Shropshire

Shropshire, a ceremonial county situated within the West Midlands region of England, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and a rich industrial past. The county's name originates from the Old English "Scrobbesbyrigscīr" (literally, "Shrewsburyshire"). However, following the Norman Conquest of 1066, the Norman rulers, finding the original name difficult to pronounce, adapted it to "Salopesberia" and "Salopescira." "Salop" serves as an abbreviation of these forms. Established in 1888, the county council was initially named "Salop County Council." While this name never gained widespread popularity, it persisted until 1980 when the council officially adopted "Shropshire County Council." Despite this change, the term "Salopian," derived from "Salop," continues to be used to identify residents of Shropshire.^[1]

The unitary authority borders Cheshire West and Chester and Cheshire East to the north, Staffordshire and Telford, the largest town, and Wrekin to the east, Worcestershire to the southeast, Herefordshire to the south, and Wales to the west.^[2] Shropshire has an area of 3,487 square kilometers (1,346 square miles). The county town is Shrewsbury.^[3]

The population of Shropshire is 327,178 according to mid-2022 population figures published by the ONS. Shropshire's population growth rate between mid-2021 and mid-2022 was 0.8% per year. Shropshire covers an area of 3,197 square kilometres (1,234 square miles) and has a population density of 102 people per square kilometre (km2), based on the latest population estimates taken in mid-2022.^[4]

According to the latest 2021 census, the population in Shropshire is predominantly white (97%), with non-white minorities representing the remaining 3% of the population.^[4]

Shropshire landscape, industry, agriculture, and attractionsShropshire landscape, industry, agriculture, and attractions

Shropshire exhibits one of the most diverse and topographically rich landscapes among English counties. Its scenery encompasses a wide spectrum, ranging from the placid lakes and gently undulating pastures surrounding Ellesmere in the northern region to the stark, windswept moorlands of the Clee Hills in the south, replete with remnants of industrial past. Further south, the densely forested escarpments of Wenlock Edge offer a dramatic contrast. In the northeastern heathlands, expansive arable fields and unobstructed vistas ("big skies") are characteristic features, traversed by a network of long, sandy lanes.^[5]

The leading sectors are professional, scientific and technical activities (15.38%), wholesale/retail trade and repair of motor vehicles (12.57%), and construction (11.48%). These sectors form the backbone of Shropshire’s economy. The top Shropshire industries with a rising number of companies includes sectors such as mobile apps, food and drink processors, airlines, and business banking are showing notable growth.^[6]

Shropshire Hills National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to protect and regenerate the National Landscape. Shropshire is known as the place where the Industrial Revolution started. Ironbridge is the location of where the world's first iron bridge was constructed and Ditherington is where the world's first iron framed building was built. Weston-under-lizard s very much an estate village as a result of Weston Park, the family seat of the Earls of Bradford.^[7] At Hawkstone Park Follies you can explore 100 acres of landscaped caves, tunnels, walkways, viewpoints and trails, winding through rhododendron plantations. At Telford Steam Railway you can learn how to drive and fire a steam engine and a steam tram, or drive a diesel locomotive under the expert tuition of the railway crew.

Shropshire historyShropshire history

Archaeological evidence in Shropshire suggests human habitation in the region during the Paleolithic period, with subsequent Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements leaving behind enduring traces. The Iron Age witnessed the emergence of hill forts, such as the impressive Old Oswestry, signifying a more organized and fortified society.^[8]

The Romans arrived in Shropshire around 47 AD when they began military expansion into the territory of the Cornovii tribe, which included the area of modern Shropshire, establishing a Roman presence in the region. and setting up a capital at Viroconium (now Wroxeter) Roman roads were constructed, connecting Shropshire to the wider Roman road network and facilitating trade and communication. The influence of Roman civilization is evident in the archaeological remains scattered throughout the county, from pottery fragments to the foundations of public buildings.^[9]

Following the withdrawal of Roman forces, Anglo-Saxon tribes, primarily the Mercians, established themselves in Shropshire. The border with Wales remained a zone of frequent conflict, leading to the construction of defensive earthworks such as Offa's Dyke, a testament to the ongoing struggle for dominance in the region.^[10]

The Norman Conquest in 1066 brought significant political and social changes. The establishment of castles and the introduction of feudalism reshaped the social order. Shrewsbury, strategically located on the Welsh border, emerged as a key town, playing a crucial role in defense against Welsh incursions.^[11] The medieval period also witnessed the rise of the wool trade, contributing to the economic prosperity of the region.^[12]

The 16th century witnessed the impact of the English Reformation, bringing religious and social upheaval. However, the seeds of the English Civil Wars were already being sown, and Shropshire, like many parts of England, experienced internal divisions and political turmoil.^[13]

The 17th century was marked by the outbreak of the English Civil Wars, which had a profound impact on the county. Shropshire witnessed battles and sieges, reflecting the divided loyalties within the region. Simultaneously, the early stages of the Industrial Revolution began to take hold, with the development of ironworking in areas like Coalbrookdale.

