Trans-Atlantic trade and influence saw the influx of new, seemingly exotic, materials, objects, plants and food to English homes. The Edgcumbe family’s wealth, their privileged status and their connections gave them the opportunity and the ability to collect the items you see at Cotehele today. Conversely, many of the collection items represent English goods or crafts that were exported to America.
Transatlantic trade
From the 16th century, voyages of discovery were made to the Americas, aiming to tap into trade and the natural resources available there. Voyages were made by the adventurous few who managed to secure royal backing – south west seafarers such as Grenville, Drake and Raleigh amongst these.
From the 17th century and the establishment of English colonies, trade grew. The Navigation Acts ensured that the English colonies could only trade with England and English ships, ensuring a monopoly on trade. During this time, settlements in the Caribbean (Barbados 1612 and Jamaica 1655) were also made for trading purposes. The English appetite for sugar, cotton and tobacco fuelled and sustained trade into the 18th century.