This timeline of Dartmouth’s history runs from 1049 to 2021. Click on a year at the top of the page for a description of the event associated with that year. Use the left or right arrows to move backwards or forwards in time. Alternatively, click on a blob at the bottom of the page for a “lucky dip”!
1049
Earliest historical record of “Dartmouth”
Beorn Estrithson is murdered by his cousin, Swein Godwinson, brother in law of King Edward the Confessor. Swein was exiled for abducting and marrying Abbess Eadgifu of Leominster (a nun). His lands were divided between his brother Harold and his cousin Beorn. When Swein returned to England, he wanted his lands back, but Harold and Beorn resisted. Swein tricked and captured Beorn in Bosham, Sussex, sending him by ship to Dartmouth, where he was killed and secretly buried. When the murder was discovered Swein was again exiled. Beorn was reburied in Winchester by Harold.
1042-1066
1086
Townstal is recorded in Domesday Book
The small estate of “Dunestal” (Townstal) is held by “Ralph”, under Walter of Douai, one of King William’s tenants in chief. The much larger neighbouring estate of “Stoc” (Stoke Fleming) is held by “Ludo”, also under Walter of Douai.
1066-1087
1147
Dartmouth becomes
a crusade muster point
a crusade muster point
The fall of the crusader state of Edessa causes Western Christendom to mount the Second Crusade. Dartmouth harbour is the pre-agreed assembly point for 150-200 vessels from the Rhineland, Brabant-Limbourg, Flanders, Boulogne, Normandy, Scotland, and eastern and southern England. The fleet departs on 23 May. Stopping in Portugal, they help King Afonso Henriques conquer Lisbon, ruled by the Almoravid dynasty of North Africa.
1135-1154
1154
Dartmouth begins to grow
When Henry II becomes King, England forms part of the cross-Channel “Angevin Empire”. Due to his marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine, his territories include half of present-day France. With this stimulus, and that of the crusades, Dartmouth begins to grow as a port and commercial centre. Two small settlements, Clifton and Hardness, develop at the river’s edge where the estates of Townstal and Stoke Fleming meet. In 1166 Townstal is held by William “son of Stephen of Townstal”; Stoke is held by “Richard son of Hlud” (probably descended from Ludo of 1086).
1154-1189
1189/90
Further crusade musters
Fleets from northern Germany, the Rhineland, Flanders and England assemble in Dartmouth in May 1189 for the Third Crusade, to relieve the Siege of Acre. On coming to the throne Richard I takes over Henry II’s plans. Another large fleet assembles in Dartmouth, leaving in April 1190 to join fleets from western France. King Richard travels via Dover to Calais and then through France to meet the fleets in Sicily.
1189-1199
1192
Earliest written record of St Petrox church
St Petrox is referenced as a landmark in a grant of “all the land of Dertmuta (Dartmouth) which is next the township” from William FitzStephen (of Townstal) to Richard Le Fleming (of Stoke). The church provides a “leading mark” into the harbour.
1189-1199
c1200
Townstal Church given to Torre Abbey
Torre Abbey (in Torquay) is founded by William Brewer, an important royal administrator under Kings Richard, John and Henry III. Amongst the early foundation grants is the church of Townstal (with its revenues), given by William FitzStephen “for the health of [his] soul and of Isabel [his] wife”. Torre Abbey later acquires more land in Townstal and much influence in Dartmouth’s affairs.
1199-1216
1203
Dartmouth grows as a port
To raise money for war in France and to defend his territories there, King John requires all merchants to pay a 15th of the value of goods imported or exported from abroad. The earliest list of ports where merchants are taxed includes Dartmouth.
1199-1216
1205
King John visits Dartmouth
Following the loss of Normandy to the King of France in 1204, King John assembles forces at Portsmouth to regain his lost territories, including ships from Dartmouth. But he abandons his plans when the barons refuse to follow him. He orders a force to assemble in Dartmouth to invade Poitou, visiting Dartmouth himself from 18-22 June.
1199-1216
1205
Market granted in Dartmouth
King John grants the right to hold a weekly market “apud Dertemue” (at Dartmouth) on a Wednesday, jointly to William FitzStephen, lord of Townstal, and Richard Le Fleming, lord of Stoke Fleming, for a payment of two palfreys (riding horses).
