Parchment Making at Havant

c. 1400

Havant became known for the production of parchment, a trade that depended on the abundant supply of clean spring water available in the town. Parchment, made from treated animal skins, required large quantities of water for soaking, stretching and processing. The springs at Havant and Bedhampton provided the pure, steady water flow that the craft demanded. Havant parchment was used for legal documents, church records and manuscripts. The trade continued for several centuries and was one of the town's distinctive industries, setting it apart from the agricultural and fishing communities of the surrounding area. The parchment works were located near the springs, and the trade gave employment to skilled craftsmen and their families.