Published in 1828, Pigot's Directory describes Worcestershire
thus: "The soil, though various, is generally rich and fertile; producing
grain and fruit in the greatest profusion, and abundant pasturage. The soil,
between Worcester and the Vale of Evesham, is composed partly of red marl, and
partly of a strong loamy clay; the beautiful valley of Evesham consisting of a
deep rich earth...
The air of this county is mild, warm and healthy, there being
but few lakes, and very little swampy ground. Malvern hills are famous for an
antiscorbic spring, which has, moreover, been usefully administered for the
scrofula; the inhabitants enjoy a most salubrious and temperate climate, a
circumstance which, conjointly with the beautiful, rich and picturesque scenery
which they furnish, contributes not a little to induce multitudes of loungers to
make the villages of Great and Little Malvern, which are situated upon the
eastern side of these hills, the temporary theatres of their gaities...
The principal manufactures of this county are seated in its
city, and consist of gloving to a great extent, and beautiful porcelain and
cabinet ware; in other towns in the county are considerable tanneries, glass and
iron works; many hands are also employed in the combing and spinning of wool;
linen weaving, the making of needles, nails, fish-hooks, etc.
Kidderminster has long been famed for its carpets, and also for the manufacture
of worsted stuffs, and fabrics of silk and worsted. This county is also
noted for its fine cider, perry and hops, and beautiful salt is obtained form
the springs at Droitwich..."
Family History, Genealogy and Local History Research
Information for Worcestershire
The
fifth series of
the BBC's acclaimed Family
History programme featured Patsy Kensit, Boris Johnson, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen,
Esther Rantzen, David Suchet, Ainsley Harriott, Jerry Springer and Jodie
Kidd. Further details are on our News page.
Are you descended
from a Viking Warrior, a Saxon farmer or a Norman invader?
Channel 4 television's
" The Face of Britain" showed a
pioneering project by Oxford University and the Wellcome Foundation to use
DNA testing to determine volunteers' ancient roots.
