The humble allotment has a surprisingly turbulent history. Initially the right to an allotment was proposed as a charitable means by which the poor could grow their own food and stave off starvation, but it quickly entered political and social debate. During the World Wars the allotment became the focal point on the home front, as families took part in the Dig for Victory campaigns. The post-war years saw a decline in the popularity of the allotment as the supermarket took over from home-grown produce. Successive governments condemned allotments in favour of new housing. Recently, however, with increased concerns about the environment and the organic movement, allotments are in vogue once more. This book charts the rise and fall of the allotment - and the factors behind its most recent resurgence. Drawing on original documents and illustrations, the author explores the fascinating and surprising history of the allotment within the context of its social and political history.

Author Biography

Dr Twigs Way trained as an archeologist and later developed a particular interest in garden and landscape history. She has designed programs in garden history for the University of Cambridge Institute of Continuing Education and has lectured for Birkbeck College, London. Her latest book Virgins, Weeders and Queens: A History of Women in the Garden was published in 2006.