Description
By: Allan Fea (1860-1956)
Allan Fea’s “Secret Chambers and Hiding Places” is a captivating exploration into the hidden nooks and crannies of historical buildings. Fea’s detailed descriptions of secret rooms, concealed passageways, and cleverly disguised compartments offer a fascinating glimpse into the mysterious world of espionage, intrigue, and hidden treasures. The author’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this book a must-read for history buffs and anyone intrigued by the idea of hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered. Each chapter is packed with historical anecdotes and architectural details that bring these hidden spaces to life, making it a compelling read from start to finish. Fea’s passion for uncovering the secrets of the past is evident in every page, making “Secret Chambers and Hiding Places” a truly mesmerizing read.
Book Description:
“Secret Chambers and Hiding Places” is a collection of concealments and their uses, almost all within England, although a very few passages and chambers in continental Europe are mentioned, Jacobite hidey holes in Scotland, while the final chapter of the book covers Bonnie Prince Charlie’s wanderings around Scotland, among caves and other hiding places. Most chapters are devoted to historical events; such as the the seventeenth century persecution of roman catholics (with many large houses having specially constructed “priests’ holes”), or various unpopular monarchs and their hiding places. The text is scattered with legends and true stories, with occasional skeletons found, still hiding, long centuries after the searchers have left. The author describes hidden doors, passages, rooms and pits with enormous enthusiasm … and with considerable regret when he has to describe secret places lost to demolition or modernisation. You’ll wish you could wander the country, poking into the darkest recesses of every old house you find!
