Author: William Cresswell & Audley End
Published Date: 30 September 2006
Publisher: English Heritage
ISBN: 10: 1850749884 ISBN 13: 9781850749882
Length: 174 pages
Price: Originally priced at £14.99 it can now be purchased in the UK second hand for about £20.00 or less
Available From: Abe Books, Google Books, World of Books,
Description.
Working class diaries from the 19th century are uncommon, but this one is of particular importance as it was kept by one of the gardeners at Audley End. The detailed information Creswell recorded about gardening methods and practices was invaluable in the reconstruction of the kitchen garden.Miraculously discovered at a London fleamarket, the diary of William Cresswell is a saved treasure. This unique and fascinating record, kept meticulously by Cresswell for over two years, highlights his work in the extensive gardens at Audley End in Essex, and his earlier employment in Streatham.
The Author:
Not only does the diary give us an insight into the daily tasks and concerns of a journeyman gardener at a great country house, but it also provides a glimpse into contemporary events and Cresswell’s everyday life including his regular participation in church and village life.
Book review first appeared Saffron Walden Historical Journal No. 13 Spring 2007