A selection of local titles is reprinted here, reflecting the wide range of historical research going on in the locality. If out of print, copies are usually available at The Gibson Library in the Market Place. A good range of local history books are on sale in Tourist Information, Market Square, Saffron Walden or at Harts Books in King Street.
Dick Turpin the Myth of the English Highwayman
Almost everything people know about Dick Turpin and highwaymen is myth. The historical truth is much nastier, more brutal and bloody. Who was this notorious highwayman and why did he become so famous?
HENRY WINSTANLEY (1644-1703). The Last Renaissance Engineer
Henry Winstanley of Saffron Walden was an ‘engineer’ in both the late mediaeval and the modern sense of the word. Working with pumps, automata, clockwork and fireworks he created wonders which were mechanical, theatrical and hydraulic.
Mr Saffron Walden: The Life and Times of George Stacey Gibson (1818-1883)
GEORGE STACEY GIBSON was in many ways the quintessential Victorian philanthropist. Very little happened in Saffron Walden without his knowledge. As the town’s banker, Gibson had his finger in many pies. He was a Councillor and then Alderman for 24 years, and was twice elected Mayor.
4th Fighter Group ‘Debden Eagles’
With first-hand accounts and colour artwork, this book describes the planes and pilots of the famous 4th Fighter Group ‘Fourth but First’ that became the highest-scoring unit of the mighty 8th Air Force in World War 2.
Thomas Netter of Walden: Diplomat, Carmelite and Theologian (c.1372–1430)
Thomas Netter was born in Saffron Walden and spent his early years in the town before entering the church, and becoming a diplomat and confessor for King Henry V, who reportedly died in Netter’s arms.
Sir William Waad, Lieutenant of the Tower, and the Gunpowder Plot
When Sir William Waad became Lieutenant of the Tower of London in August 1605, only three months before the Gunpowder Plot, it was the culmination of a lifetime of service to the Crown
