1702

Sir John Leveson-Gower became a peer, establishing a landed dynasty with its base at Trentham Hall in Staffordshire. Through politics, commercial success and judicial marriages, the dynasty increased its wealth and influence in Staffordshire and beyond. George Granville Leveson Gower (1769-1833) who became first Duke of Sutherland was the richest man in Britain.

1706

Erection of a Savery steam engine at Darlaston.

1709

Abraham Darby I began smelting iron with coke in Coalbrookdale.

1710

First recorded reference to the Birmingham toy industry.

1711

Thomas Newcomen erected the first successful steam engine at Conegyre near Dudley to pump water out of a mine.

1714

The first turnpike was established in Staffordshire.

1715

Dedication of St Philip's Church in Birmingham

1718

Application of new silk-spinning machines by Thomas and John Lombe in their Derby silk mill.