Parts of Holland - Geography

Geography

The extent of the parts of Holland (the pre-1974 county) was the same as that of the combined modern local government districts of Boston and South Holland.

Holland was all close to sea level, achieving a maximum altitude of about five metres on artificially raised river banks (levees). It therefore needed carefully managed drainage to maintain the very productive arable farmland which covered almost its entire extent. Consequently, a significant part of its drainage for arable use had to await the introduction of steam pumping. Before the mid nineteenth century, it was a much more pastoral area, used for fattening stock brought in from Scotland and northern England before it was driven to market in places like London. Many of the country roads are still called droves.

Towns in Holland

• Boston
• Crowland
• Donington
• Holbeach
• Long Sutton
• Spalding

The motto shown on the Coat of Arms is incorrect and should read "LABOR IPSE MERCES" (Work is its own reward). Examples may be seen in the window of the old hall (library) at Boston Grammar School, and on the wall of the Dining Room at Lincoln Hall, University of Nottingham.