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The islanders
would sail across the Atlantic every spring, returning in time for the
autumn ploughing.
Jersey's
second major industry at this time was knitting, and it began to dominate
island life - so much so that a law was passed to outlaw knitting during
harvest and vraicing seasons!
The
threat of war
In 1593 it
was decided that a new castle needed to be built, because of the threat
of the Spanish and the French. Work commenced on the construction of Elizabeth
Castle in St Aubins Bay.
In 1627 Philippe
de Carteret became Bailiff, and enlarged Elizabeth Castle to more than
double its size.
The
English Civil War
Jersey had
been peaceful for 10 years before the start of the Civil War in 1642.
Although the war had little to do with Jersey, the island was drawn into
the struggle.
Philippe
de Carteret tried to stay neutral, but his nephew George was an ardent
Royalist whilst the sympathy of the islanders was with parliament.
When Philippe
de Carteret became ill and died in 1643, George de Carteret took over.
George was determined to hold the island for the king, but the Parliamentarians
recaptured Jersey in 1651.
Growth
of the town
St Aubin
became the main town in Jersey from around 1680, because it was the principal
port in the island. Larger ships could now stay here instead of St. Malo.
But in 1786
the States agreed for a harbour to be built in St. Helier. This soon overtook
St. Aubin as the principal port, and a larger town grew up around it.
Attempted
Invasion
The 18th
century was another period of political tension between Britain and France,
and Jersey once again became a military standpoint.
There
were two attempted invasions during this time. In 1779 the Prince of Nassau
was prevented from landing, but in 1781 French soldiers captured St. Helier
in a dawn raid.
They
were defeated by the British troops led by Major Peirson, who was killed
during the battle. This episode became known as The Battle of Jersey.
Secret
networks
This
war was followed by the Napoleonic wars, which lasted until 1815. There
were two underground networks operating during this time.
One
was led by James d'Auvergne, who worked for the French royalists. The
other network was in close contact with Napoleon, and they constantly
monitored d'Auvergne until the war ended.
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