Worthing is a charming town located on the south coast of England with a rich and fascinating history. From its early beginnings as a small fishing village to its transformation into a thriving seaside resort, Worthing has a lot of interesting stories to tell. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most interesting things in the history of Worthing.
- Worthing’s origins
Worthing’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, with archaeological evidence of settlements in the area dating back to around 1000 BC. The town’s name is thought to come from the Old English word ‘Worth’, meaning ‘enclosure’ or ‘homestead’, and ‘ingas’, meaning ‘people of’. This suggests that Worthing was originally a small settlement of people living in an enclosed area.
- The growth of Worthing as a seaside resort
In the 19th century, Worthing began to develop as a popular seaside resort, attracting visitors from all over the country. The town’s growth was due in part to the arrival of the railway in 1845, which made it easier for people to travel to the town. Worthing’s popularity as a resort continued to grow throughout the Victorian era, and by the early 20th century, it had become one of the most popular seaside destinations in the country.
- The Worthing Pier
One of Worthing’s most famous landmarks is its pier, which was built in 1862. The pier was designed by Sir Robert Rawlinson, a famous engineer, and was originally built as a landing stage for steamships. Over the years, the pier has been damaged by storms and fires, but it has always been restored and rebuilt. Today, the pier is a popular spot for fishing, strolling, and enjoying the sea views.
- Famous residents
Worthing has been home to many famous residents over the years, including Oscar Wilde, who spent some time in the town in the late 19th century. The writer H.G. Wells was also a frequent visitor to Worthing, and his novel “The War of the Worlds” is set in the town. Other famous residents have included actress Dame Flora Robson and singer-songwriter Adele.
- Worthing during World War II
During World War II, Worthing was a target for German bombing raids, and the town suffered significant damage as a result. The town’s famous pier was destroyed by fire in 1933, and many buildings in the town were damaged or destroyed during the war. Despite this, Worthing continued to grow and develop, and the town’s post-war years saw a new era of prosperity and expansion.
Worthing’s history is long and varied, with many interesting stories to tell. From its origins as a small fishing village to its growth as a popular seaside resort, Worthing has played an important role in the history of the south coast of England. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, taking the time to explore the town’s history can be a fascinating and rewarding experience.
