Memorials of Old Devonshire

A richly illustrated tour of Devon’s past, this volume gathers together a lively assortment of essays that bring the county’s folklore, families and pivotal moments to life. From the legendary myth of Brutus the Trojan to the daring defence of Dartmouth in 1404, each piece offers vivid snapshots of events that shaped local identity, all penned by scholars and enthusiasts who once walked the same stone streets. Rare engravings and charming drawings by J. M. W. Turner accompany the text, giving listeners a visual sense of the landscapes and towns being described.

The collection also shines a spotlight on everyday stories—old inns of Exeter, the art of Honiton lace, and the curious episode of French prisoners on Dartmoor—revealing how ordinary lives intertwined with grander historical currents. Thoughtful commentary and occasional reprinted papers preserve insights that might otherwise have faded, making the book both a celebration of Devon’s heritage and a treasure trove for anyone curious about England’s storied southwest.