subject: The Famous Author, George Eliot, Grew Up In Nuneaton - Warwickshire [print this page] Nuneaton - Warwickshire is the biggest and most populated (70,000) town in this English county. The locals are extremely proud that the famous author, George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans was her real name), grew up here in the 1800s. In those days when women were considered to be second rate citizens, she decided to use a male name as a pseudonym because she thought her writings would be taken more seriously.
The name, Nuneaton, is a combination of 2 words. The 'nun' part comes from the Benedictine nunnery that was founded in the 12th Century. The 'eaton' part comes from the word, 'Etone' which was the name of the first settlement. In 1247, the two parts were joined to form the name 'Nonne Eton'. With time, it evolved to Nuneaton.
It lies on the perimeter of Warwickshire's coal fields. In its early days, Nuneaton derived its income from weaving, mining and engineering. As a result of the industrial revolution, the town rapidly grew thanks to its flourishing textile industry. This growth was accelerated further because of the prosperity experienced in the nearby towns of Coventry and Birmingham. Nuneaton became a popular commuter town.
Nuneaton has some notable attractions. A beautiful Gothic house, Arbury Hall, has been given plenty of TLC by generations of the Newdigate family. On view are furniture pieces made by Chippendale and Hepplewhite, as well as a fine collection of oriental and Chelsea porcelain. Original art works by Lely, Devis, Romney and Reynolds are also on display.
If you have an appetite for literature, you must visit the Astley Book Farm. It's the most comprehensive 2nd hand book store in the Midlands. There are over 75,000 used books, some of which are extremely rare and others are out-of-print. Bring the children because they can have fun in the Fantasy Barn.
The town's market which started in 1226 has received a number of awards. It is held twice weekly on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Here you can buy an array of quality goods produced by local farmers and traders in the Midlands.
Since the turn of the 21st Century, the municipality has endeavored to create employment for the residents of Nuneaton - Warwickshire. In the past, most had to commute every day to jobs in other towns. The establishment of the new Ropework Shopping Center in 2000 helped to create an active retail and business precinct. In 2004, the town's leisure center was extensively refurbished. It now has 2 swimming pools, a gym and a stadium for athletics and football.
