King's Lynn

LYNN has a long history. As important in the Middle Ages as Liverpool was to become in the Industrial Revolution, it was a major port for centuries, with access to ten counties through the Ouse river system. Aptly described as ‘the Warehouse on the Wash’, it maintained its position until the railway robbed it of much of its traffic in the mid-19th century. After a century in relative decline, the last thirty years have seen vigorous expansion and revival in the town, which makes it the more surprising that Dr Richards’ book is the first history of Lynn to be published since 1907.

The author’s approach is thematic, allowing the reader direct access to any aspect of Lynn’s past, providing the comprehensive coverage of a general history that draws on much recent research, including unpublished theses, and a broad range of primary and secondary sources. He deals with the ‘ups and downs’ of the town’s building and its fascinating architectural history, and with the extensive maritime trade which generated the wealth that made building possible. He explores the industries and markets stimulated by that trade and the society and politics of a town whose character was shaped by its maritime economy. Finally, he reflects on the events and the social and industrial revolutions brought about by the coming of railways and by the town expansion of the 1960s.

The author is an academic historian who has researched and taught Lynn history for many years. Residents and visitors alike will welcome this very readable narrative and the new light it throws on the history of Lynn and on Lynn’s place in history.