Charlie Mayhew (1902-1969) one man's quest to escape the mundane confines of a working-class life
Smokes, skies, and simple pleasures
Latest Stories
A Soldier’s Return – the Long Road Back
Ted Mayhew (1919-1982): His post-war struggles reveal the challenges faced by returning POWs, seeking reintegration while coping with trauma and change
A ‘blue on blue’ disaster
A tragic wartime incident during a military demonstration when a pilot mistakenly fired on spectators, causing the deaths of dozens of Army and Home Guard officers and men
Echoes of Christmas
During the 1960s, spending Christmas at our family home in Fulham was rare as my mother’s mental illness usually manifested itself in autumn and culminated in her being admitted to hospital around December, so my brother Nick and I were often sent down to stay in our grandmother’s house on the Dorset coast near Portland. … Continue reading Echoes of Christmas
Music and records
This story is not about a human ancestor, but about something else very close to my heart: popular music. Nowadays, anyone with access to the internet can listen to their choice of music instantly via a streaming service like Spotify or Apple Music, or via YouTube. Long gone are the days when the only way … Continue reading Music and records
Off and on the beaten path
Reflections on the relative wilderness and popular destinations in and around the Banff National Park, Canada
Alberta’s playground
Following the path less travelled through Kananaskis Country, with a hike to Karst Spring a scenic drive through the mountains
A snakes and ladders life
William Mayhew (1882-1918): Against the odds, a disadvantaged Englishman embarks on a journey to secure a better future for his family in the US
Exploring the Yoho National Park
A visit to Yoho National Park reveals a remarkable array of both natural wonders and man-made creations
A prairie roadtrip to the Badlands
A roadtrip across the prairie to explore the stunning Badlands of Alberta, Canada, followed by an unforgettable steak lunch
