Review this Book

0 reviews (below)

The stones of Romford market-place have echoed for centuries with the cries of the traders of every product imaginable. One of the largest market-places of its kind in the country, it once provided Essex farmers with every service possible - the many surrounding inns hired out rooms for barbering, medical treatment (including tooth pulling), legal expertise and any other wants not met by the intensely rural neighbouring countryside. In 1247 Henry III realised that traders had begun selling local products along the old Roman highway from London to Colchester. This was the area in which the new town of Romford was developing, having moved uphill from Oldchurch, and was part of the Royal Manor of Havering, which meant that the King's permission was needed to hold such a market. In the interests of stimulating trade and commerce Henry III wisely ignored the illegality and recorded his Grant of a Market in the Close Rolls. For centuries the sale of leather goods from nearby Hornchurch was dominant. Hornchurch was originally the more important place, but the market grant and the old highway's revival changed all that. Until the 20th century, many useful household items, such as buckets, and most things now made of plastic, were made of leather. Romford became famous in particular for providing hard-wearing leather trousers or 'breeches', and inspired a once well-known saying: 'Go to Romford to be new bottomed', that is, to be provided with new or repaired leather trousers. This book records Romford's fascinating history, exploring the days when an important royal palace stood nearby and kings, queens and courtiers came and went through the town. Brian Evans' latest book will delight local historians with its entertaining insights and plethora of attractive illustrations.

Stock: Special Order, Normally supplied within 14 days

Click here to view associated books

Return to Previous Page