Cirencester is one of the most remarkable towns in Britain. From its
Roman beginnings around AD 75, when it was classed second only in
importance to London, to its current status as the 'Capital of the
Cotswolds', it has always punched well above its weight. The 'A-side' of
its history as a small market town which developed at the centre of the
Cotswold wool trade is well documented, but what about its ' ip-side'?
Much of the town's fascinating history has either been overlooked or
lies hidden below the surface. Well-known local author David Elder
delves deep into Cirencester's lost, forgotten and hidden histories,
recounting some remarkable stories. Learn, for example, about some of
Cirencester's minor celebrities and local characters, including the
Victorian female astronomer who became a national expert in sunspots and
solar eclipses. He also unearths fascinating facts, celebrating, for
example, the town's accolade of having the UK's oldest public outdoor
swimming pool in continuous use, and explaining why it was important for
passengers travelling on the railways around the mid-nineteenth century
to understand that Cirencester time was 7 1/2 minutes earlier than
London time. With tales of remarkable characters, unusual events and
tucked-away or disappeared historical buildings and locations, Secret
Cirencester will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of
this town in Gloucestershire.
