The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers

Arthur Mo Sings

2012-02-25T18:47:00.008Z

In the early days of the Ragged Ramblers we sought to record the stories and songs of Norfolk. Sad to say most of the recordings were lost in the terrible pipe smoking accident that also claimed the lives of two of our most Ragged friends - R J Ooooooonstead and Colonel Hampton (Both now deceased) They did not die in vain however, for their last recording was of the Norwich based folk singer 'Arthur Mo'. A tune he called Oh Horsey. As luck would have it I have unearthed a copy of that recording for your enjoyment *

Oh Horsey (mp3)

If you listen carefully at the start of this recording R J Ooooooonstead can be heard demanding Mr Mo sing "another horsey song" in his unusually high pitched antiquarian voice.

*Many thanks to the Ragged Rambler Friend, The Yarnsmith of Norwich for donating this rear recording to the Learned Society Archive.

+Many Coats+

A Ragged Rambler's Birthday

2012-02-24T23:15:00.001Z

I lie here under Harris tweed sheets, expectant as the bell tolls for the passing of another year. Saturday 25th February is my birthday and I very much look forward to a day of antiquarian delectations. Among the items on the Tweeder-Harris wish-list are:
- a sturdy case for my graffiti scale
- a large flask (to go with my large torch)
- a copy of 'Religious Women in Medieval Norwich' by Dr. Carole Hill
- Cake!

Huzzah for birthdays!

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris, Esq. ~

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Taking Time to Take Notice

2012-02-23T22:22:00.000Z

Flippin' good nosh

2012-02-21T19:14:00.001Z

On this day, Antiquarians can be seen abiding by traditions and making pancakey treats. A video production has been commissioned to demonstrate the very dangerous art of tossing. This must only be tried under close supervision with safety harnesses available if required.

A recipe to follow is provided here..

2 eggs
4oz plain flour, sifted and loved
7floz of milk
2.5floz of warter
pinch of salt
2oz melted butter

Place all ingredients into a bowl large enough to hold all the ingredients whilst whisking.
Whisk vigorously until all are smooth and creamy.
Heat a pan with a little oil until it just starts to smoke lightly.
Take off the heat and cool momentarily whilst sipping a whiskey.
Pour in some mixture until a thin film covers the pan. Cook for a short time until golden in colour, flip the pancake (with supervision) and cook the other side.
Dress with lemon juice and golden syrup for that authentic pancake day treat. Sit back in your leather armchair, put up your feet and enjoy your delights.

A chance meeting with....

2012-02-21T17:52:00.002Z

Whilst out on my travels, I did come across the lair of an antiquarian rambler.

Timidly I tapped upon the door and out sprung a specimen of fine proportions, greeting me with the familiar cry of Huzzah! We chatted, we laughed, we ate cake....

He posed for an "arty photo", bade me farewell and disappeared into his lair.

-> Thadeus <-

Stretched Shadows at Keswick Church

2012-02-20T18:44:00.000Z

I had seen the slender round tower of All Saints church, Keswick, from a distance on a number of occasions, and had often wistfully remarked, "we must go and see that sometime". Well, yesterday that time arrived. And, oh, what a beauty awaited us! First, the long path and a clear blue winter sky; the tower glimpsed through the trees. As we drew closer, I could see a ruined chancel and a strangely truncated Victorian nave. Bounded by a spindly iron railing fence, the low light stretched the shadows, as the church appeared in full view

I sit here now, reading my Mortlock & Roberts ('The Popular Guide to Norfolk Churches. No.2 Norwich, Central and South Norfolk', 1985), and read about how Sir Henry Hobart ordered this diminutive church to be robbed out for materials to rebuild nearby Intwood.

In 1893, John Henry Gurney paid for the site to be restored, and a private mortuary chapel was built. For me, another element of significance was added to this poignant and enchanting site when I realised that the eye-catching monument at my feet was a memorial to my friend's mum.

This is a place I want to return to; a place I need to see in different seasons and lights. You don't have to be spiritually enlightened to feel that this is a special place.

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris, Esq. ~

A roof over my head

2012-02-19T18:52:00.000Z

Whilst lying down on a ramble, I couldn't fail to notice this beautiful example of a fine hammerbeam roof at Marsham.
Such craftsmanship, such glory, such beauty. We are the richer for being able to enjoy. Huzzah!

-> Thadeus <-

That Way to the Horizon...

2012-02-15T21:42:00.000Z

Please click on image in order to enlarge

Jack Valentine Cometh...

2012-02-14T12:28:00.006Z

This very night (Feb. 14th) on the pretence of taking some air, I shall be leaving a present from Jack Valentine of marbles and plasticine wrapped up in newspaper on my doorstep. It shall have my ward, Lady Golden Hair's name on it and I shall knock on the door and run away.

Will you?

Lady Golden Hair after receiving Jack Valentine's gift

Find out more about Jack here....

+Many Coats+

The R.S.A.R. Contributions Secretary is back!

2012-02-12T18:02:00.000Z

Please click on image in order to enlarge

The return of the Contributions Secretary, R.S.A.R., can be found HERE

Idle youth caught knapping.

2012-02-12T13:32:00.003Z

It has always been the opinion of many within the Learned Society that the young are so busy looking forward, they very rarely take the time to look to the past. To that end we founded a youth movement within the Ramblers called the Ragged Society of idle and feckless loafers. Suffice to say, membership is at present small with the notable exception of young Lady Golden Hair - ward to me, Mr Many Coats after his own parents expired during a freak accident involving carving the Christmas bird. It is of course only natural that at the festive season of the year the young Golden Hair feels their loss most keenly and in an effort to cheer the lad up last Yule and also to ween him off his addiction to touching himself down there, I Many Coats took the scamp for a days flint knapping with the master knapper, John Lord. Not only a great craftsman, but also very friendly with a most wonderful quality - Namely his sly smile and habit of laughing to himself in a knowing manner!

Young Golden Hair using a 'Soft Hammer' (Deer antler)

Young Golden Hair crafting his first flint hand axe

Half way through the day we were treated to a fine luncheon of baked potato, with beans, pickles, grated cheese and an assortment of cold meats, with copious amounts of tea. So much so that we were forced to leave our own flask tea and egg and tomato sandwiches until the drive home. That said we still tucked into the sausage, egg and chips so thoughtfully waiting for us upon our return home. Not wanting to hurt Mrs Many Coat's feelings (She has only just got over the notion that she is a tree) we scoffed the lot, whilst regaling her with stories of bulbs of percussion, indirect percussion, intrusive pressure, flaking angles, step fractures and blade cores.

Some of Golden Hair's work:
A barbed arrow head, hand axe and simple knife struck from a flint core

Thanks to John and his wife Val for a wonderful day out that this Ragged Rambler would recommend to all. To find out more visit their website... http://www.flintknapping.co.uk/

I also heartily recommend John's book:
The Nature and Subsequent Uses of Flint Vol.1, The Basics of Lithic Technology

+Many Coats+

In the bleak mid-winter...

2012-02-11T01:26:00.000Z

Is't not the season of bare trees, snot drizzled moustaches & freezing churches?

So me thought Members could do with a warming reminder of summer Rambles that are sure to follow...

After all, Pliny says, longissimus dies cito conditur...

... even the longest day soon comes to an end.

The Secretary

Winter beauty

2012-02-10T20:32:00.001Z

A ramble of arctic proportions sees two Society stalwarts bravely venturing into rural countryside to admire this!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

A Spray of Small Birds

2012-02-07T21:56:00.001Z

I recently posted a video showing a spray of rooks at Buckenham. There were some rather sarcastic comments about the poor quality. Well, in response to that, here is another video taken that day. The birds aren't rooks - I think they're possibly Golden Oriels -, but I do love their movement against that clear winter sky. Short and sweet!

The Green Man Cometh

2012-01-30T13:45:00.015Z

We of the Learned Society are well acquainted with the Green Man and have seen numerous variations of this ambiguous character carved in stone in many of the churches we visit. On my very last Ramble I found this particularly pleasing ancient version in St Martins church in Thompson, Norfolk that peers out from a spandrel of the Sidilia....

And the Cathedral in Norwich is famed for its various representations of this woodland spirit including this one...

I say woodland spirit, but who knows for there is still a great deal of mystery surrounding his origins and his meaning. Some see him as a pagan deity, akin to the Woodwose - A symbol of rebirth and fertility. A symbol equally at home within the Christian framework that is well known for borrowing from earlier ancient customs and beliefs. There is probably some truth in this, although the motif is now so ancient we can never be certain.

For that reason you can understand how pleased I was to finally get to meet the Green Man in person. After all these years of staring into those foliate covered enigmatic faces I couldn't believe my luck when I bumped into him this very morning whilst walking my dogs in nearby woods. I had so many questions I wanted to ask him - Of what life was like long ago, when man was content to hunt and gather? What was Robin Hood really like and was Maid Marion as fit as they say?

The spirit of Ancient Briton awoken once more

Alas he was a man of few words and given that he had awoken early from his long winter slumber I suppose I should not be to harsh. He did however say that his name is Keith, he really loves the Ragged Ramblers Blog and that he was really looking forward to spring and a dam good shag.

Keith

Make of that what you will.

+Many Coats+

Flasking Questions

2012-01-30T01:18:00.003Z

Please click on images in order to enlarge

Members of the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers love their flasks. Perched on the ledge above, these are two little Bobby Dazzlers; one dating from the 1960s; the other, from the '70s. We also like a well-made contemporary flask, like this little number, seen below, strutting its stuff by a sandwich box and a well-thumbed copy of Mortlock (Norfolk Churches, No. 3, West and South-West Norfolk).

