Truro grew up around its medieval castle, deriving its wealth as an inland port, lying on the confluence of two rivers 9 miles from the sea, and as a stannary town. Tin mining brought further prosperity and the town became a centre for Cornwall’s wealthy gentry. It gained both a cathedral and city status in the Victorian period, although the cathedral was not finished until 1910, and today is one of the most attractive small cities in the country, surrounded by steep valleys on three sides and drawing in many to its cultural and commercial attractions. In Quirky Truro local authors Christine Parnell and Sheila Richardson delve into lesser-known but fascinating tales from Truro’s past. In this book, readers will find stories of a wine merchant who disappeared with the insurance money after his brewhouse and spirit store burnt down, only to reappear later under several aliases before being shot by the army while leading a mob of protestors against the Corn Laws; the bowling green on the quay that had to be raised above the river level; ancient finds beneath a car park; and much more.Quirky Truro celebrates the unusual and often strange history of the city and its characters over the years. This fascinating insight will be of interest to all those who want to know more about the Truro’s history.
