‘THE Most Difficult Village’ is described as an essay by John Prest to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the building of St Mary’s church in Wheatley. It is, in fact, a readily accessible book full of fascinating detail about the village’s history.
It was written in response to a request from the Parochial Church Council. The ten chapters are illustrated with excellent reproductions of early maps and drawings and both black and white and coloured photographs.
Previous Wheatley residents, whose names remain inscribed on houses, roads and memorial stones, are mentioned and their lives and activities recorded, reflecting the broader social situation of the times. Local history, architecture, social reform, environmental issues, the arts, education and religious affairs are all dealt with in this wide-ranging treatise.
There is critical observation of people’s behaviour, but also humour and understanding, which enables the reader better to appreciate some of the characters involved with the politics, business dealings and everyday life, which for many in Wheatley was unpleasant and hard.
On the odd occasion nowadays one is tempted to complain of rubbish in the streets and loutish behaviour. Perhaps it is of comfort to know that parallels can still be drawn and Wheatley, though much improved in many ways, remains a place of busy individuals who collectively shape the lives of each other.
This book will be much appreciated and a welcome addition to other local publications, which have been produced over the years.
Elizabeth O’Sullivan, Wheatley Village Archive
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THE MOST DIFFICULT VILLAGE |
*From local outlets, or £9 (inc p&p) by post from Christopher Sprent, 7 Farm Close Lane, Wheatley, OX33 1UG. Cheques payable to St Mary the Virgin, Wheatley
