Local history Books

Book SynopsisThis book will be warmly welcomed by local historians interested in the history of Norwich, while its attractive style and presentation will ensure its popularity with the general reader, whether resident or visitor.

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Book SynopsisFeaturing a range of picturesque vistas, from beautiful beaches and rugged coastlines to mountainous national parks, vibrant cities and medieval castles, each stunning scene is full of intriguing detail sure to fire the imagination and make you reach for your colouring pencils.

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Book SynopsisUnseen Isle of Wight

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Book SynopsisThe best tales from around the country, chosen from our popular series of Folk Tales

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Book SynopsisCanals of Britain is the most comprehensive and absorbing survey of Britain''s canal network ever published.It provides a fascinating insight into the linked up waterways as well as the isolated cuts and quiet waters which may not be fully navigable by larger craft. Infinitely varied, it passes picturesque open countryside, wild moorland, coastal harbours, historic industrial buildings, modern city centres, canalside public houses and abundant wildlife.Stuart Fisher looks at every aspect of the canals - their construction, rich history, stunning scenery, heritage, incredible engineering, impressive architecture and even their associated folklore, wildlife and art. Enticing photographs give a flavour of each place and places of interest close to the canals are included. Each canal is intricately mapped.For those who are keen to explore that little bit further, the book goes to points beyond which others usually turn back, with information on little-known parts of the systeTrade ReviewA must for any waterway user's bookcase * Towpath Talk *Author Stuart Fisher... has meticulously researched every canal included here from his trusty kayak - no mean achievement. But this is no mere travelogue, history, heritages, engineering, folklore and wildlife being among the topics covered. * Waterways World *Everything you will ever need to know about the canal network of the British Isles. * Britain magazine *Comprehensive, absorbing and fascinating. * All at Sea *Stuart Fisher looks at every aspect of our intricate network of waterways. Stunning scenery. Enticing photos. Popular with anyone wanting to get the most out of Britain's canals. * People's Friend *There's no denying its diligent authority. It deserves a place in every enthusiast's home library. * Waterways World *Lavishly illustrated with superb colour photographs ... this book is not one to be devoured in one long session but to be dipped into and enjoyed. * Towpath Talk *

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Book SynopsisCovers Sussex in the Second World War, from the commencement of the conflict in September 1939, until its end in September 1945, featuring many forgotten news stories of the day.

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Book SynopsisNewcastle has a long and distinguished history through two millennia: a Roman fortress at the eastern end of Hadrian's Wall; an important centre of monasticism; a 'royal' bulwark against attacks and invasion from Scotland; and the principal centre for the export of coal to London. In the 19th century it was transformed into an elegant Georgian townscape with dramatic streets and handsome public buildings. It and other towns on the Tyne - Gateshead, Jarrow, Wallsend, Tynemouth, North and South Shields - developed important industries: shipbuilding, glass and heavy engineering. Tyneside suffered severe contraction in the 20th century as heavy industry declined, but it has begun to reinvent itself and create new growth shoots, not least its vibrant cultural industries including music and art. This book takes an innovative approach to telling the story of the area's history by focusing on the historic maps and plans that record the growth and development of Newcastle and Tyneside over many centuries.Trade Review'The book will appeal to all map-lovers and those with an interest in how Tyneside’s layout has developed through centuries of change' * Hexham Local History Society *'This volume offers a wide selection of well-reproduced maps and plans from local and national sources… for those of us who have lived and worked here for years it offers a novel approach to the familiar' * The Local Historian *

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Book SynopsisThis is the story of a part of Scotland that has played a huge role in the nation''s history for thousands of years. The hunter-gatherers, who first discovered the bounty of the ancient Wildwood, the Celtic warlords, the Romans, the Northumbrians and the Reivers, who dominated the Anglo-Scottish borderlands for more than three centuries, have all had their part to play in the constantly evolving life of the area.It is the people of a place who make its history. Alistair Moffat''s acclaimed book is a testament to those who have made the Borders their home and who have created the traditions, myths and romance that define it so strongly.

