[6] In any case, the site was inhabited from an early date; below the old town is an ancient khera that covers 16 acres.

[6] Around 1300, a group of Chamar Gaurs led by Nir Singh are said to have conquered the place from the Thatheras, destroyed their fortress, and re-founded the city.

[6] "New" Hardoi had wide streets, well-shaded by trees, and consisted mostly of the homes of civil officials and members of the local bar, as well as shops.

[6] Victoria Hall, built in 1888, contained the municipal and district offices as well as a public library (with books in English, Urdu, Hindi, Persian, Arabic, and Sanskrit) and a clock tower.

[6] The city also had a courthouse, police station, dispensary, orphanage, several schools, post and telegraph offices, and jail.

[6] Hardoi was not at the time a major commercial centre; the main trade involved gathering grain from the rural parts of the district and then exporting it by rail.