Through the lens of an extraordinary family, a number of fascinating stories relating to the wider tumult of late 19th century Europe are revealed. Playing an instrumental role in the Ottoman Empire, the story of the Robinsons is an incredible rags-to-riches tale that stretches from the tenant farms of Lincolnshire to the palaces of Constantinople.
As she awaits her execution at Oxford Castle, a newly wed woman from a God-fearing family, convicted for murdering her housemaid, is pardoned at the last minute by King George II. A butcher suddenly disappears and changes his identity after the tragic death of his young wife. A picture-frame maker from humble origins becomes 'the richest man in Oxford' and is at ease socialising with the luminaries of the Victorian art world. And a lovestruck local member of parliament with a serious gambling addiction dies in suspicious circumstances. These are some of the stories of individuals connected with the land and property on Middle Way in Summertown, Oxford, where the author now lives. The book presents an alternative history of Oxford and explores how Summertown evolved from being primarily an artisans' village to becoming a well-heeled suburb of Oxford. Extensively referenced and using archival sources and interviews, a voice is also given to the living relatives of people connected with the land and property on Middle Way.