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Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated introduction to mudlarking which tells the incredible, forgotten history of London through objects found on the foreshore of the River Thames. Often seen combing the shoreline of the River Thames at low tide, groups of archaeology enthusiasts known as ‘mudlarks’ continue a tradition that dates back to the eighteenth century. Over the years they have found a vast array of historical artefacts providing glimpses into the city’s past. Objects lost or discarded centuries ago – from ancient river offerings such as the Battersea Shield and Waterloo Helmet, to seventeenth-century trade tokens and even medals for bravery – have been discovered in the river. This book explores a fascinating assortment of finds from prehistoric to modern times, which collectively tell the rich and illustrious story of London and its inhabitants - illustrated with and array of photographs taken of the items in situ in the mud and gravel of the Thames estuary, at the same time both gritty and glimmering.Trade ReviewA bite-sized and accessible social history with a clear reverence for the mudlarks who have helped to paint a more intimate picture of the city’s past. * Apollo Magazine *Organized chronologically, the book is packed with over 150 color photos of the historical artifacts found by London mudlarks. These objects recovered from the river tell the story of London and its inhabitants over the past 2,000 years, each adding a new perspective to the history of London. It's a beautiful visual history of London, and a fun read. * Beachcombing Magazine *Thames Mudlarking gives a great insight into the vast range of everyday items that can be recovered from the Thames foreshore. From Stone Age to Victorian, Londoners have lost or discarded a fascinating array of artefacts. Modern day erosion now threatens their survival. The book relates how ordinary people can get 'hands on' with history in the muddy bed of the Thames. * Ian Smith, Chair of The Society of Thames Mudlarks *"Good things come in small packages," as is often said, and with this book, they certainly do! No 'history lovers' bookshelf should be without it. Veritably crammed with facts and quality illustrations which take the reader through an exciting experience of 'time travel' via artefacts discovered in and alongside one of the most famous cities and rivers in the world. * Julian Evan-Hart, Editor, Treasure Hunting Magazine *I've stopped searching... this new book is indeed a treasure. Anyone who loves a bit of history, a good story and not afraid to get muddy, this book is for you! * Jeannine Saba, Editor, The Covent Gardener Magazine *This is a book that informs, inspires and – most importantly -- makes you want to train your eyes to see the treasures that lie below your feet. Reading this book will make you breathless to begin your exploration. It also teaches how to treasure hunt responsibly and reminds that what you find you share. * Dan Cruickshank *Table of ContentsIntroduction: Mudlarking Megalodons, Woolly Rhinos and Flint Tools Rituals and Votive Offerings Vanity and Sex Zoomorphic Art and Viking Attacks Pilgrims, Knights and Betrayal Opulence and Witchcraft War, Fire and Love Death and Decadence Empire and Invention Keep Calm and Carry On Eternal River Liquid History Places to Visit Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisFrom the Sunday Times bestselling author, Carl ChinnThe Peaky Blinders as we know them, thanks to the hit TV series, are infused with drama and dread. Fashionably dressed, the charismatic but deeply flawed Shelby family have become cult anti-heroes. Well-known social historian, broadcaster and author, Carl Chinn, revealed the true story of the notorious gang in his bestselling Peaky Blinders: The Real Story and now in this follow-up book, he explores the legacy they created in Birmingham and beyond. What happened to them and their gangland rivals?In Peaky Blinders: The Legacy we revisit the world of Billy Kimber's Peaky Blinders, exploring their legacy throughout the 1920s and 30s, and how their burgeoning empires spread across the UK. Delve into the street wars across the country, the impact of the declaration of War on Gangs by the Home Secretary after The Racecourse War in 1921, and how the blackmailing of bookmakers gave way to new and daring opportunities for the likes of Sabini, Alfie Solomon and some new faces in the murky gangland underworld.Drawing on Carl's inimitable research, interviews and original sources, find out just what happened to this incredible cast of characters, revealing the true legacy of the Peaky Blinders.

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Book SynopsisEverybody loves stories and Scotland is full of them. Every town, village, glen, loch, nook and cranny has a tale to tell and it’s these stories that bring those places to life. Scotland’s Stories is the key to unlocking those legends and seeing these incredible places in a new light. Loch Garve looks very different when you know there’s a Kelpie lurking somewhere in its depths. There’s a new appreciation for the iconic Eilean Donan Castle after discovering the man who built it spoke with birds. An empty moor or wooded gorge is easily brought to life with the clashing sounds of a battle fought long ago.Based on the popular travel blog from storyteller Graeme and Molly the Labrador, these tales will appeal to all who love history, folklore and Scotland.Trade ReviewThis book is a real treasure for anyone interested in Scotland. From fierce battles and fascinating figures of Scottish history to the wonders of Scottish mythology, this book has it all! -- Beth Reid * @historywithbeth *In his new book, Graeme Johncock brings together some of Scotland’s most intriguing stories, such as the Lady Ghosts of Crathes Castle… * Scotland magazine *"Everyone loves a good tale, whether it’s a rousing historical anecdote or a frightening fantasy… and they’re all better when heard in the place where the action is set, writes storyteller supreme Graeme Johncock" * Feature in Scotsman magazine *Johncock takes the reader on a tour of some incredible places while revealing the stories that bring them to life. A great read to dip into at your leisure. * Scottish Field *