1199-1216
c1210
Dartmouth continues to grow
William le Fleming, now lord of Stoke Fleming, grants several properties in “[his] township of Clifton”. Richard Fitz Stephen, now lord of Townstal, is referenced in the sale of property in “Dertemue”. Such land grants show that by this time there are already houses in place.
1199-1216
1214
King John visits Dartmouth again
John’s final attempt to win back his lands in France collapses in massive defeat at the Battle of Bouvines. Having agreed a five-year truce, John and his Queen, Isabella of Angouleme, return to England via La Rochelle and Dartmouth, around 13-15 October. John travels on via Exeter and Dorchester to Corfe Castle.
1199-1216
1217
Fifth crusade fleet musters
Fleets coming from Frisia, the Netherlands and the Rhineland assemble in Dartmouth in May and June to join the Fifth Crusade.
1216-1272
1231
Grant of market and fair in Dartmouth
The King grants the right to hold a weekly market on a Wednesday, this time only to Richard FitzStephen. The new grant may reflect a new location for the market. FitzStephen is also granted the right to hold a three-day fair annually on 23-25 June. The new market leads to a dispute with the Lords of Totnes, who complain it is damaging their market. A settlement in 1244 awards Dartmouth’s market revenues to the Lords of Totnes.
1216-1272
c1235
Earliest record of property in “Hardenesse”
Richard FitzStephen grants property in township of “Hardenesse”, a promontory in Townstal lying north of a small tidal creek. The township of “Clifton” lies to the south of the creek, partly in Townstal and partly in Stoke Fleming.
1216-1272
1243/44
Earliest record of Foss and Tidal Mill
Exactly when is not known, but by 1243/44 a dam, or causeway, has been built across the tidal creek between Clifton and Hardness, allowing a tidal mill to be built at the northern end. In 1243 the “foss” is referenced as a landmark in a property transaction; and “Henry the miller” in 1244. Both mill and foss are referenced in 1250.
1216-1272
1270
Town secures a grant of privileges from the Crown
The King grants the burgesses and merchants of Dartmouth protection against distraint for debt. They pay 20 marks for the privilege. The grant refers to their “commune and power” and “the burgesses by whom the town is ruled” showing that the town is growing in size and importance and already has some self-government.
1216-1272
1274
“Hundred Rolls” survey shows Dartmouth’s continuing growth as a port
The Men of Dartmouth complain that the Lords of Totnes (who claim ownership of the “Water of Dart” from Totnes Bridge to “Blackstone beyond St Petrox”) now impose local customs dues on cargoes of wine, wool, corn, beans, iron, fish, eels, timber and “other merchandise” traded through Dartmouth. They assert that Dartmouth was previously free from any local customs dues.
1272-1307
1281
Earliest surviving town seal
Indicating the continuing growth of Dartmouth’s aspirations to self-government, the earliest collective seal to survive depicts a single masted merchant ship at sea and is inscribed “sigillum de Dertemue” (seal of Dartmouth).
1272-1307
1293
New lord of the manor of Dartmouth
Gilbert FitzStephen sells “all his Manor of Norton, Dartmouth Townstal, Hardness, and Clifton Dartmouth” to Nicholas of Tewkesbury, a royal clerk. In 1306 Nicholas acquires all the rights of the Lords of Totnes in the “Water of Dart”.
1272-1307
1298
Dartmouth men first summoned to Parliament
Two leading men called to the York Parliament, John le Bakere and William atte Vosse. From 1351-1832, Dartmouth sends two representatives to Parliament.
1272-1307
1311
Dartmouth provides ships in the wars against Scotland
Dartmouth is among 26 English and Irish towns required to provide three ships, “fully armed and provisioned for seven weeks”, in support of Edward II’s 1311 campaign against Robert the Bruce. Dartmouth supplies ships again in 1318.
1307-1327
1318
High altar of St Clement’s Townstal dedicated
The Bishop of Exeter’s visit to Townstal for this purpose probably indicates that an older and smaller building has recently been rebuilt or enlarged.
1307-1327
1326
Earliest reference to Southtown
The manor of Southtown is the southern part of Dartmouth, and is owned by the Lords of the Manor of Stoke Fleming.
