The Book of Looe

There have been very few books written about the history of Looe, the original one being by Thoms Bond in 1823, this new publication takes the reader through the years to the present century, providing an invaluable, informative, social scrapbook of life and people in Looe through the ages. Looe folk can relive memories of everyday life and special occasions, remembering friends, families and historical traditions. School friends and work colleagues peep out from between the pages Visitors can learn about the fascinating background of the town and how Looe played its part in history as a trading & fishing port attracting both smugglers and pirates.

 

Looe Old Cornwall Society has been very enthusiastic about the project and its archives provided valuable information about several topics including Looe in Victorian times as recorded by Elizabeth Steed Shapcott, one of the original LOCS members and herself a Victorian.

The book is illustrated by a wealth of photographs, some dating from the 19th century, a great many from the invaluable Raddy collection, compiled over 3 generations of that family photographic business. Readers can follow the growth of the twin towns of East & West Looe, see some of the magnificent sailing ships which visited the harbour and observe Looe at work and Looe at play.

Many people in Looe have added their stories to the book as well as official sources which both authors consulted, from the Cornwall Records Office to the archives of The Cornish Times.

The book is available through several outlets in Looe including East Looe Town Trust on 01503263709, Looe TIC at 01503262072 and Barbara Birchwood-Harper at 01503262070

 

The book was launched at the Looe Guildhall on Saturday 10th November. Here are some  photos taken on that day.

 

 

Here are the two authors, Barbara Birchwood-Harper and Mark Camp who is  making a short speech.

 

 

After the launch interested members of the public look at a few of the many photos that are in the book.