Half-hours with the Highwaymen - Vol 1 / Picturesque Biographies and Traditions of the "Knights of the Road"

Name: Half-hours with the Highwaymen - Vol 1 / Picturesque Biographies and Traditions of the "Knights of the Road"
Author: Charles G. Harper

By Charles G. Harper

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About This Book

The book surveys the rise, lore, and decline of roadside robbery, tracing the transformation from medieval outlaws to highwaymen and later footpads while contrasting romantic legend with legal record. It assembles anecdotes, trial accounts, and contemporary pamphlets about notorious robbers and gangs, examines superstitions such as the hand of glory, and details prisons, executions, wayside gibbets, and the watch system. Interleaving local road histories with portraits of individual figures, the author aims to balance popular tradition and documented evidence, preserving the period atmosphere without wholesale debunking or uncritical glorification.

About the Author

Charles G. Harper

Charles G. Harper was a prolific English author and illustrator known for his works that explore the history and culture of travel in Britain. His notable titles include "Cycle Rides Round London" and "From Paddington to Penzance," which reflect his passion for the English landscape and its historical narratives. Harper's writing often combines vivid descriptions with a sense of adventure, making his travelogues both informative and engaging. He also contributed to the genre of picturesque biographies with works like "Half-hours with the Highwaymen," showcasing his interest in the colorful characters of British history. His diverse body of work continues to be appreciated for its charm and historical insight.