1307-1327
1327
King becomes Lord of Dartmouth
Nicholas of Tewkesbury gives the King all the rights he has acquired in the market, town and port of Dartmouth, in exchange for a lifetime office in the Exchequer.
1327-1377
1332
Dartmouth the fourth wealthiest town in Devon
As shown by the 1332 lay subsidy, a tax on individual wealth (excluding land and buildings). Based on totalling those paying the tax living in Clifton Dartmouth, Southtown and Norton/Townstal.
1327-1377
1337
“Water of Dart” becomes part of the new Duchy of Cornwall
The King’s eldest son Edward (later known as the Black Prince) is created Duke of Cornwall. From this date onwards, the living eldest son of the monarch is the Duke of Cornwall. The “Water of Dart” is still owned by the Duchy today.
1327-1377
1337(2)
Hundred Years War begins
Philip VI of France confiscates Aquitaine from Edward III and Edward claims the throne of France. Over the course of the long conflict Dartmouth is an important embarkation point for troops, supplies and naval expeditions, providing more ships for the war than any other port in England.
1327-1377
1337(3)
Grant of additional liberties
King grants “men of the towns of Clifton Dertemuth and Hardenesse” freedom from paying certain tolls and charges throughout the realm.
1327-1377
1339
Earliest record of town’s fresh water conduits
Streams and springs from the hills are directed to several water conduits in the town by lead or wooden pipes or channels. Later town accounts frequently mention rebuilding and repairing the piping, the conduits, and the paving around them. Washing in the conduits is forbidden!
1327-1377
1341
Grant of “Borough Charter” to Dartmouth
King grants to his “beloved burgesses of Clyfton Dertemouth and Hardenasse” the right to elect a mayor and independence from county authorities. In return Dartmouth provides at no cost to the King two fully manned and equipped warships, whenever required, for 40 days. New town seal shows King in a warship.
1327-1377
1342
Lordship of Dartmouth granted to Guy de Bryan
Guy de Bryan, close friend of Edward III, is concerned that Borough Charter affects his lordship rights. Agreement is reached in 1343 on a split of town revenues. Lordship continues to be owned by Guy’s heirs but with little or no involvement. It is bought by the town itself in 1620.
1327-1377
1344
Earliest record of reclamation of land from the sea
Development is already taking place on the eastern side of the street which runs along the water’s edge, later called Lower Street.
1327-1377
1346
Battle of Crecy
Edward III invades France with a huge army and wins the Battle of Crecy. Guy de Bryan is his standard bearer. Dartmouth is one of 89 ports contributing ships to transport men and supplies to France, providing 31 of the fleet of 747 ships.
1327-1377
1348-50
The Black Death arrives in Devon
Lay mortality in Exeter is at least 30%, Devon’s ecclesiastical records show clerical mortality of over 60%, and the “pestilence” is mentioned many times in the Duchy of Cornwall’s accounts. No direct records of deaths in Dartmouth survives, but the Vicar of Townstal and Geoffrey Boghyer, Mayor in 1348-9, may have been amongst the victims.
1327-1377
1372
St Saviours Church dedicated on 13 October 1372
A new church in the centre of the growing town had been proposed by leading townsmen in 1331, and land was given for the purpose, but the proposal was resisted by Torre Abbey. Eventually the new Bishop of Exeter, Thomas Brantingham, brokers an agreement that construction and maintenance will be entirely funded by the town and the church will be a dependent chapel of the mother church of Townstal, thus safeguarding the rights of Torre Abbey. The new church is dedicated by Bishop Brantingham on 13 October and the cemetery the following day.
1327-1377
1373
Geoffrey Chaucer visits
Chaucer is sent to Dartmouth by the King to hand over a Genoese ship captured in Dartmouth to its rightful owner. Later he makes a Shipman of Dartmouth a character in “The Canterbury Tales”, emphasising both the Shipman’s maritime skills and his lack of conscience!
1327-1377
1375
John Hawley becomes Mayor for the first time
Shipowner and merchant, Hawley is Dartmouth’s most prominent medieval citizen, serving frequently as mayor and attending Parliament four times. As war resumes after a truce, harbour defences against raids and invasion become a significant concern. By 1376, a chain is installed across the harbour entrance.
