Stage-coach and Mail in Days of Yore, Volume 1 (of 2): A picturesque history of the coaching age

"Stage-coach and Mail in Days of Yore, Volume 1 (of 2)" by Charles G. Harper is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the history and significance of stage-coaches and mail services during the coaching age, which spanned from the late 16th century to the mid-19th century. Through a combination of research and anecdotes, Harper explores how these modes of transport shaped travel, communication, and social interactions in England. The opening of the volume introduces the concept of the coaching age, beginning with an examination of earlier travel methods before carriages became commonplace. Harper reflects on the decline of the coaching era, triggered by the advent of railways, and acknowledges the deep-seated nostalgia felt by many for the dramatic and romanticized experiences of stage-coach travel. He sets the stage for a detailed exploration of how philanthropy and practical innovations in travel evolved over the centuries, laying the groundwork for an in-depth look at how coaching transformed society.