History

Hertford's recorded history dates back to Saxon times when Theodor of Tarsus presided over the Church Synod of 673. It has grown from a fortified burgh at the time of the Norman Invasion to a modern prosperous town, playing host to kings and queens along the way.

A Brief History

The history of Hertford in a nutshell, from 673 to the present day.
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Timeline

A timeline showing important events in the town's evolution and development since 673AD. Read more »

Hertford Castle

The history of the Castle spans a millenium, starting with the town's establishment in Saxon times.
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Speed's Map

Speed's Map of 1610 is one of the first maps of the town. It is the only one to show the Royal Castle still standing.
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The Priory

Hertford Priory was established shortly after the Norman Conquest by Ralph de Limesi.
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Samuel Stone

Sam Stone lived in Hertford and founded the town's counterpart in America.
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Rail Comes to Town

The railway came to Hertford in 1843, with the first station built adjacent to The Great Eastern Tavern in Railway Street.
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History of Schools

Information about Hertford's schools, past and present.
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Christ's Hospital

For some 400 years Hertford was the home of Christ's Hospital and the Bluecoat girls and boys that inhabited it.
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The Last Witch

Jane Wenham of Walkern was the last person in the UK to be tried for witchcraft.
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Hertford's Gaol

Hertford has had three gaols over the centuries, in addition to the dungeon at Hertford Castle.
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The Past In Pictures

Photos of Hertford from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
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Mill Bridge

Mill Bridge connects Old Cross with the Wash and for many year a toll was charged to cross it.
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Butcherley Green

Butcherley Green was one of the roughest parts of the town 100 year ago.
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The Utilities

300 years ago there was go gas supply, electricity, mains water or sewerage system.
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Names

What is the connection between Hertford and various names.
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Street Names

Many of the town's streets are named after people who have contributed to the history of the town.
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Lost Churches

Information on churches that are no longer standing.
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