Publications
Welcome to our second publications page. This page holds details of non-society publications, including a selection from The History Press as well as from independent authors. Also look for some exciting products from Mapseeker, which are available here.
To return to our main publications page click on the 'Publications' link below the Society banner at the top of this page.
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If you have any queries please email us for clarification.
The Midlands Zeppelin Outrage by
£12.00Postage & packaging: £1.50
The Zeppelin raids at the end of January 1916 shook the residents of the Black Country and beyond. This book, published to coincide with the centenary of the raid, tells its tale in ten chapters. It is well-illustrated with images of the devastation caused and of some of the victims. This is the first comprehensive account of the raids and focuses primarily on the people affected by the raid, making it a very personal account. It covers the raids across the whole of the Black Country, as well as providing background information on the story of the Zeppelin and how Britain managed to fight the menace.
Diary of a Young Englishman by
£4.50Postage & packaging: £1.60
Who was the highly educated and extremely rich young man who wrote this diary, found in Lye at the beginning of the 20th century? There is just one clue, the initials FIA stamped in gold on the diary’s red leather cover. Historian Pat Dunn’s researches over ten years have not resolved the mystery. It is hoped that someone reading the book might possibly find the solution! Like most diaries which are not intended for publication, the writing is personal, the description of events and the identification of the people encountered are scant. The reasons for the young man’s journey can only be surmised, but thanks to Geoff Beard’s copious historical notes, things become clearer: people are identified, events are put into their historical context, and thanks to Mike Pearson’s map and simplified itinerary, we are better able to follow the young man’s perigrinations during this period of changing political power in Europe. This is a book to delight historians, to inform those who are not and, who knows, you might have the answer to the writer’s identity!
Chance Expressions by
£18.00Postage & packaging: £2.50
This book is the first of two books illustrating and explaining the history of domestic glassware from Chance Brothers. It incorporates a complete glassware reference guide. The book is A4 in size and has 136 pages, with many colour images between the covers. Chance Brothers had a massive influence on Victorian England that cannot be underestimated. They began by making ordinary window glass, but branched out into advanced lighthouses, and made advances in optical equipment which were unsurpassed. During the 20th century they created some of the most iconic domestic glassware with designs that are still cosidered modern.
Chance Additions by
£18.00Postage & packaging: £2.50
This is the second of the two books illustrating and explaining the history of domestic glassware from Chance Brothers. This book complements and continues the work David started in his first volume, also available on this page. This book has a further 122 pages of information and images carefully researched and presented. David admits his dilema was where to stop. If you wish to buy both volumes by David then please email us for details of a special offer
Tracing Your Black Country Ancestors by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £2.75
The Black Country was the ‘Workshop of the World’ and is a difficult area for researchers in their quest for their ancestors. Mainly due to the region being originally part of three counties (Staffordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire, then in 1974 it became part of the West Midlands. There are many archives and museums where documents and records may be found. This book will assist you to unravel that complicated situation. It covers much more, however, and includes details of many of the trades and industries that were prevalent, including mining, iron and steel making and many of the other industries that existed during the Industrial Revolution. It also explores the dialect of the region, the pre-history of the Black Country and how Black Country folk lived their lives.
A History of Halesowen by
£15.99Postage & packaging: £2.50
Halesowen is one of the oldest settlements in our region; it held a market and fair as early as 1220. The author maintains it is part of the Black Country, and I am inclined to agree with him. This is a very readable, well-illustrated hardback book. It puts the town old and new in penetrating perspective
The Origins of Stourbridge by
£10.95Postage & packaging: £2.50
Respected local author Roy turns his attention to the early history of Stourbridge, covering the period from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages. The book is well-illustrated throughout in colour and black and white. The story is told into 120 pages, it is extensively referenced and very well researched. Another book well-worth having on your bookshelves. RRP £12.95, BCS price £10.95.