Do you have any particular thoughts about flasks? Maybe a favourite manufacturer, or a preferred method of pouring from the vessel perhaps? Please do feel free to leave comments about this.

The Phenomenon of the Gunton Dandy

2012-01-23T01:18:00.001Z

The dandy, posing for photographs

A group of Ragged Ramblers was perambulating the lovely Robert Adam designed Eighteenth century church at Gunton in north Norfolk, when we sited a stray dandy posing in one of the alcoves. This young louche seemed entirely indifferent to our presence; although we did sense that he was pleased to parade himself in front of an audience.

Gunton Church seems to be a popular posing place for dandies (see HERE for instance). We have heard that they travel from far and wide to strut and preen in the elegant Georgian surroundings.

A dandy sighted on during a previous visit

Postscript: this is a truly lovely church. It is set in the grounds of Gunton Hall. You are perfectly entitled to visit the church, as it is open for the public. However, be forewarned, the signage in the estate grounds consists of a series of proclamations, declaring the land to be "Strictly Private". There is absolutely no mention of the church. We urge you, however, to be bold. Don't be intimidated. Just drive through the grounds, past the hall and park up near the cattle grid and path leading to the church.

Timothy Knight, RIP

2012-01-20T23:20:00.000Z

Please click on image in order to enlarge

As our Reader will be aware, R.S.A.R. members are currently engaged in the gargantuan task of transcribing and interpreting the colossal archive of the legendary Eighteenth century antiquarian, Cornelius Hump, Esq. (see HERE for further information). One of his more colourful contemporaries was the notorious flirtatious dandy, Timothy Knight, Gent.

Mr. Knight Esq., who departed this life in the year 1735, is mentioned many times in the more ribald sections of his fascinating diary. How fitting then that his recently discovered grave should be marked with the following epitaph:

Timothy laid by day
and by Knight
His wandering eye
in search of delight

His heart was fickle
His mind alert
To slap & tickle
and tease & flirt

The fillies can rest now
_his old man is dead
Knight hath fallen
He resteth his lead

QR & Curious Secrets

2012-01-20T00:30:00.001Z

Munro: 'That Thadeus is a bit of a whizz at technology isn't he Aunty Gary."
Aunty Gary: "Yes, indeed - he be a marvel!"
Munro: "Did you see his new code thing-a-me-jig?"
Aunty Gary: "Yes, I quite rightly did an all"
Munro: "One is frankly... well, most perplexed..."
Aunty Gary: "Why would that be Munro?"
Munro: "Well, dash it, I haven't got the foggiest what it is or what it does!"
Aunty Gary: "Aunty Gary thought it was one of them there pixie pictures... I really don't know eithers Munro, and that's a most boggling fact, be it..."

And so it goes, time out of mind...

Let me roll back the tweed curtain of technological denial, and explain our little 'gizmo'. It's a QR code ('Quick Response'). If you scan this with a smart phone it will take you straight to The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers blog. Thadeus 'the Whizz', has a notion that our friends and followers may take it upon themselves to print out the code and distribute it on our behalf. He has a dream that the good people who take time to visit here will feel compelled to share the curious secret, which is The Ragged Ramblers. Only time will tell...

Sonnet in a Burial Yard

2012-01-17T22:28:00.003Z

Shelton Church

John Donne"s Holy Sonnet No. VI read in Shelton graveyard, Norfolk (mp3)

'Holy Sonnet, No VI', by John Donne, read by a member of the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers in the burial yard at Shelton church, Norfolk.

Buckenham Rookery - A CorVideo

2012-01-17T21:57:00.000Z

Please note: this video is best viewed in enlarged mode

In late December Ragged Ramblers visited the largest rookery in Britain (estimated to number up to 80,000 in total), situated at Buckenham, Norfolk, located just to the south of Strumpshaw. It was cold and bleak, but the site of thousand upon thousands of rooks swirling in the sky was a compelling site (see video).

We also notice that the online directions to this wonderful site are very hard to find. As a result, we have added a location tag to this post, and have also added it to our Google map:

Ragged Ramblers Map (click on the green place-mark with the bird symbol, to the east of Norwich, near Brundall)

So long as people are sensitive to the needs of this corvid community, this shouldn't be kept a secret. Best witnessed in winter, wrap up well and make your way there. It does have to be seen to be believed!

Huzzah for the corvids!

The Sketchbooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant

2012-01-15T00:52:00.000Z

Please click on image in order to enlarge

We are pleased to release another page from the remarkable Dawson Bulwer-Rant archive. One can only marvel at his keen eye for wildlife, and his evident love of nature.

Huzzah!

We are the Ragged Ramblers!

2012-01-12T01:55:00.004Z

Gusts of laughter

Wry looks and smiles

as wide as the skies

We are Raggedly
resolved
to wonder

and to explore

an old world

anew

and share it

with you

Here

We are the Ragged Ramblers

Huzzah!

A Walk Through A Ruined Church

2012-01-07T20:26:00.001Z

During the last post we promised some footage of the ruined church at Burlingham. Please note the faint wall paintings...

Ragged Ramblers & Romantic Ruins

2012-01-06T00:06:00.001Z

Ruined medieval churches in Norfolk are not exactly a rarity, but perhaps the surprising thing is just how many of these beautiful and fascinating buildings have survived, intact, into the present (659 in total within the county of Norfolk - the largest concentration in the world!). Ruins are naturally, in part, about what we have lost - and are all the more poignant for that. However, they may also reveal secrets and surprises, and they remind us how fragile the pre-modern built heritage is, and how it is people and communities who breathe life into them, and continue to sustain them. When the opportunity arose, we were therefore compelled to explore the wonderful remains of St Peter, Burlingham.

The fate of this church was decided when its tower collapsed into the nave during the night in 1906. Despite the best efforts of its parishioners, the church was abandoned in 1936 and now, as you can see, stands in a state of considerable dereliction.

Having said that, the nave roof is just about still intact. However, despite the presence of some rather lovely Victorian tiles, the floor has been hacked about and the render of the walls is in a poor state.

Even so, there is the faint remains of a late medieval/early post-Reformation wall painting on the north nave wall (video to follow... Postscript: HERE it is).

We were fascinated by the way the roof had collapsed into the north side chapel. It seemed so incongruous to see the apex of the roof inside the structure and lurching at such an alarming angle. Everywhere, nature was inexorably reclaiming this place.

There is a sadness and poignancy to St Peter's at Burlingham, and I noted how each Ragged Rambler present took time to be alone in this space. It had an effect which is beyond the power of words to convey. Perhaps, though, it should come as no surprise to learn that members of The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers are in sympathy with romantic ruins.

I Sky with My Little Eye...

2012-01-04T00:05:00.000Z

Feel the Fear, but Parkour Anyway

2011-12-30T20:20:00.000Z

Members of The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers continue to hone our Parkour skills. We is moving with style innit, frere. Ragged Rambler, and Parkour traceur (practitioner), Aunty Gary, has this to say:

"One feels the fear, but does it anyway. The feeling a Parkourist achieves from a successful move is known in the vernacular as 'the buzz' - one feel that buzz. Wicked!"

WARNING! Please do not attempt to replicate these moves without professional instruction

PS We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Munro Tweeder-Harris' nephew, Tristram, who was kind enough to act as a consultant with regard to the 'street' vernacular speech, which Members are currently mastering.

Scoffing Across East Norfolk

2011-12-30T12:40:00.004Z

The Antiquarian Food Surveillance Institute have just released a bulletin about the Ragged Ramblers latest excursion...

Scoffing Across East Norfolk

Huzzah!

Whistling in Winter

2011-12-29T20:49:00.000Z

Interior of Upton Church, Norfolk. Note the
steep pitch of the 'fossilised' gable above the
west tower arch - we did!

Today, a small party of intrepid Ragged Ramblers defied the smudgy skies and chill wind, and set off on an antiquarian perambulation. It was during a quiet contemplative moment within Upton Church, Norfolk. that we recorded the following sound...

Whistling Hymn in Upton Church (mp3)

Poignant and infinitely sad...

"That's rather lovely" I said, turning to Aunty Gary, Thadeus and Maximillion.
"I've always wanted to whistle. I didn't know you could..." said Aunty Gary, turning to Thadeus.
"I can't..." replied Thadeus, looking to Maximillion.
"Nor can I!" exclaimed Maximillion, nervously.

Everyone looked at me. Curiously, I too am unable to whistle either!

Perhaps we will never know...

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris, Esq. ~

The Antient Art of Tea Chi (Chai Style)

2011-12-23T17:53:00.001Z

As you may have gathered by now, we Ragged Ramblers are dedicated to the mastery of a number of arts: parkour, eating cake, historic interpretation - and now, Tea Chi.

The origins of this hitherto most secretive of practices are shrouded in the mysteries of time (and other such clichés). As a result, there are a number of different 'foundation stories' which seek to explain this antiquarian art. The one we find most persuasive runs thus...

One of the oldest statutes of The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers states that a Rambler's cake is sacrosanct. Under no circumstances should a Member surrender his or her cake, for fear of being black-balled. It is said that one summer, time out of mind, a party of Ragged Ramblers had stopped to picnic somewhere in the north of Suffolk. Now, these are wild parts, and it is therefore no surprise what happened next.

The legendary co-founder of our Society, Dawson Bulwer-Rant, was partaking of cake when an impertinent young pup called Phileas Acorn, seeing Bulwer-Rant bring his tea to his lips, decided to reach across and snatch a slice of delicious Fickle Cake from the plate of the aforementioned antiquarian. Chroniclers say that what followed defies description. With that deficiency duly noted, imagine an uncoiling of energy; a fluid whirl of movement and a scream, followed by a flurry of tumbling arms and limbs, as the poor Acorn was bowled clean over by Dawson Bulwer-Rant - who stood triumphantly, still with tea in hand. This was the beginning of what later became known at the art of Tea Chi (literally, 'tea energy'). Over time, generations of Ragged Ramblers have passed on the lethal form of picnic defence, and can, on rare occasions, be found practicing the 'forms'.

