Suffolk Strange But True

Suffolk Strange But True illustrates and describes people, places and incidents that are unusual, odd or extraordinary. We discover the truth about 'the fasting woman of Shottisham', who was alleged not to have eaten for three months; the 'tithe war' of the 1930s, when some farmers were reduced to selling their tractors for sixpence; unusual entrepreneurs, misers and witches, and also the tales behind a number of the county's deserted towns and villages. Local folklore and legend are also examined - to show how real events have been exaggerated and embroidered over the years. Using a range of illustrations, from old and recent photographs to maps, prints, paintings and engravings, Robert Halliday tells an entertaining story - an alternative history of Suffolk that will fascinate residents and visitors alike.

Résumé
Suffolk Strange But True describes many unusual, odd and extraordinary people, places and events from this fascinating county. Featured within these pages are tales of 'the fasting woman of Shottisham', who was alleged not to have eaten for five months; the Suffolk man who invented the word 'communism'; local heroines; pioneering entrepreneurs; spectacular ruins and castles; lost towns and villages; extraordinary pets and animals; and unusual art treasures found in Suffolk churches. Local customs, folklore and legends are also examined, including 'the race of the bogmen', and the Southwold competition to discover an 'alternative umbrella'. Using a range of old and new illustrations, Robert Halliday tells an entertaining alternative history of Suffolk that will fascinate residents and visitors alike.