The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady

Naturalist Edith Holden recorded in words and charming paintings of the flora and fauna of the British countryside throughout the changing seasons of the year 1906. Undiscovered for more than 70 years, it was found by her great niece and published in 1977. The book became an instant sensation that spawned spin-offs and merchandise tie-ins, but then went out of print for more than 20 years.

This facsimile edition presents Holden’s words, all carefully written by hand, including her favourite poems, personal thoughts, and observations on the wildlife she saw surrounding her home in Warwickshire, and on her travels through England and Scotland. In addition, almost every page features Holden’s exquisitely beautiful paintings of birds, butterflies, bees, and flowers, all of which reflect her deep love of nature. The paintings, executed with a naturalists’ eye for detail, and the sensitive of an artist, and words, composed with a poet’s touch, combine to make A Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady a unique view into a world open to few, and singular treasure that can now be appreciated by everyone.

Author Biography

Edith Holden (1871-1920) was born at Kings Norton, Worcester, one of seven children of a Midlands paint manufacturer. The family lived in the small village of Olton in Warwickshire and it was there that she wrote and illustrated the book. After attending art school, she worked as an illustrator, with her drawings being published in several books. She later moved to London, and in 1911 met and married Ernest Smith, a sculptor; they lived in Chelsea, and had no children.