Reminiscence
6 total works
Ranging from the tough times of Edwardian England to the relative comforts of today, this book describes the colourful and eventful lives of 13 humble countrymen. From farm labourer to mole-catcher and from beekeeper to hurdle-maker, their tales represent the experiences of hardworking country folk and reflect the enormous changes in rural life this century. There are also extracts from earlier writings which offer insights into the countryman's life in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Looking at the everyday lives of women in the countryside, this book reflects the experience of rich and poor, professional and uneducated, through their own reminiscences. It includes accounts of the innocence of a country childhood, village shows and markets, and folklore and superstition.
Originally published in 1997, an illustrated collection of real life tales about traditional village communities and their inhabitants. It is written by the author of TALES OF THE OLD GAMEKEEPERS and is based on villagers encountered on travels throughout the British Isles.
With Britain's coast under mounting pressure from pollution and development, this book serves as a reminder of what we stand to lose. It is based on the same formula as Brian Martin's "Tales of the Old Countrymen" and "Tales of the Old Gamekeepers". This time he has visited all corners of Britain's coastline to track down a variety of old coastal characters, and uses their own words, wherever possible, to describe their personal trials and triumphs, from days of deep poverty and disaster to deeds of heroism. These men, all united in their love of the coast, have worked in diverse occupations from lighthouse-keeper, coastguard and lifeboatman to fisherman, pony-back postman and cliff-climbing egg collector. Despite the rigours of their existence, literally battling against storm and tempest, they have also enjoyed many moments of tranquillity, at the same time making remarkable observations of wildlife.
Real ale, a hearty lunch, and a good dose of village gossip! That's what the traditional country pub once offered; but has that changed? Brian Martin traveled all through Britain to see, and he returns with many a tale and an illustrated record of rural richness and color. You'll eagerly drink up stories about the landlord who found an unusual way to warn fishermen of an arriving bailiff and the farmer who blew a hole in his friend's hat after filling an ashtray with gunpowder...not to mention the smallest pub in England and one with no name!