Castle Street as it is today, captured by Bing! Maps. Clearly, there has been considerable change over the years. Click for a larger version.
Had a great email yesterday from Tony Turner, an ex-Brownhillian who’s now moved up north. I think this, coupled with the great work from Andy Dennis, pretty conclusively nails the question of ‘The Fort’, and it’s location.
Hi Bob,
I was born at a terrace house in ‘The Fort’ as it was known. Proper name was Castle Street. It is just off the A5 Watling Street west of Newtown bridge
I have a vague recollection that the remains of a fort were shown in that area on an old map you published.
Maybe just a coincidence but hope it helps.
Great blog, having moved north many years ago, reading the blog really helps me to keep up with the history of the Brownhills area as it is uncovered.
Keep up the great work.
Best wishes
Tony
Mike Stackhouse, whose query prompted the original post, has also been in touch since publication:
Morning Bob,
I have forwarded your blog on to my brother, he still lives in Brownhills. Not far from the avenues, nearer to The Chase Inn (which he uses).
I have had another look at the census page, but what I said originally is the only information on it apart from grandad. The civil parish being Hammerwich, and his job being a miner holder hewer.
Thank you for your prompt reply, in this regard please thank Andy too. I may be in touch after John has got back to me.
Regards
Mike
My focus moves more naturally now to how The Fort got its name. I’m thinking, as Andy suggests, that it’s an allusion to Knaves Castle, the long lost earthwork nearby,thought to be a fortification of some sort. In one of those fortunate acts of happenstance, the wonderful Kate from Lichfield Lore has sent me some excellent material on this subject which I shall share later in the week.
Stay tuned, and thanks to all involved!