Philip Brooks mastered the intricacies of medieval Latin to translate the contents of the Winchester Pipe Rolls , and in this book, he opens our eyes to the rich source of information found in the medieval and Tudor records. Having had first-hand experience of using traditional farming techniques, he is particularly well-informed on agricultural matters. This knowledge has given him a remarkable insight into the world of ox plough teams, hand-sown crops and a community whose very survival was dependent on the produce of the land. This work is essential reading for local historians and anyone with an interest in how our ancestors really lived.