Heritage library
Wollaston Bookshelf
Whether you are researching your family history, exploring the story of Wollaston, discovering Northamptonshire's rich heritage, or learning about the county's famous boot and shoe industry, the Wollaston Bookshelf brings together books that local residents, historians, researchers and visitors may find useful.
Many of the books featured here have helped shape our understanding of the village and the wider area. We regularly add new titles as we discover them. Purchases made through links on this page may earn a small commission which helps support the continued development of WollastonVillage.org.uk at no additional cost to you.
Recommended read
Featured This Month
The Boot and Shoe Industry of Northamptonshire
Various Contributors
A comprehensive look at the industry that shaped Northamptonshire — from the earliest cobblers to the great factories of the twentieth century. Essential reading for anyone interested in the county's industrial and social history.
View on AmazonWollaston & Local History
Discover the history of Wollaston and the surrounding area through books, photographs and local research publications.
Wollaston: A Village History
Wollaston Heritage Society
A detailed account of village life, landmarks and community in Wollaston from earliest times to the present day.
Amazon link coming soonWellingborough: A Pictorial History
Local History Press
Photographs and commentary tracing the development of Wellingborough and the surrounding villages.
Amazon link coming soonEast Northamptonshire: Villages & Communities
Various
A survey of the parishes, people and places of East Northamptonshire, including Wollaston, Irchester and Bozeat.
Amazon link coming soonNorthamptonshire History
Explore the rich and varied history of Northamptonshire from ancient times to the modern day.
The History of Northamptonshire
John Bridges
The classic county history, first published in the eighteenth century and still a vital reference for researchers.
Amazon link coming soonNorthamptonshire: A County History
Various
A modern survey of Northamptonshire covering archaeology, architecture, rural life and market towns.
Amazon link coming soonHistoric Buildings of Northamptonshire
English Heritage
A guide to the listed buildings, manor houses, churches and vernacular architecture of the county.
Amazon link coming soonFamily History & Genealogy
Helpful guides for anyone researching their family tree or local connections.
Tracing Your Northamptonshire Ancestors
Various
A practical guide to the archives, registers and records available for family history research in Northamptonshire.
Amazon link coming soonThe Family History Research Handbook
Mark Herber
A comprehensive guide to using census records, parish registers and local archives to trace your family.
Amazon link coming soonParish Registers of Northamptonshire
Northamptonshire Record Society
Transcriptions and indexes of parish registers from across the county, invaluable for genealogical research.
Amazon link coming soonChurches & Religious Heritage
Learn more about the churches and religious heritage that have shaped village life for centuries.
The Churches of Northamptonshire
Various
A survey of the medieval and later churches of Northamptonshire, with notes on architecture, monuments and history.
Amazon link coming soonNonconformity in Northamptonshire
Local History Press
The story of Baptist, Methodist and other nonconformist communities across the county.
Amazon link coming soonBoot & Shoe Industry
Northamptonshire is famous around the world for its footwear industry. Explore the stories, businesses and people behind this remarkable heritage.
Northamptonshire Shoemakers
Various
The story of the men and women who built the county's footwear industry, from cottage workshops to global brands.
Amazon link coming soonDr. Martens: The Story of an Icon
Martin Roach
The definitive history of the world's most famous boot, from its origins in Wollaston to global cultural phenomenon.
View on AmazonThe Cordwainers: A History of Shoemaking
Various
A history of the craft of shoemaking and the communities it sustained across Northamptonshire.
Amazon link coming soonLocal Walks & Countryside
Discover the countryside, footpaths and landscapes that surround Wollaston.
Walking in Northamptonshire
Various
A collection of circular walks through the villages, valleys and countryside of Northamptonshire.
Amazon link coming soonThe Nene Way: A Walker's Guide
Various
A guide to the long-distance footpath following the River Nene through Northamptonshire.
Amazon link coming soonIn the pipeline
Coming Soon
We are always adding new titles. Here are some of the topics and books we are working on adding to the Bookshelf.
Community
Suggest a Book
Know of a book that deserves a place on the Wollaston Bookshelf?
We welcome recommendations from local residents, historians and researchers. If you know of a book that would help others discover the history of Wollaston or Northamptonshire, please get in touch.
Help Preserve Local History
WollastonVillage.org.uk exists to celebrate the people, places, stories and heritage of our village. By exploring our articles, sharing photographs, recommending books and supporting local businesses, you help keep the history of Wollaston alive for future generations.