A topographical history of Surrey

'Brayley's history of Surrey remains a valuable source of information for today's readers. It contains a wealth of local information on the county towns and villages, the early and mid-Victorian landowners and the history and former occupants of the great country houses, estates and manors. The churches, their monuments and parish histories are described along with lists of parish clergy and information relating to local businesses, agriculture, market gardens, industries and manufacturing. Brayley also wrote of the improved roads and transport system of the first half of the century including the canals and early railways, as well as local education, schools and literary institutions that were contributing to the growing literacy of the rural population. He gives us details of the life of all classes as well as the great houses and parks there are also workhouses, savings banks and even 'houses of correction' or county gaols'. (Surrey Heritage, Surrey Council).