REGIONAL SURVEY OF HATFIELD BROAD OAK. 189
into the history of human activity and settlement.2 Regional
survey must of necessity be undertaken by people of varied
interests and different training. Each worker or group of
investigators correctly records the data obtained for each
section of the work. Such data are co-ordinated by the central
organisation of the survey and recorded in such form as
to be available for comparison with the results attained by
other sections. In most cases the ultimate form of the recorded
information will be a map or other graphical representation,
supported by pictorial and written notes.
In the latter half of the 19th century, as a reaction from the
changes which came about with the Industrial Revolution, a
"back to the land" movement took place, not only in the world
of daily toil, but also in the sphere of mental pursuits. Naturalist
field clubs sprang into existence, fulfilling the need of the age.
Some have done their work and ceased to be ; others are
dwindling in the face of the appeal of organisations which, while
not neglecting the open-air, satisfy the needs of the 20th century
for constructive adventure. Times change, and our organisations
change with them. Experience has shown that regional survey
work widens the outlook and appeals to young as well as older
folk, by encouraging the "spirit of quest, and zest and conquest"
in co-operative effort. It thus has the double value of linking
past, present and future as well as explaining the relation between
man, his environment and his work (expressed in the Place,
Work, Folk formula of Frederic Leplay).
So far we have been thinking in general terms for the benefit
of those to whom the thought is fresh and to rekindle the en-
thusiasm of others. Now let us consider the Hatfield Broad
Oak region in particular. What has been done ? Two people
on holiday have collected varied information by direct observa-
tion, appropriate reading and conversation. They have had
the interest and help of one or two others. Most of the results
of their investigation are exhibited here to-day for the first time.
2. "It would thus be possible to focus upon certain definite problems the various streams
of illumination obtained from the separate study of the relevant factors, such as the natural
physical features, including surface relief and drainage, the geological structure, the climatic
influences, the native animal and vegetable life, together with the outcome of studies of the
early settlers and settlements, the history of the clearing and cultivation of the land, and the
foundation of early industries, lines of communication and commercial exchange, leading to the
gradual growth of centres of population with their markets, courts, churches, schools and other
social institutions and activities." 'The Wirral Peninsula,' by W. Hewitt, B.Sc, A.R.S.M.,
Univ. Press of Liverpool.