Hitchin may be a small town in Hertfordshire but it prides itself on being historically linked as an old market town oozing with ancient cultures and famous people. The Hitchin.net web site states that:
Although now best known for it’s weekly market Hitchin’s history stretches far back in time.
The earliest part of Hitchin’s history begin with King Offa of Mercia, who founded a religious house in AD792 on land occupied by the Hicce tribe. This was the beginning of Hitchin’s parish church, second only in size to St Albans Abbey in the county.
This mural below is a great show of art on the side of the Hitchin Library. It represents a few of the major industries and characters in bygone days here. Further details on this particular mural can also be viewd on our video guide of the History Mural.
iGuidez has now 13 video guides displaying various points of interest. However, we recently updated a few of them. The British Schools Museum is one of the best examples of elementary education in Britain from 1810 until 1969. It was established by William Wilshere. One of the most interesting projects they have on show is for groups of school kids to take part in these old lessons even by dressing up for the part. It will certainly provide them with an alternative perspective on their modern methods of teaching.
A second video guide is the Hitchin Museum & Art Gallery. This mainly deals with the general history of the town and has a few extremely rare exhibits on display.
In the Domesday Book of 1086 Hitchin is recorded as a Royal Manor and by medieval times it was a thriving town on the banks of the River Hiz. Today it still gives an air of peace and prosperity
There’s no lack of enthusiasm or imagination in promoting this little town. It seems to reflect this in abundance from the ancient looking houses and family pubs to the traditonal court yards and thriving market stalls. And considering it’s only s short train ride from the big smoke a short day trip could easily be fitted in.