1327-1377
1377
Population of Dartmouth c1000
As estimated from the poll tax (including Southtown and Norton/Townstal). Dartmouth is the third largest town in Devon.
1377-1399
1379
John Hawley licensed to attack and destroy enemy ships
Hawley and two other Dartmouth shipowners are licensed by the King to operate a small fleet to attack enemy shipping, paying all costs and keeping any prizes. Hawley and Dartmouth shipmasters become notorious in a role which is sometimes outright piracy.
1377-1399
1388
First harbour fort under construction
The King orders Hawley “to compel and if need be to distrain all men and burgesses of the town …. to contribute to the building of a fortalice”. To assist with the costs, Dartmouth is granted a monopoly on customs revenues from tin exports, for three years.
1377-1399
1393
King grants extension of the borough’s legal jurisdiction
Including the right to appoint a coroner.
1377-1399
1404
Battle of Blackpool Sands
With Henry IV’s accession (or usurpation) a state of undeclared war exists with France. John Hawley is one of several “merchant privateers” who raise large private navies for the King. After English raids on France, a French raiding force plans to attack Dartmouth but it is too well defended. When they land at Blackpool Sands instead, they are decisively defeated by local people, including women (according to English accounts). During this period the harbour defences are kept in commission.
1399-1413
1408
Death of John Hawley
Hawley dies on 30 December and is buried in the new chancel of St Saviours. His fine brass memorial for himself and his two wives records him as “founder of this chancel” indicating he funded its construction.
1399-1413
1415
Battle of Agincourt
A flotilla of armed ships from Dartmouth defends the coast as forces transport forces to France for Henry V’s invasion of France, resulting in victory at Agincourt.
1413-1422
1437
Dartmouth petitions for support for harbour defences
The harbour fortress “is in need of repair … it is there to house guns, engines and chains for the salvation of shipping in the haven”.
1442-1461
1462
Grant for harbour defences
King grants £30 annually from customs revenues collected in Dartmouth.
1461-1470
1463
Borough extended to include Southtown
The King grants the right to bring Southtown within the borough, because “the burgesses keep watches against invaders … at a place called Galions Boure [Gallants Bower, above the Castle] … but the inhabitants of the township contribute nothing”. Extending the borough to include Southtown also allows unimpeded access to the castle. The extent of the Borough remains unchanged until the late 1800s. A new town seal is produced, with two lions in the warship either side of the King.
1461-1470
1470
Visit of Duke of Clarence
In 1470 Clarence and his father in law the Earl of Warwick go into rebellion against Edward IV, Clarence’s brother. In April they leave Dartmouth for France, returning in August to Dartmouth and Plymouth with French support. Henry VI is briefly restored as King. Edward invades with Flemish support. He defeats Lancastrian forces at the Battles of Barnet and Tewkesbury in 1471, and regains the throne.
1470-1471
1481
New harbour defences (1) – harbour mouth
A “strong mighty and defensive new tower” is under construction for “guns artillery and other ordinances” (Dartmouth Castle). Edward IV grants the town an additional £30 customs revenue for four years, a grant confirmed by Richard III. The tower is the earliest purpose-built coastal artillery fort in England.
1461-1470
1483-1485
1486
New harbour defences (2)
Annual grant is increased to £40 to complete and maintain defences. From 1491 a “bulwark” is built on the northern side of the harbour entrance (Kingswear Castle).
1485-1509
1505
Grant to town of “bailiwick” of Water of Dart
Made by King until Prince Henry becomes Duke of Cornwall. Town is appointed “water bailiff” at an annual rental of 22 marks (£14 13s 4d), with the right to collect all revenues of the “Water of Dart” including local customs dues (called “petty” customs).
1485-1509
1510
Grant of water bailiwick “for ever”
1505 grant made permanent by Henry VIII. Deed of 1521 says this was because port and town were then in a state of “great ruin and decay” and customs revenues had halved. However, other records show trade was booming at this period, especially cloth and tin.
1509-1547
1522-36
New harbour defences (3) – Bayards Cove fort
Exact date not known. Fort is the last line of harbour defence.
