Melbourn History Group If readers will look at page 117 of their Melbourn History Book they will see a photograph taken many years ago of a funeral and the parish funeral bier that was used in those days. Since the formation of the Group there has been much speculation about the fate of this item of village history and just when we had given hope of ever finding the bier, it has turned up!
Sadly, and as must be expected, it is in a bad state of repair with woodworm and wood rot, but much of the metal remains in good shape and it should be possible for the Group to have it restored and placed with the other artefacts that we have accumulated over the years. We have recently been given a huge collection of photographs taken by the Royston Crow photographers of events in Melbourn over a period of years. These are going to be sorted and we are giving thought to another book that might be entitled ‘Melbourn – the last 50 years’. There is a long way to go, but given the willingness of the team and the co-operation of the residents who might remember some of the events, another book may be forthcoming. Talking of photographs reminds me that Meldreth Station waiting room now has a fine display of the station as it was years ago. Tim Gane of Meldreth History has made a fine job of the presentation so next time you are passing, pop in and have a look!
Melbourn Radiate Brooch
Would you like to own a beautiful silver replica of an Anglo Saxon brooch? Exclusively available from Melbourn History group. In 2000 Melbourn History group were privileged to be involved in the restoration of ancient artefacts found in the Anglo Saxon archaeological dig at the top of Water Lane (now Chalkhill Barrow). These included the Square Headed brooch and the Radiate brooch. Following restoration, the History group were given the rare opportunity of taking a mould from the newly restored Radiate brooch. The square headed brooch and radiate brooch seen in the grave. The style of the radiate brooch possibly originates from the Merovingian Franks dynasty and can be dated from around c.5th to 6th century.
Cast in silver these brooches have an additional special commemorative hallmark for the Queen’s Jubilee, only available until 1st October 2012. The cost per brooch is £60, if you would like to own one of these rare brooches then telephone Colin Limming on 260072 or Anne Dekkers 261144 for more information. melbournmagazine
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