CALNE Town Mayor Tim Havenith has published a new book exploring 50 years of the town's Victorian history.
Released to coincide with the 140th anniversary of the opening of Calne Town Hall, The Mayors of Calne: A History 1836 to 1886 examines the people, politics and events that shaped the town between 1836 and 1886.
As well as chronicling Calne's early mayors, the book explores the wider events that influenced life in the town, including election campaigns, public health debates, criminal cases and the long campaign to build Calne Town Hall.
Among the stories featured are the tragic accidental shooting during the mayoralty of James Pownall, and the murder he later committed following a severe decline in his mental health. The book also recounts a riot sparked by a fiercely contested election, alongside letters sent from Calne to Queen Victoria after attempts were made on her life.
The publication has been timed to mark the 140th anniversary of Calne Town Hall, which first opened to the public on 27th July 1886 after being funded through public donations. The book includes a detailed account of the debate that led to its construction and the role the building went on to play in shaping the borough's identity.
The Mayors of Calne: A History 1836 to 1886 is available now from Amazon in paperback and ebook formats. Copies will also be available shortly from the Calne Heritage Centre, with all profits from sales supporting the charity's work.
Photograph: Cllr Tim Havenith at the Proclamation Steps.
Photo credit: Calne Town Council.
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