Creating history for Balsham

We are thrilled to share two new updates with you, that will create a visual legacy in Cambridgeshire thanks to this map project and from the sales of our book, Balsham, a village story, 1617-2017.

First up, we’re pleased to say that feedback from readers means that we’re creating new history in the form of more stories to share. People have been able discover distant relatives to add to their own family tree and ou authors have been able to expand their historical interest and future projects. A wonderful benefit that we hadn’t anticipated when we began!

 In May 2022 a drone survey took to the air over Balsham resulting in wonderful up-to-date images of the village.  Clearly shown are the new developments; Farrier’s Yard, Dairy Way and Pear Tree Gardens, now home to many new families.

The drone taking off from fields off the Linton Road, Balsham.

The latest addition to the village, are two oak-framed lectern boards based on the Map Project itself.  Standing close to the village sign and the Prince Memorial they show the historic 1617 map, and a modern map showing the parish as it is today, both with accompanying information.  When the ground around them has suitably dried out the area will be paved to allow easy access for all.

These boards were jointly funded by the 1617 Map Project, Balsham Parish Council and a Community Grant from South Cambridgeshire District Council.

Robert Ellam and Dick Paden situating the new boards by the Prince Memorial (which is featured in the book).

And here’s a peak, we hope you love them as much as we do