14
THE ESSEX NATURALIST.
rare occurrence as to deserve remark. Throughout the "Saxon
areas" the word "Several" occurs, probably for a similar
reason. (Fig. 2).
Some mention of the crops is necessary. Norden, at the close
of the sixteenth century, gives a very general regional division
in which the crops are mentioned.15 It is, however, apparent
that good arable farming obtained in the north and centre,
whilst the country to the south-west was "rugged and wooded."
Fig. 3.—Average Size of Essex Holdings in 1638.
Butter and milk were the chief considerations throughout the
eastern district (London Clay), whilst the south-east was known
for its oats. Sheep were found on the several eastern and
north-eastern heaths.
Some very detailed information is given for the County in
the Ship Money tax for 1638.16 The Boulder Clay land and sandy
soil belts were now sharply distinguished from the London Clay
area in point of value. Since, in the same account, the areas
15 Norden, J. A Description of Essex.
16 S.P.D. Chas. I. ccclviii.