Edwin Alfred Walford
Edge Hill: The Battle and Battlefield; With Notes on Banbury & Thereabout
"Edge Hill: The Battle and Battlefield; With Notes on Banbury & Thereabout" by Edwin A. Walford is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the significant events surrounding the first major battle of the English Civil War at Edge Hill, providing both a geographic and military context to the conflict. The author aims to offer a detailed yet accessible guide for visitors interested in this pivotal moment in British history. The opening of the text sets the stage for discussing the physical landscape of the Edge Hill area, describing its geographical features, such as the hills and valleys, which played a crucial role in the battle's dynamics. It outlines the roads leading to Edge Hill and mentions notable landmarks, such as the Radway Woods and various historical sites, that contextualize the battle. Walford also hints at the social and political tensions of the time, noting the loyalties of various local figures and the movement of Royalist and Parliamentarian forces leading up to the conflict. Thus, the beginning lays a solid foundation for a more in-depth exploration of the battle itself and its aftermath.