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Book SynopsisMaps can tell much about the story of a place that traditional histories fail to communicate. This is particularly true of Edinburgh, one of the most visually stunning cities in the world and a place rich in historical and cultural associations. This lavishly illustrated book features 71 maps of Edinburgh which have been selected for the particular stories they reveal about the political, commercial and social life of Scotland and her capital. Many are reproduced in book form for the first time. Together, they present a fascinating insight into how Edinburgh has changed and developed over the last 500 years, and will appeal to all those with an interest in Edinburgh and Scottish history, as well as anyone interested in urban history, architectural history, town planning or the history of cartography.

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Book SynopsisExplore the glories of Scotland on an evocative trip to Outlander country. This beautiful book, a companion to the bestselling Outlander's Scotland, introduces more than 25 of the locations featured in the hugely popular TV show, concentrating this time on Seasons 4–6. The intrepid Claire and Jamie Fraser are starting a new life in America that is packed full of the adventure and romance fans have come to expect, against a backdrop of stunning scenery – still provided by breathtaking Scottish settings. Discover the woods near Stirling where the Frasers make their new home, Fraser's Ridge, and the farm shop in East Lothian where the villainous Stephen Bonnet hosts his fight club. You'll see the very tree where Jamie carves his claim to Fraser's Ridge, the beach where Brianna is dramatically rescued in Season 4, and the house that became River Run, Aunt Jocasta's palatial home. Included in the book are useful guides to attractions that can be visited, along with several longer walks around the countryside showcased so beautifully on screen. We also reveal some secret locations for the upcoming Season 7! This gorgeous travel guide is a must-have for the legions of passionate Outlander fans, as well as everyone who loves Scotland.Trade Review‘A real bargain for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the Outlander universe … For the complete experience, why not purchase the original guide book at the same time? That way, no matter where in Scotland you happen to be, or which season’s locations you want to discover, you will be able to make a memorable Outlander connection!’ Outlander Home Page

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Book SynopsisPresents a pictorial history of Newtown through a series of photographs and images.

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Book SynopsisLegend has it that the magical Tuatha Dé Danann came on the wind from Tír na nÓg (The Land of Youth) and landed in Roscommon, on the Curlew Mountains. It was from here that they spread throughout Ireland and some say that it is they who created the soul of the Irish and who imbued all who came after with the Irish Spirit. They were hot-tempered, strong, brave, daring and often rash and many of their deeds are captured in this collection of tales from across the country. Also featured here are intriguing stories of a vanishing lake, Oileán na Sioga (The Fairy Island), and the miracles of St Kieran, along with darker tales of the battles of Queen Méabh, the Monster of Lough Rea, and the story of Betty of Roscommon, Ireland’s first (and only) hang woman – not to mention the fantastical accounts of encounters with leprechauns, pookas, giants and banshees. Roscommon has as many stories as there are people travelling its roads, passed down from generation to generation, and a wealth of them are gathered together here in this unique volume.

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Book SynopsisFamily and Local Historians frequently encounter the challenge posed by the writing, and sometimes the translation, of the records which might most enable them to make further progress with their research. Many pamphlets, booklets and even books have been produced over the past century to help with old handwriting and abbreviations, but this new work, written by an author who has for years run courses on the subject, is the most practical and comprehensive yet for family and local historians. Based on some fifty facsimile reproductions of documents of graduated difficulty, culled from many useful sources, it provides transcripts, and translations where appropriate, together with advice on methods of transcribing. The alphabet, with commentary, of the numerous types of letter to be found in the examples (many being in the secretary and court hands which so often cause problems), and illustrations of forms of abbreviation will greatly help to unravel the difficulties of reading. Many documents before 1733 were written in Latin and the author includes an outline of the differences between classical and medieval usage and a vocabulary to cover the section in Latin. There are examples, from the 1400s to the 1700s, of a wide range of hands found in the most usual categories of record used by family historians, such as parish registers, wills and court rolls, and in many others which disclose helpful information on families and localities. Those who use this book will not need to be persuaded of the great enjoyment to be derived from pursuing research into family or local history and the pleasures of piecing together evidence to throw new light on old times. They may also find great enjoyment in the deciphering of documents, the means to that end. For the solitary searcher or a member of a class or local society, this will be the standard work upon which to rely for many decades to come.

