Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire is an administrative (pop., 2001: 646,646), geographic, and historic county, in eastern England. It lies along the North Sea from the Humber estuary to the Wash. Among its most important towns is Lincoln.^[1]

Lincolnshire is divided into three distinct regions called "Parts": Lindsey, Kesteven, and Holland. The origin of the name of the historical division called "Parts of Holland." isn't entirely clear, but it's likely derived from Old English.^[2] Lincolnshire is 72 miles/115.8km from north to south and at its widest 55 miles from east to west. It is the second largest of all the English counties.^[3]

The population of Lincolnshire is 775,524 according to mid-2022 population figures published by the ONS. Lincolnshire's population growth rate between mid-2021 and mid-2022 was 0.8% per year. Lincolnshire covers an area of 5,937 square kilometres (2,292 square miles) and has a population density of 131 people per square kilometre (km2), based on the latest population estimates taken in mid-2022.^[4]

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Lincolnshire landscape, industry, agriculture, and attractionsLincolnshire landscape, industry, agriculture, and attractions

Lincolnshire is bisected by two prominent upland regions oriented north-south. The westernmost, a narrower limestone escarpment known as the Lincoln Edge, rises abruptly and supports the city of Lincoln. Separated from the Edge by a clay lowland lies the Wolds, a region characterized by rolling chalk hills. Between the Wolds and the coastline stretches the Lincoln Marsh, which transitions southward into the low-lying Fens. The Fens, encompassing The Wash, have been the subject of extensive drainage and reclamation efforts since at least the Roman period.^[5]

Greater Lincolnshire possesses a robust manufacturing sector supported by a highly skilled workforce. This region has a historical foundation in manufacturing and engineering, with a concentration of expertise in power engineering, metrochemicals and chemicals, steel manufacturing, and motorsport engineering. This legacy provides a compelling investment opportunity for businesses seeking to establish operations in a prime location with existing industry strengths.^[6] Lincolnshire's manufacturing sector is diverse and significant, with key activities including:^[6]

Engineering: A strong presence, particularly in power engineering, steel manufacturing, and motorsport engineering.
Chemicals: A major hub for the chemical industry, including petrochemicals, specialty chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
Food and Beverage: A significant contributor, with a focus on processed foods, confectionery, and alcoholic beverages.
Aerospace: A growing sector, with companies involved in manufacturing components for aircraft and spacecraft.

The agri-food sector integrates agricultural production with food manufacturing, with a particular emphasis on agri-tech, including robotics, and supply chain optimization. Greater Lincolnshire possesses a global reputation for excellence in food, fish, and farming. The region boasts one of Europe's highest concentrations of food manufacturing, research, storage, and distribution facilities.^[7]

Lincolnshire offers a diverse range of attractions, from historic landmarks to natural beauty. Visitors can explore the stunning Gothic architecture of Lincoln Cathedral, delve into the rich history of Lincoln Castle, or admire the picturesque landscapes of the Lincolnshire Wolds. For those seeking coastal relaxation, Skegness resort offers traditional seaside charm, while Boston invites exploration of its maritime heritage. The Lincolnshire Coast provides a variety of coastal experiences, from sandy beaches to quaint fishing villages. History enthusiasts can visit Tattershall Castle or learn about aviation history at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre. The Museum of Lincolnshire Life showcases the region's cultural heritage, while the Lincolnshire Showground hosts various events throughout the year.

Lincolnshire historyLincolnshire history

Lincolnshire's rich history stretches back to prehistoric times. Evidence of early human settlement, including tools and artifacts, has been found across the county. The upland areas provided ideal defensive sites, and as trade with Europe developed, coastal settlements grew. A prehistoric salt industry also thrived along the coast.^[5]

The Romans recognized Lincolnshire's strategic importance. They established significant settlements, such as Lindum Colonia (modern-day Lincoln), a major Roman town. The Roman road network, including Ermine Street and Fosse Way, passed through the county. Roman forts and villas were built, leaving a lasting legacy.^[8]

After the Roman withdrawal, Anglo-Saxon tribes, primarily the Angles, settled in Lincolnshire. They established the Kingdom of Lindsey, which later merged with other kingdoms to form Mercia. During this period, monasteries and churches were built, and Christianity spread.

The Norman Conquest in 1066 brought significant changes to Lincolnshire. The county was divided among Norman lords, and many castles and abbeys were constructed. The wool trade flourished, making Lincolnshire a wealthy region. The medieval period also saw the development of towns like Boston and Lincoln, which became important centers of trade and commerce.

The Tudor period, in the 16th century, brought religious upheaval to Lincolnshire. The Reformation led to the dissolution of monasteries, and many religious buildings were destroyed or repurposed. However, the county continued to prosper economically, with agriculture and trade remaining important industries.^[9] On 5 September 1538, Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII's 'Vicegerent in Spirituals', ordered all parishes to keep a register recording all the baptisms, marriages and burials of the previous week. In 1598, it was ordered that 'great decent books of parchment' should be used for this purpose and that copies of new entries should be sent each month to the Bishop.^[10]

The 17th century was a turbulent time for Lincolnshire. The English Civil Wars saw battles fought on Lincolnshire soil, and the county was divided between Royalist and Parliamentarian supporters. Despite the conflict, the county's agricultural and industrial development continued.

