The ultimate guide to all major and minor lighthouses in Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man and Channel Islands. Essential for all lighthouse enthusiasts!
For centuries the seas around Scotland were notorious for shipwrecks. Mariners' only aids were skill, luck, and single coal-fire light on the east coast, which was usually extinguished by rain. In 1786 the Northern Lighthouse Trust was established, with Robert Stevenson appointed as chief engineer a few years later. In this engrossing book, Bella Bathhurst reveals that the Stevensons not only supervised the construction of the lighthouses under often desperate conditions but also perfected a design of precisely chiseled interlocking granite blocks that would withstand the enormous waves that batter these stone pillars. The same Stevensons also developed the lamps and lenses of the lights themselves, which "sent a gleam across the wave" and prevented countless ships from being lost at sea. While it is the writing of Robert Louis Stevenson that brought fame to the family name, this mesmerizing account shows how his extraordinary ancestors changed the shape of the Scotland coast against incredible odds and with remarkable technical ingenuity.
The BBC travel personality explores the Nordic legacy of these remote Scottish islands: “Engagingly written and superbly illustrated.” —Undiscovered Scotland Paul Murton has long had a love of the Viking north—the island groups of Orkney and Shetland and the old counties of Caithness and Sutherland—which, for centuries, were part of the Nordic world as depicted in the great classic known as the Orkneyinga Saga. Today this fascinating Scandinavian legacy can be found everywhere—in physical remains, place names, local traditions and folklore, and much else. This is a personal account of Paul Murton’s travels in the Viking north. Full of observation, history, anecdote, and encounters with those who live there, it also serves as a practical guide to the many places of interest. From a sing-along with the Shanty Yell Boys to fishing off Muckle Flugga, from sword dancing with the men of Papa Stour to a Norwegian pub crawl in Lerwick, this book paints a vivid picture of these lands and their people, and explores their extraordinary rich heritage.
This is a personal story about some of the most famous engineers Scotland has ever produced and places the lives and work of the world-famous Stevenson lighthouse engineers in their social and historical context. It draws on eye witness accounts from Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Was the shaping of nation states in Northern Europe governed by military might, or by Christian and democratic ideals? How has trade and cross-cultural exchange between Scandinavia and the British Isles shaped our historic identities, and what about the impact of global politics and marketing in recent times? These are some of the questions explored by the contributors in the context of forces that shape national identities today. Their analysis highlights the need for historical awareness when developing future cultural policy, brand profiles and marketing strategies. Looking back, Jesse Byock tells how democracy was first embraced in the north by the early settlers of Iceland, Bjorn Myhre delves into the unpredictability of historical interpretation, Edward Cowan discusses the role of 'battles and beddings' in relations across the North Sea, John Purkis writes about William Morris' fascination with Nordic culture, Stephen Harrison presents the 'winning ways' of product development and marketing by Manx National Heritage, whilst Chris Powell looks at 'Cool Britannia' today and Simon Anholt at national branding strategies. This is an inspirational book that sheds new light on old subjects, equally relevant for both public and private sector policy makers alike.
“A spirited collection of witnessing from all the periods of Scottish history”—in the words of Cromwell to Conan Doyle, poets to nurses to warriors (The New York Review of Books). This is a vivid, wide-ranging account of Scotland’s history, composed of numerous stories and observations by those who experienced it firsthand through the centuries. Contributors range from Tacitus, Mary, Queen of Scots, and Oliver Cromwell to Adam Smith, David Livingstone, and Billy Connolly. These include not only historic moments—from Bannockburn to the opening of the new Parliament in 1999—but also testimonies like that of the eight-year-old factory worker who was dangled by his ear out of a third-floor window for making a mistake; the survivors of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, who wished perhaps that they had died on the field; John Logie Baird, inventor of television; and great writers including Arthur Conan Doyle, Robert Louis Stevenson, and the editor of Encyclopedia Britannica. From the battlefield to the sports field, this is living, accessible history told by criminals, servants, housewives, poets, journalists, nurses, prisoners, comedians, and many more.
This 20-volume series tells the story of Utah pioneers and their accomplishments through biographies, diaries, special stories about pioneer life, and other documents.
Illuminate your journey through maritime history with "Lightships and Lighthouses" by Frederick A. Talbot, a captivating exploration of the fascinating world of maritime navigation and safety. Embark on a voyage through time and tide as Frederick A. Talbot guides you through the history, technology, and lore of lightships and lighthouses. From ancient beacons to modern navigational aids, Talbot's comprehensive survey sheds light on the vital role these structures have played in guiding ships safely through treacherous waters. As you delve into the pages of "Lightships and Lighthouses," you'll discover the stories behind some of the world's most iconic maritime landmarks, from the towering lighthouses of the Atlantic coast to the sturdy lightships that once dotted the oceans. Through Talbot's engaging prose and meticulous research, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity, courage, and dedication of the men and women who have manned these beacons of safety throughout history. Themes of innovation, perseverance, and the spirit of exploration permeate the narrative of "Lightships and Lighthouses," offering readers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of maritime navigation. From the early experiments with bonfires and lanterns to the cutting-edge technology of modern-day aids to navigation, Talbot's narrative celebrates the human ingenuity and resilience that have shaped the evolution of maritime safety. Character analysis reveals the depth and diversity of the individuals who have played a role in the history of lightships and lighthouses, from the intrepid keepers who tended the lamps to the engineers and inventors who revolutionized navigation technology. Through Talbot's vivid storytelling, readers gain insight into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of these unsung heroes of the sea. The overall tone of "Lightships and Lighthouses" is one of reverence and fascination, with Talbot's passion for his subject shining through in every page. His writing is characterized by its clarity and enthusiasm, making even the most technical details accessible and engaging to readers of all backgrounds. Since its publication, "Lightships and Lighthouses" has been hailed as a definitive work on its subject, revered for its thorough research, engaging prose, and captivating storytelling. Its enduring popularity and continued relevance make it an essential read for anyone interested in the history, technology, and romance of maritime navigation. Whether you're a maritime enthusiast, a lover of history, or simply someone who appreciates a good story, "Lightships and Lighthouses" offers a captivating journey through the ages. Don't miss your chance to explore the fascinating world of maritime navigation with Frederick A. Talbot as your guide. Grab your copy now and set sail on a voyage of discovery and adventure.