The 18th century saw the Industrial Revolution gather momentum. The Coalbrookdale region emerged as a center of iron production, transforming the local landscape and economy. The construction of canals facilitated the transportation of goods, connecting Shropshire to wider industrial networks. Agricultural improvements also led to increased productivity and a shift in agricultural practices.^[14]

The 19th century witnessed the continued impact of the Industrial Revolution. The growth of towns and the decline of traditional rural industries were significant features of this period.^[15] The expansion of the railway network further improved connectivity, facilitating the movement of people and goods.^[16] Social and economic changes gave rise to various social and political movements, reflecting the growing awareness of social inequalities and the desire for reform.^[17]

The 20th century brought its own set of challenges and transformations. Both World Wars had a significant impact on Shropshire, with the establishment of military installations and the mobilization of wartime industries. The post-war period witnessed economic diversification and the development of new industries.^[18]

Shropshire parishes and unparished areasShropshire parishes and unparished areas

The ceremonial county of Shropshire is now split up into the administrative county of Shropshire and the unitary authority of Telford and Wrekin. The administrative county is then split up into five districts - Shrewsbury and Atcham, Oswestry, North Shropshire, South Shropshire and Bridgnorth. The county, including Telford and Wrekin, is then further sub-divided into parishes, except for the town of Shrewsbury which is unparished. Shrewsbury and Telford have no town councils. Shropshire county has 230 civil parishes.^[19]

Shropshire geographyShropshire geography

Shropshire, an inland county in western England, exhibits a marked diversity in its topography, significantly influencing its historical development and contemporary character. It is the largest English county without a coastline. The county is bisected by the River Severn, a major waterway that has shaped its landscape and facilitated human movement throughout history.^[3]

South of the Severn, the terrain ascends into the Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region is characterized by a series of rolling hills, dramatic escarpments like Wenlock Edge, and expansive moorlands. Prominent features include the Long Mynd, a high plateau adorned with heathland, and the Stiperstones, a rugged range of hills known for its distinctive rock formations.^[20]

In contrast, north of the Severn, the landscape transitions to a more subdued topography. The Shropshire Plain, a fertile region dominated by rolling farmland, extends across this area. Interspersed within this plain are wetlands and meres (lakes), most notably around Ellesmere, creating a unique ecological environment. Westward, towards the Welsh border, the terrain gradually becomes more rugged, reflecting the influence of the neighboring country's more mountainous landscape.^[21]

This geographical diversity has not only shaped the visual character of Shropshire but has also played a significant role in its history. The contrasting landscapes have supported diverse agricultural practices, from arable farming on the plains to pastoral farming in the uplands. The River Severn has served as a vital transportation route, connecting the county to other parts of England and facilitating trade and cultural exchange.^[22]

Researching family history in ShropshireResearching family history in Shropshire

The Shropshire Family History Society was founded in 1979 to provide a meeting place in Shropshire for all those interested in Family History. The Shropshire Council has a helpful Local and family history web page. The Archives and Manuscripts of The National Library of Wales (Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru) has a valuable collection of records beginning in the 1600s. The Shropshire Archives holds over six miles of documents, books, maps, and images. The Shropshire Libraries

Ethnicities in ShropshireEthnicities in Shropshire

The demographic distribution of the Shropshire population is as follows:^[4]

According to the latest 2021 census, the population in Shropshire is predominantly white (96.7%), with non-white minorities representing the remaining 3.3% of the population. Asian people were the largest minority group in Shropshire accounting for 1.3% of the population. 1,117 or 0% of the Shropshire 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 Shropshire, 2021 census

White - 312,876 people or 96.7%
Asian - 4,324 people or 1.3%
Mixed - 3,861 people or 1.2%
Other - 1,429 people or 0.4%
Black - 1,117 people or 0.3%

Surnames in ShropshireSurnames in Shropshire

The demographic distribution of Shropshire surnames is as follows:^[23]

Surnames	Incidence	Frequency
Jones	14,432	1:34
Davies	7,558	1:64
Williams	6,750	1:72
Evans	6,318	1:77
Smith	5,537	1:88
Edwards	4,316	1:113
Roberts	4,131	1:118
Morris	3,628	1:134
Thomas	3,113	1:157
Lewis	3,053	1:160

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.

References

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[1] Shropshire

[2] Shropshire | England, Map, History, & Facts | Britannica

[:1-3] 3.0 ^3.1 A County Profile for Shropshire

[:0-4] 4.0 ^4.1 ^4.2 Shropshire Demographics | Age, Ethnicity, Religion, Wellbeing

[5] The Shropshire Landscape Typology

[6] Analysis Report: Economic and Business Activity in Shropshire

[7] A stately experience at Weston Park

[8] Prehistoric sites in Shropshire | Historic Shropshire Guide

[9] Roman Shropshire - (AD 43 - AD 410)

[10] Anglo-Saxons: a brief history

[11] Battle of Shrewsbury | Welsh-English history | Britannica

[12] History of the Wool Trade

[13] British Civil Wars | National Army Museum

[14] British Industrial Revolution - World History Encyclopedia

[15] The Impact of the British Industrial Revolution

[16] The Railways in the British Industrial Revolution

[17] A Chronology of Social Change and Social Reform in Great Britain in the Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Centuries

[18] 20th Century Change

[19] Shropshire today

[20] Welcome to Shropshire Hills National Landscape – the new name for this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

[21] About Shropshire

[22] River Severn

[23] Most Common Last Names In Shropshire

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