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History of Dorset County, England
Journey back in time to Dorset County, England
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Dorset County, England.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Dorset County
Dorset, administrative, geographic, and historic county of southwestern England. It is bordered by the English Channel (south) and the counties of Devon (west), Hampshire (east), and Somerset and Wiltshire (both north). The historic town of Dorchester, in the south, is the county seat...
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VINTAGE DORSET COUNTY
Dorset County Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Dorset County, England
Postcard
Lyme Regis
Dorset County, England
Postcard
Poole
Dorset County, England
Postcard
Bournemouth
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to DORSET COUNTY
ENGLAND in My Roots: Ancestral Heritage Mug
"My ancestors came from England. That explains a lot about my love for cricket, afternoon tea, and the royal family!"
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Dorset County: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Dorset County through the years.
In 1642, at the commencement of the English Civil War, the Royalists took control of the entire county apart from Poole and Lyme Regis. (Dorset County, England)
1645 (Dorset County) - An uprising of Clubmen—vigilantes weary of the depredations of the war—took place in Dorset in 1645.
In 1646 Corfe Castle, the last remaining Royalist stronghold in Dorset, was captured after an act of betrayal.
1686 (Dorset County) - In 1686, at Charborough Park, a meeting took place to plot the downfall of James II of England. This meeting was effectively the start of the Glorious Revolution
1834 (Dorset County) - Labour union formed
"Farming has always been central to the economy of Dorset and the county became the birthplace of the modern trade union movement when, in 1834, six farm labourers formed a union to protest against falling wages. The labourers, who are now known as the Tolpuddle Martyrs, were subsequently arrested for administering "unlawful oaths" and sentenced to transportation but they were pardoned following massive protests by the working classes."
The Dorset County Museum in Dorchester was founded in 1846.
1895 - Dorset / Dorsetshire
Dor'set, or Dorsetshire, dor'set-shir, a county of England, on its S. coast, bounded N.W. by the co. of Somerset, N. by Wilts, E. by Hants, W. by Devonshire, and S. by the English Channel. Area, 980 square miles. Surface in the N. mostly level; in the centre, traversed by chalk downs, on which many sheep are pastured; in the S., finely diversified by hill and dale; in the E. are some wide heaths. Principal rivers, the Ivel, Piddle, Stour, and Frome. The coast on the S. presents the islands (so called) of Portland and of Purbeck, with St. Alban's Head, and, on the S.E., Poole harbor. Portland and Purbeek stone, marble, and potter's clay are raised in large quantities. The county forms an archdeaconry of the diocese of Salisbury. Capital, Dorchester. Pop. in 1881, 191,028; in 1891, 194,485.
The Dorsetshire Regiment were the first British unit to face a gas attack during the First World War (1914–1918) and they sustained particularly heavy losses at the Battle of the Somme.
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Here's a list of some of the best places to go and things to do in Dorset County:
Jurassic Coast: Dorset's coastline is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's not hard to see why. The Jurassic Coast stretches for 95 miles, offering stunning cliffs, fossils, and unique geological formations. Be sure to visit iconic landmarks like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove for breathtaking views.
Corfe Castle: This medieval castle, which dates back to the 11th century, is an iconic Dorset landmark. Explore the ruins, climb the hill for panoramic views, and learn about its rich history. It's especially beautiful during sunset.
Dorchester: The county town of Dorset, Dorchester, is a historic market town with plenty of attractions. Visit the Dorset County Museum to learn about the area's history, stroll through the charming streets, and enjoy a meal at one of the town's many restaurants.
Weymouth Beach: If you're looking for a classic British seaside experience, Weymouth Beach is the place to be. This sandy beach is perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, or simply...
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Corfe Castle: This medieval castle, which dates back to the 11th century, is an iconic Dorset landmark. Explore the ruins, climb the hill for panoramic views, and learn about its rich history. It's especially beautiful during sunset.
Dorchester: The county town of Dorset, Dorchester, is a historic market town with plenty of attractions. Visit the Dorset County Museum to learn about the area's history, stroll through the charming streets, and enjoy a meal at one of the town's many restaurants.
Weymouth Beach: If you're looking for a classic British seaside experience, Weymouth Beach is the place to be. This sandy beach is perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, or simply...
GENEALOGY IN DORSET COUNTY
Discover YOUR Roots: Dorset County Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Dorset County through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Dorset County, England
We currently have information about 19 ancestors who were born or died in Dorset County.
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Ancestors Who Were Married in Dorset County, England
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Updated: 9/14/2023 4:11:55 PM
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