The Black Country Dialect by
£7.99Postage & packaging: £2.00
A modern linguistic analysis by Ed. The regional dialect may at first sound like bad English, but is in fact the product of 1500 years of history. With Anglo Saxon influences, unadulterated by the Normans so that only one word in seven in the dialect is French. This book is published by Laghamon and is a fascinating insight into the way we spoke in the past (and the present). Who knows what the future will bring. The book is a 2013 reprint.
Dudley Grammar School 1562-1975 by
£6.00Postage & packaging: £2.00
Published in July 2010, this history is written by a formed pupil, Dr Trevor Raybould. This book is the story of Dudley Grammar School (DGS) within the context of the town of Dudley and national developments. It reflects changes in the socio-economic and political structure of Dudley, and the impact of national events and legislation. The school survived through the English Civil War, industrialisation, religious division, population growth, elected local government and increased government intervention in the 20th century. DGS closed during the 1970s when governments abolished some, but not all, local grammar schools
The Children of the Homes by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £2.40
A century of Erdington Cottage Homes. Whilst Erdington is not in the Black Country this book encapsulates what it was like in one of the largest children's homes in the country. It uncovers the hidden history through the memories of those who lived there. The memories of children separated from their families makes for moving reading. This A4 book is well laid out with over 80 images and illustrations. There are tragic as well as heart warming stories in the book and the style of writing is very readable.
The Ascent of Sedgley Beacon ... by
£4.50Postage & packaging: £1.40
... The Bilston Moon Landing Hoax and other stuff. This is Steve’s first book, and and at the time I spoke to Steve he had already sold 400 copies. Not bad for a book he says he just put together for his family! You learn something about a book from the Contents page: 'Float Like a Homing Pigeon, Sting Like a Wasp' and 'When Elvis Came to Tipton' are two modern classics. I particularly liked 'My Mom’s Cures for Common Illnesses', which was written to help the NHS save money on medicines. Copies can be purchased direct from the author. Please visit: stevebartley.co.uk or email Steve Bartley
Don't Spook the Bonk Oss by
£4.50Postage & packaging: £1.40
This is Steve’s second book, and he describes it as a 'labour of love' put together for family and friends, but then found he was getting orders from the book. He gets a buzz when he receives enquiries from places such as the USA and Australia for his book. Each book is an irreverent look at Black Country life. I am sure some of the stories have a basis of truth, but others seem like complete works of fiction! The titles tell it all: 'The Tipton 2012 Olympic Bid' and ‘A Day in the Life of a Bonk Oss’ say it all. There are some gems in this book. Copies can be purchased direct from the author. Please visit: stevebartley.co.uk or email Steve Bartley
Mapseeker
Bradshaw's Railway Map by
£14.99Postage & packaging: £2.00
Made famous by Michael Portillo's popular railways show, this is a reproduction of the 1852 Bradshaw's map of Great Britain and Ireland. The quality of this map is excellent. The original map has been reproduced and enhanced by being hand-coloured by Mapseeker's artistic department. The quality of the paper is superb and this would make a wonderful gift for a railway enthusiast. One bonus I found over other reproductions of the map is the readability of place names on the map. No need to get your magnifying glass out to read this one. Definitely a cut above cheaper offerings.
The Environs of Sutton Coldfield by
£19.99Postage & packaging: £2.40
When the first Warwickshire County Maps appeared at the end of the 16th century, a small market town was flourishing after a period of decline. These first maps illustrate the town as 'Sutton Cofeld' or 'Sutton Colfelde'. Apart from a wealth of informative text, this book contains old views of Sutton Coldfield and Sutton Park; also maps spanning 3 centuries help readers to understand the rich history of the Royal Town and neighbouring communities.
Maps & Sketches From Georgian & Early Victorian Birmingham by
£19.99Postage & packaging: £2.40
The latest publication from the Mapseeker Archive Publishing stable. This is another high quality A4 book, whose 132 pages are crammed with maps, text and poetry. Despite the title there is plenty to interest the Black Country, including sections of the Mining and Manufacturing District and the Birmingham Canal Navigations.
