Season 21

21×02: The Miniature Murders

12th century: Founding of Midsomer; evidence of an earlier settlement through road layouts and foundations.

Around 1319: First mention of Midsomer in texts; daily markets held with trading of industrial materials such as timber, bricks, and iron, as well as crops like corn, wheat, and fresh vegetables.

16th century: Midsomer has about 70 houses, indicating a population of roughly 300; growing brickmaking industry; proximity to Oxford brings in students and street events.

18th century: Midsomer remains a market town; described as “pleasant, populous, and rich”; other villagers, such as Solomon Gorge, settle in the surrounding area.

1796: Construction of the first main road in Midsomer, linking towns within the borough and increasing traffic from Oxford; paving and oil lamp street lighting begin in Causton.

19th century: Expansion of Midsomer to include areas such as Midsomer Mallen, Cronley Valley, and Heyd Hill; continued improvements in street lighting and infrastructure.

1930s: Manufacturing industries grow, with car and pressed steel production becoming major sectors.