This collection of essays offers a historical glimpse into the lives and happenings in Hertfordshire from the 13th century to the present. Topics range from graffiti evidence of medieval music. King James's connections with Hertfordshire, settlements in the Connecticut Valley, art traditions in the 19th century, and the history of Christ's Hospital. This compilation was designed to honor Lionel Munby, one of Hertfordshire's leading 20th-century historians.

Dividing the county of Hertfordshire into four broad regions--the "champion" countryside in the north, the Chiltern dip slope to the west, the fertile boulder clays of the east, and the unwelcoming London Clay in the south--this volume explains how, in the course of the middle ages, natural characteristics influenced the development of land use and settlement to create a range of distinctive landscapes. The great diversity of Hertfordshire's landscapes makes it a particularly rewarding area of study. Variations in farming economies, in patterns of trade and communication, as well as in the extent of London's influence, have all played a part during the course of the postmedieval centuries, and Hertfordshire's continuing evolution is followed into the 21st century. Lavishly illustrated with maps and photographs, this authoritative work is invaluable reading for all those with an interest in the history, archaeology, and natural transformation of this fascinating county.

"This practical and comprehensive guide provides an introduction for family historians to trace their ancestors in Hertfordshire. It is thematic in approach, the chapters incorporating related material on subjects as broad as military ancestors and the poor and the sick"--Publisher's description.