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    • Main contributor: James L. Tanner
    Abington Street in Northampton

    Northamptonshire is a historic county in the East Midlands region of England. It's bordered by Leicestershire, Rutland, and Lincolnshire to the north, Cambridgeshire to the east, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire to the south, and Warwickshire to the west.[1] Since 14 May 2019, Northamptonshire has been divided into two districts: North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire. North Northamptonshire authority covers the existing districts of Kettering, Corby, East Northamptonshire and Wellingborough. The West Northamptonshire authority covers the existing districts of Daventry, Northampton and South Northamptonshire.[2]

    The population of North Northamptonshire is 363,408 according to mid-2022 population figures published by the ONS. North Northamptonshire's population growth rate between mid-2021 and mid-2022 was 0.8% per year. North Northamptonshire covers an area of 987 square kilometres (381 square miles) and has a population density of 368 people per square kilometer (km2), based on the latest population estimates taken in mid-2022.[3]

    The population of West Northamptonshire is 429,013 according to mid-2022 population figures published by the ONS. West Northamptonshire's population growth rate between mid-2021 and mid-2022 was 0.5% per year. West Northamptonshire covers an area of 1,377 square kilometers (532 square miles) and has a population density of 311 people per square kilometer (km2), based on the latest population estimates taken in mid-2022.[3]

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    Northamptonshire landscape, industry, agriculture, and attractionsNorthamptonshire landscape, industry, agriculture, and attractions

    Northamptonshire boasts a diverse and picturesque landscape, characterized by its rolling hills, fertile valleys, and historic villages.[4] The county is divided into two distinct regions: the gently undulating Northamptonshire Uplands in the west and the flatter, more agricultural eastern region. The western part of the county is dominated by the Northamptonshire Uplands[5], a range of low-lying hills formed from Jurassic limestone. These hills create a scenic backdrop to many of the county's villages and towns. The valleys between the hills are often fertile and have been used for agriculture for centuries. The River Cherwell and the River Nene flow through some of these valleys, adding to their beauty.[1]

    The county's geology has also shaped its history, with ironstone deposits once mined extensively in the area. These mines have left behind distinctive landscapes, including disused quarries and spoil heaps.[6] Historically, Northamptonshire has been a significant player in the English shoemaking industry, with Northampton itself earning the moniker "The Footwear Capital of the World." While this industry has declined in recent decades, the county's economy now relies on a diverse range of sectors, including engineering, manufacturing, and distribution.[7]

    The eastern part of the county is flatter and more agricultural, with extensive areas of farmland and fenland. Farming looks after over 75 per cent of the countryside.[8] Several historic market towns, such as Kettering and Corby, are located in this part of the county. These towns often have charming old buildings and traditional market squares.

    Northamptonshire offers a wealth of attractions for visitors, including historic houses like Althorp House, the ancestral home of the Spencer family, and stately homes like Kelmarsh Hall. The county is also renowned for its beautiful churches and cathedrals, such as Peterborough Cathedral and Northampton's St. Mary the Virgin Church. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the picturesque countryside, go hiking in the rolling hills, or enjoy water sports on the River Nene. Kirby Hall in Corby was once owned by Sir Christopher Hatton, who was Lord Chancellor to Elizabeth I. The town of Oundle has many popular attractions.

    Northamptonshire historyNorthamptonshire history

    The earliest evidence of human activity in Northamptonshire dates back to the Paleolithic period. Stone tools and artifacts from this era have been found in various locations across the county, indicating that the area was inhabited by hunter-gatherer groups.[9]

    During the Roman period, Northamptonshire became an important part of the Roman province of Britannia. The Roman road, Watling Street, passed through the county, connecting important settlements like Lactodorum (modern-day Towcester). Roman villas, forts, and other structures have been discovered, showcasing the county's significance during this time.[10]

    After the Romans left Britain, the Anglo-Saxons, Germanic tribes, invaded and settled the area.[11] Northamptonshire became part of the Kingdom of Mercia. During this period, many Anglo-Saxon churches were built, some of which still stand today, such as Earls Barton, Brixworth, and Brigstock. Northampton began as an Anglo-Saxon village. It was called Hamm tun, which means the village by the well-watered meadow.[12]

    The Norman Conquest in 1066 brought significant changes to Northamptonshire.[13] The county became part of the Duchy of Lancaster and was heavily influenced by Norman culture and architecture. Many castles and abbeys were built during this time, including Peterborough Cathedral.

    The medieval period saw significant growth in towns like Northampton and Wellingborough, which became centers of trade and industry.[14] The county also played a role in various historical events, including the Wars of the Roses and the English Civil War. The Battle of Naseby, a decisive victory for the Parliamentarian forces, was fought in Northamptonshire in 1645. The county was ravaged by fires in the medieval and post-medieval periods, its town walls were largely demolished in the 17th century and what remained of its castle was almost totally destroyed for railway improvements in the late 19th century.[10]

    The 18th and 19th centuries were periods of significant industrialization and social change in Northamptonshire. The county's abundant natural resources, including iron ore and coal, fueled the growth of heavy industries, particularly in the Kettering and Corby areas. The development of the railway network further connected the county to the wider world, facilitating the transportation of goods and people.[15]