1509-1547
1530-70
Religious changes of the Reformation
Town Council ensures compliance with changes in religious belief and practice but manages to retain most property endowed to St Saviours. Torre Abbey’s property in Dartmouth sold/ leased to Nicholas Adams of Combe, leading townsman, in 1545. In 1585 town buys Townstal rectory, enabling some control over religious matters.
1547-1553
1547-1553
1558-1603
1573
Beginnings of Dartmouth’s Newfoundland trade
This year three ships return to Dartmouth with Newfoundland fish. Over the next two centuries this becomes the foundation of Dartmouth’s prosperity. Most fish is exported to France, Spain or Portugal, and traded for wine, dried fruits and other luxury items.
1558-1603
1579-90
Town Quays developed
Bayards Cove Quay first recorded in 1579; work begins to reclaim land for the New Quay in 1584. Plots for six new houses leased to leading members of the town. New Quay in operation by 1590.
1558-1603
1578, 1583
Sir Humphrey Gilbert’s expeditions
Sir Humphrey sets out from Dartmouth to find a north-west passage to China. In 1583 he claims Newfoundland for England but is lost at sea on the return voyage to Dartmouth.
1558-1603
1585-87
John Davis of Sandridge explores the north-west passage
Experienced mariner John Davis mounts three expeditions from Dartmouth to continue exploring the north-west passage, reaching further north than any previously recorded European voyage. The Davis Strait between Labrador and Greenland is named for him.
1558-1603
1588
Spanish Armada
Town mans and equips two ships for the English fleet under Lord Howard and Sir Francis Drake. Local gentlemen and merchants contribute several more. Many captured Spanish sailors are held in Dartmouth until they are sent back to Spain in 1590.
1558-1603
1592
Capture of “great carrack” Madre de Dios
Portuguese merchant ship from East Indies is captured by Sir Walter Raleigh’s ship the Roebuck, with other privateers, and brought into Dartmouth. The rich cargo is plundered for days. Raleigh comes to Dartmouth from prison to assist the authorities.
1558-1603
1602
Bartholomew Gosnold explores Cape Cod, Massachusetts
In the Concord of Dartmouth, Gosnold explores the coast of what becomes “New England”. Later he obtains the charter for the Virginia Company and the 1607 Jamestown settlement.
1558-1603
1604
New Borough Charter
Borough becomes an independent legal entity. All previous privileges and property confirmed as permanent. This remains the town’s governing charter until municipal reform in 1835.
1603-1625
1608-1640
Extension of New Quay: construction of Butterwalk
Increasing prosperity encourages further reclamation to extend New Quay to the north and west to create Duke Street area. Butterwalk houses are built 1628-1640; many other houses are built or rebuilt.
1603-1625
1616
Duchy of Cornwall takes back “Water of Dart”
To maximise revenue, Duchy imposes a renewable long lease on the town, replacing 1510 grant. Apart from the interregnum (see later) this approach remains the practice for over 350 years.
1603-1625
1619
Merchant shipping and shipbuilding flourishing
Maritime survey shows 83 ships have Dartmouth as their home port, including shipowners from Totnes, Dittisham, Kingswear, and Torbay; there are 446 seamen and 40 shipwrights in Dartmouth.
1603-1625
1620
The “Pilgrim Fathers” visit Dartmouth
The Mayflower and Speedwell leave Southampton carrying a party of emigrants to New England. But the Speedwell begins to leak and they put into Dartmouth for repairs. They are delayed for about a week. As they continue the Speedwell continues to leak; she is left in Plymouth and the Mayflower continues alone to found Plymouth Colony near Cape Cod.
1603-1625
1631- 1635
St Saviours enlarged
Walls and roofs of side aisles and transepts are raised and a gallery and new larger windows are installed. The height of the tower is raised several feet and new “pinnacles” added. Many people in the town contribute to the cost.
1625-1649
1641
St Petrox enlarged
Two extra aisles accommodate a growing population in Southtown and Warfleet.
1625-1649
1642- 1646
(First) English Civil War
Dartmouth declares for Parliament and the town is fortified at heavy cost. Royalists under Prince Maurice mount a siege beginning September 1643; town falls a month later. Royalist garrison holds Dartmouth and adds fortifications on Gallants Bower, above Dartmouth Castle, and Mount Ridley, above Kingswear. Dartmouth falls to Parliamentarian Army under Sir Thomas Fairfax on 18 January 1646. Substantial costs are incurred in supporting Parliament and defending the town.
