| The
islanders would sail across the Atlantic every spring, returning
in time for the autumn ploughing.
Jersey's
second major industry at this time was knitting, and it began to
dominate island life - so much so that a law was passed to outlaw
knitting during harvest and vraicing seasons!
The
threat of war
In
1593 it was decided that a new castle needed to be built, because
of the threat of the Spanish and the French. Work commenced on the
construction of Elizabeth Castle in St Aubins Bay.
In
1627 Philippe de Carteret became Bailiff, and enlarged Elizabeth
Castle to more than double its size.
The
English Civil War
Jersey
had been peaceful for 10 years before the start of the Civil War
in 1642. Although the war had little to do with Jersey, the island
was drawn into the struggle.
Philippe
de Carteret tried to stay neutral, but his nephew George was an
ardent Royalist whilst the sympathy of the islanders was with parliament.
When
Philippe de Carteret became ill and died in 1643, George de Carteret
took over. George was determined to hold the island for the king,
but the Parliamentarians recaptured Jersey in 1651.
Growth
of the town
St
Aubin became the main town in Jersey from around 1680, because it
was the principal port in the island. Larger ships could now stay
here instead of St. Malo.
But
in 1786 the States agreed for a harbour to be built in St. Helier.
This soon overtook St. Aubin as the principal port, and a larger
town grew up around it.
Attempted
Invasion
The
18th century was another period of political tension between Britain
and France, and Jersey once again became a
military standpoint.
There
were two attempted invasions during this time. In 1779 the Prince
of Nassau was prevented from landing, but in 1781 French soldiers
captured St. Helier in a dawn raid.
They
were defeated by the British troops led by Major Peirson, who was
killed during the battle. This episode became known as The Battle
of Jersey.
Secret
networks
This
war was followed by the Napoleonic wars, which lasted until 1815.
There were two underground networks operating during this time.
One
was led by James d'Auvergne, who worked for the French royalists.
The other network was in close contact with Napoleon, and they constantly
monitored d'Auvergne until the war ended.
Still eager to learn? Then follow us into the 1830's, and the birth
of the Jersey cow and the Jersey Royal potato...
|
