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TIME

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Story links for the Timeline

Here are some of the stories connected to Poole over the centuries

1700s

Like any busy port, Poole had its share of smugglers, thieves and pirates. Read about one famous gang here.

Some of the town's finest houses were built at this time, but at least one wealthy merchant was a miser

1800s

With all the different industries in town, some residents said each alley had its own smell

By the end of the century, there was even a Fire Brigade, which paid their men 'per fire' plus a retainer. 

Early 1900s

The scouting movement began in Poole with a camp on Brownsea Island in August 1907. Scout adventures quickly became the subject of books, magazines and even films. But the girls weren't far behind!

The old swing bridge between Poole and Hamworthy was replaced in 1927 with a modern lifting bridge. The whole town marched from the Guildhall to the bridge for the official opening.

Mid - Late 1900s

Poole in the 1950s was the arrival point for the BOAC flying boats, which landed in the harbour on their way from India and the far east.

Handcrafted yachts were still built and launched from small boatyards along the shore.

Jobs were easy to find in the post-war boom, both for men and for women

The redevelopment of West Quay swept away many old streets which only remain in images.

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  • Story links for the Timeline