The British Empire and its effect on Plymouth


Plymouth, Stonehouse and Dockyard, 1820


This map clearly shows that there were three distinct settlements growing up in the area. Plymouth was the oldest, but Stonehouse and the Dockyards were becoming increasingly large and significant in their own right. If you look clearly you can see a number of ropewalks marked on the map. These were covered walkways that would allow rope to be stretched and twisted. The Royal Navy had an insatiable demand for rope for the rigging of its ships and many streets were set aside and covered to help with the production of the rope. They tended to use Russian hemp for the rope.


Empire in Your Backyard: Plymouth Article


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by Stephen Luscombe