The geology of the Thames Valley provides little good building stone, so the towns are made very largely of local brick. Reading is particularly rewarding for the brick-fancier, thanks to the variety of colours available and the inventive patterns that Victorian bricklayers loved to make. Illustrated throughout with photographs of surviving examples, Bricks and Brickwork in Reading gets back to basics with bonding, tells the 100-year story of a successful Victorian brick maker, pays homage to Alfred Waterhouse and revels in the delights of air bricks and crinkle-crankle walls. A walking tour gives the reader the opportunity to see the more notable examples of Reading's brickwork for themselves.

About the Author
Adam Sowan is a local historian based in Reading. An explorer at heart, Adam jumped at the offer of early retirement from the Civil Service and has since spent his time exploring the history and topography of his adopted town, Reading. He has published several books on Reading including A Much-Maligned Town, Reading Quiz Book, A Stranger in Reading, Abattoirs Road to Zinzan Street. He is interested in architecture and is an editor of Reading Civic Society's magazine.


Book Information
ISBN 9781909747425
Author Adam Sowan
Format Paperback
Page Count 64
Imprint Two Rivers Press
Publisher Two Rivers Press