Bradshaws Railway Atlas Great Britain and Ireland 1852 by
£19.99Postage & packaging: £2.40
Another Bradshaw's product containing 144 pages crammed full of maps, town plans and information to accompany the Bradshaw's map that we also have on sale. Again the quality of the publication is excellent with maps that have been hand-coloured by artists. The book is a tribute to George Bradshaw (1801-1853) and a visual accompaniment to the recently re-published 'Bradshaw's Guide'. Retrace journeys once travelled by our mid-19th century ancestors. Enriched with views and vistas from a time when train travel was at its height.
History Press Titles
Wolverhampton (A Century of Change) by
£10.99Postage & packaging: £1.50
One of the Images of England series. This collection of images covers the town as well as surrounding areas, and records changes over roughly 100 years. Wolverhampton was a town of heavy industry and also motor manufacture. Coal, iron and steel were integral to the town's industry. This is a book for everyone who knows Wolverhampton; for long-term residents it will provide a nostalgic romp down memory lane; for new residents it will help you discover you town (now a city of course). RRP £12.99, BCS price £10.99
Haunted Black Country ** NEW to our website** by
£7.99Postage & packaging: £2.00
Philip has compiled a Black Country-wide collection of real-life tales featuring stories from around the region. Philip is the "psychic agony uncle for the Express and Star newspaper". Many of these tales have never been published before. It is illustrated with over 70 images, this book is aimed at anyone with an interest in the paranormal. Grab yourself a bargain, the RRP is £9.99, our price is £7.99
Black Country Ghosts ** NEW to our website** by
£10.99Postage & packaging: £2.00
Anthony takes the reader on a fascinating A-Z tour of haunted places in the Black Country. There are strange tales of spectral sightings, active poltergeists and restless spirits appearing in streets, inns, churches and other nooks and crannies. This collection contains historic accounts and numerous interviews conducted with local witnesses; it is sure to appeal to fans of those intrigued by the Black Country's haunted heritage. The RRP of this title is £12.99, our price £10.99.
Wolverhampton by
£11.99Postage & packaging: £2.00
A brand new book, will be reviewed in the September 2013 issue of The Blackcountryman magazine. The images contained within tell a story of change over the last century, when agricultural communities were swallowed up by modern industry. This book provides a rare insight into a vanished way of life. Order from the Black Country Society and automatically receive a £2.00 discount on the published price of £13.99.
The Kinver Light Railway by
£10.99Postage & packaging: £2.00
The Kinver Light Railway once linked the Black Country to Kinver, a popular village for Black Country people to visit on day trips. This was possibly the most picturesque tram ride in Rngland, as part of the route meandered through the Staffordshire countryside. Paul has done a great job selecting pictures, many of them not seen in print before, and describes the history, the route and demise of this popular tram service. Order from the Black Country Society and receive a £2.00 discount on the published price of £12.99.
Black Country Canals by
£10.99Postage & packaging: £2.00
Order from the Black Country Society and receive a £2.00 discount on the published price of £12.99. With more miles of canals than Venice this transport system served the steel, coal, lime and glass industries that grew extensively. Much of the heavy industry is no more, but many of the canals remain and form part of our tourist trade. A wide range of photographs are included, many never seen before in publication, are accompanied by informative captions by Paul. This book will appeal to residents and visitors to the Black Country, as well has historians.
The Black Country Album by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
This book covers 50 years of events, people and places taken by professional photographer Graham Gough. It captures the reality of life in the Black Country in the 1950s. Subjects include gritty poverty, poor housing and social unrest as well as the lighter side of life. Graham worked on numerous newspapers including the Express and Star.
Lye and Wollescote, a Fourth Collection by
£13.99Postage & packaging: £1.40
The fourth volume to cover Lye and Wollescote in the popular Britain in Old Photographs series. Pat and Colin have dug deep into their collection of images to select 200 atmospheric photographs depicting many aspects of life in the Lye and Wollescote area. Alehouses and allotments, fashion and choirs as well as other subjects build a picture of the people of this area.
