Hayes

The book "Hayes: A History of a Kentish Village" by Jean Wilson and Trevor Woodman is a comprehensive two-volume set that chronicles the history of Hayes, a village in Kent, from its early beginnings to modern times. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Historical Growth: The book explores the transformation of Hayes from a small village to a modern community, highlighting significant events, changes, and developments over the years.
2. Local Research: The authors, Jean Wilson and Trevor Woodman, spent over thirty years researching the local area, drawing from a wide range of sources including church records, local historian accounts, and personal testimonies.
3. Community Development: The volumes cover various aspects of community life, including social, economic, and cultural developments.
4. Historical Context: The book provides a detailed historical context, including the impact of local government reorganization in the 1930s, which led to Hayes losing its Parish Council and becoming part of the Bromley Borough.

Plot Summary

The book is divided into two volumes:

1. Volume 1: This volume likely covers the early history of Hayes, including its origins, the medieval period, and significant events leading up to the 20th century.
2. Volume 2: This volume focuses on the period from 1914 to modern times, detailing the village's growth and changes during World War I, the interwar period, and post-war developments.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews are not provided in the sources, the book's comprehensive nature and the authors' extensive research are highly regarded. The fact that the book was published in 2012 and all copies have been sold indicates its popularity and significance in local historical circles. The book is available in various libraries, including Bromley Local Studies Library, Bromley Central Library, West Wickham, and Hayes public libraries, further testament to its value as a historical resource.

Authors' Background

Jean Wilson, a local historian, has a background in history from St Anne’s College, Oxford. She has lived in Hayes since 1974 and has been actively involved in local history exhibitions since the 1980s. Trevor Woodman, also a local historian, collaborated with Jean Wilson in researching and writing the book. Both authors have contributed significantly to the understanding of Hayes' history through their extensive research and publications.

Availability

The book is no longer in print but can be found in various libraries and historical collections. It is also available for purchase through online bookstores like Foyles.