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The English Canals

The English Canals Jon Raven, John Kirkpatrick, Sue Harris Broadside Records BRO 118 (LP, UK, 1977)

This record contains three programmes originally broadcast on “Folkweave” BBC Radio 1&2. The programmes, each lasting approximately 22 minutes, tell the story of the construction, use and decline of the English canal system during the period from the mid-18^th century to the present day.

Produced by Tony Hale (BBC);
Sleeve design: Robin Scot-Cooper;
Front sleeve engraving: “Illustrated London News” 10 October 1974

Musicians

Jon Raven: research, narration, readings, vocals, guitar, dulcimer;
John Kirkpatrick: readings, vocals, accordion, concertina, melodeon;
Sue Harris: vocals, oboe

Tracks

Side 1

1. The Canal Builders: Labourers, Craftsmen and Engineers
2. First Half of The Boatmen: Life on the Cuts. Rise and Decline of Canals

Side 2

3. Second Half of The Boatmen: Life on the Cuts. Rise and Decline of Canals
4. Canals in the Late 19^th and 20^th Centuries

Reference Material

• Anthony Burton, The Canal Builders, Eyre and Methuen, 1972
• Charles Hadfield, The Canal Age, David and Charles, 1968. Pan, 1971
• Jon and Kate Raven, Canal Songs, Broadside Records, 1974
• Joseph Priestley, Historical Account of the Navigable Rivers, Canals and Railways of Great Britan, 1831
• L.T.C. Rolt, Inland Waterways of Great Britain, Allen and Unwin, 1950
• L.T.C. Rolt, Navigable Waterways, Longmans, 1969
• Samuel Smiles, Life of the Engineers, various volumes, 1862 etc.
• George Smith, Canal Adventures by Moonlight, 1881
• Government White Paper on Canals, 1967
• Royal Commission on Canals and Inland Waterways, 7 volumes 1906-11
• Select Committee on Canals, 1878 and 1883