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West
Bromwich,
was mentioned in the Doomsday Book and for centuries was an
agricultural district. However,
the discovery of coal beneath the town in the 19th century
transformed it into an area of heavy industry. This was only
made possible by the construction of an extensive canal network
through the area, enabling the coal and other raw materials
to be transported economically.
The Black
Country was known for the production of coal, limestone and
iron ore, and for its foundries, metal-pressing plants and
chemical works.
Following
World War II the area boomed when its foundries supplied the
successful Midland's motor industries. Most of these heavily
polluting industries have now disappeared and the Black Country,
lying at the crossing of the M5 and M6, has become a tourist
destination.
The industrial
heritage of the towns is reflected in the extensive Victorian
architecture and the navigable canal system.
The Galton
Valley Canal Heritage Centre, at the heart of the Black
Country's canal system, gives visitors an insight into the
area's facinating industrial past. This valley is also the
site of Thomas Telford's Galton Bridge, once the largest single-span
bridge over the largest man-made cutting in the world.
One of
the area's most historic buildings is Oak
House Museum in West Bromwich. This splendid 16th century
timber-framed house, containing Tudor and Jacobean furniture,
is surrounded by delightful grounds.
Other
tourist attractions to visit include The
Public building in West Bromwich, the largest community
arts development in Europe and the Sandwell
Valley Country Park, just off Junction 1 of the M5, an
area of parkland and farmland covering 8600 hectares.
In the
area Victorian
Wednesbury Museum and Art Gallery at Wednesbury contains
the largest public display of Ruskin pottery.
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the internet holiday and travel guide to the UK
West
Bromwich
