck", being an enlargement of the glands of the throat, and is a degree of the same disease known in the Alps and other mountainous tracts.  The High Peak is particularly liable to violent storms, in which the rain descends in torrents, so as frequently to occasion great ravages in the lands...

The manufactures which are carried out in this county are various and extensive. With Lancashire it partakes in the manufacture of cotton; with Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire in the weaving of stockings; with Cheshire in the various textures of silk; with Yorkshire in woollen cloths and iron; and to these may be added a branch in which it stands unrivalled, viz. the forming numberless beautiful ornaments of Derbyshire spar..."

Family History, Genealogy and Local History Research Information for Derbyshire