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History of Durham, England
Journey back in time to Durham, England
Explore Durham, England! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.Do You Have Durham Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!

Durham is a city in the North-East of England and is well known for its Norman cathedral and 11th-century castle. Durham Cathedral is famous for being the final resting place of Saint Cuthbert and Saint Bede the Venerable, and the castle has been the home of Durham University since 1832.
The name "Durham" comes from the Old English "dun", meaning hill, and the Old Norse "holme", which translates to island.
The present city can clearly be traced back to AD 995, when a group of monks from Lindisfarne chose to found a church on its high peninsula to settle with the body of Saint Cuthbert, that had previously lain in Chester-le-Street.
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Discover Durham: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1416 - Durham suffered a severe outbreak of the plague.
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1470 - The rebuilding of the central tower of Durham Cathedral was completed. The original tower had been struck by lightning
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1574 - A footbridge was built across the River Wear. It was swept away in a flood in 1771.
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1589 - Durham suffered an outbreak of the plague.
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1597 - Durham suffered another severe outbreak of plague.
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1657 - Oliver Cromwell established Durham College. It was suppressed in 1660 following the Restoration of the monarchy.
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1661 - The grammar school founded in 1414 in Durham was rebuilt and became a well known public school.
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1700s - A mustard making industry began in the early part of the century in Durham
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1722 - Durham's first theatre opened.
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1771 - Durham suffered a severe flood which swept away the footbridge across the Wear which had been built in 1574. Elvet Bridge was also damaged.
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1800s - Durham became renowned for organ making and carpet making.
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1824 - Gas street lighting was introduced in Durham.
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1895 - Durham
Dur'ham, formerly Dun/ holme (L. Dunel'mia, Dun el'mum, or Dunholmum), a city of England, capital of the above county, nearly in its centre, at the junction of numerous railways, 143 miles S. of Newcastle. It has an imposing external appearance, its cathedral and castle occupying the summit of a steep rocky eminence, surrounded by hanging gardens and plantations, and nearly encircled by the Wear, here crossed by several bridges, and beyond which, on either side, are the quarters of Framwellgate, Elvet, &c. The cathedral, founded in 1093, and one of the noblest edifices in the kingdom, is 507 feet in length, including the western porch, by 200 feet in its greatest breadth, and has a central tower 214 feet in height; it is chiefly of massive Norman architecture, and has the tomb of St. Cuthbert, the chapel of the Venerable Bede, a fine W. front, with a Galilee chapel, and two richly ornamented towers 143 feet in height. The see, founded near the end of the tenth century, was long the... Read MORE...
Dur'ham, formerly Dun/ holme (L. Dunel'mia, Dun el'mum, or Dunholmum), a city of England, capital of the above county, nearly in its centre, at the junction of numerous railways, 143 miles S. of Newcastle. It has an imposing external appearance, its cathedral and castle occupying the summit of a steep rocky eminence, surrounded by hanging gardens and plantations, and nearly encircled by the Wear, here crossed by several bridges, and beyond which, on either side, are the quarters of Framwellgate, Elvet, &c. The cathedral, founded in 1093, and one of the noblest edifices in the kingdom, is 507 feet in length, including the western porch, by 200 feet in its greatest breadth, and has a central tower 214 feet in height; it is chiefly of massive Norman architecture, and has the tomb of St. Cuthbert, the chapel of the Venerable Bede, a fine W. front, with a Galilee chapel, and two richly ornamented towers 143 feet in height. The see, founded near the end of the tenth century, was long the... Read MORE...
Here's a list of some must-visit places and activities to make the most of your time in Durham:
Durham Cathedral: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an iconic landmark. The cathedral's stunning Romanesque architecture is a sight to behold. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.
Durham Castle: Located right next to the cathedral, Durham Castle is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's actually a working university building, but you can join guided tours to see its historic rooms and learn about its role in Durham's history.
Durham University Botanic Garden: If you appreciate lush greenery and beautiful flowers, this is the place to be. It's a tranquil spot to take a leisurely stroll and learn about various plant species.
Durham Riverside Walk: This scenic walk along the River Wear offers beautiful views of the city and its historic architecture. It's a great way to explore Durham's natural beauty.
Palace Green Library: If you're into history and manuscripts, this library is a gem. It houses some remarkable collections, including the Durham... Read MORE...
Durham Cathedral: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an iconic landmark. The cathedral's stunning Romanesque architecture is a sight to behold. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.
Durham Castle: Located right next to the cathedral, Durham Castle is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's actually a working university building, but you can join guided tours to see its historic rooms and learn about its role in Durham's history.
Durham University Botanic Garden: If you appreciate lush greenery and beautiful flowers, this is the place to be. It's a tranquil spot to take a leisurely stroll and learn about various plant species.
Durham Riverside Walk: This scenic walk along the River Wear offers beautiful views of the city and its historic architecture. It's a great way to explore Durham's natural beauty.
Palace Green Library: If you're into history and manuscripts, this library is a gem. It houses some remarkable collections, including the Durham... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Durham Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Durham, England
We currently have information about 5 ancestors who were born or died in Durham.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
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