The maritime history of Poole has been captured in a new book which has been produced by the town’s Rotary club.
‘Pirates, Castaways & Codfish’ takes a look at the maritime history of the Dorset port between 1580 and 1830.
Over the last year, Rotary Poole Bay has been involved delving into the archives for this project which is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Originally inspired by trying to identify whether three historical characters gave their names to some of the old alleys leading to the Quay, the project has developed into something more broadly based.
We very much hope that our new book will provide a suitable legacy, ensuring that Poole’s heritage can be shared as widely as possible”
The place of women in 17th century society, the growth of Poole from its origins as a wool port, cod fishing, international trade, pirates, privateers and merchant venturers are all part of this fascinating story.
The 150 years from 1580 to 1730 are an important prelude to Poole’s Georgian hey-day, one which is now neatly summarised in the new heritage book published by the Rotary club.
Don Nutt, project manager and a member of Rotary Poole Bay, said, “We have been thrilled not only by the number and enthusiasm of our community researchers, but also by the interest already shown by local people.
“We very much hope that our new book, the associated and other interpretative material which we will be handing over to Poole Museum will provide a suitable legacy, ensuring that Poole’s heritage can be shared as widely as possible with young people, residents and visitors.”
Stephen Boyce, Chair of Heritage Lottery Fund South West Committee, quoting from England in Particular, said, “Stories are the currency of ordinary history. Small details, such as the name of a street, help us share the knowledge of what makes a place.”
Copies of the book will be available, in due course, from Poole Museum. For more details log onto: www.pirates2codfish.com
