Blue Plaque: Matthew Boulton

Birmingham Civic Society 2002 SAREHOLE MILL Site of Water Mill Since 1542 Used by Matthew Boulton in mid 18th century Rebuilt 1768 Imspired J. R. R. Tolkein 1896 - 1900 The Tolkien Society

Matthew Boulton, a prominent 18th-century industrialist and co-founder of the Soho Manufactory, used Sarehole Mill in the mid-1700s as a water-powered facility for his business ventures. The site, later rebuilt in 1768, inspired J.R.R. Tolkien during his childhood, influencing his depiction of idyllic rural landscapes in his literary works.