The 18th century was a period of relative peace and prosperity for Lincolnshire. The agricultural revolution led to increased productivity and improved farming practices. The county's canals and waterways were expanded, facilitating trade and transport.^[11]

The Industrial Revolution, beginning in the 19th century, had a significant impact on Lincolnshire. The development of railways transformed transportation, and new industries, such as iron and steel, emerged. However, the decline of traditional industries, like handloom weaving, led to economic challenges in some parts of the county.^[12]

The 20th century brought further changes to Lincolnshire. World Wars I and II had a profound impact, with many Lincolnshire men and women serving in the armed forces.^[13] The post-war period saw significant industrial decline, particularly in the steel industry. However, the county's agricultural sector remained strong, and tourism has become an increasingly important part of the economy.^[14]

Lincolnshire parishes and unparished areasLincolnshire parishes and unparished areas

There are about 623 civil parishes in Lincolnshire which includes its unparished areas. The estimate of the number of parishes comes from the Lincolnshire County Council. Boundaries keep changing, and it is said that the UK has more administrative boundary change than the rest of Europe put together. In some years several hundred electoral wards or divisions are affected, and in the extreme case of 2002 no fewer than 1549 got changed.^[15]

Lincolnshire geographyLincolnshire geography

Lincolnshire is divided by two main upland regions that run north to south. The westernmost region is Lincoln Edge, a narrow, limestone ridge. It rises sharply on its western side and is home to the city of Lincoln. East of Lincoln Edge, separated by a low-lying clay area, lie the Wolds. These are rolling chalk hills. Between the Wolds and the coast is the Lincoln Marsh. This low-lying area merges into the Fens to the south. The Fens, which surround The Wash, have been drained and reclaimed since Roman times.^[5]

Researching family history in LincolnshireResearching family history in Lincolnshire

The Lincolnshire Family History Society was founded in 1990 and covers Parts of Holland, Kesteven, Lindsey & the Isle of Axholme, the four parts of the Historic County of Lincolnshire. The Lincolnshire Archives provides the resources to research history and culture in Lincolnshire. Since 1910 the Lincoln Record Society has published ninety nine volumes of transcribed records, many of which are still in print. The Fenland Family History Society was founded in 2001 to promote and encourage the study of family, local and social history. Fenland comprises the former Isle of Ely, parts of South Lincolnshire and West Norfolk.

Ethnicities in LincolnshireEthnicities in Lincolnshire

The demographic distribution of the Lincolnshire population is as follows:^[4] According to the latest 2021 census, the population in Lincolnshire is predominantly white (96.0%), with non-white minorities representing the remaining 4.0% of the population. Asian people were the largest minority group in Lincolnshire accounting for 1.6% of the population. 4,365 or 1% of the Lincolnshire population are black according to the latest 2021 census. In England more broadly the portion of the population that is white is 81%. 10% are Asian and 4% are Black. Population by race in Lincolnshire, 2021 census

White - 737,532 people or 96.0%
Asian - 11,927 people or 1.6%
Mixed - 10,191 people or 1.3%
Black - 4,365 people or 0.6%
Other - 4,351 people or 0.6%

Surnames in LincolnshireSurnames in Lincolnshire

The demographic distribution of Lincolnshire surnames is as follows:^[16]

Surname	Incidence	Frequency
Smith	17,299	1:61
Taylor	8,137	1:130
Brown	6,763	1:156
Johnson	6,460	1:164
Robinson	5,877	1:180
Wilson	5,254	1:201
Wright	5,066	1:209
Jones	4,831	1:219
Thompson	4,469	1:237
Jackson	4,298	1:246

Explore more about English CountiesExplore more about English Counties

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References

[1] Lincolnshire summary | Britannica

[2] South Holland • Heritage Lincolnshire

[3] A History of Lincolnshire – Wilcuma

[:0-4] 4.0 ^4.1 Lincolnshire Demographics | Age, Ethnicity, Religion, Wellbeing

[:1-5] 5.0 ^5.1 ^5.2 Lincolnshire | Towns, History, Map, & Facts | Britannica

[:2-6] 6.0 ^6.1 Manufacturing | Greater Lincolnshire LEP

[7] Agri-food Sector | Greater Lincolnshire LEP

[8] Exploring Roman Lincoln

[9] The Tudor dynasty and Elizabeth I | Royal Museums Greenwich

[10] Early parish registers

[11] Agriculture and Society 1750-1850 – Wilcuma

[12] Industrial Revolution and the Standard of Living

[13] Impact of World War Two on Britain’s Empire - How Britain lost an empire - war and government - GCSE History Revision - AQA

[14] Lincolnshire's History and Heritage

[15] Geography - About National Statistics

[16] Most Common Surnames in Lincolnshire, With Meanings

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