A-Z of Bridgwater: Places-People-History

During the Middle Ages, Bridgwater was a significant port on the River Parrett. It became a major manufacturing town during the Industrial Revolution, producing shipbuilding, iron foundries, clay tiles, bricks, and cellophane. It is still an industrial center with a diverse cultural life, including an arts center, music festivals, Guy Fawkes Carnival, and the second-biggest fair in the country. "A–Z of Bridgwater" by Lynne Cleaver explores the town's history, including well-known landmarks, events, and famous residents, as well as lesser-known facts and hidden places of interest.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2022
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Bridgwater, a historic town situated along the River Parrett in Somerset, played a significant role in the Middle Ages as a bustling port. However, its significance increased significantly during the Industrial Revolution when the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal was constructed, connecting it inland. As a result, Bridgwater emerged as the primary manufacturing hub in Somerset, excelling in shipbuilding, iron foundries, and the production of clay tiles, bricks, and cellophane. While these industries experienced a decline in the later twentieth century, Bridgwater has managed to retain its status as a major industrial center. It boasts a vibrant cultural life, with an array of attractions such as an arts center, music festivals, its renowned Guy Fawkes Carnival, and the second-largest fair in the country.

In her book titled "A–Z of Bridgwater," author Lynne Cleaver delves into the rich history of this town, showcasing renowned landmarks, significant events, and notable residents. Among these are the birthplace of Admiral Robert Blakes, the Somerset Brick and Tile Museum, the historic port and quayside, and the pivotal Battle of Sedgemoor, which took place on the Somerset Levels just outside Bridgwater. Cleaver also goes beyond the surface to uncover some lesser-known facts about Bridgwater and its hidden treasures, providing a comprehensive and captivating A–Z tour of the town's past.

Illustrated throughout, this book appeals to anyone with an interest in Bridgwater and its historical significance. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, "A–Z of Bridgwater" offers a valuable insight into the town's heritage and its place in the wider context of Somerset's rich history.

Weight: 282g
Dimension: 166 x 232 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445697888