As well as chimney sweeping, I am also a bit of an amateur historian! I have always taken the time to learn about the places I live and visit, so I thought I would write a brief history of Farnham with its rich history dating back over a thousand years, Farnham has played an important role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of the United Kingdom. From being a small village to becoming a bustling center of trade and industry, Farnham has gone through many transformations to emerge as the town it is today.
The earliest known evidence of human settlement in the Farnham area can be traced back to the Neolithic period, around 6000 years ago. The remains of a Roman villa discovered in the town is a clear indication that Farnham was part of the extensive Roman road network that connected London to the southwest of England. The town was then known as Fernham, derived from the old Saxon word “fern” which means “fern-enclosed meadow.”
In the late 7th century, Farnham was part of the Kingdom of Wessex under the rulership of King Alfred the Great. It was during this time that Farnham started to develop into a small agricultural village, with its main focus on sheep farming and wool production. In 876, the town was given to the Bishop of Winchester by King Alfred, and this marked the beginning of the town’s long association with the Church.
In 1086, Farnham was mentioned in the Domesday Book, a survey of England commissioned by William the Conqueror. The town was recorded as having a population of around 100 people, with a weekly market and annual fair established by the Bishop of Winchester to boost the town’s economy. This was a significant milestone in Farnham’s history as it marked the transition to a market town.
During the Middle Ages, Farnham continued to grow and prosper, and by the 13th century, it had become an important center for the medieval wool trade. Several wealthy families moved to the town, and the first Farnham Castle was built by the Bishop of Winchester, which would later be expanded and used as a residence by the Bishops of Winchester for over 800 years.
In the 16th century, Farnham experienced significant changes with the dissolution of the monasteries under the rule of King Henry VIII. The town’s economy shifted from wool production to agriculture, and a new market house was built to facilitate trade. Farnham also played a role in the English Civil War in the mid-17th century, where the Royalist forces based in the town fought against the Parliamentarian army.
The 18th century saw Farnham enter a period of industrial growth, driven by the introduction of the turnpike roads, which connected the town to other major cities like London and Portsmouth. The opening of the Basingstoke Canal in 1794 further boosted trade and commerce in the town. New industries such as ironworking, brewing, and tanning emerged, providing employment opportunities for the growing population.
In the 19th century, Farnham continued to develop as a prosperous market town, with the establishment of a cattle market and a corn exchange. The arrival of the railway in 1850 transformed Farnham into a major transportation hub, connecting it to major cities such as London, Southampton, and Portsmouth. This facilitated the growth of more industries, including printing, brickmaking, and pottery.
In 1902, the first Farnham carnival was held, becoming an annual tradition that continues today, celebrating the town’s history and community spirit. As the town continued to expand, many significant public buildings were also constructed, including the town hall, post office, and a new grammar school, which is now Farnham College.
During World War II, Farnham played a crucial role in the defense of the country, with several military installations, including RAF Farnham, being established in the surrounding areas. The town also suffered bomb damage, with several buildings being destroyed or damaged, including the famous 16th-century Bush Hotel.
In the post-war era, Farnham continued to develop and modernize, while still retaining its historic charm. The construction of the Farnham bypass in the 1970s and the opening of the M3 motorway in the 1990s improved transport links, making the town more accessible to visitors and commuters.
Today, Farnham remains a bustling town with a thriving economy. The weekly market, which has been held since medieval times, still takes place in the town center, and the annual carnival continues to attract visitors from all over the country. The town’s historic buildings, including Farnham Castle and the 12th-century St. Andrew’s Church, are popular tourist attractions, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich past.
In recent years, Farnham has also become known for its thriving arts and cultural scene. The Farnham Maltings, a former brewery turned arts center, hosts a variety of events and performances throughout the year. The University for the Creative Arts, located in Farnham, also brings a diverse and vibrant community to the town, with many students choosing to stay and contribute to its local culture and economy.
Farnham’s history is a reflection of its evolution from a small Saxon village to a vibrant market town and now a thriving community in the 21st century. It has faced challenges and overcome obstacles, but its deep-rooted heritage and its people’s resilience have helped shape it into the charming and welcoming town it is today. Farnham continues to be a significant part of British history and a source of pride for its residents and visitors alike.