It was one of the wealthiest abbeys in medieval England and changed the shape of Reading, according to the town's museum.

BBC: Reading Abbey manuscript

"This is a real opportunity for the people of Cirencester to shape the future of primary education in the town, " he said.

BBC: Views wanted on proposed move for Cirencester school

The biggest department store in town organized a parade every year: an enormous balloon in the shape of a garishly colored doll was paraded through the main streets, pulled by ribbons that sequin-clad girls held as they marched behind a musical band.

NEWYORKER: The Daughters of the Moon