Category: Somerton History

Somerton undergoes modest expansion, with new housing developments and the growth of local services yet retains much of its historical character.

Glove making, rope, and twine production are major industries in Somerton. The Somerton Brewery, owned by Thomas Templeman, is first recorded in 1841 and remains a significant producer in Somerset until its closure around 1935

The Market Cross (known locally as the Buttercross) is thought to date back to the 17th century, constructed by the noble Stawell family during the reign of King Charles II. If you examine it closely, you’ll notice several water-spouting gargoyles, each featuring a distinct and characterful face.

Somerton is considered the county town of Somerset. Around 1280, “Somerset Castle” is believed to have been built as a county gaol, though its existence is uncertain. Sir Ralph Cromwell owned it between 1423 and 1433.

Several key buildings in the town, such as the White Hart Inn, are constructed, reflecting Somerton’s continued role as a market town.

The Church of St. Michael and All Angels is established, becoming a central place of worship in Somerton.

Somerton is recorded in the Domesday Book as “Sumertone,” noted as a significant settlement with agricultural land and a mill.

According to local tradition, Somerton was the capital of the Kingdom of Wessex. In 949, it was the site of a Witenagemot meeting, an Anglo-Saxon parliament.

King Ine of Wessex, who reigned from 688 to 726, was a powerful yet lesser-known ruler who significantly shaped the early history of Wessex. He expanded and solidified his kingdom’s boundaries, drove the Britons from the River Parrett, and established key sites such as a temporary palace at South Petherton and a fort at Somerton.

The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle records that King Æthelheard of Wessex loses control of Somerton to Æthelbald, King of Mercia.

Evidence of human activity in the Somerton area dates back to the Neolithic period, with nearby archaeological finds suggesting early settlements.

Somerton begins to emerge as a significant settlement in the Kingdom of Wessex. The name “Somerton” likely derives from “summer town,” indicating its use as a seasonal residence.

The Romans established a presence in the region, with the nearby Fosse Way, a major Roman road, running close to Somerton.