Why Do Shepherds Need A Bush? History Of Station Names

Product Description

The names of the 300 or so London underground stations are part of the everyday landscape for the Londoners, who strap-hang their way across the capital. We hardly ever question their meanings or origins
- yet these well-known names are linked with fascinating stories of bygone times. Until the mid-19th century, London was almost unbelievably rural, with names belonging to a countryside we could never recognise or imagine today. Who in the twenty-first century, thinks of a real flesh-&-blood shepherd lolling back on a specially-trimmed hawthorn bush, when travelling through Shepherd`s Bush underground station? & who, travelling through Totteridge & Whetstone on the Northern Line, imagines medieval soldiers sharpening their swords & daggers at the aptly named Whetstone, just before engaging in the appallingly bloody battle of Barnet? David Hilliam not only uncovers the little-known history behind the station stops below ground, but also explores the eccentric etymology of some of London`s landmarks from Acton to Wimbledon, offering trivia boxes that will delight the visitor & Londoner alike. This entertaining book will ensure that you will never view your normal journey to work in the same way again.