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Where did your ancestors live - South-West - Dorchester

 

Below is some genealogy information and websites about the history and social geography of Dorchester.

North-East, North-West, South-East, South-West, Midlands, London, East Anglia

Description: Located in Dorset, Dorchester sits on the River Frome and is the county town. Famous for the Tolpudle Martyrs, when in 1833 6 men who were arrested to swearing a secret oath when they formed the Friendly Society of Agricultural Labourers. Considered a trade union, which was not illegal but 'frowned upon' at the time, the members were convicted of swearing oaths (which was illegal) and sent to Australia. 5 of the men were released in 1836 (and the sixth in 1837) and 4 returned to England. Dorchester was predominantly an agricultural town. In 1835 a workhouse was built. Dorchester was connected to the rail network in 1847. In 1854 a waterworks was built.

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