Brentwood Past Author:Richard Tames Though Brentwood developed as a market centre, it was a place that people travelled through until, by the 18th century, together with its surrounding villages, it became popular with the gentry as an area for recreation and retirement. Its healthy reputation attracted hospitals and private schools, and by the 20th century it became both the pred... more »ominant town in the area and home to large numbers of commuters. Many charming old buildings survive and some good new ones have been added. This attractive book tells the entire story from Saxon times to the present day. 160 illustrations.« less