Gosport is an old and historic town. A fishing village on one side of
Portsmouth Harbour in the Middle Ages, it was not until 1677 that its strategic
important was fully recognised, when Charles II ordered defensive works to
enclose the growing town. During the 18th century the town became the supply
base for the naval armaments and storehouse for the Royal Navy.
It was a lively place with about 5000 inhabitants when a contemporary report
describe it as dirty and dangerous, with many dark and narrow alley ways
frequented by sailors, smugglers and whores. The next century saw further growth
and some improvements, ending with the incorporation of many of the surrounding
villages into Gosport and Alverstoke Urban District Council, in 1894; followed
by Lee-on-the-Solent, in 1936.
The present century has brought both continued growth and radical change.
Quite apart from the destructive effects of more than sixty heavy bombing raids
during the Second World War, gradual re-development, with the inevitable
demolition of old buildings has transformed the historic townscape of Gosport,
almost beyond recognition.
Fortunately the town has been the home of a number of highly competent
photographers since the early days of the camera, and their surviving images
have enabled the author to provide a vivid picture of urban and rural Gosport
before most of those changes took place.
This book gives an intimate visual impression of the town in the past, of
events and particularly of the people who lived and worked there. It will be
welcome addition to the library of all who have an interest in this town.
Contents:
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgements
Introduction
A Brief History of Gosport
Photos of Gosport