Two extra aisles accommodate a growing population in Southtown and Warfleet.
1625-1649
1650
Town purchases “Water of Dart”
Assets of Duchy of Cornwall are sold as part of sale of Crown lands to settle arrears of Army pay. Town Council buys waterbailiwick. Leading merchants are strong supporters of Commonwealth and then Oliver Cromwell as Lord Protector.
Lord Protector 1653-1658
1656
John Flavel comes to Dartmouth
Puritan preacher and writer John Flavel is appointed to St Clement’s Townstal (another minister, Allan Geare, is appointed to St Saviours).
Lord Protector 1653-1658
1660
Restoration of monarchy
Town supports Charles II’s return but Crown appoints an external “Governor” of Dartmouth Castle with a permanent small garrison. Duchy estates including “Water of Dart” are recovered though town is allowed to lease the waterbailiwick as before. Under 1661 Corporation Act Town Council is “purged” of previous leading members.
1660-1685
1660
Population of Dartmouth 3,350
Estimated. Dartmouth is fifth largest town in Devon.
1660-1685
1662
“Great Ejection”
With other ministers in Dartmouth, Flavel is unable to conform to the restored Church of England. Despite harassment and persecution he continues to leads a large congregation, preaching secretly or in country locations.
1660-1685
1671
Charles II visits
Enjoying a pleasure trip on a new yacht, the King puts into Dartmouth due to bad weather, and remains overnight. By tradition he is entertained in the Butterwalk.
1660-1685
1671(2)
Reclamation of the “New Ground”
An artificial island is formed extending into the river, linked to the New Quay by a bridge, to provide additional quay space.
1660-1685
1685
Monmouth Rebellion
Town Council supports James’ accession but the remains of one rebel (possibly from Dartmouth), are sent from Honiton to be hung up in Dartmouth.
1685-1688
1687
Declaration of Indulgence
Under James II’s attempt to achieve “religious toleration” for Catholics by embracing Dissenters, John Flavel is able to preach openly and a meeting house is established in Foss Street by his congregation.
1685-1688
1688
William of Orange nearly lands in Dartmouth
Leading opponents of James II and his pro-Catholic policies invite William of Orange (his son in law) to invade. William plans to land in Dartmouth and Torbay, but weather conditions cause the whole fleet to land in Torbay.
1685-1688
1689
“Glorious Revolution”
The Bill of Rights and Act of Exemption allow freedom of worship for Protestant non-conformists. Flavel dies in 1691 but his congregation grows; there is a Baptist group (established by 1646) and a refugee French Huguenot community.
1689-1702
1689-1694
1710-12
Thomas Newcomen develops steam engine
Born in Dartmouth in 1664, Thomas Newcomen becomes an ironmonger by trade. He is also a Baptist lay preacher. With his friend John Calley, a plumber and glazier, he develops the first successful working atmospheric steam engine. The first engine is installed in 1712 in a coalmine in the West Midlands and many others follow.
1702-1714
1715-1832
Holdsworth family
Successive generations of the Holdsworth family, prominent in the Newfoundland trade, dominate political life in Dartmouth, and thus control the town’s representation in Parliament. MPs largely support successive Government administrations.
1714-1727
1721
Silver Oar given by Frederick Duke of Cornwall to Dartmouth
Ceremonial silver oar representing the authority of the Water Bailiff is added to the town’s regalia.
1714-1727
1724
Daniel Defoe (author of Robinson Crusoe) visits
He reports the town is “large and populous tho’ but meanly built … yet the Quay is large and the street before spacious … merchants … trade very prosperously … to Spain, Portugal, Italy and the Plantations; but especially they are great traders to Newfoundland and from thence to Spain and Italy with fish”.
1714-1727
1740
Town buys tidal mill
Mills in Foss Street are still operating much as they have for five centuries.
1727-1760
1753
Holdsworths appointed Governor of Dartmouth Castle
Successive generations of Holdsworth family become Governor until appointment is abolished as a sinecure in 1857.
1727-1760
1766-1788
Work on St Saviours
New windows are installed with heraldic glass for the Holdsworth family and their connections. Organ installed 1784-8.
