97819161780141
Kingsbridge and Salcombe are ancient settlements in the South Hams, the most southerly part of Devon. Kingsbridge is a market town which has been the commercial hub of the area since the Middle Ages, probably even earlier. It lies on a spur rising above the head of a beautiful branched ria; while Salcombe, a maritime town, lies on the West Shore a mile from the majestic schist cliffs at the estuary mouth. This book traces the history of both towns from the beginnings of geological time to the present day; and of their hinterland, the South Hams.
Evidence of prehistoric settlement abounds. Kingsbridge is first mentioned in the charter of 962 as Cinque Bricge, while documentary evidence of shipbuilding dates from the 14th century, first at Portlemouth and later at Salcombe. The fruit clippers built here were renowned during the 19th century and other industries flourished; huge quantities of fish, cider, malt, slate and corn shipped away.
The author makes use of such evidence as place names to identify waves of immigrants settlers, together with archaeological and written sources. The development of Christianity, of industries, of the buildings and their architecture, along with education, communications and social changes; all are woven into this vivid and extremely readable account.
This is a significant contribution to the published history in Devon and this third addition will be welcomed far beyond the South Hams and will be essential reading to everyone in the area with an interest in the past.