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A network of canals across the British countryside once provided transportation for the goods of the Industrial Revolution. Very soon the advent of the railways put the canals nearly out of business, and by the early 1900's they were well into a slow decline. After a brief revival during World War II, when they were used for transportation of military goods, they were all but abandoned until late in the 20th century. Today they are enjoying a revival as increasing numbers of people choose to return to this nomadic way of life in retirement, or for vacations. Working boats are also returning to the canals, transporting heavy raw materials such as sand and gravel, and delicate goods such as china. In this image narrowboats are moored for the night on the Shropshire Union Canal near Chester. |
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