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Book SynopsisSince its original publication in 1978, Delirious New York has attained mythic status. Back in print in a newly designed edition, this influential cultural, architectural, and social history of New York is even more popular, selling out its first printing on publication. Rem Koolhaas's celebration and analysis of New York depicts the city as a metaphor for the incredible variety of human behavior. At the end of the nineteenth century, population, information, and technology explosions made Manhattan a laboratory for the invention and testing of a metropolitan lifestyle -- "the culture of congestion" -- and its architecture."Manhattan," he writes, "is the 20th century's Rosetta Stone . . . occupied by architectural mutations (Central Park, the Skyscraper), utopian fragments (Rockefeller Center, the U.N. Building), and irrational phenomena (Radio City Music Hall)." Koolhaas interprets and reinterprets the dynamic relationship between architecture and culture in a number of telling episodes of New York's history, including the imposition of the Manhattan grid, the creation of Coney Island, and the development of the skyscraper. Delirious New York is also packed with intriguing and fun facts and illustrated with witty watercolors and quirky archival drawings, photographs, postcards, and maps. The spirit of this visionary investigation of Manhattan equals the energy of the city itself.

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Book SynopsisThe Little Book of London

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Book SynopsisA stunning collection of images showcasing the county of Yorkshire in all its glory.Trade Review‘Yorkshire’s countryside has everything: from the awesome limestone Dales to the rugged cliffs of Flamborough, there’s no county quite like it. Dave’s photography captures the incredible scenery, beauty and vivid colour like no other.’ * Paul Hudson, BBC Yorkshire’s weather presenter *

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Book SynopsisExplores the rich and fascinating history of Stamford through an examination of some of its greatest architectural treasures.

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Book SynopsisThe market for works of civil rights history and civil rights biographies continues to be strong, this is a key, early biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., one that’s been out of print for decades; used copies go for hundreds of dollars. New research presented in the book’s introduction on the personal relationship of the author, L.D. Reddick, to Dr. King will interest scholars. 2018 is the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. King. Published to critical acclaim in 1959 and long out of print, Crusader Without Violence was the first biography of the dynamic leader who emerged from the 1955–56 Montgomery Bus Boycott as the spokesman of the twentieth-century American civil rights movement. NewSouth's 60th Anniversary Edition, with a new introduction containing new biographical details about its author, returns to general circulation a valuable, rare, and engaging account of Martin Luther King Jr. before he became an American phenomenon.The author, L. D. Reddick, had known the young King in Atlanta. They became reacquainted when Reddick moved to Montgomery in 1956, where King pastored the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church. Reddick became a congregant and King's friend and was active with him during the bus protest. He was thus able to report firsthand and at length on King within the setting of the young minister's early career and family life.Paradox and contrast marked King from the first. Born and schooled in a relatively comfortable segment of Atlanta's black community, he decided to take the part of the underdog. With a Ph.D. from Boston University and a likely career in teaching or a northern ministry, he chose instead to return to a Southern community. Short, soft-spoken, and scholarly, he was thrown into a situation that required stature, tough-mindedness, and ability to move the masses.How he emerged into an unsought role of mentor, strategist, spokesman, and leader of a movement that took a major stride toward freedom is the story Reddick tells in Crusader Without Violence. The book peers intimately into the lives of African Americans in the South at that critical juncture—a few years after the Brown decision but before the sit-ins, freedom rides, and voting rights demonstrations resulted in sweeping change in the 1960s.Reddick himself was noteworthy, a distinguished historian who would soon fall victim to Alabama's rigidly segregationist state government. Derryn Moten, the champion of this new edition, provides an introduction that puts Reddick's biography of King into context, updates Reddick's life after he was forced to leave his teaching position in Montgomery, and explains why Crusader Without Violence—notwithstanding the hundreds of books published on King's life since this one—remains a significant historical document.

