The first written record of Kidderminster was made in the Domesday book of 1086. Spelt as Chideminstre, it was a large manor owned by King William with 16 outlying settlements. However, the place name suggests the town dates back to Saxon times as the Saxon word minster means monastery or large church. It is believed the name of Kidderminster translates into Church by the river in Saxon and refers to the position of St Mary’s Church next to the river Stour.
Reproduced courtesy of Francis Frith. | King Henry II gave the Manor of Kidderminster to his Steward Manser Biset c1160. A town fair was held annually from 1228 and by 1240 this had developed into a market. A thriving street market is still in operation today on a Thursday and Saturday with a Farmers Market every second Friday of the Month. |
From 1230 Kidderminster was a cloth producing town but by 1735 this had developed into a Carpet manufacturing industry with a worldwide reputation. This was to flourish for more than 200 years and although the industry is much reduced, carpets are still produced in the town today.
In 1636 King Charles I granted a Charter to the town after a request from the Towns Bailiffs, Burgesses and inhabitants asking him to confirm the towns existing liberties, customs and privileges and to incorporate certain new ones which he did. King Charles I School has been in operation within the town since 1619.
Richard Baxter (1615-1691) prominent Ecclesiastic Leader, Writer, Preacher and Reformist is probably the most distinguished person associated with Kidderminster. Sir Rowland Hill, (1795-1879) the founder of the modern day postal service, was born in Blackwell Street and lived the first 5 years of his life in the Town. | 
Reproduced courtesy of Francis Frith. |
The Kidderminster Civic Society
The Kidderminster Civic Society was founded in 1993 following the demolition of the Kidderminster Library and the Schools of Arts and Science.
The Society works through two committees, one for Planning & Conservation and one for History & Culture. Membership of Committees is open to all who wish to take an active part. The Society has developed active lines of communication with the County Council, District Council and other Authorities. The work of public Agencies and matters of town interest are closely monitored.
Its objectives are:
- the promotion of high standards in planning and architecture
- the promotion of education in the geography, history and natural history of the area
- the preservation, development and improvement of features of historic and public interest.
Current projects include supporting the foundation of the Carpet Museum in Kidderminster, conservation issues and preparation of new publications. A Historic Kidderminster Project has been funded by a Heritage Lottery Grant.
There is a varied programme of walks, talks visits and other events throughout the year.
Kidderminster Civic Society website
