History of Colegate, Norwich in England

Colegate is a small area in Norwich, England. It's near the River Wensum valley and includes the Magdalen Street, one of Norwich's main modern shopping areas. The area was settled in the early 1200's by the Saxons. Today, it features the standard small, criss-crossed streets common in the Medieval era. Partially due to its early settlers, Colegate has a rich and unique history, interesting to historians and tourists alike.

Early Colegate History

After the Saxons left to settle an area nearer the river, Colegate saw an increase in wealthy strangers in the 15th and 16th centuries. They built expensive merchant houses and settled the area. The area began producing, cleaning, thickening and dying wool for trade. Leather work and goldsmiths were also common in Norwich. The city grew to 10,000 and was large enough to hold a market and even minted a coin. The market, which met weekly, sold wine, wool, timber, millstones and fish. A Medieval fair took place annually.

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Like many cities, Colegate and the larger Norwich area were best known for creating textiles beginning in the 18th century and continuing into the 19th.

Churches and Other Historic Buildings in Colegate

One of the most well-known buildings in Colegate, Norwich is St. Clement's Church. Although it was made redundant in the 1960's, it's open so people can pray. Some counseling sessions also take place there.

The church's origin is estimated to be from around the mid 11th century, but it's unknown for certain. The outside incorporates 15th century styles in the nave, the chancel and the tower. But it's also decorated in a style from an earlier time period. In addition to the mis-matched architectural styles, it also has a classical frame and a belfry from the Medieval era.

The arches on the inside of the church and around the windows also suggest a 15th century style. There are a limited number of stained glass windows, most are a clear glass, making it airy and light.

St. George's Church is another notable landmark. It's one of the few medieval churches still in use in Norwich. Once, the church attracted wealthy patrons. At that same time, following hangings, the dead were brought to St. George's before burial.

The church has suffered from some disrepair and decay, but much of it has been restored to its former glory with help from the English Heritage. The building is richly furnished and has a very elegant interior. Like St. Clement's, this church has a variety of styles on the interior and the exterior.

In 1760, the Black Boys public house, now the Merchants of Colegate, was built. It was a safe house for women and children during World War II, but was damaged in April 1942. Today, it's one of Colegate's most famous restaurants.

Colegate, Norwich, England is an area with a fascinating history. Like many cities, it has seen both good times and bad, which is etched into the history of many of its buildings and its streets.