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Book SynopsisSalado Creek, Texas, 1918: Thirteen black men stood at attention in front of gallows erected specifically for their hanging. They had been convicted of participating in one of America’s most infamous black uprisings, the Camp Logan Mutiny, otherwise known as the 1917 Houston Riots. The mutiny and ensuing riots were carried out by 156 soldiers of the Third Battalion of the all-black 24th US Infantry Regiment—a unit of the famed Buffalo Soldiers –after members of the Houston Police Department violently menaced the black soldiers and members of the local black community. It all took place over a single night. After a rumor that a corporal had been shot and killed by the police reached Camp Logan, soldiers immediately made plans to march on Houston and attack the police force. The first police casualties occurred when a group of six officers stumbled upon the entire column of soldiers. After discovering that one of the men they killed was a captain with the Illinois National guard, the seriousness of the mutiny hit home. Houston was placed under martial law, and by morning all of the soldiers were eventually disarmed or surrendered their weapons. In the wake of those riots, eleven civilians, five policemen, and four soldiers lay dead. This incident is one of Houston’s most complicated and often-misrepresented historical events. It shook race relations in the city and created conditions that sparked a nationwide surge of wartime racial activism. In the aftermath of the carnage, what was considered the trial of the century at that time ensued. The trial resulted in the hanging of thirteen black men, eliciting memories of slave rebellions. But was justice served? New evidence and access to historical archives indicate that the courts-martial were rushed in an attempt to placate an angered white population as well as military brass. Mutiny of Rage serves to not only retell an accurate story of the event, but to set the legal record straight on what really happened.

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Book SynopsisStamford has a reputation for being one of England's finest stone towns. It is a happy mix of medieval and Georgian architecture that was untouched by the Industrial Revolution or later large scale developments, so its central core has survived remarkably intact. Its architecture is outstanding and for this reason, in 1967, it became the country's first conservation area. In recent years the town has become a popular tourist destination for both home and overseas visitors. It has also attracted the attention of film makers who have been quick to see its potential as a back-drop for such TV productions as Middlemarch and Pride and Prejudice. Using contrasting photographs, this book sets out to show something of both the continuity and change in the town during the last 100 years.

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Book SynopsisToday Kensington Palace is synonymous with young royals; it is the official home of TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their family, and of TRH The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. It is also famous for being the residence of Diana, Princess of Wales, during the last years of her life, and visitors still flock to the palace to learn about her story. But the history of Kensington stretches back much further. It boasts more than three centuries of continuous royal occupation, making it unique among the Historic Royal Palaces. Formerly a private house enlarged by Christopher Wren in the late 17th century to suit the needs of William and Mary, Kensington Palace was the favoured home of five sovereigns until the death of George II in 1760. Even after its conversion into a royal residence, the palace remained a rather unprepossessing building, fashioned out of reddish-grey brick. However, this belied its architectural significance, for it was shaped and decorated by some of the country's leading architects, artists, craftsmen and designers, and is now a major national monument. The palace's social and political significance is arguably even greater. Kensington has played host to some of the most important personalities and events in the long history of the royal family. It was the birthplace and childhood home of Queen Victoria, and it was here that she held her first council meeting as monarch in 1837. During the previous century, Kensington had been divided into apartments for the younger generation of royals - an arrangement that continues today. From the late 19th century onwards, it became a visitor attraction, a museum and home to the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. Today the palace attracts more than 400,000 visitors a year. In this new illustrated account, Tracy Borman tells the fascinating story of Kensington from private residence to modern-day royal palace, describing not only the development of the building and its magnificent gardens, but also the dramas and intrigues of court life. Its history is set against a backdrop of events that shaped both Britain and its monarchy: from the Jacobite uprisings of the mid-18th century to the rise of industrialisation in the 19th, and the turbulence of world war in the 20th. Here, in the domestic surrounds of the palace, the monarchy evolved and modernised in tandem with the times. The story of Kensington Palace is, in short, the story of the modern monarchy. AUTHOR: Tracy Borman is joint Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces. She has worked for various national heritage organisations, including the Heritage Lottery Fund, the National Archives and English Heritage. An acclaimed writer and historian 200 illustrations, 1 plan

