Review: New book highlights the important history of Peebles

In years gone by the town of Peebles has often been the subject of historical novels and works of non-fiction, such as Secret Peebles by Liz Hanson, or History of Peebles by Joe Brown.

This trend is not something that has lessened. With the release in November 2021 of Ronald Ireland’s new book, History of Royal and Ancient Peebles, the town is once again in the literary spotlight.

Unlike past publications that have had a tendency to only focus in on Peebles, often providing little context of Scotland from a national perspective, Ireland’s newest work does the opposite.

Details of the growth of the Royal Burgh are paired alongside that of historical Scotland.

When I asked Ronald what was his favourite part of writing History of Royal and Ancient Peebles he replied that it was a very difficult question. He stated that “there is so much interest to be found when researching 2,000 years of history”.

Ronald went on to tell me that some of the most fascinating details of such an extensive history were the unexpected things like the connection between Peebles and a Roman governor of France, or the occupation of the town by Oliver Cromwell’s army during the civil war.

And if these topics ignite your interest, History of Royal and Ancient Peebles is a book that would suit you very nicely.

Ronald Ireland is no stranger to Peebles, having called the area his home since moving here because of his involvement with a local business in 1963.

He and his wife have stayed ever since. This extensive experience and knowledge of Peebles provides readers of his books with a sense of confidence that a genuine local is behind the words.

Ronald has also had the pleasure of watching Peebles grow and flourish from a very small town, half the size it now is, to the present day, where Ronald takes fascination in the rich history of Peebles which is reflected in his work.

This is not Ronald Ireland’s first experience of publishing historically-focused works.

After his retirement he set himself the challenge of writing and publishing a book, which he achieved in 2010 with The Bloody Covenant.

Ronald said: “With time on my hands, I decided to look for another project.

“Peebles has a special place in the life of the present Ireland family.

“It has been home for my wife and me since the day we married.”

It is no wonder, with such a connection to Peebles, that Ronald chose it to be the focus of his next endeavours.

Now, thanks to a donation to Peebles High School from a very generous anonymous member of the public, we have 200 copies of Ronald Ireland’s work available for students.

This book provides a fantastic opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the heritage of Peebles, a place many of us call home, including Ronald.

History of Royal and Ancient Peebles’ release could not have come at a better time, with younger generations often being out of touch with their heritage, but now the opportunity to learn more of the history of Peebles has presented itself. Ronald said: “I have tried to make the book something that anyone could read and enjoy, but also learn something about the past.

“I have told it as a story, rather than an academic exercise.”

As for the future, Ronald told me that he has a couple of new projects on the go, but whether or not he publishes more of his work, only time will tell.