Windsor & Eton. Centuries of Change

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LOCAL historian Sheila Rooney gives a vivid illustrated account of the distinctive history of Windsor and Eton over the last 1,000 years. Windsor's long, close association with the monarchy and Eton's world-famous school have had a strong influence on the character of the area. Although the town existed to serve the castle, it too has an interesting history. At times the streets swarmed with beggars and prostitutes and, in the 18th century, the town was notorious for its squalid, overcrowded, unsanitary slums. There is a detailed account of the clearance and rebuilding that took place in the 19th century, prompted by the coming of the railway, and the process of restoration and renewal that has formed the Windsor of today. This meticulously researched history, which is illustrated with over 200 pictures and photographs, will prove revealing reading and a fascinating source of reference for Windsor residents, past and present.