In Search of Old Torquay-Health and Happiness

Salus et Felicitas-the motto of Torquay. This is inscribed on less than perfectly maintained gates in front of the town hall doors. In 1892 two events took place which were to radically change both the appearance and outlook of Torquay. Through trains were introduced and Torquay was granted Borough status. The town was now ready for expansion and to start building a new image. The healthy were encouraged to come as well as the ailing. The Victorian watering place soon became transformed into a holiday resort adopting the Latin motto 'Salus et Felicitas' meaning 'Health and Happiness'.