{"product_id":"england-from-a-sidesaddle-the-great-journeys-of-celia-fiennes-9781803993591","title":"England from a Side-Saddle: The Great Journeys of Celia Fiennes","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cblockquote\u003eIn 1697, Celia Fiennes, a 34-year-old woman, embarked on a 3,000-mile journey to every county in England on a horse. Despite the challenges of the time, including unsigned roads, muddy tracks, filthy lodgings, and highwaymen, she kept a detailed diary that provides a fascinating insight into the social, political, and industrial landscape of 17th-century England. This remarkable woman and her story have been largely neglected, but historian and journalist Derek J. Taylor seeks to rectify this in his book, England From a Side-Saddle. \u003c\/blockquote\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFormat\u003c\/strong\u003e: Paperback \/ softback\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublication date\u003c\/strong\u003e: 22 June 2023\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher\u003c\/strong\u003e: The History Press Ltd\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn 1697, a remarkable 34-year-old woman named Celia Fiennes embarked on an extraordinary journey that would span a distance of 3,000 miles over two summers. This daring expedition defied societal norms of the time, as women were rarely seen undertaking such ventures. The journey was fraught with challenges, including unmarked roads, treacherous marshes, filthy lodgings infested with vermin, and the ever-present threat of highwaymen. However, Celia Fiennes was determined to persevere and document her experiences in a detailed diary.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThrough her writings, Celia Fiennes provides a captivating glimpse into the world of 17th-century England. She reports on the brutal justice system and political intrigues of the era, displaying a keen interest in industry and commerce. She describes workshops, shipping, and particularly coal-pits and tin mines, which were at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution that was soon to transform England.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhat makes Celia Fiennes's story even more remarkable is that her achievements have been largely overlooked by historians until now. In his book, England From a Side-Saddle, historian and journalist Derek J. Taylor seeks to rectify this oversight. By tracing Celia Fiennes's route, Taylor allows readers to experience 17th-century England through her eyes, showcasing the courage, determination, and curiosity of this remarkable woman who was centuries ahead of her time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCelia Fiennes's journey was not without its risks, and she faced numerous obstacles along the way. She encountered rough terrain, inclement weather, and hostile locals who were skeptical of her intentions. However, her resilience and determination allowed her to overcome these challenges and forge connections with people from all walks of life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThrough her diary, Celia Fiennes provides a unique perspective on the social and economic conditions of 17th-century England. She sheds light on the lives of ordinary people, including farmers, artisans, and merchants, and offers insights into the struggles and triumphs of the period. Her observations on the role of women in society and her advocacy for education and literacy are particularly noteworthy, as they reflect a progressive mindset that was ahead of its time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCelia Fiennes's journey also highlights the importance of exploration and discovery in shaping the course of history. Her determination to visit every county in England was driven by a thirst for knowledge and a desire to broaden her horizons. Her travels took her to remote regions and exposed her to new cultures and ways of life, which had a profound impact on her understanding of the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn conclusion, Celia Fiennes's remarkable journey in 1697 serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of women and the power of determination. Her story reminds us of the importance of challenging societal norms and pursuing our passions and interests. Through her diary, Celia Fiennes provides a valuable window into the past, offering insights into the social, economic, and cultural conditions of 17th-century England. Her achievements should be celebrated and recognized as a significant contribution to the history of our nation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e: 362g\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimension\u003c\/strong\u003e: 131 x 197 x 31 (mm)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eISBN-13\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9781803993591\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eEdition number\u003c\/strong\u003e: New ed\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Derek J. Taylor","offers":[{"title":"Paperback \/ softback","offer_id":44299879547130,"sku":"9781803993591","price":10.7,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/4297\/2845\/products\/1687536719474_book.jpg?v=1687806983","url":"https:\/\/shulphink.com\/products\/england-from-a-sidesaddle-the-great-journeys-of-celia-fiennes-9781803993591","provider":"Shulph Ink","version":"1.0","type":"link"}