The Trent & Mersey Canal: A History

摘要

Although several comprehensive histories of the Trent & Mersey Canal have been published over the years, in his introduction to this book author Ray Shill explains that a "fresh account is needed to cover the modern findings as well as to provide a new understanding of the canal and the pivotal role it played in creating the canal network in Britain". Largely chronological in format, the opening chapter documents early plans, the role of Joseph Wedgwood, the raising of funds, opposition to the scheme and alternative routes. At the time its construction began, in 1766, the canal was the most ambitious navigation scheme ever undertaken. Nearly 94 miles long, it took the best part of 11 years to complete.