Earliest reference to Dedham is as a small village in 1086 (Domesday Book), probably centred on the church. Growth of the wool-trade in Dedham in the 14th century and its climax in the 15th century was probably reflected by a corresponding growth in the size of the settlement. Medieval urban area consisted primarily of the buildibngs along the High Street, with the northern limits of the settleemnt dictated by the 5m contour line (area below prone to flooding). market place comprised a wideneing of the High Street. Domesday manor subdivided into 3 separate manorial holdings (Dedham Hall, Overhall and Netherhall). The weaving-trade declined in the 17th century, and with it the town's prosperity, although there was a minor resurgence in the 18th and 19th centuries as a social centre for the local gentry. <1>