This is what we share with you here...

Huzzah!

Ragged Ramblers Parkour!

2011-12-21T22:43:00.001Z

For many months now, training in conditions of the utmost secrecy, members of The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers have been honing their skills as accomplished proponents of Parkour: "a method of movement focused on moving around obstacles with speed and efficiency".

Here, we are able to share with you the fruits of this intensive programme of preparation. When questioned about this, Society member Munro Tweeder-Harris Esq. responded thus:

"It was well wicked, innit! One feels well good when one is doing this excretia. Huzzah!"

WARNING! Please do not attempt to replicate these moves without professional instruction

PS We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Munro Tweeder-Harris' nephew, Tristram, who was kind enough to act as a consultant with regard to the 'street' vernacular speech, which Members are currently mastering.

Our View from Norwich Castle Battlements

2011-12-18T10:00:00.000Z

Serendipity

2011-12-16T23:03:00.001Z

Please click on image in order to enlarge

Serendipity! One of the Society members favourite words.

We recently visited the the spectacular church of St Agnes, Cawston in Norfolk. Munro had been here previously on a number of occasions, but this was Thadeus' first visit.

We entered the church in the last afternoon gloom with the diagonal sleet on our backs. Inside, the church was lit and full of activity as members of the local community busied themselves decorating the church in readiness for the Christmas service. Due to the unsolicited kindness of the volunteers, we were delighted to be offered the opportunity to climb the stone spiral staircase and gain a spectacular view of the church from the balcony located in the west tower. We were also able to see the lovely hammer-beam angel roof from a new angle...

Huzzah!

Ragged Ramblers Coach Trip Excerpt...

2011-12-16T22:28:00.002Z

The Dimming of the Day

2011-12-14T00:06:00.001Z

At the dimming of the winter daylight, three members of the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers stand on the bridge looking down at the moon flickering on the surface of the River Bure. Just across the way stands the lovely church of St Mary at Burgh Next Aylsham, with its exquisite Early English step-down chancel. It has been a fine days Ragged Rambling.

Gather ye moon shimmers
Whilst ye may...

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris, Esq. ~

The Laughing Knight

2011-12-14T00:00:00.002Z

R.S.A.R members inspect the monument to Sir Rodger Todger,
'The Laughing Knight'

Sir Rodger himself. Please click
on image in order to enlarge

The Effigy of Sir Roger Todger

2011-12-11T14:04:00.007Z

In the course of our eventful R.S.A.R. excursion last Friday we happened upon a most remarkable set of church monuments. Set in the curious church of St Balderdash in the irrelevant little Norfolk village of Gene Pool, we were puzzled by the expression on the 'face' of Sir Roger Todger's monument effigy (d1621)

What on earth might have caused the poor chap such apparent distress?

Happy Christmas from RSAR

2011-12-09T20:56:00.001Z

Discoveries Galore - and Guffaws!

2011-12-07T05:06:00.002Z

We feel it in our bones; a chill wind from the north has us hugging our flasks and buttoning up our tweed. Yet, despite the claw of winter, later this week, members of the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers will be out and about exploring wonderful old places. Warmed by good company and hot tea (poured directly from the flask - not via an abominable screw-top), I sense that there will be discoveries galore - and guffaws aplenty!

Huzzah!

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris Esq. ~

The Cathedral of St John, Norwich

2011-12-05T22:47:00.001Z

A lot of people seem to be unaware that there are two cathedrals in Norwich. Last Friday afternoon, I was walking along Earlham Road when, on a whim, I decided to go and explore inside this fantastic Victorian/Edwardian gothic building (completed in 1910).

It was about five-o-clock when I walked inside. The light therein was fabulously atmospheric, and I soon realised that I was the only person in this, the main part of the cathedral.

It was a strange feeling to be alone inside such a huge building. I was struck by the peace and quiet - especially as, immediately outside, the rush hour traffic was at its height.

I was also struck by the difference this late afternoon winter ambience made to the look, and feel, of the cathedral

Summer light

Summer lit green man

I am so glad I took the time to take some time away from the rushing around going on outside.

An Old Face

2011-11-29T00:55:00.001Z

A lovely little medieval face carved into the wall of Norwich Castle keep. I wonder how old this is? Aside from the style, I think that the tooling marks might offer some idea as to maximum age. Any ideas?

Andrew's Horse...

2011-11-24T23:01:00.001Z

Figure 1: Please click on image in order to enlarge

Members of the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers were among those who assembled on Saturday 19th November at the wonderful church at Barton Turf, Norfolk, to learn more about medieval graffiti. The archaeologist and author, Matthew Champion, from the Norfolk Medieval Graffiti Survey, led a fascinating training session for a group of over twenty people.

Later, we explored the church in search of pre-Reformation images and inscriptions. One pillar in particular proved to be a graffiti 'hot-spot'. A small group were huddled around this area when Andrew, standing slightly behind the rest, observed that there was a horses head graffito immediately below the cluster of intersecting circles - and there it was...

... a beautifully rendered head of a horse! A real beauty! These ancient walls are full of surprises. I was particularly struck by the wonder of this discovery, as I had done the preliminary survey of this church and had missed this little gem entirely. There are some lessons here perhaps. Sometimes we need many pairs of eyes in order that one can see what is staring us in the face. Another conclusion might be that it sometimes pays to stand back and see things from another perspective. It also pays to ask questions. For instance, if someone took the time to draw this horse, did it once have a rider? Matt Champion was intelligent enough to follow this line of enquiry and mentioned it to me. I suggest that you take a good look at figure 1 (above).

I think I see the very faintest trace of a helmeted figure just to the right of the cross-hatching above the circles. Whether this and the horse are related I am not sure. What I do know is that for those Ragged Ramblers present on that cold Saturday, Andrew's horse was the highlight of the day.

Huzzah!

The Lost Notebooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant

2011-11-15T22:55:00.001Z

Please click on image in order to enlarge

We continue to discover more charming compositions in the archive recently bequeathed to us by the late, Lucinda Bell Morton Bulwer-Rant.

Huzzah!

A Dandy Drink...

2011-11-07T23:39:00.001Z

Dear Mr. Tarquin Ellis-Beachamp,

In reply to your telegram dated 30.10.11: please find here an image of the vessel used by Mr. Munro Tweeder-Harris Esq. during his last Antiquarian perambulation. Due to the stringent requirements of the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers Articles, Statutes & Pernickerty Disputations, we are unable to reveal the identity of the raffish Ragged Ramblers depicted there-on. However, we may comfortably disclose that he is known by some as The Gunton Dandy.

Antiquarian Salutations (and Huzzah!)
R.S.A.R

Font-astic!

2011-10-29T01:01:00.000+01:00

Look at this little beauty! No, not the bearded chap, silly... I'm referring to this fabulous lead covered font located within the church of St Laurence in Brundall - the only one of its kind in Norfolk.

This fascinating piece of material culture is thought to date from the thirteenth century. On each panel there is a depiction of Jesus being crucified.

Why so few? Why here?

Stone steps to who knows where

2011-10-18T20:27:00.004+01:00

As my good friend and fellow Ragged Rambler, Thadeus Basil-Snapper the Third in his post 'Doorways in the Air' recently said:

The exciting question of, "where does that go?" or "what lies beyond?" really brings out the childlike sense of adventure on a Ramble. It truly is a beautiful thing when you can recapture that feeling of youth when becoming a true antiquarian!

I couldn't agree more and on a recent Ramble to Settle in North Yorkshire I found myself thinking the very same thing. Nestled beneath the dramatic North Yorkshire hills, Settle is a maze of steeply rising roads, tracks and stone steps like the ones I fell upon late one evening and posted below. And I found myself wondering where do these steps go? Hewn from ancient stone they seemed to me to have been grown rather than built, which only served to make them all the more magical and add to the sense of childlike adventure so ably captured by Thadeus. I could of course have climbed them, but preferred instead to let the question hang in the air, so that all of you could enjoy that sense of wonder for yourselves!

Stone stairs to who knows where...

+Many Coats+

Doorways in the air

2011-10-14T18:12:00.000+01:00

The exciting question of, "where does that go?" or "what lies beyond?" really brings out the childlike sense of adventure on a Ramble.
It truly is a beautiful thing when you can recapture that feeling of youth when becoming a true antiquarian!

What lies beyond for you?

Trumpington Bugle - Dead Ramblers

2011-09-30T21:42:00.001+01:00

The Ragged Ramblers' preferred newspaper of choice, 'The Trumpington Bugle!', carries a fascinating discussion regarding the subject of Rambling whilst deceased:

Ramblum Mortuum

Huzzah!

Case of Curiosity...

2011-09-28T00:18:00.000+01:00

What is this? It's a case of some description. It looks to have some age to it. Yes, but what does it contain?

Aha, a scale! But hang on a minute - what does a member of The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers do with such an implement?

Minim cluster from probable fifteenth century writing in St Peter Mancroft
church, Norwich. Please click on image in order to enlarge

Why, they use it to scale medieval graffiti, devotional inscriptions and mason's sketches of course!

Huzzah!

Natural bounty in Norfolk county

2011-09-19T21:00:00.002+01:00

Last Sunday a Ramble to Holkham beach in north Norfolk to take in the stunning Norfolk skies. At their best this time of year, take a look, for need I say more......

A late summer day, but with a tinge of autumn and a waft of woodsmoke in the air. Our journey back took us down a sandy track past some of nature's wonderful bounties....

