The Humble Swede - Provided by John Wright
The swede was introduced into Scotland from Sweden in the 18th Century and was regarded as much preferable to the turnip for both animal and human consumption.
Later in that century Sir Christopher Willoughby of Marsh Baldon manor who was famous throughout the county and beyond for his advanced farming methods, decided to grow them himself. He was so successful that he was able to pass round quantities of seeds to all neighbouring farmers with the result that large swathes of swedes were grown throughout the area.
So the next time you have swede with your Sunday roast, just spare a thought that through the foresight of Sir Christopher Willoughby, Baldonians were enjoying the same vegetable 200 years ago.
Acknowledgments Victoria County History