Cornwall uncharted

Cornwall uncharted
Mapping Cornwall's Queer History of Concealment, Culture and Creativity

by Paul Taylor-McCartney
& James Innerdale (Illustrator)

Cornwall Uncharted reveals the county's vibrant queer histories for the first time, tracing a hidden tapestry of creativity and community from the eighteenth century to today. Through an original synthesis of art and literary analysis – examining studio paintings, poetry, novels and private manuscripts – as well as meticulous archival research in coaching-inn records, market ledgers, architectural surveys and wartime reminiscences, this rigorous study reconstructs the social and cultural worlds where nonconforming lives were forged.

Six thematic chapters – from urban concealments and coastal artist retreats to lighthouses, rural hinterlands, du Maurier’s literary landscapes and contemporary grassroots networks – demonstrate how Cornwall’s unique geography shaped queer expression and solidarity.

Challenging metropolitan-centric narratives, this book offers a compelling model of peripheral resistance and belonging, inviting scholars and general readers alike to rediscover Cornwall as a crucial site of queer innovation.

Reviews:

‘A fascinating book. Part sensitive scholarly enquiry, part personal odyssey, part offbeat guidebook to Cornwall's little-known queer histories and places, Cornwall Uncharted brings stories of hidden lives gently into the light and reminds us of the multiple ways of being and belonging within the Cornish landscape.’
Tim Hannigan, the author of The Granite Kingdom: A Cornish Journey

‘A wonderfully written and timely presentation of Cornwall’s queer history. A book that reminds us of the diversity of voices this county has always held and that it is a place where the landscape itself has provided haven and shelter. A marvellous achievement.’
Sam K Horton, author of Gorse and Ragwort

Publisher: The History Press
Pages: 220
Language: English
Publication date: 04/06/2026
ISBN: 9781837052479

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