It Was Like This

Kathleen Crozier nie Knights was born in Middle Street, Hastings in 1908. In this autobiographical account of her early years Kathleen draws a vivid and vibrant picture of the south coast town as it was in the second decade of the 20th century. Family life, the day-to-day bustle of a working street, focal points of the area, and joyful excursions into the countryside are all recalled with great affection and a wry wit. Relatives, neighbours, tradespeople, even Blossom the cart-horse are so sharply defined we know them intimately. Interwoven throughout the text are details of schooling, shops, songs, games, clothes and entertainments that further define the period. There is also reference to the personal impact of the first world war. IT WAS LIKE THIS is not merely a social or personal history, it is a time and place re-visited. It is also a warm tribute to the character and characters of Hastings, and a celebration of childhood unfettered by modern day restraints.