A historical talk on how March has evolved over the years was given to the March Society.
Delving into archaeological findings around Wimblington Road, the talk demonstrated activity in the area dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages.
Jennifer Lawler, chairman of The March Society, explained that these discoveries demonstrate the importance Romans placed on the area.
The Romans tried – with limited success – to control flooding in the region.
By the 11th century, much of March was under the ownership of the Bishop of Ely and Bishop of Bury St Edmunds.
As part of the Manor of Doddington, the known bishops played a pivotal role in the diversion of the River Nene and the construction of canals intended for drainage.
Significant drainage work continued through the 16th and 17th centuries.
The 18th and 19th centuries saw a population surge.
The introduction of railways, alongside the effects of the Enclosure and Drainage Acts, resulted in immense influx of workers on farmlands.
The growth presented challenges, resulting in the cholera outbreak in 1849.
In the late 19th century, the burgeoning population led to the separation of Doddington Parish into seven new parishes.
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