"A History of Horncastle, from the earliest period to the present time" by J. Conway Walter is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the rich history of Horncastle, a town in Lincolnshire, starting from prehistoric times and moving through various key periods, including Roman, Saxon, and Norman influences, as well as local governance and notable figures throughout its past. The opening of the book establishes the author’s deep personal connection to Horncastle as a lifelong resident. He outlines the extensive research undertaken over thirty years to compile local records, chronicles, and anecdotes, indicating a blend of personal narrative with thorough historical documentation. He introduces the foundational themes of the text, such as the impact of the site’s early British settlement, the later Roman occupation, and the etymological significance of place names that reflect the town's evolution over centuries. This introductory part sets the tone for a detailed exploration of Horncastle's historical developments, community institutions, and the legacies of the individuals associated with the town. (This is an automatically generated summary.)