
The traditional cargo-carrying narrowboat
- recently voted one of the 100 icons of England
- emerged with the construction of the narrow canal network & lasted in until 1970 when the last regular long-distance contract was lost Up until then working boat families lived aboard according to their own culture & work ethic Narrow Boats explores this explains why their way of life persisted for so long & looks at why & how it has changed The vessels evolved as the horse gave way to steam & diesel power & boatyards developed the skills to build beautiful boats decorated with roses castles scrolls & geometric designs that brought colour & vibrancy to the waterways Since their demise a new generation of craft has emerged purely for leisure & residential use This book by technical consultant Tom Chaplin reflects on the origin & purpose of the traditions that many of these attempt to replicate This book is part of the Britain's Heritage Series which provides definitive introductions to the riches of Britain's past & is the perfect way to get acquainted with the narrow boat in all its variety