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Ron & Jennifer Shoesmith  |  SKU: 30152940  |  Barcode: 9781910839409

Alfred Watkins' Herefordshire Photography Book by Ron & Jennifer Shoesmith

£1599
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Alfred Watkins’ Herefordshire by Ron & Jennifer Shoesmith is a richly illustrated historical and photographic book celebrating the life, work, and legacy of Alfred Watkins, one of Herefordshire’s most notable sons. Featuring Watkins’ unpublished 1931 manuscript The Masefield Country alongside over 200 of his photographs, it offers a unique insight into the landscapes, people, and heritage of Herefordshire.


Key Features

  • Features Alfred Watkins’ unpublished 1931 manuscript The Masefield Country

  • Contains over 200 historic photographs of Herefordshire by Watkins

  • Explores the life, work, and interests of Alfred Watkins, including his photography and discoveries of Ley Lines

  • Includes reflections on poets with Ledbury connections: William Langland, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and John Masefield

  • Edited and contextualised by Ron & Jennifer Shoesmith for historical and photographic insight


Detailed Description

Alfred Watkins’ Herefordshire provides an evocative journey through the county that shaped Watkins’ life. Born and raised in Hereford, Watkins is best known for his discovery of Ley Lines, but this book highlights his deep affection for photography and rural life. The core of the work is The Masefield Country, an unpublished manuscript from 1931, inspired by John Masefield’s praise of Herefordshire. The manuscript captures the landscapes, people, and traditions of the region through personal encounters, observations, and reflections on three notable poets connected to Ledbury. Watkins’ text is complemented by an introduction to his life, work, and pioneering contributions to photography, as well as a modern photographic section featuring over 200 images that bring his vision to life. Edited by Ron and Jennifer Shoesmith, this extended edition combines historical, literary, and visual content to create a definitive homage to Watkins and his beloved Herefordshire.


Specifications

  • Authors/Editors: Ron & Jennifer Shoesmith

  • Original Author: Alfred Watkins

  • Format: Paperback / Hardback (depending on edition)

  • Pages: Extended edition (exact number varies)

  • Content: Unpublished manuscript, historical commentary, over 200 photographs

  • Genre: Local history, photography, biography

  • Language: English

  • Region covered: Herefordshire, including Ledbury and surrounding areas


Care or Usage Tips

  • Handle with care to preserve photographs and manuscript reproductions

  • Store in a dry, cool environment away from direct sunlight

  • Use a bookmark to maintain the book’s condition while reading


Why Choose This Book

A treasure for local historians, photography enthusiasts, and fans of Alfred Watkins, Alfred Watkins’ Herefordshire combines rare manuscript material with stunning historical imagery. It offers an unmatched insight into the landscapes, people, and heritage of Herefordshire, making it a perfect addition to any collection of regional history or photography.

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