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.