Originally published in 1915 as a limited edition, 'Oldbury and Round About in the Worcestershire corner of The Black Country', was written by Frederick William Hackwood a local man to the Black Country who wrote many other books about the area.

'Oldbury and Round About' covers the area's history from its connection to the parish of Halesowen, The River Tame, Geology of the Area, Halesowen Church, Church Records, Manorial Government, Halesowen Abbey, Monasticism, The Dissolution, Religion, Industrialism, Canals, Mining, Local Companies, Local Government, Justice, Education, Areas around Oldbury, Old Families, Habits and Customs.

The book has been out of print since 1915 and its republication is long overdue. Incorporated in the text is a short biography of Frederick Hackwood, and a list of other books he wrote.

The book fills a gap in the needs of local historians and residents of Oldbury who have an interest in their town and its history.