1760-1820
1782
Methodist community founded
Meeting first in a private house, first chapel is built in 1816, replaced by a much larger building overlooking the Market in 1874. Building demolished in 1992.
1760-1820
1792
Sandquay shipbuilding yards developed
John Seale of Mount Boone, owner of the Combe estate at the river’s edge north of the Borough, builds a modern Dockyard complex there. Shipbuilding for the Royal Navy in the Napoleonic Wars 1793-1815 partially compensates for decline in Newfoundland trade.
1760-1820
c1800
Tidal Mills cease to operate
Silting up progressively reduces tidal flow. Mills are demolished by 1808 releasing Mill Pool area for potential reclamation and development.
1760-1820
1805
Population of Dartmouth 3590
Average of censuses of 1801 and 1811. Dartmouth still the fifth largest town in Devon (but much smaller than Exeter and Plymouth).
1760-1820
1826
New Road completed
Kingsbridge and Dartmouth Turnpike Trust completes the “New Road” across the Mill Pool area connecting the centre of town with the expanding turnpike network by a road suitable for carriage traffic. Sites along New Road are gradually developed for shops, houses and other community uses such as a school and for chapels.
1820-1830
1828
Visit of Duke of Clarence
The King’s brother William (later William IV), Duke of Clarence, is the second Duke of Clarence to visit Dartmouth (see 1470). The visit is unplanned, while he is en route to Plymouth by royal yacht – as Lord High Admiral he is due to inspect the new HMS Britannia (which will later come to Dartmouth). He lunches with Arthur Holdsworth at Mount Galpin, and the yacht remains in Dartmouth harbour two nights. Later, Duke Street, Clarence Street and Clarence Hill are renamed in honour of the visit.
1820-1830
1828-9
New Market House completed
Act of Parliament to build new “Market House, Market Place, Shambles and Conveniences” obtained in 1815, but completion awaits construction of New Road.
1820-1830
1830
Dartmouth remains a regional port
According to Pigot’s Directory: “The trade in the Newfoundland fishery has considerably declined [but] the coastal business is extensive … other [vessels] trade to Spain, Portugal and Italy. [There is] shipbuilding, ropemaking, the manufacture of paper [and] in the vicinity … limestone and slate quarries …”
1820-1830
1832/5
Parliamentary and municipal reform
Great Reform Act reduces Dartmouth’s MPs to one and extends parliamentary franchise; Municipal Corporations Act extends borough franchise, ending Holdsworth control of Dartmouth politics.
1830-1837
1834
First official Dartmouth Regatta
Yacht racing is growing as a sport and “leading gentlemen” of the town organise the Regatta, which continues today.
1830-1837
1856
Visit of Queen Victoria; Royal Regatta
This is her fourth visit to Dartmouth, in the royal yacht, with her husband and five children, on 11-12 August. After a river trip, an official reception at the New Ground and a carriage sightseeing tour, she donates a prize to the Regatta, which becomes the Royal Regatta.
1837-1901
1860
Duchy terminates town’s lease of “Water of Dart”
Revenues are first leased to a private collector and then collected directly. Eventually the Dartmouth Harbour Commission buys out the rights to collect “petty customs” in Dartmouth. In 1864 town is required to return the Silver Oar given in 1721.
1837-1901
1863
Arrival of HMS Britannia
Royal Navy’s officer training ship moves from Portland to Dartmouth. She is joined in 1865 by the Hindostan; both ships are anchored in the river above Sandquay. Many members of the British and other Royal Families receive naval officer training in Dartmouth.
1837-1901
1863-1880
Town and port improvements
Dartmouth Harbour Commission is set up to improve port facilities. In 1864 the railway finally reaches a terminus in Kingswear with a ferry connection to Dartmouth, making Dartmouth the only railway station without any trains. From 1864-7 the Newcomen Road is constructed between Higher and Lower Street, demolishing many old houses. New sewers are constructed. Lower Street is widened and new shops and houses are built in Fairfax Place in the style of the 1600s.
1837-1901
1868
Parliamentary constituency of Dartmouth abolished
Dartmouth is one of seven English boroughs with populations under 5000 to be disenfranchised, to give more seats to Scotland. Dartmouth is absorbed within South Devon constituency.
