What is the connection between Eyam and bubonic plague?

The connection between Eyam and bubonic plague lies in the village's infamous experience with the disease during the 17th century. Eyam is a village in Derbyshire, England that gained the distinction of "plague village" after it voluntarily isolated itself to prevent the spread of the bubonic plague.

The Great Plague of Eyam

In 1665, the bubonic plague, also known as the Black Death, reached London and caused widespread devastation. It eventually made its way to Eyam through infected textiles that were brought to the village by a tailor named George Viccars. In total, approximately 260 people of the 350 total in Eyam passed away in just 14 months and is regarded as one of historical account of self-sacrifice and collective solidarity during a significant historical epidemic.