Salisbury Plain: A Second Selection

This book offers a nostalgic look at life on Salisbury Plain through a collection of historical photographs, revealing the area's rich social history.

The gentle rolling downland of Salisbury Plain is beautifully captured in Salisbury Plain: A Second Selection. This area, characterized by its river valleys radiating from Salisbury, has been home to human settlements since ancient times. These valleys, often seen as retreats from the stark landscape of the plateau, have witnessed the lives of ordinary people over generations. With the advent of photography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many aspects of daily life in these communities were documented, allowing us to glimpse the lives, loves, and labors of those who inhabited the valleys of the Nadder, Wylye, Till, Avon, and Bourne.

In this collection, readers will find a rich tapestry of photographs that reveal a way of life that has vanished, transformed by social and cultural changes throughout the last century. The book illustrates how sturdy communities have been affected by modern advancements, such as the motor car and military activities, which have reshaped the landscape and the lives of its inhabitants. Many of the images featured are previously unpublished, making this a unique historical record.

Additionally, Salisbury Plain: A Second Selection delves into the early development of aviation, highlighting the courageous efforts of pioneer airmen. Their stories, often filled with triumph and tragedy, contribute to the book's intimate portrayal of the past. This collection is sure to captivate anyone interested in the social history of Wiltshire and those who think they know the region well.