Paved with Gold - by Gregory Holyoake (Hardcover)

About the Book

The fascinating true story of one of the most recognisable names in British folklore - Richard 'Dick' Whittington.

Book Synopsis

Richard Whittington, known to many as Dick Whittington, was the hero of modern pantomime. Born to a disgraced knight in Gloucester, he travelled to London seeking his fame and fortune. Whittington lived through five reigns - Edward III, Richard, II, Henry IV, Henry V and Henry VI - and was personally known and regarded by all these Medieval monarchs. A fabulously wealthy mercer and prosperous wool merchant, he became the most important benefactor to the City of London. His projects numbered funding a refuge for unmarried women; instituting a novel piped water system; creating a grand latrine that discharged into the River Thames; rebuilding Newgate Gaol; improving Guildhall Library; repairing London Bridge; and creating a College of Priests with an Almshouse that still flourishes today at Felbridge, Sussex. He also financed Henry V's French campaign that culminated in the spectacular victory at the Battle of Agincourt. ... But what of his ubiquitous cat?

Review Quotes

'Those who study late medieval London, and even late medieval England, will find this a useful work giving us a perspective on larger historical events from the perspective one very wealthy individual.'--Medievalists, July 2024

'This is a well-produced, well-put together account of one of the 'characters' of our country's history, perhaps more famous in fiction than in reality.'--The Ricardian Bulletin, March 2024

About the Author

Gregory Holyoake is a professional author, actor and schoolteacher who lives in Deal, Kent. He has been a photo-journalist for over fifty years and his work has appeared regularly in publications including 'Country Life', 'Country Homes and Interiors', 'Illustrated London News', 'Heritage', 'This England', 'The Lady', 'The Observer' and 'Evening Standard' magazine. Formerly he was chief photo-journalist for the county magazine 'Kent Life'.