Bilston, Bradley and Ladymoor. A Seventh Selection by
£10.99Postage & packaging: £2.00
An incredible seven volumes of photographs have been published by Ron over the years. These towns have a rich industrial heritage, a strong sense of community and a wide range of characters and local celebrities. Over 200 photographs help to paint a picture of the shops, chapels, canals and pubs in the area, with much more besides. Our special offer of £2 off the published price applies to this book.
Bilston, Tettenhall and Wednesfield by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
"Bilston for the Bilstonians" was the cry of the Bilston Defence Committee in 1961. The proposal to amalgamate with Wolverhampton was met with protest and there was resistance to being 'swallowed up'. In 1966 though the three areas became part of Wolverhampton Borough. Over 50 years later and Bilston, Tettenhall and Wednesfield have not lost their individual identities, even though Wolverhampton has become a city. This book reflects the distinct characters of the three places and records aspects of life in the 19th and 20th centuries. Photographs have been chosen from the extensive collection held at Wolverhampton Archive and Local Studies.
Kinver and Enville. The Photographic Collection by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £2.40
This rather large compilation runs to 256 pages and encompasses two volumes of photographs dedicated to Kinver and Enville. Early records show that Kinver appeared on the landscape in 736AD as Cynibre. The village avoided the spread of industry and housing that made the Black Country what is was and is today. Leaving unspoilt individuality, celebrated in this book. Canals, rivers, pubs and prominent properties are here. As well as a section on the Kinver Light Railway, which for years joined Kinver to the rest of the Black Country.
Black Country Aviation by
£5.99Postage & packaging: £1.10
This pocket-sized book was first published in 1994 and re-printed in 2007. With over 200 well-chosen photographs Alec builds a vivid impression that the Black Country has made to the history of aviation. From Dunstall Park, one of the earliest airfields in the country, to the major manufacturers in the region that produced both parts and complete aircraft for many aviation companies.
Staffordshire & Black Country Airfields by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
Alec is the accepted expert in the field of Black Country and Staffordshire airfields. This book was first published in 1997, then reprinted in both 2001 and 2010. It charts the history of airfields from 1910, when Dunstall Park hosted the first ever All-British Flying Meeting, through the 1930s, the new Boulton and Paul factory, and into the 1950s, with everything else in between. Over 200 photographs chart the history of flying in Staffordshire and the Black Country.
Images of England: Dudley by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
David highlights some of the change and development that has taken place in Dudley over the last 150 years through the 200 photographs contained within. He provides detailed captions that add colour to the images and provide insight into what made Dudley tick. First published in 2005 and reprinted four years later, this book will add to your knowledge and understanding of the 'unofficial capital of the Black Country'.
Walsall Then and Now by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
This hard back book published in 2011 is in hard back, which gives it a great feel. With colour modern images and sepia tone old photographs it is well worth buying. The modern photographs are mainly from the author's camera and provide excellent 'then and now' images of the town.
Walsall Revisited by
£11.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
Initially published in 1997, this book has been re-printed a number of times. The book is divided by subject, chapters include Transport, Education, Religion and Industry. The book shows how Walsall has grown over the last 150 years or so, developing from a small market town to become a thriving bustling Borough.
Walsall Remembered by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
This book was first published in 2004, this reprint is from 2009. The book covers Walsall life in the first half of the 20th century. It highlights some of the changes and events that have occurred in this part of the Black Country. It contains 80 photographs, but is not exclusive a book of images, there is plenty to read in this volume, with pictures adding extra flavour.
Tipton: a Third Selection by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
First published in 2001, this hard to find book is now back in print. Tipton is cherished by locals, not as a postcard village, but as a hard working town with pride in its past. Most areas of Tipton receive coverage, including Ocker Hill, Burnt Tree, Dudley Port and Tividale.
