Public Health in Medieval Coventry

What was public health like in Coventry?

Not all medieval towns were filthy. In medieval times, Coventry Council made an effort to try and clean the streets in their city.

What did the Mayor of Coventry do to help with public health?

In 1421, the Mayor of Coventry issued a proclamation that on every Saturday, everyone was responsible for cleaning in front of their house or they would be fined 12p.

How did Coventry tackle the problem of waste to improve public health?

Coventry also introduced waste collection services. For example, William Oteley was authorised to collect waste from every resident at a cost of 4p per year.

How did medieval Coventry use dunghills to improve public health?

Dunghills were selected sites where the people in Coventry could dispose of their waste.

Where were the dunghills in medieval Coventry?

The dunghills were located at 4 main places:

• ❖ Derne Gate.
• ❖ Little Park Street Gate.
• ❖ Poodycroft.
• ❖ Greyfriar Gate.

How did ideas about public health help clean up rivers in medieval Coventry?

Between 1421 and 1475, dumping waste in the River Sherbourne, which flows through Coventry, was prohibited by the council nine times.