Exploring Chard's rich heritage and local businesses

Why is Chard here?

Chard is nestled in the picturesque countryside of South Somerset, near the borders of Devon and Dorset. At 121 metres above sea level, it is the highest town in Somerset. Its location in a well-watered gap between uplands made it an ideal settlement area, with evidence of habitation dating back to the Iron Age.

What Makes Chard Famous?

✈️ Birthplace of Powered Flight

In 1848, Chard became the site of a groundbreaking achievement in aviation history. John Stringfellow, an innovative engineer and lace machinery manufacturer, successfully flew the first powered model aircraft inside a disused lace factory in the town. This 10-foot wingspan, steam-powered monoplane managed a sustained flight of approximately 30 yards, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward human flight 

Stringfellow's pioneering work laid the foundation for future aviation advancements. His contributions are commemorated at the Chard Museum, which houses exhibits detailing his experiments and achievements.

For a visual exploration of Stringfellow's work, you might find this video insightful:

🧵 A Legacy of Lace-Making

Chard's prominence in the lace-making industry dates back to the early 19th century. Following unrest in Nottingham's lace industry, many manufacturers relocated to Chard, bringing with them expertise and machinery that transformed the town into a lace-making hub.

The industry not only boosted the local economy but also influenced the town's architecture and social fabric. Factories like the Boden Lace Mill became central to Chard's identity, employing generations of residents and contributing to the town's growth.

For more information, check out Chard Museum.

🚢 The Ambitious Chard Canal

Opened in 1842, the Chard Canal was an ambitious project aiming to connect Chard to the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal, facilitating trade and transport. Spanning approximately 13.5 miles, the canal featured engineering marvels such as inclined planes and tunnels to navigate the challenging terrain.

Despite its innovative design, the canal faced financial difficulties and competition from emerging railway networks, leading to its closure in 1868. Today, remnants of the canal can still be explored, offering a glimpse into Chard's industrial past.

For more detailed information on the Chard Canal's history and its engineering feats, you can refer to this guide.

Longstanding Local Businesses
Chard is home to several businesses that have served the community for decades:

Numatic International Ltd
Established in 1969, this company is renowned for manufacturing the iconic Henry vacuum cleaner and remains a significant local employer.

C & D South West
With roots dating back to 1987, this logistics company has been providing palletised distribution and storage solutions, supporting local and regional businesses.

Chard Museum
Founded in 1970, the museum offers insights into the town's rich history, including exhibits on John Stringfellow's aviation achievements and the lace-making industry.

Pop in and chat!
We love to keep up with Chard History and some of the team in the shop are from the area, so can give you their own history! Some of the team (Cris) are new to the area, and want to learn, so pop in and tell him all about your Chard experiences...