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Book SynopsisFrom local legend, newspaper reports and family history, Alistair Findlay has pieced together a comprehensive documentary of Scotland's shale mining industry; of the people, communities and generations of families involved, and the cultural and political impact of the industry. Enlivened throughout with numerous photographs, drawings, poetry and short stories, this incredible history of human courage, endurance and endeavour will appeal to any reader with an interest in Scotland's social and cultural history.Trade ReviewAlistair Findlay has added a basic source material to the study of Scottish History that is invaluable... Scotland owes him a debt of gratitude for undertaking this work. - TAM DALYELL One of the finest pieces of social history I've ever read. - MARK STEPHEN, The Scottish Connection, BBC Radio Scotland For thousands of people across the country their attitudes, lifestyles and opinions have been formed through an industry which was once the envy of the world... captures the essence of the feeling of the time. - LINDSAY GOULD, The West Lothian Courier Findlay records their voices, as sharp and red as the rock they worked... The result is to recreate the directness, simplicity and power of everyday speech. - JOHN FOSTER, The Morning Star The real and rounded history of the people... important, informative, captivating and inspiring, speckled with hardship and humour, it is well worth a read. - JOHN STEVENSON, Scotland in Unison ... do you not feel echos of Lewis Grassic Gibbon's Sunset Song in this man's writing? - WILLIAM WOLDE, Scots Independent

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Book SynopsisWhich river has half the distilleries in Scotland found along its length and in its surrounding glens? Why were monks at the forefront of developing whisky? Which Speyside distillery has an annual migration of toads? How did Glenrothes distillery expel its ghost?Robin Laing - singer-songwriter, author of The Whisky Muse, and chair of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society's Tasting Panel - set out to visit every distillery in the Speyside area, from Benromach to Tomintoul, and presents a guide to each of them here. There are descriptions of over 50 distilleries in Speyside, including The Macallan, The Glenlivet, Cardhu, Aberlour, Glenfiddich and Glengrant.Each entry is part history, part travelogue and part commentary on the changes in the whisky industry. Includes personal musings by the author, stories associated with the distillery and snippets of poetry and song. Laing's 'spirit' guide in his journey is Alfred Barnard, author of 1887's The Whisky Distilleries of the United Kingdom. Barnard visited many of the same distilleries that Laing visits now and similarly left his impressions of the state of the facilities and the beauty of the surroundings. Much of this present book compares what Barnard found with what exists now, and the differences - and similarities - are often fascinating.Trade ReviewThe author-singer-songwriter of The Whisky Muse and chairperson of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s Tasting Panel – set out to visit every distillery in the Speyside area, and presents his guide to each in this 206 page paperback. Over 50 distilleries are described, including Cardhu, Aberlour and Glen Grant. Each entry is part history, part travelogue and part commentary. Illustrated by Bob Dewer. - THE SCOTS MAGAZINE Robin Laing’s The Whisky River is the kind of book I immediately fall in love with, even before reading the first line. It brings together two passions of mine, whisky and song. […] This is essential reading for the whisky connoisseur. There might be other guide books about Scotland in general and Speyside in particular, there might be other books about Scottish whisky – but forget them, you only need this guide to the heartbeat of a small country in the North West of Europe. Slainte! - FOLKWORLD

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Book SynopsisPlenty of people think they know Camden ... but what about the spiritualist temple that Sherlock Holmes helped build or the folk dance revival that started in a Camden Hay Market or the site of the Camden Town Murder? Camden might have the best eels and mash shop in North London but it was also the home of a local priest who was deported as a political undesirable and of a Black revolutionary who was known all over the world. Curious Camden Town explores thirty or so locations across this lively locality and brings to life the remarkable stories attached to them.

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Book SynopsisA wonderfully written and entertaining book which places Britain under the microscope and asks who we are today and how we've changed as a nation.Entertaining and absorbing' The Sunday Times In 1841 there were 734 female midwives working in Britain, along with 9 artificial eye makers, 20 peg makers, 6 stamp makers and 1 bee dealer. Fast forward nearly two centuries and there are 51,000 midwives working in the UK and not an eye maker in sight! For the past two centuries, the National Census has been monitoring the behaviour of the British: our work-lives, homes lives and strange cultural habits. With questions on occupation, housing, religion, travel and family, the Census is a snapshot of a country at any given epoch, and its findings have informed the economy, politics and every other national matter for decades that followed.Now, for the first time ever, the Census findings of the past two centuries are collected in to a wonderfully written and entertaining book which places BritainTrade Review'This book feels like an early stocking filler. It is entertaining and absorbing… the statistical detail can be illuminating.’ The Sunday Times ‘A statistical history of Britain fit for the census year…short, readable and rigorous.’ The Financial Times

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