Description

Re-live the long and fascinating history of Keynsham and Saltford with the help of rare archive photographs and some remarkable cine film from 1935 through to the 1960s.

The geographical position of Keynsham, close to the confluence of the rivers Chew and Avon, with rich pastures and abundant woodland, has made it attractive to settlers from early times. There is evidence of prehistoric man passing through, and the second largest Roman house in the country was discovered under Keynsham Cemetery.

Saltford Manor House, built in around 1150, lays claim to being the oldest inhabited house in England, and the nearby Church has a history that arguably dates back to Saxon times.

The remains of what was a substantial and important abbey have been plundered piecemeal since 1539, with the construction of Keynsham by-pass in the 1960s dealing the final blow. The Parish Church, which touches on so much of the town’s history, is also explored in depth.

The abundant supply of water made Keynsham a favourable site for cheap motive power, and three local mills are featured in detail. In more recent times, the Somerdale site of Fry’s (later Cadbury’s) has been key to the area’s prosperity. Other subjects covered include the Railway, the Workhouse, Schools, Bridges and the 1968 floods. This historical journey will be enjoyable and informative to anyone with an interest in the Keynsham and Saltford area.

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