1837-1901
1882-5
Embankment completed
Amidst much controversy the Dartmouth Harbour Commission builds the South Embankment from the Lower Ferry Slip to Vavasour’s Slip to provide for larger ships. The reclaimed land extends the New Ground which is gradually developed as gardens and open space, and the Quay is enclosed to create the Boat Float for small boats. New sites are created for shops, houses and other buildings.
1837-1901
1890-3
Shipbuilding continues to grow
In 1891 Philip & Son of Sandquay acquires remaining yards there. Their rivals Simpson Strickland create a new yard on a greenfield site at Noss Point north of Kingswear.
1837-1901
1898-1905
Naval College built
Work begins in 1898 to build the long-planned shore-based training establishment for naval officer cadets. Edward VII lays the foundation stone in 1902 and the College opens in 1905. The Royal Avenue Gardens is named for his visit and other royal visits.
1901-1910
1911
Silver Oar given back to Dartmouth
In his first public engagement, on leaving the Naval College, Prince Edward (later Edward VIII), Duke of Cornwall, as a courtesy returns the Silver Oar to Dartmouth. It still forms part of the town’s regalia today.
1901-1910
1914-18
First World War
Many hundreds of men from Dartmouth serve their country and over 200 who die are commemorated on memorials in the town. Theodore Veale, born in Dartmouth, serving in 8th Bn Devonshire Regiment, wins the VC. In 1917 Hanover Street is renamed Anzac Street, in honour of the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps.
1910-1936
1918
Philip & Son acquires Noss Shipyard when Simpson Strickland closes
With financial assistance from Swan Hunter, Philip & Son survives the downturn in shipbuilding and becomes Devon’s leading producer of new tonnage, operating from both Sandquay and Noss.
1910-1936
1921
Population of Dartmouth (Borough) 7219
1921 Census records historic highpoint of population.
1910-1936
1923-1936
Many ships laid up in Dartmouth Harbour
Worldwide slump in trade leads to layups, peaking in 1931-2.
1910-1936
1926
New house building
Town Council begins to build new houses with direct labour for rent or purchase in an extension to Victoria Road. In 1929 new house building begins in Townstal to provide for those displaced from old housing demolished in the town centre. It continues until the war.
1910-1936
1928-39
Reclamation of North Embankment and Coronation Park
Embankment is extended to Floating Bridge and Sandquay. Coombe Mud is reclaimed to create a new recreation park. It is named Coronation Park originally for Edward VIII and then, after his abdication, for George VI.
1936
1936-1952
1939
Visit of George VI and Royal Family
King and Queen with Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret visit Dartmouth and Royal Naval College. Princess Elizabeth is hosted by Prince Philip of Greece, her future husband.
1936-1952
1939-45
Second World War
In 1940 Dartmouth Castle is fortified with coastal artillery in a reminder of its ancient role of defence against invasion. Dartmouth becomes the location of Commando training, a coastal convoy staging port and from 1941, a Royal Naval Coastal Forces Base. The town suffers two serious air raids in 1942 and 1943 and the Royal Naval College moves north. The buildings become first the location of Combined Operations training and then the headquarters of the American XI Amphibious Force. Thousands of service personnel arrive in the area and hundreds of vessels are based in the harbour in the build-up to D-day. Many men and women from Dartmouth serve their country all over the world. 101 service personnel and 35 civilians are commemorated on town memorials and war graves.
1936-1952
1947- present
New house building in Townstal continues
The post-war housing shortage is acute. Fifty temporary houses are built in Townstal which last 50 years. Housing development continues in Townstal today.
1952-2022
1973
Railway closes
It is immediately reopened as a heritage line.
1952-2022
1974
The end of Dartmouth Borough
In local government reorganisation Dartmouth loses its six-century-old Borough status but retains a mayor. It forms part of South Hams District.
1952-2022
1999
End of shipbuilding on the Dart
The Sandquay site becomes a marina in 1965. Shipbuilding and repair continues at Noss until it finally ends in 1999.
1952-2022
2012
Diamond Jubilee Fountain
The Old Dartmothians’ Association marks Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee with a new fountain in the Royal Avenue Gardens.
1952-2022
2021
Population of Dartmouth and district: 5300
1952-2022