Ciara Breathnach

This book contains a series of essays concerning Robert J. Welch and the Congested Districts Board from respected people in media and folk studies. The essays are accompanied by photographs (sometimes it would be nicer to see larger prints of the images) taken mainly by Welch. It is good to see recent books exploring visual media and its importance.

Some of the essays have a technical take on the photographs and Welch's photograhy while others are concerned with the social and cultural aspects of such imagery. While the book carries a wealth of visual history it is the binding that is a complete let down. The paperback edition fell apart within two months. I am unaware of the hardback edition. While the book contains some exceptional photography and essays it won't be long before the book falls apart.… (meer)