Bridgwater

Bridgwater in Somerset, England, is a market town, the administrative centre of the Sedgemoor district, and the leading industrial town in the county.

Related Topics:
Somerset - England - Market town - Sedgemoor - District - County

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Bridgwater is located on the major communication routes through South West England, between two junctions of the M5 motorway and on the edge of the Somerset Levels.

Related Topics:
South West England - M5 motorway - Somerset Levels

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It is thought that the town was originally called Brigg, meaning Quay. In the Doomsday Book the town is listed as Brugie, while Brugia was also used. After the Norman invasion the land was given to Walter Douai (a Norman prince), hence becoming known variously as Burgh-Walter, Brugg-Walter and Brigg-Walter, eventually corrupted to Bridgwater. An alternative version is that it derives from "Bridge of Walter" (i.e. Walter's Bridge).

Related Topics:
Quay - Doomsday Book - Norman - Douai

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Bridgwater had a population of 36,000 in 1998 (up from 22,718 in 1951, 3,634 in 1801, and 7,807 in 1831). Historically, the town had a politically radical tendency, being involved in several events of note on the national stage.

Related Topics:
1998 - 1951 - 1801 - 1831

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