Famous Frosts and Frost Fairs in Great Britain: Chronicled from the Earliest to the Present Time

"Famous Frosts and Frost Fairs in Great Britain" by William Andrews is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book meticulously chronicles notable frost events in Great Britain, particularly focusing on the fascinating frost fairs that occurred on the River Thames. By detailing experiences and accounts from both contemporary sources and historical records, the author illustrates the unique cultural and social impact of these frosts throughout time. The opening of the book sets the stage for an engaging exploration of significant frost occurrences in British history. Andrews begins with a preface outlining his intent to present a thorough chronological narrative of these frosts, referencing a multitude of earlier works and sources that inform his findings. He suggests a rich historical context for the severe winters, including dramatic events that affected daily life, commerce, and social gatherings on the ice of the Thames, paving the way for the detailed anecdotes and illustrations of frost fairs and their lively activities that follow.