There is some sparse evidence for a small settlement called Falmouth in the 1400s but it was the early 1600s when the Killigrew family (of Arwenack House, built 1567) began developing the nearby hamlet of Smithick. The Killigrews got permission for fairs and a market and Falmouth was born. Its prosperity was sealed by the establishment of the Packet service in 1688.
Population 1861: 8,000
Population 2011: 21,800
Planned population 2031: 27,600
Cornish studies resources 