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Acton

Introduction

Overview of Acton

Acton is a suburban town located in the London Borough of Ealing, approximately 8 miles northwest of central London. It was founded as a rural estate for the wealthy Llewelyn family in the 18th century and has since experienced significant growth and development.

History of Acton

Early History (1750s-1830s)

  • The area around Acton was originally inhabited by the Ongar people, an Iron Age tribe.
  • In 1743, the Llewelyn family acquired a large estate in the area, which they began to develop into a rural retreat for themselves and their guests.

Industrialization (1850s-1900s)

  • During the mid-to-late 19th century, Acton became a popular destination for the wealthy elite from London.
  • The construction of the Metropolitan Railway line in 1863 brought new residents to the area, and Acton continued to grow rapidly.

Notable Historical Events

  • In 1852, the Great Exhibition was held at Hyde Park in London, with many exhibitors and visitors drawn to Acton's affluent estates.
  • During World War I, Acton served as a major military base for the British Army.

Post-War Development (1920s-Present)

  • Following World War II, Acton experienced significant urbanization and population growth, driven by its proximity to central London and the development of new housing estates.
  • In recent years, Acton has continued to evolve and diversify, with a strong focus on community development and sustainability.

Key Facts

Location

  • Geography: Acton is situated approximately 8 miles northwest of central London.
  • Population: As of the 2011 census, the population was around 21,000 people.
  • Elevation: The town has an average elevation of about 70 meters (230 feet) above sea level.

History

Founding and Early Development

Acton was founded as a rural estate in the 18th century for the wealthy Llewelyn family. It quickly grew into a popular destination for the London elite, with many estates built on its grounds.

  • Estate: The original estate included several large homes, gardens, and parklands.
  • Growth: Acton experienced rapid growth during the 19th century, driven by the construction of new housing estates and the expansion of the local economy.

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  • Generation time: 2024-11-02 08:06:03
  • Keywords: Acton, wiki, history, attractions, facts
  • URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/acton