High Wycombe is an ancient borough. An important settlement with six mills by the time of Domesday Book, within the next century it burgesses were controlling their own activities and Borough status was formalised in the first charter of 1237. On one of the main roads out of London, the town was well supplied with inns, while its markets were always important. A succession of industries developed, with medieval cloth-weaving, followed in the 17th century by paper-making and lace-making. Late in the 18th century the furniture industry became dominant and within a few decades was a full-scale, mass-production business transforming the market borough into an industrial town. The second half of the 20th century saw the next change, to a commuting community with a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds among its people.
High Wycombe's long and varied past is evident in its present I many ways, some surprising. Naturally it has inspired previous books, ranging from the works of Victorian antiquarians to the meticulous researches of their 20th century ancestors. This new account builds upon the most recent findings, both documentary and archaeological, to bring the fascinating story of the town up to the 21st century. The author presents Wycombe's history not as a series of disconnected facts, but as a coherent, unfolding story which involves all its people; from aristocrats playing high politics to factory workers struggling to make a living in its back streets.
Splendidly illustrated and very readable, the book will be warmly welcomed by all with an interest in the area.
Contents:
List of Illustrations
Illustration Acknowledgements
Acknowledgements
1. 'Valley with a Stream' (up to 1226)
2. Market Borough (1226-1880)
3. Furniture Town (1880-1932)
4. Clearance (1932-1974)
5. New Communities (1935-2000)
Appendix: Watercress Growing on the Wye
Bibliography
Index