Brierley Hill at Work by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
Ned worked with the Mount Pleasant Local History Group in the production of this book, published in 2012. We all know of the steel, glass and sausages produced in the town, but there are glimpses of many other aspects of work that have made it such a busy town. Retail has recently dominated, with the growth of the Merry Hill Centre, a major local employer, but who knows where the future might lie? Separate chapters cover Round Oak, Retail and Transport, as well as much more.
Brierley Hill by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
Another collaboration with the Mount Pleasant Local History Group in the production of this book, published in 2011 and reprinted in 2012. This book covers Round Oak, Harts Hill, Level Street, Merry Hill, Quarry Bank, Mill Street, The Delph, Silver End and Hawbush. These areas became home to a vast number of schools, churches and chapels, shops and centres of entertainment, as well as the ubiquitous pub! This book will help you to understand the development of Brierley Hill.
A Grim Almanac of the Black Country by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
This book is a day-to-day catalogue of 366 ghastly tales from around our region. There are stories of tragedy, torment and the unfortunate; with mining accidents, freak weather, bizarre death and terrible accidents. Nicola has written a number of similar titles set around the country. Plenty of material to satisfy your appetite for all things macabre.
Blackheath: a Third Selection by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
Blackheath lies in the heart of the Black Country, but only grew up in the 1830s as a result of the industries that grew up in the area. Life was not glamorous, poverty almost universal, but a sense of community existed from its early days. Photographs have come from a variety of sources including family albums to chronicle the streets, people, industry and events.
A Century of the Black Country by
£9.99Postage & packaging: £1.40
Prolific author Ned turns his pen (or word processor) to the subject of the events, people and places of the 20th century. First published in 1999 and reprinted in 2009, Ned has put together a fascinating collection of photographs from the last century. Famous occasions and individuals are covered, and the book provides an account of the change that took place over a 100 year period.
A Century of Wolverhampton by
£9.99Postage & packaging: £1.40
This volume deals with the subject of the events, people and places of the 20th century in Wolverhampton. First published in 1999 and reprinted in 2012, Ned has put together a fascinating collection of photographs from the last century. It has chapters dedicated to the two World Wars, the Swinging 60s and modern times.
Images of England: Wolverhampton by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
This is a re-print of a 1996 book containing many photographs that were previously unpublished. It charts the changes from the 1860s to the 1960s, when the town centre saw the completion of slum clearance programmes. Districts such as Finchfield, Whitmore Reans, Parkfields and Blakenhall are all featured.
City to the Black Country by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
'A Nostalgic Journey by Bus and Tram' has been put together by the author, a life long enthusiast of Birmingham and Black Country transport and local history. David is a retired school teacher and proud owner of a preserved former city of Birmingham double-decker bus! This book is a nostalgic ride through north-west Birmingham, through Hockley, the Jewellery Quarter and Handsworth. Then on into West Bromwich and Wednesbury, before arriving at Dudley.
Bridgnorth Revisited by
£12.99Postage & packaging: £1.60
Over 200 photographs highlight some of the developments that have taken place in the Shropshire market town of Bridgnorth. A favourite place for Black Country folk to visit, it has strong links with the West Midlands. All aspects of life are to be found in the collection: pubs, hotels, schools, churches and with a whole chapter on RAF Bridgnorth. Worfield, Burwarton and Ackleton also get a place.
Go Quiet into the Fragrant Night by , compiled by Laurence Hipkiss
£7.95Postage & packaging £2.00
Overseas enquiries please contact Laurence Hipkiss
- see details below.
The Black Country Society does not stock this book. Please contact Laurence
via:
RoosterSpake
97 Wendover Road
Rowley Regis
B65 8LQ
www.blackcountrypodcasting.com
[email protected]
Tel: 01384 231013
A very personal book of poetry, written by Bill Hipkiss for his dearly
beloved wife Ivy. The first section of poetry contains poems written
for Ivy while she was still alive. The second section are a series of
poems written for Ivy after she died, for the period from 1991 to 2006,
when Bill sadly died. The book has been compiled by Bill and Ivy's son
Laurence.