The first were blackberries small and tart to the taste. As me nan used to say, 'they drew your arse up to your elbows'!

Then past some rose-hips ripening nicely. Rich in vitamin C they have many uses including wine and according to a friend they were often used as Rosary Beads long, long ago....

But I had a very different use for them when young, for they are natures very own itching powder. I spent many happy hours peeling the outer shells to harvest the furry seeds within. Then they went into my sisters beds and to school where they were dropped down many a shirt collar.

So celebrate natures bounties yourself. With pies, jam and wine if you like, or alternatively peel a rose-hip, drop the seed down a shirt and wait for the fun to begin!

+Many Coats+

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Time

2011-09-16T21:46:00.001+01:00

I don't have any idea what time is. We may share it. It can drag. Our present is fleeting; our span, transient...

... in time, some grow and blossom; we learn, we discover. We may vainly seek to measure time...

... but, always, it has the measure of us...

Horizons...

2011-09-02T23:37:00.001+01:00

This video was taken at twilight from Southwold pier in Suffolk, as a formation of birds flew overhead and off out to sea. I found this perfectly enchanting and thought I would share it with you here...

Little Eccentricities

2011-09-01T12:21:00.002+01:00

Ragged Ramblers can be a bit extreme and even a tad eccentric in their behaviour on occasions.

Take this one for example - A member of the Society of many years standing who insists on wearing medieval garb and wooden medieval pattens (Hinged wooden strap on soles) whenever he goes Rambling. He says that it helps him get a 'feel' for the past and more importantly stops his feet wearing out.

+Many Coats+

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Munro's Recent Ragged Rambling...

2011-08-30T01:01:00.000+01:00

These are just of some of the places, things, curiosities, oddities, antiquities and wonders which Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers member, Munro Tweeder-Harris Esq., has encountered in the course of his recent Rambling...

Lollardy Singing Softly...

2011-08-27T23:42:00.000+01:00

Please click on image in order to enlarge

As Thadeus has already mentioned, the other day we spent a splendid hour exploring some of the amazing collection held in the Norfolk Heritage Centre (based in the Norwich Millennium Library). We were able to see and touch the wonderful Wycliffe bible, which once belonged to Anne Boleyn's great uncle.

This fabulously expensive work was transcribed in the fifteenth century from the original translation - from Latin to English - produced in Oxford University by John Wycliffe in the late 1300s. The wealthy Boleyn's could be trusted with such a work, and were, hence, granted the right to own this under licence from the bishop. However, there were 'dissident' copies, or excerpts - much more workaday than this grand tome - which did reach the hands and eyes of some common people. By the early fifteenth century, Wycliffe translations were being read in secret gatherings among the local gentry and artisans of Norfolk and other counties.

Why the secrecy? Well, once people outside the political elite were able to read the bible in English, this had the potential to undermine the authority of the official catholic church. People started to interpret the Word in ways which proved to offer a direct challenge to the hitherto dominant ecclesiastical institutions. The Lollards (as they became known - probably from the Dutch word 'lollen', meaning to sing softly... as in, in English and out of ear-shot of prying officialdom) offered a critique to the church which argued things like:

transubstantiation - the transformation of bread and wine in the mass into the literal body and blood of Christ - was a feigned miracle.
prayer over bread, wine, water, altars and so on were akin to magic, and encouraged folk to worship false idols.
the truth of the God's Word lies in scripture; the words of the bible, which should be open to all.
that the concentration of wealth in the hands of the institution of the church distracted Christians from their duty of faith, hope and charity.

To give some more flavour, here is an excerpt taken from the indictment made in Norwich Cathedral in 1428 against John Reve, a glover from Beccles (in Suffolk - part of the Norwich diocese):

"That the sacrament of confession oweth to be made to no prest, but only to God... that the sacrament of Confirmacion doon be [done by] a bisshop ys not ... necessarie to mannys [man's] salvacion. Also, he have holde, beleved and affermed that every man may lefully [lawfully] and withoute synne withhold e and withdrawe his tithes and offrynges from churches and curates... Also, that he holde, beleved and affermed that the pope of Rome is Antecrist [Anti-Christ] and hath no poar [power] in holy Churche as Seint Petir hadde..." [Source: "Norwich Heresy Trials, 1428-31", Camden Fourth Series, Royal Historical Society.]

I think you can see in this why - not least in terms of their material interests - this might be something which the authorities would wish to denounce as heresy.

There is so much more that could be said about this; for instance, with regard to the role of preaching in English in the massive uprising known as the Peasant's Revolt in 1381. Or, perhaps, we might investigate the counter-propaganda of the official church in the form of, say, seven sacraments fonts in East Anglia. There are also some interesting potential correlations between the geographical concentrations of Lollardy, and the later centres of Protestantism in England at the Reformation in the 1530s. We might, also, look to the influence of the diaspora connecting Norfolk to the Low Countries (modern day Belgium and the Netherlands) at this time. However, because this is a blog, not a book, I want to finish by putting one myth to bed.

It is widely known locally that there is a place in Norwich (opposite Bishop's Bridge) known as Lollards Pit. It was, indeed, the place where convicted Lollard heretics were burnt alive. However, I think it is important to note that, brutal though this was, it was very much a last resort. Most convicted heretics were forced to do penance, such as being publicly flogged, and they were generally given chances to repent before being condemned to die in the flames. I say this because, although social norms, perceptual horizons and mental maps change over time, it is too easy to smugly caricature dead generations as inherently brutish. It is also one of the precepts of the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers that we treat people from our past with respect. We would recognise ourselves in them, even if they would not necessarily recognise themselves in us.

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris, Esq ~

Today....

2011-08-25T21:14:00.001+01:00

A question for you...What did you do today?I was fortunate, no, privileged, to be able to say...

I touched and saw a bible that Anne Boleyn probably read and touched...

I touched and saw the first map of Norwich

I saw the collection of Blomefield's History of Norfolk

I saw and touched a medieval ship carved into a wall

And I saw and touched a complete daisy wheel carved into a wall.

A Ramble that had me in awe, struck with wonderment and excitement. I feel privileged.

The Lost Notebooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant - Frozen Toes

2011-08-25T06:25:00.001+01:00

Please click on image in order to enlarge

Gargoyles Gape

2011-08-21T23:13:00.001+01:00

In Westwick church
The gargoyles gape
And though wide-mouthed
No words escape....

Please click on image in order to enlarge

The Lost Notebooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant...

2011-08-19T23:25:00.003+01:00

Please click on image in order to enlarge

The Mysterious Kenilworth Balls

2011-08-16T23:00:00.001+01:00

For two weeks now Mr Gnarus and I have been touring the extremities of the fair City of Coventry and more particularly the town of Kenilworth and it's fine Castle. Once home to Robert Dudley - favourite to Elizabeth the 1st, Mr Gnarus and I were afforded the rare privilege of rambling it's immense ruinous structure in the evening when all the other visitors had departed. Suffice to say that in the fading light the castle appeared ominous and sombre. Brooding even.

A rare treat and one we shall remember, but one of many in this unusual town. Another was the vast amount of stone balls, each bigger than a man's head (Even bigger than Aunty Gary's head) that decorate many parts of the older settlement of Kenilworth. Many like the ones pictured above serving to decorate the gate posts of otherwise nondescript houses and bungalows. But what are they?

Answers can be sent to the Contributions Secretary or posted in the usual fashion on the comments page. The correct answer will win a signed copy of Aunty Gary's new bestseller, 'Imaginary Books I Have Read' as well as his classic work, 'Favourite Five Bar Gates of Norfolk, Tunstead to West Runton - A Pipe Smokers Guide'.

+Many Coats+

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Chestnut Ave,Kenilworth,United Kingdom

The Cry of The Ragged Rambler

2011-08-12T20:23:00.001+01:00

Members of The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers let out a resounding cry of "Huzzah!" (the cry of the true antiquarian) (mp3)

Here is a recording of a small group of Society members demonstrating the cry of the Ragged Society of Antiquarians (recorded on location)

St Michaels Church

2011-08-10T19:19:00.001+01:00

A day out with the family has brought us to this lovely location to see the castle, but the Rambler in me had me wandering through the local church.
A 14th C wall painting greets the traveller.

Whilst walking around, the church organ, one of only two in existence, plays in the background
Audio recording of the organ

Tombs of the castle owners lay peacefully within the church

Worth a visit!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Framlingham

Some Hidden Gems from Essex

2011-08-08T21:53:00.008+01:00

I have returned from a brief Ramble to Colchester Castle in the fair county of Essex. A fine museum where I was very taken with one of their temporary exhibitions. This one was all about buried treasures, from Anglo Saxon and English Civil War Hoards to unfinished neolithic flints and clothes and shoes secreted in the fire places, floors and walls of old houses. It was this group that really caught my eye. From mummified cats to witches pots and even this mid 17th century coat that had been hidden in a house in Malden in Essex....

The Maldon Coat

This old coat in particular really fires my imagination. Why was it hidden there? Many think they know but no one can be certain. There are those who will tell you that shoes were hidden to trap witches, for it is said they they can't walk backwards! A great story if nothing else. And the coat it too has a story to tell. It was oft times repaired and the fancy cuffs later added. Many owners perhaps each with a story. And that's the point about museum exhibits - they are far more than the sum of their interpretation panels. Don't be afraid when you see things like this coat to let loose and imagine what sights, sounds and scrapes it's wearers once got into. These tattered rags tell of its owners status, but might also hint at their aspirations, their hopes and dreams. We can all be tellers of tales and so too a raggedy old coat!

16th century shoes, witches pots and a mummified cat
From various Essex houses

Roman cow bells buried in a circle
Why?!

