View Basket    |    Site Map    |    Search   

Somerset 

Published in 1844, Pigot's Directory states: "Few counties contain a greater variety of soil than Somerset. The north-east quarter is in general stony; towards its centre are fens and marshy moors of great extent; on the west side are hills, downs and open heaths; in the north-west corner lies the barren region of Exmoor; the south part, towards Dorset, is high, but well cultivated; and from Bridgewater, through Taunton, to the border of Devon, the country is beautifully fertile. The valleys, generally, are very rich; and many of the hills, a few years since undisturbed by the plough, now reward the industry of the agriculturalist by the produce of large crops of grain...

Amongst the products of this county may be named hemp, flax, teazles and woad, which are cultivated in considerable quantities; and the dairies supply some of the finest cheese in the kingdom. The sheep indigenous to Somerset are the Mendip breed, but all the improved varieties have been introduced by the modern breeders; and the teams of the opulent farmers may vie with those of any other district...

The principal manufactures of this county are broad and narrow fine woollen cloths, and a variety of coarse woollen goods; with coarse linens, comprising dowlases, tickings etc. At Chard and Taunton fine and broad laces, of great excellence are made, and the latter town is also benefited by the silk manufacture. At Yeovil gloves are made in considerable quantities; and in the parishes of Coker and Chinnock, near Yeovil, sail-cloth is manufactured. A considerable coasting business is carried on from some of the ports, and others have an extensive trade with Ireland. The making of bricks and tiles, and the brass and iron foundries, employ numerous hands; and many persons procure subsistence from the fisheries..."

Family History, Genealogy and Local History Research Information for Somerset