WRITTEN by journalist and historian TA Stewart, , Scottish Canal Crimes takes readers into the history of ‘murder and mayhem on Scotland’s towpaths 1800–1950’, from the canals’ inception to their mid-20th century demise.
Today we know the canals of Scotland for their scenery and as places to relax and enjoy being outdoors. Scottish Canal Crimes shows us that there’s a darker side to canal history. Those familiar with Scotland’s canals will recognise many of the locations.
The author combines historical fact and storytelling to explore real life crime and a darker side to canal history. Alongside the stories, and several atmospheric black and white photos of crime locations, the author includes a comprehensive list of sources – national records, books and articles and newspaper reports. This is a book for those interested in canals, Scotland’s canals, crime or just people themselves.
It’s eminently readable and as well as the true crime, gives a fascinating insight into the social history of the people, communities, those who worked on or alongside the waterways, and the canals themselves.
The author is a journalist and historian who has worked as a reporter, features writer and music critic on several Scottish newspapers. She has also worked as a researcher and tutor at Glasgow Caledonian University. Her primary area of interest was the social history of crime in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The publisher is a small, award-winning independent publisher founded in 2020 and specialising in Scottish books.
Scottish Canal Crimes by TA Stewart is published by Rymour (paperback, 180 pages, £10.99).
ISBN 13: 978-1838405267
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