The Harwich History Wiki is a long term project, designed to document the history of the seaport of Harwich in Essex in the UK.

Harwich officially came into being at some point around 1177 when a chapel on the site was recorded. This probably reflected the fact that people had been using the sandy promontory as a place to land boats, perhaps ferrying cargo from larger boats moored in the estuaries of the rivers Stour and Orwell - the natural harbour that helped make Harwich so important.

The town received its first charter in 1238 and early trading with continental Europe is recorded from that time.

As the town developed it gained commercial and military importance, acquiring fortifications and growing to occupy the available space on the small spit of land upon which the old town stands.

From this modest port mariners set sail all over the expanding world - exploring, trading, transporting, plundering and sailing into battle.

The story of Harwich is the story of hustle and bustle, keeping ships at sea to trade and fight. The old town has now settled down to more sedate place, contemplating its rich history. We hope you enjoy your voyage of discovery.