A second book published last week, a fascinating selection of photographs traces some of the many ways in which Tamworth has changed and developed over the last century.
While Tamworth has revealed archaeological evidence of Roman occupation, it was when the Saxons settled here that the town rose to prominence. As capital of the powerful kingdom of Mercia, the location of its castle at the confluence of the rivers Tame and Anker was a naturally defensible position against the Danes. In more recent times the landscape around this part of southern Staffordshire has been influenced by the Peel family, William McGregor, and Thomas Guy. The Industrial Revolution saw the canal and the railway play important roles. Coal mining then left a scar on the landscape. This has now been covered by a massive housing development which grew with the arrival of families from Birmingham. Within the pages of Tamworth Through Time not only is there a comparison to be made between old and new views, but also between the old residential areas to the north and west and the new developments to the east and south.
As always I would welcome any suggestions for themes or subjects, or even specific words to examine the origins, meanings and etymologies. I’d be delighted to hear from you.
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