Our Industrial Past

Our Industrial Past is a companion to the author¿s 2015 book Britain¿s Industrial Heritage, and is presented in the same format, exploring an eclectic mix of themes covering many aspects of the technologies which powered Britain¿s industrial development. This time John Hannavy explores domestic topics such as `Building Britain¿, `Putting a Roof over our Heads¿, and `All Mod Cons¿ looking at stone masonry, brick-making, slate cutting, the art of the thatcher, the histories of fresh water, flushing toilets, gas lighting and electricity. Maritime themes including `Great Ports and Safe Havens¿, `The Welcoming Light¿ ¿ the story of the lighthouse and lightship ¿ and the fishing industry pay tribute to the importance of Britain as a sea-faring nation, while finally, `The Arms Industry¿ explores the defence of Britain on land, sea and in the air, from the Mary Rose to the 1960s. The great weapons systems developed in the early years of the 20th century get special mention ¿ the world¿s first tank was built in Lincoln just over a century ago in 1915. Once again, a detailed Gazetteer at the end of the book lists many of the visitor attractions which preserve and celebrate our history and the book is illustrated with an engaging mix of John Hannavy¿s own original photography and historic photographs and postcards of these industries at their peak.