Mulbarton is a large village approximately 6 miles from Norwich. Its most striking feature is the huge triangular common. For centuries the common has been at the centre of village life. Though it is some years since villagers have used the common for grazing, it is still important today for recreation and sporting activities. Indeed, footballing legend Monty Norman practised his skills on Mulbarton's common.
In these web pages you will find many primary sources on the local history of Mulbarton, from the Parish Council minutes to the school logbook from the nineteenth century. These sources give a rich and textured picture of life in Mulbarton from Domesday to the present. The stories of rich and poor alike are presented here, with details of the owners of the 'Big Houses' and the development of council housing and new estates in the village. You will find details of shops and sanitation, telephones and trains, blacksmiths and publicans.
Many Mulbarton people have taken part in researching their local heritage for this project. The project brought together people of all age groups, sharing stories and reminiscing over photographs. An unexpected outcome was the return of the Tradesman's Arms Darts Trophy to the village after going missing for several years. Also, the original dedication plaque, from inside the old Parish Hall, was uncovered during the course of this project.
You might like to begin with the Village and around or at any topic in the list that interests you.
There are more photos and more information in 'The Book of Mulbarton' by Mulbarton authors Jill & David Wright, (Halsgrove, Nov. 200) which is currently out of print but could be borrowed in the UK through the library service. And we also hope you will be inspired to come and see the village for yourself.
