Chard (Somerset) facts for kids

Chard is a historic town located in Somerset, a county in the southwest of England. It's part of the South Somerset District and is situated close to the border of Devon county. Chard is known for its interesting past and its connection to a very important invention!

Discovering Chard: A Historic Town

Chard has a rich history, playing a part in major events and groundbreaking discoveries. It's a place where you can explore old buildings and learn about the people who lived there centuries ago.

Chard's Place in History

The town of Chard holds a special spot in the story of human achievement and also witnessed significant historical events.

The Birthplace of Flight

Did you know that Chard is considered the birthplace of aviation? This means it's where the idea of flying machines really took off! In 1848, a clever inventor named John Stringfellow (who lived from 1799 to 1883) made history right here in Chard. He successfully showed that powered flight was possible. This was a huge step towards the airplanes we see flying today. Stringfellow's work proved that machines could indeed fly using their own power, inspiring many future inventors.

A Glimpse into 17th Century Events

Chard also played a small role in a dramatic time in English history. In 1685, after a conflict known as the Monmouth Rebellion, special trials were held across the country. These trials were led by a judge named Judge Jefferies. Chard was one of the towns where these important legal proceedings took place. During his time in Chard, Judge Jefferies stayed at a local public house called The Choughs, which is still a well-known building in the town today. These events were a significant part of England's past, showing how justice was handled during that period.