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Click on the images above to view the front and back cover of the book full size. |
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YESTERDAY'S PATNA AND THE LOST VILLAGES OF DOON VALLEY ISBN 0 9522720 4 0 (Limited to 900 numbered copies) By Donald L Reid
This new book was published on 24 February, 2005. It has 18 chapters and is illustrated with 110 photographs and two maps. The story is told of Lethanhill/Burnfoothill; Benwhat; Corbie Craigs; Craigmark; Beoch; Kerse; Tongue Row and Cairntable. There are chapters dealing with The Death Knell of Doon Valley Mining; The Dalmellington Iron Works and the book is introduced with a poem appropriately called "The Lost Villages of Doon" by well known Ayrshire poet, Rowena M Love, whose family ties lie in mining like many of us who were raised in the Doon Valley. On the rear cover of the book it says:
"Another gem of a book from the pen of Donald L Reid which spells out both the highs and lows of living in the former mining villages of Ayrshire's famous Doon Valley. Looking back always allows one a time to stop and take stock of events; a time to stare; a time to remember with a happy smile; a time to care about yesterday, today and tomorrow; and a time to think about the folk who have humbly touched our lives. These Lost Villages of Doon Valley, often referred to as Ghost Villages because they no longer exist, were full of lively, larger-than-life characters. The reader will find the stories of the past very moving and compelling. They will open your eyes wide to the rich tapestry of social history and forgotten heritage, evoking memories of those who lived in the lonely villages on the wind-swept moors high above the Valley of Doon."
The book runs to some 88 pages in 18 short chapters. The reader can dip into any chapter as they are all stand-alone. The photographs of yesterday and today are also sure to evoke many happy memories of friends and relations. This book is an ideal way for young folk to learn more about how they came to where they are today and appreciate the lives and times of those in whose footsteps they now walk. For those who actually lived in the Lost Villages it will bring memories flooding back as they journey down memory lane reliving happy and sad times of yesteryear.
COST This book is extremely good value at £9-99 locally with an additional £1-50 by post in the UK only. USA/Canada/Australia £3.Orders to and cheques payable to:
Donald L Reid 7 Manuel Avenue BEITH, North Ayrshire, Scotland KA15 1BJ Tel: 01505-503801 Email: donaldleesreid@hotmail.com
It is hoped that this book will sell sufficiently well to part pay for printing of ROBERT BURNS' VALLEY OF DOON later this year. This book is actually ready to roll now.
How can you help? I would value your assistance in promoting this book. If you know anyone with Doon Valley roots/interest, please tell them how they can buy a copy - all are individually numbered and signed by the author and limited to 900 copies only. You may know of a local shop in your locality who would be happy to stock the books for sale. If you know someone with a web site then coverage in web sites would also be helpful. Consider buying a copy for family members and friends with Doon Valley links. Thank for your help and assistance. You will enjoy reading this book which will take you on a happy journey down memory lane. Indeed, I would almost bet that on reading "Tough Times at Corbie Craigs" that you will have a tear in your eye.
Kindest regards Donald Reid CONTENTS OF BOOK
V Lost Village o Doon - Poem by Rowena M Love V11 Foreword 1X Acknowledgements Ch 1 Yesterday's Patna Ch 2 Mr Patna - Alexander 'Sanny' Aitken Ch 3 Patna's Knight - Professor Sir David Campbell Ch 4 The Dalmellington Iron Works Ch 5 The 'Hill Ch 6 Benwhat & Corbie Craigs Ch 7 Auld Craigmark Ch 8 Death Knell of Cumnock & Doon Valley mining Ch 9 Bygone Lethanhill Ch 10 Benwhat - Random Reflections Ch 11 Poem - Benwhat Memories Ch 12 Big-hearted Beoch Ch 13 Poem - Benbeoch Memories Ch 14 Beoch - A Great Wee Place Ch 15 Reflections of Cairntable Ch 16 Cairntable Capers Ch 17 Tongue Row Tales Ch 18 Tough Times at Corbie Craigs Epilogue Bibliography Books by Donald L Reid Author Profile Picture Gallery
THIS IS A BOOK WHICH FOLK WITH DOON VALLEY OR INDEED AYRSHIRE ROOTS WILL WISH TO DIP INTO TIME AND AGAIN. CHEERS
Donald L Reid (Tel 01505-503801) |
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