First published in 1939, Made in England is a book about the crafts and people of the cottage industries of England, from the social historian, illustrator and photographer Dorothy Hartley. In the mid 1930s Hartley travelled by car and bicycle, gathering material for the book. This is a portrait not only of the rural industries - whether wood-carving or stone-work, weaving or pottery, but also of the people engaged in these occupations.
Written in direct prose and with innate curiosity, each chapter covers a specific skill,and is illustrated with Hartley's own photographs and charming, accurate pen and ink drawings. As these traditional skills became less widespread, our own connection to the land and ancient knowledge is threatened. The republication of this book is aimed at restoring some of those lost links, and reviving interest in craft and making by hand.