Saxon through to 17th century Civil War Hoards

For more information of hidden clothing we of the R.S.A.R suggest you visit the Deliberately Concealed Garments Website here...

+Many Coats+ R.S.A.R

Where in the world

2011-08-02T15:24:00.002+01:00

Guess the church. A new challenge for Ramblers. A furry cough sweet and a bent shilling as the prize

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An Ancient Erection!

2011-07-31T20:55:00.004+01:00

The Trumpington Bugle has just published an exclusive story about yet another dazzling discovery in the county of Norfolk. On this occasion, we are talking about an ancient erection of, maybe, some five to seven thousand years of age. Click HERE to read the remarkable story and see Professor Greenidge (pictured above) telling you all about it.

Swans

2011-07-30T16:18:00.001+01:00

Click here for a lovely short video taken of a family of Mute Swans swimming in the River Bure in the north of Norfolk (note the lovely church of St Mary's, Burgh-Next-Aylsham, in the background of the above photograph)

Riding the flames of fire

2011-07-23T09:36:00.022+01:00

St Materiana's Church, Tintagel

They say that lightening never strikes in the same place twice, but that is perhaps no comfort for Thomas Heminges of Cornwall. Once was enough for him. In 1702, just 4 years after Bryant Lewis of Norfolk died in terrible circumstances, Thomas also suffered a cruel fate, albeit in very different circumstances....

His body lies beneath a beautifully incised if somewhat worn grave slab in the windswept graveyard of St Materiana's church that sits high on the headland just above Tintagel Castle - For many the spiritual home of Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. Surrounded by many more eroded slabs and stones, some of them buttressed - Fortified against the worst of the Cornish wind and weather, the outer boarder of Thomas's slab tells the reader that he was, Dead And Buried The Twenty 8 Day of April 1702. Thomas Heminge did not Pass Away, nor did he Depart This Life, but quite simply he was Dead and Buried. I like that, for it suggests that early eighteenth century Cornish folk were inclined to speak as they find!

Thomas Heminge's Grave Slab

Detail of the slab

More interesting still though is the central inscription upon his grave. It reads....

The body that heer buried lyes
By Lightening fell death's sacrafice.
To Him Elijah's fate was given
He rode on flames of Fire to Heaven.
Then mourn no more Hee's taken hence
By the just hand of Providence.
O God the judgements of thy Seat
Are wonderous good and wonderous great.
Thy ways in all thy works appear
As Thunder loud, as Lightening clear.

Now I've no doubt that just like the family of Bryant Lewis who also suffered a violent death, Thomas Heminge's family must have suffered shock and pain. And whilst it might be true that lightening never strikes in the same place twice, then it is perhaps equally true that every cloud has a silver lining. For it seems clear that Thomas's family clearly believed the manner of his death marked him out as a pious and saved man, just like the stories of the Prophet Elijah, hand picked personally by God to join him in Heaven!

That must have been a source of some comfort to his grieving family over 300 years ago, but it also provided me with a chuckle standing there on that cold, grey, barren, yet utterly magnificent Cornish coast just three days ago. It tickled me to think of Thomas Heminges dressed in a scorched frock coat and blackened knee length breeches, with perhaps one hand pressing down a tattered tricorne hat upon his head, as red faced and roaring, he rode bare back upon a lightening bolt all the way up to his heaven!

The churchyard looking North-East towards Tintagel Hotel
It sits just above Tintagel Castle

Sturdily built graves typical of those in the Tintagel churchyard
Perhaps to protect them from the worst of the Cornish weather?

A more traditional gravestone
Buttressed against the worst of the Cornish weather

The ruins of Tintagel Castle
Taken from headland near St Materiana's

*Many thanks to the Tintagel Visitor Centre for the transcription of Thomas Heminge's Grave Slab

+Many-Coats+

The Murder of Bryant Lewis

2011-07-22T22:57:00.002+01:00

Click HERE to find out more about this.

I do believe in faeries!

2011-07-22T10:53:00.013+01:00

I have just returned from a well earned Rambler retreat with my family in Cornwall. It's a place that holds many good memories for me, Mrs Many-Coats and all the assorted little Many-Coats. Regardless of your beliefs I think much of Cornwall and indeed the whole of the South-West of England has a particular draw, which I think has something to do with the huge number of ancient henges, burial mounds and other ritual structures that bring us closer to a time when we may have been closer to nature and the seasons. Something that many of us would like to get back to in this hurly burly modern age.

And no where can this strong link to the past be seen than in the continued existence of stories about faeries and piskies (Cornish pixies) which although they still appear in books in other parts of England, can, I am assured by Cornish locals, still be seen gambolling among the meadow flowers on or about twilight on any summer evening.

Now I know what many of you are thinking and I too scoffed when first I heard these tales. That was until my son, Samuel Many-Coats produced irrefutable evidence of their existence...

Young Master Many-Coats & his fairies in Cheddar Gorge
(Immediately Prior to their release back into the wild)
Click on image to make larger

It turns out the young scamp had trapped a couple (A fairy and Pisky) in his satchel using some clotted cream fudge purchased from Granny Wobbly's Fudge Pantry on Tintagel high street in Cornwall. His plan: to sneak them home and see if he could get them to breed. Luckily I discovered the poor creatures still secreted in Master Many-Coat's satchel, but not until we had left Cornwall and were stopping for a tea break in the magnificent surrounds of Cheddar Gorge in Somerset. And having urgent business to attend to back here in Norfolk and so being unable to return them to their native land, we decided to release them there in the gorge in the hope that they will establish their own colony. Who knows, if they are successful there might come a day when their numbers spread and we have faeries again in Norfolk!

+Many-Coats+

Moments Seem to Last Forever

2011-07-21T23:09:00.003+01:00

Ragged Ramblers Brick Walls

2011-07-20T23:23:00.003+01:00

Council estate gable end wall, Loddon.
Designed by Tayler & Green

Walled Garden at Bolwick Hall.
Please click on images in order to enlarge.

Herringbone pattern repair, Reedham church

Barn wall next to Banningham church

Shield Discovered in the Lincolnshire Flatlands

2011-07-17T12:05:00.002+01:00

As our coach party wended our way, on the long journey from Norwich to Stow, we stopped for refreshments at a Lincolnshire cafe. The architecture therein, immediately sparked a learned discourse from Professor Greenidge, who noted late perpendicular features, exclaiming in characteristically shrill tones,
"Why, I think it to be a converted mediaeval Hall House!"

Perhaps even more remarkable, though, was the discovery in the toilets of this establishment, of 'Shield' soap...

1978 Shield soap advert

Now, the previous thinking of personal hygiene historians had been that the last incidence of Shield deodorising soap being used in Britain was in a Bed-and-Breakfast in South Wales in 1982. However, we can assure you that it is still going strong in this outpost of Lincolnshire.

Postscript: we did try and provide photographic evidence, but our attempts to take photographs in the toilet led to an alarming degree of hostility from local patrons of this facility, and we were forced to make a rapid escape.

Stow Minster, Lincolnshire

2011-07-17T11:41:00.000+01:00

Members of the Ragged Society recently travelled to Lincolnshire to experience and explore some wonderful mediaeval churches, in a trip organised by the historian, Dr Nick Groves. Here, you can see the coach party assembled in the interior of the Minster Church of St Mary...

Although Stow Minster features some fascinating pre-Conquest (pre-1066) architecture, it was a couple of smaller scale things which really caught my eye. First of all there was an amazing carving of a Viking ship, which, the sign claimed, is the earliest known representation of its kind in England (tenth or eleventh century)...

A Viking marauder, carved by, either, a local person who
perhaps witnessed it on the nearby river Trent, or by a
Viking himself.

I was also drawn to this incredible carving of a serpent/dragon draped around the base of the twelfth century font...

The sun was shining; we were travelling in the company of other enthusiasts - so much more to discover!

Norwich Castle Wildlife Clamber

2011-07-16T19:20:00.006+01:00

Natural Historian, Rob Coleman, explores some of the wildlife living on Norwich Castle mound... iSpot

Hales & Heckingham Churches, Norfolk

2011-07-11T23:10:00.000+01:00

With Gusto Proceed in Every Thought and Deed...

2011-07-09T23:31:00.007+01:00

Taken in the graveyard of Hales church, the most complete surviving Norman parish church in Norfolk; a short piece incorporating some words taken from the inscriptions on monuments in this beautiful place.

Medieval Stained Glass Talk - North Tuddenham Church Porch

2011-07-09T21:13:00.006+01:00

For further information about this churches glass, please click HERE
To receive automatic updates every time we update the Ragged Ramblers site, please submit your email in the box on the right-hand sidebar.
Huzzah!

Vision on Houghton Hill

2011-07-09T09:42:00.002+01:00

Please click on images in order to enlarge

In 1992 Bob Davey and the - then derelict - church ofSt Mary, at Houghton-On-The-Hill met for the first time. It proved to be adecisive moment, for Bob, with a resolute will and the skills of a trainedengineer, dedicated himself to breathing - and, sometimes, heaving! - life backinto the church. He is a man who saw things as they could be, and then did thespade work to realise that vision. TheRagged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers - some of whom are formerlyhorny handed sons of toil themselves - were aghast at the toil thistransformation must have required - a true labour of love.

And when we stepped inside... well, what a spectacle!Now, Ragged Ramblers have visited Copford in Essex, with its spectaculartwelfth century fresco wall paintings - and were duly awe-struck (see HERE). However, when we were faced with the spectaclewhich faced us at Houghton, we were astonished. I think it fair to say that thedate range of these images is still contestable. However the church leafletsuggests that the oldest paintings originated in the eleventh century. Thinkabout that for a moment...

...that is perhaps some 336,395 days old. The figures and the composition lookedRomanesque to me, so a date somewhere in the 1090s feels about right - but, atthis stage, who knows for sure...

