Residential patterns and social change: Wolverhampton, 1851-1871

Shaw, Mark (1977). Residential patterns and social change: Wolverhampton, 1851-1871. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

It is argued that the three keys to an understanding of urban residential patterns are the functional differences between zones (in terms of the social groups served), their spatial pattern, and the processes of change which they experience. A review of the literature shows that a theory and a related technique which integrate all three elements are slowly emerging. As a stimulus to this development, a stage model is presented which summarizes the evolution of urban residential patterns. This suggests that the process of industrialization/modernization involved an evolution in the dimensions of residential differentiation.
This hypothesis is examined using Census Returns for nineteenth century Wolverhampton. Comparison of factorial ecologies for 1851, 1861 and 1871 provides strong evidence for this type of temporal change. As a step towards the incorporation of spatial patterns within this conceptual framework, an attempt is made to map the quality of the residential environment in nineteenth century Wolverhampton. Changes in the dimensions of residential differentiation are linked with the movement of the high status groups to more attractive suburban homes for, in leaving the town centre, they often forsook the complex household patterns associated with domestically organized trading activities.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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