Exploring History in and Around Derbyshire (Paperback)

"Exploring History In and Around Derbyshire" vividly brings to life aspects of bygone times from misty Celtic twilight to more modern times. In this fascinating study of Derbyshire history you'll find tales about saints and sinners, hermits and heroes, faith, folly, fonts, crinkle-crankle walls, 'secret' forests and much more! It is a fantastic read with many captivating and enjoyable stories to share! History is all around us. The past haunts the present, shaping our customs, architecture, landscape and community life. In a series of informative, well-illustrated chapters, this book vividly brings to life aspects of bygone times from misty Celtic twilight to more modern times. Many of the topics covered are expanded from features contributed to BBC Radio Derby or from articles that have appeared in "Derby Evening Telegraph's" "Yesterday Today" supplement, "Derbyshire Life" and other publications. Together with brand new items, they add up to a collection with widespread appeal. You can meet mediaeval England's architect-in-chief, a man whose real life rags-to-riches story rivals that of his contemporary Dick Whittington. You can find out how Derbyshire's farmers led a rural revolution. You can tread the packhorse trail. You can hear strange reports of tree climbing rabbits and of pigs decked out in ribbons and bows. You can discover the achievements of a Derbyshire man with a claim to being Britain's finest sculptor. Saints and sinners, hermits and heroes, faith, folly, fonts, crinkle-crankle walls, 'secret' forests, sundials, postboxes, and the humble country stile all feature in this wide-ranging exploration of the character and landscape of Derbyshire and its immediate surrounds. This is serious history with the lightest of touches that will be enjoyed by anyone who takes more than a passing interest in local history.