Accordingto Bob, the wonderful elongated hands of the figures above signified prayer.What survives here are the 'setting out' paintings which were the foundationover which the colour and detail were applied. Here is a conjectural image ofhow this last judgement scene might once have appeared...

Havingstared long and hard at the ancient walls, we were then fortunate enough to beallowed to ascend the tower and take in the view...

Houghton-On-The-Hill church is a special place; aplace which we Ragged Ramblers will be returning to in the future (not least,to explore further the abandoned medieval village in the field opposite the church, which so caught our'eye').

Afterwards, sitting in the 'tour bus' we reflectedthat this visit was one of the pinnacles of the Ragged Ramblingexperience.

We would, of course, like to thank Bob. We would alsolike to acknowledge the other gentleman who made us feel so welcome, and wore asmile well.

[For further information, please see the St Marychurch site, HERE]

The 5 shilling Ragged Rambler's Tour 2011

2011-07-08T22:14:00.008+01:00

Click on image to make larger

The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers are pleased to announce the kickoff of their summer tour 2011. We shall be travelling the highways and byways in our specially kitted out 'Rambler Van' complete with assorted maps, assorted cutlery, gout stools, and other indoor seating to allow for excursions in foul weather or fair and we will be coming to a church, heritage site or some other curiosity near you. So whether you are visiting a priory ruin, a disused lock or newly renovated water mill this summer keep an eye out for the Ragged Ramblers on tour.

From Munro Tweeder-Harris and Thadeus Basil-Snapper the third to Maximillion, Many-Coats, Mr Gnarus and Professor Greenage. You might even catch a glimpse of R J Ooooooooooonstead (Deceased) Wee Davey, Dr Turnup-Slacks, the Gunton Dandy, Field Marshall Cockton-Smythe or even Silent Mandy, Israel Gedge and Aunty Gary. Who knows, you might even spy the ever elusive Contributions Secretary!

If you do think you spot one of them simply call out, Ragged Rambler, Ragged Rambler - You are a Ragged Rambler - Huzzah and you could win a 5 shilling postal order, a fun size pack of Iced Gems and a cup of your very own flask tea!

+Many Coats+ R.S.A.R

The Lost Notebooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant - Where?

2011-07-06T01:32:00.000+01:00

Please click on image in order to enlarge

St Botolph, Banningham - A Video Tour Inside The Church

2011-07-02T23:52:00.002+01:00

Banningham - a lovely Norfolk church

Here, a member of The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers shows you around the inside of this church...

Now, if you are able, go and experience it for yourself...

The Lost Notebooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant - Jupiter Rising

2011-07-01T18:09:00.011+01:00

Please click on image in order to enlarge

Jupiter rising

We stand
gape-mouthed

the slightest rustle of leaves

as dusk envelopes us

and leads us to believe...

Believe that we are

infinitesimal....

And by Jupiter
we are!

A Riveting Read

2011-06-29T21:25:00.001+01:00

As well as its outstanding legacy of mediaeval churches, Norfolk is replete with what one expert has described as:
"Certainly the foremost assemblage of vintage churchyard water storage solutions in Norfolk."

Here, for instance, is a handsome Judkins style tank with distinctive Arkinstall riveting. It sits, stout and sturdy, on a simple brick plinth, with an Alexander tap. In terms of date range, we are talking 1949-1960 - for it was in this all-too short flowering that this particular style of galvinised water tank reached its zenith. A triumphant survivor!

Ryan Bryan (author of 'Galvinised Water Tanks in Norfolk Graveyards')

The Gunton Dandy

2011-06-25T23:01:00.003+01:00

Please click on image in order to enlarge

A visit to the elegant and restrained Robert Adam designed church at Gunton is always rewarding. Built in the 1760s this is English Palladian inspired architecture at its best: elegant, restrained and, in the depths of Norfolk, somehow other-worldly. I was delighted to happen upon the Gunton Dandy posing in one of the external niches. I am rather inclined to believe that you might appreciate an opportunity to see this strutting creature for yourself.

Going Underground - Subterranea Britannica

2011-06-25T13:38:00.001+01:00

I have just discovered this very interesting site, Subterranea Britannica, and thought I'd share it with you. It is an exploration of human made underground places in the UK (and with a few from overseas as well). It features a very useful 'Locations' section which maps subterranean structures by city and county. Fascinating!

A Tangled Present - Briggate Mill, Norfolk

2011-06-22T22:17:00.004+01:00

This day, a small group of Ragged Ramblers perambulated around North-East Norfolk. As we wended our tweedy way we happened upon a derelict mill building at Briggate. The Briggate Mill has had an eventful history; one which included a lengthy trial and conviction for arson and an attempt to defraud the insurance company (fire, 7th August 1975). See HERE for further information...

The Lost Notebooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant - Hindringham Church

2011-06-21T08:08:00.003+01:00

"Dear Dawson,

I do hope you are prodigiously well Sir. I wish to say here that, although initially taken aback a little by the passion with which you expressed your opinions, I do completely concur with your view that pouring tea through slots in a flask is an affectation. In your own words (as I recall):
'Sign of an enfeebled mind Munro! Dribbling one's tea in that manner is an affront to the traditions I hold dear. Pour tea from an open flask or don't pour it at all! I find this most perplexing!'

I also wish to apologise for the surprise I caused when screaming "NO!" at you, as you went to examine the lock on the antient church coffer within Hindringham church. Cruel experience has taught we RSAR members that this is one item best left unhandled (and I do hope that your ear trumpet is not too badly dented as result of the tumble it took).

Antiquarian Salutations,
Munro

Munro Tweeder-Harris, Esq.
R.S.A.R"
Hindringham Hinges

Best wishes on your birthday?

2011-06-15T19:57:00.010+01:00

Just yesterday it was my birthday and Mrs Many Coats did me proud with a copy of The Legend of St Cuthbert with the Antiquities of the Church of Durham. Revised and Corrected, With Explanatory Notes and Illustrations. To Which is Prefixed, A Concise Account of Robert Hegge, The Author. By John Brough Taylor, F.S.A (1816)

Title Page of John Brough Taylor's Legend of St Cuthbert

A fine title for a fine book and one that will take pride of place upon my night table for some time to come. But what struck me was the inscription on the inside cover...

Anne Gregson
January 1817
Given by her Father
Click on image to make larger...

Not, Given with love. Not, Given to my loving daughter or even, Given with best wishes. Just Given by her Father, and it got me wondering about Anne and her father. Were they typical of their time? Was this the best and only sign of affection that Anne or any other well to do girl might hope for in late Georgian England?

Perhaps the gift of a book was itself enough to make Anne secure in the knowledge that her father loved her dearly, but then again the choice of a book about a Saint might suggest her father thought she was in need of some religious or moral guidance. Not a present at all, but rather a guide for a wayward girl who spent too long with her head in the clouds and not in her studies perhaps?

I don't think so, because although the book has a religious theme, it's too obscure to be a moral tool. It is after all a reworking of a much earlier work by Robert Hegge on St Cuthbert and I think it's likely that the giving of such an obscure book to a young woman by her father suggests an interest in history, myth and legend that her father was trying to nurture.

Copy of the orignal Robert Hegge 1625 title page
From John Brough Taylor's 1816 edition

Of course I can't be certain, but I think Anne's father, although not given to displays of emotion, clearly held his daughter in high esteem and loved her deeply.

It only remains for me to thank Mrs Many-Coats for a lovely present and for her note to me, beneath Anne's father's to her. A message that mirrors his message, but leaves me in no doubt as to her thoughts and feelings for me!

+Many-Coats R.S.A.R+

The Lost Notebooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant - Whirling Clouds

2011-06-09T19:13:00.001+01:00

The Lost Notebooks of Dawson Bulwer-Rant

2011-06-07T22:47:00.004+01:00

The Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers (RSAR) are very pleased to announce that a fascinating collection of Antiquarian notebooks have been recently bequested to us. These originally belonged to that legendary Ragged Rambler, Dawson Bulwer-Rant.

Over the next several years we anticipate being able to share excerpts from this voluminous archive with you here.

Here is a profile of Dawson...

Dawson Bulwer-Rant was born into a family without any obvious antiquarian predilections. As a small child he was already showing his future leanings by his insistence on wearing an all-in-one tweed romper suit. During summer holidays, with sketchbook in hand, he would cycle into the countryside in search of ancient monuments and natural curiosities. His few friends later noted that, although of a generally gentle disposition, the young Dawson would, on occasion, erupt into a froth of indignation, randomly berating, for instance, the shallow pitch of Knapton church roof ("... inappropriate! Inappropriate I say!"). His contemporaries testify that the thing most likely to set him into a state of incandescence was the tendency in modern times to pour one's tea through the slots of the flask lid, rather than by the proper, civilised means passed from generation to generation, time out of mind (namely, by removing the lid and pouring).

After a long career dedicated to the study of the old, the quirky and the curious, Dawson is reputed to have had a dream in which the idea for the original 'Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers' came to him ("... an epiphany Munro!"). Following this, he began to talk excitedly of churches and cake and laughter and learning (and flasks without slotted lids!)... and, indeed, such was the persistence of this mania, that he was, for a period, detained by the authorities...

However, he had a dream, and that dream would not die. His was a spirit drawn to discover the whispers of the ages; the mesmerising wonder of reeds swaying in a gentle breeze - the wonderful weave of Harris tweed! And so it was that, with cake in hand, he founded this - 'The Ragged Society of Ragged Ramblers'...

Huzzah! for Dawson Bulwer-Rant

Postscript: many of Bulwer-Rant's field sketches are unlabelled. Therefore, if anyone is able to assist us in identifying the location of the sites depicted, then your assistance in this matter will be most appreciated.

