Maldon and High Street
The name Maldon is first recorded in 913 in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicles, where it is referred to as Maeldun. The etymology of Maldon derives from Mael, which means 'monument or cross', and dun, meaning 'hill', thus translating to 'monument on the hill'. The Saxons established settlements in the region during the fifth century, and the area to the south continues to be known as the Dengie peninsula, named after the Dæningasthe tribe of Saxons.
Maldon evolved into a prominent Saxon port featuring a Hythe or quayside along with artisan quarters. Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of imported pottery from this era. Starting in 958, a royal mint operated in the town, producing coins for the late Anglo-Saxon and early Norman monarchs. A Viking incursion was repelled in 924; however, in a subsequent raid in 991, the defenders were overcome in the Battle of Maldon, leading to the Vikings receiving tribute without an attempt to plunder the town. This event inspired the renowned Old English poem: The Battle of Maldon.
The battle is memorialized by a statue located at the end of the Promenade, depicting the fallen Saxon warrior Byrhtnoth. The Domesday Book indicates that there were 180 townsmen recorded in 1086.
Maldon and High Street continued
The town maintained its mint and provided a warhorse and a warship for the king's service in exchange for its self-governing privileges. In 1171, Henry II granted the town a charter that outlined its rights, defined its boundaries, and specified its obligation to supply a ship for the monarch "when necessary." A charter from Richard I dated December 1189 reaffirms "certain grants to Beeleigh Abbey, including the Church of Blessed Peter in Maldon and the Church of All Saints’ in the same town."
The town had strong urban traditions, with two representatives elected to the Commons and three guilds that organized extravagant religious plays until they were banned by the Puritans in 1576. Subsequently, from that time until 1630, professional actors were invited to perform plays, which were also halted by the Puritans. From 1570 until around 1800, there was an alternative tradition of inviting notable clergy to visit the town.
The Maldon Grain riots of 1629 occurred following a notably poor grain harvest. In March of that year, a group of rioters led by one "Captain" Ann Carter, the spouse of a local butcher, boarded a Flemish grain ship.
As of September 2025, Maldon has an estimated population of approximately 67,400.
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