HOLLAND, (Lincolnshire) in the S. E. part of the Co. is a tract that was recovered from the sea in several centuries, by a
Dutch colony; and Camden says it takes its name from the Dutch province in the Netherlands, to which it exactly agrees in
situation, soil, and other circumstances, the very ditches being navigable, the people passing from one T. to another in
boats, by the canals; but others think it derived from the Saxon, peald, deep, because it lies so deep, that were it not
defended from the sea by the banks, it would be soon overflowed by it. This fen country reaches from Wainfleet to the Isle
of Ely, and to the grounds opposite to Lynn in Norfolk. It is divided into Upper and Lower, the latter of which was
unpassable; but since the fens have been drained, the lands are grown more solid, and the inh. sow cole-feed upon them to
their great profit. These fens are much frequented by the Bittern. Here are many quicksands, and great want of fresh
water. This division of the Co. gives the title of E. to a branch of the family of Rich, descended from the Es. of
Warwick; and the title of Warwick was joined to that of Holland, in the person of Robert, grandfather to the present noble
Ld. Edw.-Henry, stiled E. of Warwick and Holland.