All Saints Church, Marsham - Inside

2011-06-07T18:30:00.003+01:00

Having already explored a little of the graveyard around the All Saints Church, in the village of Marsham, let us know go inside and talk a look around...

Even before we went inside, the rapier flight of two swallows darting out of the church porch alerted us to the presence of their nest in the niche above the front door. Would the church be open though?

Yes! And as soon as we stepped within I knew that this was going to be something a bit special. First of all, note the lean to the right of this arcade of arches - the south aisle. And on the soffit (underside of the arch) near the end, note the blush of pink; the remnants of medieval decoration...

Now, I was aware prior to this visit, that the rood screen and seven sacrament font are the 'star' features of the churches in all the guides - and rightly so! However, a Ragged Ramblers eye is always roving in search of the presence of humble folk. It didn't take me long, therefore, to locate a really rich assemblage of early (apparently) Nineteenth century graffiti near the foot of one of the pillars of the south aisle (there is another such collection, on the opposite aisle too)...

The urge to leave your mark is timeless...

Here you see a medieval 'daisywheel' lightly etched into one of the aisle blocks, very close by the previous graffiti.

It wasn't long before I stumbled into another 'personal' touch; a lovely intimate epitaph on a ledger slab in the central aisle...

Whenever was the worth of a person expressed within the limits of a page, let alone a gravestone?

There is more, so much more to find here. If you get a chance, visit yourself (it's open during summer months). In the meantime, here are some more photographs...

An exquisite Late Fifteenth century rood screen...

Delicate stencilled patterns...

Fragments of gesso on the faces of the rood screen arches

Well preserved early Fifteenth century Seven Sacrament font. You are
looking at a baptism scene

Mid-Eighteenth century skull and cross-bones

A well-stocked bric-a-brac table!

A very fine late medieval Hammerbeam roof, with slightly
incongruous Eighteenth century tie-beams

A smattering of medieval glass (these pieces reclaimed from robbed-out
fragments at nearby Bolwick Hall

A wonderfully naive rendition of a lion and unicorn on this,
a rare early survivor, with the royal arms of James 1

Mirror carving on main entrance doorway

There is just so much here! I was moved to call fellow Ragged Rambler, Thadeus Basil-Snapper (the third) and enthusiastically talk him through some of what I was seeing here. As I said earlier - and as the awesome Simon Knott concurs - this is a church deserving of much more acknowledgement than it currently receives.

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris, Esq ~

Design Wee Davey a Livery Competition

2011-06-07T13:01:00.009+01:00

As many of you will know, it was with great excitement that we of the Learned Society recently discovered the existence of a curious man-child - a wee wanderer in time and space called Wee Davey. Our original report of this most wondrous case can be found by going here.

Wee Davey and Thadeus Basil-Snapper the Third
*Courtesy of the Trumpington Bugle

The child already being knowledgeable in the ways of Reredos, Fan Vaults and Flying Buttresses, we have decided to take the poor chap under our wing and grant him the honorable title of R.S.A.R mascot and afford him all the rights and privileges that the office brings. Privileges including an R.S.A.R livery - a Ragged Rambler suit of clothes for every occasion. To that end we have decided to launch a competition to design a livery for Wee Davey. I myself have started the ball rolling with two suggestions:

The First is entitled 'Sailor Ahoy Wee Davey' and is designed with Rambles on the Norfolk Broads in mind....

As you can see Wee Davey has a lolly to keep him amused on the journey to the boat yard. Also a compass to assist with navigation (For we Ragged Ramblers are not known for our sea faring skills) Also a Ragged Rambler Flag, to plant in the ground should we discover some ancient curiosity long hidden from human kind's eyes.

The second suggestion I call 'Ungowa Wee Davey', a costume with Nature Rambles in mind...

Inspired by the writings of Edgar Rice Burroughs, the livery includes a creeper for ease of passage through the woods and also a knife for cutting picnic cake and the foil from tightly packed sandwiches. The costume also takes advantage of the wee man child's unusually hairy physique in that it will keep him warm even on winter Rambles.

Those are my suggestions, but we would like to see more and anyone interested in entering the competition can simply download one of the photos of Wee Davey below and create a livery of his or her choice using basic photo editing software. For those who do not have a photo editor on their computer we of the Learned Society recommend 'pixlr', a free web based editor which can be accessed here.

Right Click and 'Save' Images to your computer

All entries and can be sent to the Contributions Secretary, RSAR at: ragsocantiq@yahoo.com

Please Note:
Full terms and conditions of the competition cannot be found anywhere and the the decision of the RSAR Committee is final. The winning entry will be decided who knows when and may or may not be posted on the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers Website.

+Many Coats+ R.S.A.R

All Saints Church, Marsham - Outside

2011-06-05T22:31:00.006+01:00

Click on images in order to enlarge them

This fascinating church lies on the southern outskirts of the village of Marsham, Norfolk. Although just a stone's throw from the busy A140, I was surprised by the tranquility of the setting...

A lovely perimeter brick wall; fields beyond - a single ink-blot tree punctuating the horizon. I regretted not having my sketch book to hand. If I had, this is how I pictured it, as I imagined how the scene might look after nightfall...

A slow stroll took me to the trunk of a huge tree, wrapped in tendrils of ivy. At its foot, there stood a single gravestone, partly sunk into the earth. Somebody's son or daughter lies here...

A lovely church, in a lovely setting - and still so much more to discover inside...

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris ~

This week's mystery object...

2011-05-31T18:50:00.013+01:00

Every now and then we Ragged Ramblers leave the country lanes and ancient crumbling ruins and stumble into the odd museum. We particularly like the old fashioned cabinet of curiosity approach with rooms stuffed to the gunnels with all sorts of interesting and unusual artefacts. And so it was with great joy that I found myself in Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich. Originally a Tudor hall it grew and developed as fashions changed and it is now a museum and gallery full of twists and turns, nooks and crannies, step ups and step downs and creaking floor boards. Lots of creaking floorboards! Even the sink in the toilet had an period feel...

A pleasure to wash one's hands in such a generous sink...

It is packed full of fantastic furniture stained with the dark hues of everyday use and touch. There are little rooms here and there, austere Tudor and Stuart portraits; their occupants sitting in judgement on all the meaner sort like many of us Ragged Ramblers who pass by. There are all sorts and sizes of room, from rich men's closets to the scullery and kitchen where the meaner sort like many of us Ragged Ramblers would have once turned spits and fetched water. It's a labyrinth, because as fashions and tastes changed the house grew and in later times furniture and even whole building from elsewhere in Ipswich were absorbed into the structure. There is too much there to describe, from Georgian costume to Tudor whipping posts and cucking stools and so I have decided to focus on two objects that caught my eye....

The joy of courtship...
Click on image to make larger

The first is small jug made in the late 18th century in the ceramics collection and it's subject reflects a major theme of times past and perhaps even times present. In truth I'm not really into ceramics, but this jug had a certain appeal because of its theme, namely the struggles between man and woman, husband and wife, which has been a constant cause of both concern and jocularity in the long and not so long ago. Many a medieval illuminated manuscipt and Tudor and Stuart woodcut are littered with images of arguing couples and so too this 18th century jug, for as it says...

When two fond fools together meet
Each look gives joy, each kiss as sweet
But Wed, how cold and cross they be
Turn upside down and then you'll see...

And then when you turn it upside down the message is complete!

The realities of Matrimony!

This is not an attack on men nor women, but simply a joke that makes people laugh and so hopefully lessens tension between men and women, husband and wife. Surely we all need a laugh every now and then!

The other object that interested me was this wooden contraption that I found upstairs in a Tudor bedroom packed full of court cupboards, chests, wooden cribs and ancient wall paintings...

This Week's Mystery Object

But in the spirit of honorary Ramblers of times past like the late great Jack Hargreaves and the East Anglian antiquarian and tweed fancier, Dick Joyce of Bygones, I am not going to tell you what it is. Just as Jack and Dick would have done in their TV studio sheds long ago, I am presenting it to you as a mystery object - A competition to guess what it was and what it did? Answers can be sent directly to the Contributions Sec., or left in the comments section of this post.

The winning entry will receive a years supply of self satisfaction in the knowledge that they are nearly as clever as the Ragged Society of Antiquarian Ramblers.

Huzzah!

+Many Coats R.S.A.R+

New Look for a Dear Old Organ

2011-05-31T00:34:00.000+01:00

The boys on The Bugle desk are pleased to announce a new suit for their old rope.

Click here for a pleasant perusal..

Medieval Magic & Happy Accidents at Wells Cathedral

2011-05-30T18:55:00.012+01:00

There are some as will tell you that life in Medieval times was grim - That the people of long ago spent their short lives scrabbling about in the dirt obsessing about death. That is not true. As wall paintings like the three living and three dead at Northwell show us they did know death well enough, but it didn't rule their lives. They did not live in a time of instant gratification and planned for the future in a way lost to many of us today. Trees must be grown before the wood can be cut and shaped to build houses. And stone must be quarried, transported many miles and worked on for many years to build even the smallest of cathedrals.

St Andrews in Wells is such a cathedral and the first phase of building took over eighty years, which clearly shows the medieval mind was focused on the future. A relatively small cathedral that would be unremarkable if it were not for the west front which still has over 300 of its medieval statues. Statues that would have originally been brightly painted. Surely this fact alone argues against all those who look back to our grim past! But this huge collection of Saints, Kings, Bishops, Biblical Scenes, Apostles, Angels, the Virgin Mary and Christ himself hide an even better secret not even promoted on the Wells Cathedral website. For behind the statues on three tiers are portals the punch through the stone work to hidden passages within and on certain festive occasions like Palm Sunday the choir would sing out on the lower two tiers, whilst trumpets were sounded at the very top, making it appear that the stone figures had come to life. It must have looked and sounded as if they were singing from on high!

