Genealogy Australia

Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are mainly rural in character, so it is often assumed that they have little industrial heritage to offer. Not so! A surprising number of industries have flourished, over the centuries, and many have left significant remains. In addition to the traditional, agricultural industries, such as milling and brewing, the long coastline led to maritime activities such as shipbuilding, defence supply and salt manufacture. Less expected is that a working silk mill is still to be found while developments here revolutionised the production of wrought iron.