Oxfordshire has a proud history as an agricultural county, relying for centuries on the wool trade for its prosperity. It is also famous for the founding of Oxford University in the eleventh century and for the Morris Motors car factory established in Oxford in 1912. The county is richly endowed with churches, museums, stately homes, industrial heritage sites and other places of interest, all offering a fascinating insight into its past and its present.

In this informative and practical guide, Nicola Lisle explores Oxfordshire’s diverse history, including its industries and occupations, education, religion, transport, law and order, health services, leisure pursuits and the impact of both world wars. Each chapter includes details of relevant archives, libraries, online resources, further reading and places to visit, together with case studies and research tips.

This is an essential handbook for anyone with an interest in Oxfordshire local and family history, and is suitable both for beginners and for more experienced researchers.