History
Hertford's recorded history dates back to Saxon times when Theodor of Tarsus presided over the Church Synod of 673. It has grown from a fortified burgh at the time of the Norman Invasion to a modern prosperous town, playing host to kings and queens along the way.
A Brief History
The history of Hertford in a nutshell, from 673 to the present day.
Read more »
Timeline
A timeline showing important events in the town's evolution and development since 673AD. Read more »Hertford Castle
The history of the Castle spans a millenium, starting with the town's establishment in Saxon times.Read more »
Speed's Map
Speed's Map of 1610 is one of the first maps of the town. It is the only one to show the Royal Castle still standing.Read more »
The Priory
Hertford Priory was established shortly after the Norman Conquest by Ralph de Limesi.Read more »
Samuel Stone
Sam Stone lived in Hertford and founded the town's counterpart in America.Read more »
Rail Comes to Town
The railway came to Hertford in 1843, with the first station built adjacent to The Great Eastern Tavern in Railway Street.Read more »
History of Schools
Information about Hertford's schools, past and present.Read more »
Christ's Hospital
For some 400 years Hertford was the home of Christ's Hospital and the Bluecoat girls and boys that inhabited it.Read more »
The Last Witch
Jane Wenham of Walkern was the last person in the UK to be tried for witchcraft.Read more »
Hertford's Gaol
Hertford has had three gaols over the centuries, in addition to the dungeon at Hertford Castle.Read more »
The Past In Pictures
Photos of Hertford from the 19th and early 20th centuries.Read more »
Mill Bridge
Mill Bridge connects Old Cross with the Wash and for many year a toll was charged to cross it.Read more »
Butcherley Green
Butcherley Green was one of the roughest parts of the town 100 year ago.Read more »
The Utilities
300 years ago there was go gas supply, electricity, mains water or sewerage system.Read more »
Names
What is the connection between Hertford and various names.Read more »
Street Names
Many of the town's streets are named after people who have contributed to the history of the town.Read more »
Lost Churches
Information on churches that are no longer standing.Read more »