The Strangers of Norwich 

Medieval Norwich had long established trading links with the “Low Countries” in textiles & cloth.  However, during the 16c, the Mayor and the Norwich Cooperation invited an influx of Flemish Traders to come and settle in Norwich.  Protestant Queen Elizabeth I granted permission for 30 families, but this number increased due to religious persecution against Protestants in their home lands.  They were formally known as The Strangers, and soon their weaving skills helped bring back wealth & prosperity to Norwich.

Was it as simple as that?  No, there was tensions and The Strangers lives were bound by strict regulations.  But, overtime they intwined with locals through marriage and employment.

The Strangers influence in Norwich is evident everywhere, particularly in architecture.  Open green areas are referred to as “Plains” rather than “Squares”, but probably the most prominent legacy is the Canary.  The Strangers bought with them small yellow birds, which the locals loved and bred.  The Canary sits proudly as Norwich City Football Clubs emblem and they are known throughout the world as “The Canaries”.

Elizabeth I came to Norwich and met “The Strangers” personally.  They in turn put on a large pageant on Elm Hill and presented her with a Silver Cup.

Strangers Hall Museum in the Charing Cross area is steeped with  history and definitely worth a visit.  Once belonging to the Mayor, (a wealthy Merchant), many stayed with him upon arrival.