Bo'ness: The Fair Town

This collection of over 200 old photographs provides a fascinating insight into the places and the people that have made Boness such a unique town in Scotland. Famed from its days as Scotlands second largest seaport, the book examines and delves into not only its seafaring past, but other industries such as coal mining, oil and salt production which thrived on the south shore of the River Forth. To many people, however, Boness will always be Scotlands Fair Town and great detail and attention has been paid by the author to the event which has transformed a mere march into Great Britains largest and most successful childrens festival. Other aspects of the towns varied history examined include the connection with James Watt, the inventor of the steam engine, the founding of Britains first local version of the welfare state in Boness, and on a anecdotal note, stories of witches and ghosts, including what is reputedly Scotlands most haunted home. This book illustrates beautifully the character of the town and will be enjoyed by everyone who knows Boness whether they be visitors, newcomers or real Bonessians.