The history of how the various English towns, villages, and the cities many grew to be is awash with fascinating details usually linked to important historic events, to politics, or because of physical geography. Of these, the market town plays a special part in understanding a wider swath of English politics and economics. For instance, the town of Corby, prospered and grew as a result of the market charter it was granted in 1226. Today, you can reap the benefits of this medieval contract and stay in a Corby hotel and explore the town’s heritage.
The market charter was a vital ingredient in developing trade and improving economic conditions for many. The English middle and merchant classes grew in part because of this system, as it meant there was a reliable and well-organized way for goods and services to sold and bought. The market charter usually meant that a town was legally able to host an annual or bi-annual fair where products were bought and sold en mass, but with the added benefit of a festival atmosphere. While many markets developed as a natural matter of course, the charter was developed (as were many similar decrees) as a way for the monarchy to regulate, and therefore benefit from, the revenue it would generate from taxes levied. The charter regulated what town could actually host a market in that these locations had to be at least one-day’s journey from each other. This limited the amount business and draw one place would get, but also made it so that competition among the market towns could not adversely affect profit. Markets also served a valuable social tool, as it was at the annual market fairs that many people living in the rural areas would get to visit to socialize, mix with others, and visit their main parish.
Today, there are many ways to explore this history. For instance, a Braintree hotel will be able to play host to your explorations of the market past. Visit a market town today and see the past through a new lens.
No comments:
Post a Comment