West Front of Wells Cathedral

Detail of the West Front

And so transport yourselves back for a moment to Medieval times, where life could be tough, especially for the poor. But try and put yourself in their shoes and don't get wrapped up in religion or belief, for whether your are a spiritual person then or now isn't important. Regardless of your or their faith surely it must have been a most magical experience. Whatever your beliefs, surely we all enjoy a little bit of magic in our lives.

Still not convinced? Well not only did the builders of cathedrals and other great stone structures look to the future, but given their limited technologies and materials their ingenuity would put any modern builder to shame. Just witness the scissor arches in Wells cathedral.....

Scissor arches - east from the nave

Detail of the arches from the south transept

Many think they are modern additions and dislike them for that, but they are in fact no more than a fourteenth century happy accident and we Ragged Ramblers love our happy accidents! But whilst we might stumble upon the interesting and unusual after we have lost our way, the medieval builders had much more to contend with than missing or badly read maps - They were more concerned with a central tower which as it was being built was already subsiding and sinking into the ground. The builders though were not phased and the scissor arches were their solution. Some hate them, but I love them for their clean flowing symmetry, their cleverness and the fact the yet again they demonstrate that the medieval mind could and did raise itself up beyond the grim hard world. A grim hard world that some nowadays cannot see beyond when they look back into our past.

Details of two levels of 'string course' (Above arches) in the south transept
They dip towards the scissor arch in the south transept showing the earlier subsidence of the central tower

Certainly they overawed and overwhelmed one Ragged Rambler, Mrs Many Coats, so much this weekend that she was driven mad and spent most of the weekend believing she was a tree.

Mrs Many Coats at Wells Bishop's Palace being a tree

+Many Coats R.S.A.R +

April Fabb - A Tribute

2011-05-28T10:48:00.004+01:00

Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to enjoy a fantastic day out, Ragged Rambling with Maximillion in North Norfolk. Among the many sites we visited was the church at Metton. One thing about our Rambles is that you never quite know what you will discover, and the eclectic nature of this site is very much a reflection of the spectrum of emotions generated by engaging sensitively with historic spaces. This was once such occasion...

Being born in the sixties, Maximillion and are both old enough to remember the tragic story of April Fabb. On Tuesday April 8th 1969 at about 1:40pm thirteen year old April cycled off to her sister's house in nearby Roughton. Just after 2:00pm a farm worker saw her cycling along through Metton in the direction of Roughton. A few minutes later her blue and white bike was found abandoned in a field. From that day to this no-one has ever seen her again. I think that, from this distance of time, we have to assume that she was murdered on, or around, that day.

It must have been an endless torment for her parents and family, never to have found her body. Maximillion and I are both parents, and we agreed that this must be the worst nightmare imaginable. Although April's monument doesn't lie over her body, it does mark her memory. We hope that, one day, her remains may be found and a kind of closure be brought to this awful chapter. We also sincerely hope, that if the perpetrator of this crime is still alive, that they be discovered and have to answer for all the immeasurable pain they have caused.

Here's how Peter, a former classmate, remembers her:

"April was my classmate at the time of her disappearance and I remember her very well. She had sat on my knee at the school dance and when the girls played hockey with the boys , she had playfully used her stick to stop me in what could have been quite a devastating way. She was a very popular girl , full of life vivacious and pretty. On the day she went missing I was also out on my bike fishing with a friend but had cycled home alone.

When I left school I worked with her father for a short time. The pain he felt was etched on his face at all times and I can not put into words how sorry I felt for him and the rest of April’s family.

I will always remember her. God bless you April."

This case has never been closed...

Norfolk Constabulary

~ Munro Tweeder-Harris ~

A Wee Wanderer

2011-05-27T00:04:00.000+01:00

It was nearly so late at night, that it was actually very early in the morning. I was sitting up going through some of my old research papers. Something curious had caught my eye:

" ... on Thursday evening last Daniel Tangle asserted that he had observed a tiny bearded boy roaming within the church of St Coligate, Norwich. He speaks of the lad as We Davy, being of a frendly disposition. Grete distemper in drinke! Evidence dismissed"
May 24th 1761

That was nearly nine years ago now, and I had quite forgotten about that odd record. However, last Saturday we Ragged Ramblers ventured out into the far West of Norfolk and an incident occurred which made my mind leap back to the story of Wee Davy.

The four Ragged Ramblers where exploring their fourth church of the day; each in their own particular fashion. Mr. Many Coats lay prostrate, staring up at the ceiling. Jimothy Ditheridge prevaricated by the porch. The vertiginous Thadeus Basil-Snapper (the third) was perfectly lost behind the lens of his camera. Munro Tweeder-Harris was tasting the lime mortar for evidence of the buildings medieval provenance... and then it happened...

As if from nowhere, there appeared a tiny boy, smiling and holding a copy of Mortlock & Roberts, 'Churches of Norfolk'. Although initially taken aback we were perfectly charmed by the little fella. He seemed to take a particular liking to Thadeus...

However, his beaming little face looking up at you from down there... well, even the hardest heart would be bound to crumble...

The only two words he seemed to know were 'Wee Davy', spoken in an extraordinarily high-pitched voice that set the dogs of the parish barking.

We fed him some of the delightfully light and fluffy gluten-free lemon sponge which Thadeus had baked for us. Jimothy offered him a drink poured from through the slots of his flask, but the boy refused to let the steaming hot tea anywhere near him. However, when Munro removed the lid from his flask and poured the boy a cuppa, he guzzled it down with relish.

Isn't it interesting how, even a tiny boy who has stumbled through a rip in the time-space continuum can recognise the essential decency of tea poured from a flask with the lid removed. Most gratifying - for some of us!

Death the Leveller

2011-05-26T15:20:00.007+01:00

Last weekend four intrepid Ragged Ramblers made their way west towards Methwold, a village that stands on the very edge of the Fens. A good number of the Learned Society out that day, for although we Ramblers have on many occasions ventured forth as a threesome we are learned enough in the ways of history, myth, legend and folklore to know that the number three is not advantageous to adventures of any sort. Even those not schooled in the way of folklore will i'm sure remember what happened to the three little pigs and as our good friend the Yarnsmith of Norwich always reminds us, when it comes to three travellers two at least are likely to come to a bad end - more likely all three. A fact that is attested too in some of the medieval art that we Ramblers sometimes stumble upon on our expeditions.

Why on this our last Ramble we came across such a 600 year old warning recently rediscovered at the church of St Andrews in Northwold near Methwold in West Norfolk. The painting is in need of further repair and restoration and is difficult to make out, but having seen a very similar one in the coincidentally dedicated church of St Andrew's in Wickhampton we recognised it as the three living and the three dead. Three noble men, maybe even Kings who went out hunting and were hailed by three representations of Death.

The three living and three dead at Northwold
Click on image to make larger

Death beckons the living

Detail of the noble holding a hunting hawk at Northwold

The subject is said to have been a popular one in the wake of the Black Death and is a recognition that Death is no respecter of status, he steals the life from all eventually. He levels all men, for all will be the unwilling victims of his crimes. A common enough conceit in a time when all those who could afford to commission momento mori were desperate to demonstrate their humility in the face of death and disease, although the Yarnsmith says that he has as yet to find the story in text form. He does however note that it bears similarities with Chaucer's Pardoner's Tale, a version of which can be found on one of the Yarnsmith's blogs by clicking here.. A story where three foolish youths go in search of Death with the aim that they will kill him for stealing the life of so many of their friends. Suffice to say that it is Death who kills them by exploiting their greed. So not that different to the three nobles whose vain dress and pursuits may well have been seen as punishable by Death, for there were many who believed that the Pestilence was a punishment from God for our medieval forebears vain and wicked ways.

The three living and three dead at Wickhampton

Detail of the noble holding a hunting hawk at Wickhampton

Now we Ragged Ramblers like to think that we are probably not that wicked nor vain, but perhaps our love of the latest gadgets like iphones and more especially our foolhardy attachment to the latest flasks with their 'twist-&-pour' technology, will mark us out for punishment (If we believed in such things) There are some who believe they will and even though we don't, we are respectful to the old beliefs and even we on a day that some claimed would be our last, traveled forth as four not three. A happy accident perhaps like so many of the discoveries we make.

The Thomas Gooding Memorial in Norwich Cathedral
Typical of Momento Mori of Medieval times it says:

All you that do this place pass bye
Remember death for you will dye.
As you are now even so was I
And as I am so shall you be.
Thomas Gooding here do staye
Wayting for God's judgement day

And so a warning to all those who wish to follow in our footsteps. Perhaps when you ramble forth you should keep to the path and never travel in threes. That's not to say that we will heed our own advice. Those who stick to the path will never have the happy accidents; they will not make those discoveries that we often make. Nor will they discover the unusual like the Northwold wall painting, although it is perhaps an irony that our latest discovery demonstrates so well the perceived terrors that awaited those who did not heed their 'betters' advice long, long ago!

+Many Coats+

Flask A Question...

2011-05-23T22:42:00.003+01:00

"If only there were a way to pour one's tea without taking the lid off..."

Such are the preoccupations of a Ragged Rambler. Well, here we offer you a small excerpt of a typical exchange between an advocate of the 'open lid approach', and a 'twist and pour' proponent:

Please do share any views you hold about this contentious issue with us here...

Addendum:
Reliable sources have just wired us this photographic evidence that the 'twist and pour' approach is prodigiously hazardous:

We invite you to click on the image in order to enlarge it.
Be reassured that this photograph is an entirely realistic
depiction of a reckless pour show!