Category Archives: History

Local history, pictures, stories.

One hundred years ago – March 1912.

One Hundred years ago Horse Ambulance It is expected that the Horse Ambulance required for the Bideford Hospital will cost about £70, and up to the present about £25.12s.6d has been subscribed The Coal Strike This strike which has lasted … Continue reading

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Bideford 500 seeks Tudor costumiers – 6th, 13th, 20th March.

Help celebrate Bideford’s rich heritage by creating a team of costume makers and Tudor costumes. Bideford 500 is a voluntary organisation researching, celebrating and promoting Bideford’s exciting past. The highlight of the year is Heritage Day – this year on … Continue reading

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The Excise Man (Eighteenth Century style).

‘Excise Duty’ originated as a means of raising revenue during the Civil War; but in 1699, teams of ‘Riding Officers’ were formed to patrol the coast and watch for ‘Owling’ – illegal export of wool.   During the early days, tax … Continue reading

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Bideford Pannier Market and Butchers’ Row.

As many of you will know, Bideford was granted its Market Charter in 1272 and the present market building dates from 1884. The Market Hall which houses the Pannier Market was principally used for the sale of produce from local … Continue reading

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