    The 20th century brought both challenges and opportunities to Northamptonshire[16]. The two World Wars had a profound impact on the county, with many residents serving in the armed forces and industries being mobilized for the war effort.[17] In the post-war period, the decline of traditional industries, such as coal mining and iron smelting, led to economic challenges.[7]

    Northamptonshire parishes and unparished areasNorthamptonshire parishes and unparished areas

    There are 275 civil parishes in Northamptonshire, England. The county is governed by two single tier unitary councils called North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council which are the sole local authorities for the local government areas of North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire.[18]

    Northamptonshire geographyNorthamptonshire geography

    Northamptonshire, a county in the East Midlands region of England, is characterized by its rolling hills, fertile valleys, and historic towns. It's a landlocked county with diverse landscapes, from the gentle slopes of the Northamptonshire Hills to the flatlands along the River Nene.[1] Northamptonshire is situated on a watershed. Rivers like the Nene and Welland flow eastwards towards the North Sea, while the River Avon flows westward towards the Severn. Northamptonshire is known for its rich historical heritage, with numerous Roman, Saxon, and medieval sites scattered across the landscape.[19]

    Researching family history in NorthamptonshireResearching family history in Northamptonshire

    The Northamptonshire Family History Society was founded in 1976 and has around 650 members, mainly in the UK with some from overseas and offers various database search services to assist the researcher.[20] The has links to genealogical resources. The West Northamptonshire Council has a large collection of local and family history resources in our Discover Center at Northamptonshire Central Library. The Northamptonshire Heritage Forum has links to genealogy resources. The Northamptonshire Archive Service exists to preserve the county’s unique and irreplaceable heritage, to make this heritage accessible to everyone, and to encourage engagement with heritage in all its forms.

    Ethnicities in NorthamptonshireEthnicities in Northamptonshire

    The demographic distribution of the Northamptonshire population is as follows:[1]

    The ethnicity in Northamptonshire is split between North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire.[3]

    According to the latest 2021 census, the population in West Northamptonshire is predominantly white (85.9%), with non-white minorities representing the remaining 14.1% of the population. Asian people were the largest minority group in West Northamptonshire accounting for 5.3% of the population. 20,661 or 5% of the West Northamptonshire 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 West Northamptonshire, 2021 census

    • White - 365,758 people or 85.9%
    • Asian - 22,463 people or 5.3%
    • Black - 20,661 people or 4.9%
    • Mixed - 12,116 people or 2.8%
    • Other - 4,725 people or 1.1%

    According to the latest 2021 census, the population in North Northamptonshire is predominantly white (90.3%), with non-white minorities representing the remaining 9.7% of the population. Asian people were the largest minority group in North Northamptonshire accounting for 3.5% of the population. 11,017 or 3% of the North Northamptonshire 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 North Northamptonshire, 2021 census

    • White - 324,664 people or 90.3%
    • Asian - 12,726 people or 3.5%
    • Black - 11,017 people or 3.1%
    • Mixed - 8,175 people or 2.3%
    • Other - 2,941 people or 0.8%

    Surnames in NorthamptonshireSurnames in Northamptonshire

    The demographic distribution of Northamptonshire surnames is as follows:[21]

    Surname Incidence Frequency
    Smith 10,825 1:72
    Jones 5,190 1:150
    Brown 5,134 1:151
    Taylor 3,577 1:217
    Patel 3,335 1:233
    Williams 3,131 1:248
    Wilson 3,060 1:254
    Wright 3,029 1:256
    White 2,951 1:263
    Johnson 2,866 1:271

    Explore more about English CountiesExplore more about English Counties

    MyHeritage has 351 collections that contain millions of English records that cover a huge variety of genealogical historical events that can help you find your ancestors. The MyHeritage Knowledge Base contains helpful information about genealogical research. The Legacy Family Tree Webinars website contains more than 2000 valuable genealogical webinars including over 50 webinars about English research.

    See alsoSee also

    References

    1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Northamptonshire | England, Map, History, & Facts | Britannica
    2. ↑ New local authorities will be created in Northamptonshire
    3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 North Northamptonshire Demographics | Age, Ethnicity, Religion, Wellbeing
    4. ↑ Northamptonshire - Great British Gardens
    5. ↑ Northamptonshire  Uplands
    6. ↑ Burton Latimer - Local Industry: Ironstone Mining
    7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 NIAG - Northamptonshire's Industrial Heritage: EMIACs Past: EMIAC 82
    8. ↑ The future of farming in Northamptonshire
    9. ↑ Monuments and landscapes in the Neolithic and Bronze Age
    10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 The Development of Northampton | British History Online
    11. ↑ Our Migration Story: The Making of Britain
    12. ↑ A History of Northampton
    13. ↑ The Impact of the Norman Conquest of England - World History Encyclopedia
    14. ↑ Medieval Period
    15. ↑ Social Change in the British Industrial Revolution - World History Encyclopedia
    16. ↑ Northamptonshire history and heritage
    17. ↑ A History of Northampton
    18. ↑ Northamptonshire Structural Changes
    19. ↑ Northamptonshire's Heritage | Northamptonshire County Council
    20. ↑ Database Searches | Northamptonshire Family History Society
    21. ↑ Most Common Surnames in Northamptonshire, With Meanings
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