Saffron Walden is an ancient market town shaped by its long history. The Anglo-Saxon community of 'Waldena' was transformed by the Normans, who moved the local market to Walden from Newport in 1141.
The Tudor period brought increasing prosperity and a change of name with the cultivation of saffron. It was at this times that many of the beautiful timer-framed buildings that give the town its distinctive character were built, and the church was rebuilt--to become the location of historic debates held by Cromwell's New Model Army in 1647.
Though the Victorians rebuilt much of the Tudor town, much survives, as this superbly illustrated account reveals; the rare old photographs adding great visual impact to a carefully researched and a very readable history of the town.
Contents:
Preface and Acknowledgements
Introduction
Buildings and Monuments
Trade and Commerce
Transport and Roads
Schools and Services
Church and Religion
War and Remembrance
People and Events
Leisure and Sport
Bibliography
Index
