Until the early 18th century, life for the majority of people in Ireland had not changed greatly since the Middle Ages, but then the pace of change began to accelerate. New sources of power heralded the Industrial Revolution in Britain, although Ireland’s economy continued to be largely agriculture based. However a better transport system was needed to enable more efficient movement of goods and materials. This was provided by civil engineers who planned, designed and built canals, improved the existing roads, developed railways, and extended the harbours. They also provided water supplies for the growing centres of population and systems for the disposal of wastewater required for improvements in public health. Fully illustrated throughout, the book is an important contribution to the industrial history of Ireland and describes the achievements of such famous names as Alexander Nimmo, Sir John Macneill, Bindon Blood Stoney and John Killaly. It includes a gazetteer of many surviving historical civil engineering works, ranging from bridges, aqueducts and viaducts, to canals, dams and water supplies, and from docks and harbours to lighthouses. Edited by Ronald Cox and Philip Donald. Collins Press. While not exclusively an “Inland Waterways” book, this is nevertheless a very useful reference for anyone with an interest in our inland waterways. Paperback 288p 245 x 172 x 17mm. Full Colour.