Oxford suburbs

85 Kingston Road postcard front, Martin BurgessOxford’s base and brickish skirt: the development of the suburbs, 1850 – 1914

In 1850 Oxford was still contained largely within its medieval city walls. Just over sixty years later, on the eve of the First World War, its footprint had quadrupled, thousands of new brick terraced houses had been built and the suburbs had “grown up around Oxford on every side like a huge swelling which needs to be cured.” This talk examines why the suburbs grew so rapidly, what factors affected how they developed differantly to the north, south, east and west of the city, and the effects that suburban growth had on Oxford and its residents.

“A fascinating insight into how Oxford expanded over the years, making use of the landscape around the city. Judging by the questions posed afterwards, it was well received by the members.”  David McGill, Hook Norton Local History Group, December 2020

“Thank you for your excellent talk. It was very informative, full of facts, and as you said, dispelled a few of the myths about Oxford life.”  Shirley Eccles, Marcham Society, March 2020

“You gave such an interesting talk about the development of Oxford’s suburbs, and everyone enjoyed it immensely. I have had so many lovely comments about what a wonderful speaker you are and we are very fortunate to have you in our area.”  Barbara Jewell, Horton cum Studley WI, November 2019

Contact me on 01865 242760 or liz@lizwoolley.co.uk to book this talk.

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