Sandy Irvine, from Birkenhead to Everest

We are delighted to announce that Professor Robert Lee has released his book on a detailed history of Birkenhead Park – Birkenhead Park: The People’s Garden and an English Masterpiece. This new book is the first critical, comprehensive history of the first publicly funded park, globally.

 

Birkenhead Park Book Cover

Professor Lee’s work establishes the significance through his research of the park, emphasising the how Birkenhead Park was a pioneer in the development of urban public parks, designed for use by everyone. Birkenhead Park was labelled “the people’s park” and the book further describes how irrespective of social class, ethnicity or age Birkenhead Park become the local green space for health and wellbeing, for all. Additionally, Professor Robert Lee’s book celebrates the creative genius and design skills present in Paxton’s original design of Birkenhead Park. His work identifies the Park’s significant contribution to the public park development and nineteenth-century landscape history on both regional and international scales.

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The mayor, his wife and friends of Birkenhead Park presenting the book

The book is beautifully illustrated with 60 colour images, drawing on a wide range of contemporary material and the professional skills of local photographers.

Order your copy from Liverpool University Press through this link.

Order now

The launch of Professor Robert Lee’s fantastic book was at Birkenhead Park visitor centre and was truly a beautiful event. With support from the Friends of Birkenhead Park and Liverpool University Press, Wirral Council and Birkenhead Park’s team were delighted to welcome attendees from across the country to celebrate Professor Lee’s exceptionally talented work.

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Book release presentations

Birkenhead Park: The People's Garden and an English Masterpiece Launch Event

Wednesday the 1st of May 2024 .

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Friends of Birkenhead Park presentation

Birkenhead Park: The People's Garden and an English Masterpiece Launch Event

Wednesday the 1st of May 2024 .

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A group socializing after the book event

Birkenhead Park: The People's Garden and an English Masterpiece Launch Event

Wednesday the 1st of May 2024 .