St Kilda, as far as we know, never existed. The name is likely to have come…
Category: British History
The thing with British History is there’s an awful lot of it.
Evidence of civilisation has been found covering several thousand years. Early peoples lived at the western coasts, in the southern downs, and on the flood-plans of the east. Of course the invasions are well-documented: Romans, Saxons, and Vikings amongst others.
Much of my interest in British History though is more recent, and generally more social. I mean, sure I explore battlefields and conflicts between kings, but I also seek out tales of the common people. These tales are often lesser-attested, and just as dark. Often too they’re less well known, heard mentioned only in passing comment.
From witch hunts to coin forgers, and abandoned places to mining disasters. This is where I talk more about aspects of British History they often don’t teach you at school.
History in the Outer Hebrides
As you may know, the Outer Hebrides have been inhabited for several thousand years. My limited…
The Valleys
“The miner in the Rhondda, the coolie in Pekin / Men across the world who reap…
Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain
I’ve always been interested in history. But history on my own terms, about topics I can…
Newark & Southwell: Of Apples And Kings
“You scruffy man; next time I see you I hope you’re wearing socks.” If I’d ever…
Pendle Hill – Religion, Witchcraft, and Meteorology
Part of the Pennine range of Northern England, and geologically part of the same branch as…
Snip Snip Snip – the Cragg Vale Coiners
“I heard the coiners took the scissor to the Union Jack, with a snipper and a…