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Flag associated with Bristol, England History of Bristol, England

Journey back in time to Bristol, England

Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Bristol, England.

ABOUT THE PLACE

About Bristol

Bristol, England - Bristol, England - St. Stephens Tower
Bristol, city and unitary authority, southwestern England. The historic centre of Bristol and the sections of the city north of the River Avon (Lower, or Bristol, Avon) were part of the historic county of Gloucestershire, while the areas south of the Avon lay within the historic county of Somerset until the creation of the county of Bristol (1373–1974) and then of the county of Avon (1974–96). When the county of Avon was abolished, Bristol became a unitary authority...
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VINTAGE BRISTOL

Bristol Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

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LOCAL HISTORY

Discover Bristol: History, News, Travel, and Stories

Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Bristol through the years.

1497 - The Italian navigator John Cabot sailed from Bristol, in May, aboard the 'Matthew'. He crossed the Atlantic and mapped the North American coastline from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland before returning to Bristol in August.
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1532 - A free grammar school was founded and endowed by Robert Thorne in Bristol.
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1588 - Four ships set sail from Bristol to join the English fleet to oppose the Spanish Armada.
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1656 - Bristol castle was destroyed on Cromwell's orders to prevent it falling into Royalist hands.
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1750 - The first bank in Bristol opened.
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1753 - There was rioting in Bristol against the high price of bread.
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1841 - Bristol was connected to London by rail and was connected to Exeter in 1844 followed by Plymouth in 1848.
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1847 - A water works was established to pipe spring water from Chewton Mendip to 16,000 houses in Bristol, via reservoirs at Harptree and Barrow Gurney.
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1895 - Bristol
Bristol, a city of England, a county of itself, but lying within the limits of Gloucestershire and Somersetshire, on the Avon, at its confluence with the Frome, 8 miles from Bristol Channel, and I 18 miles by rail W. of London. Several railways meet here. Bristol is one of the leading British ports in the foreign trade. It is noted for its fine public buildings, among which are the cathedral, the guild hall, the museum and library, the exchange, two colleges, the famous Muller's Orphan House, numerous fine churches, the public hospital, and other charities. Large ships can ascend the river to the city, where spacious docks, quays, and ship-yards have been constructed; and at King road, or Avonmouth, there are additional facilities for unloading and freighting ships. It is the seat of numerous schools, and of large and varied manufactures, prominent among which are those of metallic wares, soap, shoes, leather, hats, glass, bricks, spirits, stays, cottons, and chocolate. It is the...
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Here are some must-visit places and activities in Bristol:
Clifton Suspension Bridge: Start your Bristol adventure by visiting this iconic landmark designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. You can walk across the bridge for panoramic views of the Avon Gorge and the city. It's particularly stunning during sunset.

Bristol Harbour: The city's historic harbor is a hub of activity. You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, visit the SS Great Britain, a famous steamship, or take a boat tour to learn about Bristol's maritime history.

Bristol Museum and Art Gallery: This museum is a treasure trove of art and historical artifacts. It has a fantastic collection of art, including works by famous artists like J.M.W. Turner. The Egyptology section is also a highlight.

Bristol Zoo Gardens: Located in the Clifton neighborhood, this zoo is a fun place for families and animal lovers. It's home to a wide variety of animals, and they often have special events and exhibitions.

St. Nicholas Market: This historic market in the heart of Bristol...
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GENEALOGY IN BRISTOL

Discover YOUR Roots: Bristol Ancestry

Explore ancestors connected to Bristol through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.

BIRTHS & DEATHS

Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Bristol, England

We currently have information about 33 ancestors who were born or died in Bristol.

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MARRIAGES

Ancestors Who Were Married in Bristol, England

We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Bristol.

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Updated: 9/14/2023 4:19:00 PM
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