Books in the Shire Library series

Surveys the history of bell production and the development of moulding and casting techniques. This book describes the intricate tuning process and the role of the bellfounder. It contains photographs that illustrate the production process of some of the famous foundries in Britain, such as those at Whitechapel and Loughborough.

Bricks were introduced to Britain by the Romans and reintroduced by Flemish craftsmen in the middle ages. This book gives an insight into the surprising variety of bricks, as well as a brief history of brickmaking, descriptions of hand and machine moulding, drying, the use of kilns and firing.

With 16.5 million built between 1908 and 1927, the Model T Ford was, until overtaken in the 1970s by the Volkswagen Beetle, the most popular car in automotive history. Illustrated with photographs from the Ford archives, this album charts the model's 19 year evolution and explains how this quirky, ingenious motor car put the world on wheels.

Public schools were in the business of producing leaders - in national government, in the Empire, and in the armed forces. This title examines the development of the Victorian and Edwardian public school, covering their defining characteristics, their slowly evolving curriculum, and the often-notable headmasters.

Originating in Europe, garden gnomes made the leap across the channel in the nineteenth century, where they were welcomed warmly by wealthy Brits who saw them as the must-have garden accessory. This title provides the intriguing story of gnomes and how they have come to reside in the flowerbeds of gardens across Britain.