The town did not obtain a charter of incorporation until 1627. It was renewed in 1677, but lapsed in 1792 owing to vacancies for the members of the corporate body. Taunton was not reincorporated until 1877. The medieval fairs and markets (it still holds a weekly market today) were celebrated for the sale of woollen cloth called "Tauntons" made in the town. On the decline of the woollen industry in the west of England, silk-weaving was introduced at the end of the 18th century.