Narrow Boats

2017 | History & Politics

The traditional cargo-carrying narrowboat - recently voted one of the 100 icons of England - emerged with the construction of the English narrow canal system and lasted in regular use until 1970 when the last regular long distance contract was lost. Up until then, working boat families lived aboard according to their own culture and work ethic. Narrow Boats explores this in its historical context, explains why their anachronistic way of life persisted for so long, and looks at why and how it has changed. The vessels evolved as the horse gave way to steam and diesel power and boatyards developed the skills to build intrinsically beautiful boats, decorated with roses, castles, scrolls and geometric designs that brought colour and vibrancy to the waterways. Since their demise, a new generation of craft has emerged purely for leisure and residential use. This book reflects on the origin and purpose of the traditions that many of these attempt to replicate.

Tom Chaplin (Author)