Acton has not had a full-length narrative history published since before the First World War. This well-researched new book is therefore very welcome to all who know the place. It explores every aspect of Acton's past from its prehistoric origins to the late 20th century. Drawing on a wide variety of hitherto unused primary sources and the unpublished work of other historians, the author shows how a small village outside London grew to become a significant part of the capital's western suburbs.
The story of that developing village includes the impact of the Civil War, the time when it was renowned for its waters, its 19th-century fame as 'Soapsud Island' and its industrial zenith in the mid-20th century. In addition to describing the lives, work, pleasures and problems of its less conspicuous people, the book features a cast of characters which includes controversial clerics Dr Daniel Featley and Richard Baxter, blue-stocking Lady Mary Wortley Montague and, more recently, Adam Faith and Sean Connery.
Splendidly illustrated, Jonathan Oates' very readable narrative will appeal to all residents, past and present, and to anyone whose ancestors ever lived there. This new work will also make a valuable contribution to the up-to-date published history of Greater London.
Contents:
List of Acknowledgements
Acknowledgements
Introduction
1. Acton's Origins and the Middle Ages
2. The Emergence of the Parish
3. Georgian and Regency Acton 1714-1837
4. Victorian Acton 1837-1901
5. Edwardian Acton 1901-1914
6. The First World War
7. Surburban Acton
8. The Second World War
9. Acton in the Fifties and Sixties
Sources
Index
