The Re-Enactor Issue 19, July 2010
„C‟ Troop 15th King‟s Light Dragoons (Hussars). Victoria, Australia
Readership 1054
Greetings All Welcome to the latest issue of the ezine, we now reach 29 countries worldwide and we have over 1000 recipients. The number of groups and traders listed also continues to grow so if you‟re after a group or looking to purchase something you are in the right place. Congratulations to Michael and Paul who each won a copy of Turning back The Clock by John Fitch V. There are 2 book competitions still runningnot directly linked to re-enactment but both good reads. The authors give their time and money to support this ezine so please take the opportunity to win yourselves a brand new book. The competitions are totally free to enter and always very easy! I also have 3 or 4 more book competitions lined up for future issues. Just a couple of the pictures taken from “Landscape of Memory” by Jerry Bird
Features This Month 1: The Battle of San Jacinto 2: Competitions 3: Poets & Lepers by Jerry Bird 4: Book Description: Black Earth 5: The Battle of Mortimer‟s Cross 6: Military and Flying Machines Show 7: Scourge of evil, The Warrior Monks 8: Event Listings 9: Bewl Water Event 10: Ty Mawr Medieval hall 11: Book Review by Chris Poore: 12: The Black Watch and the attack on Fort Tigonderga, 8th July 1758
Just so I am also after other prizes to give away if anyone has something they would like to donate as a prize in return for lots of free advertising space please do get in contact with me.
I am still on the look out for more groups, traders, event details, stories, articles and reports. Please contact me at the normal email address with details! Jason.okeefe@btopenworld.com
Competitions: All competitions are free to enter Winners will be selected at random on the 15th of each month for the relevant competition. Winners will be notified via email shortly after the draw takes place. No correspondence will be entered into. The editor’s decision is final.
The Battle of San Jacinto By Colonel Jerry Tubbs and Colonel Charlie Yates When considering the Texas Revolution, most people remember the Alamo and those brave men that gave their lives for independence from Mexico. Very little thought is given to Goliad and the massacre of Colonel Fannin‟s command. It seems that even less thought is given to the pivotal battle that won Texas its independence from Mexico and the despotic rule of General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. However, each year in April, at the San Jacinto Battle Ground State Park in La Porte, Texas, this historic event is paid its due respect. The San Jacinto Volunteers, in conjunction with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the San Jacinto Monument, recreate that moment of April 21, 1836 when Sam Houston‟s “rag-tag” volunteer army attacked and defeated Santa Anna‟s well-disciplined army in only eighteen minutes. After the fall of the Alamo and Fannin‟s defeat at Goliad in 1836, Sam Houston was forced to march east from Gonzales where he had started forming his army. Houston was in a race with time to transform these men, mostly undisciplined civilian volunteers, into a serviceable fighting force if there was to be any hope for success when they engaged the largest professional army in North America. Santa Anna, who fancied himself the “Napoleon of the West”, had just put down a rebellion in the Mexican state of Zacatecas, where atrocities were committed against the civilians that were sure to be repeated in Texas. Santa Anna had given notice that all Texian colonists from the United States were to be forced from their lands or be put to death, which caused a considerable panic among the civilian population. Their rush to reach the Sabine River and the safety of the United States would become known as the “Runaway Scrape”. This mass exodus of mostly women and children only added to Houston‟s problems, as many of his men left the Texas Army to return to their families in order to aid them in their departure from Texas. The Spring of 1836 was extraordinarily cold and wet, which worked to the Texas Army‟s advantage, slowing the march of the Mexican Army across Texas. Houston was able to make camp at Jared Groce‟s plantation on the Brazos River with little worry of being attacked because of the swollen streams that surrounded him. It was on this literal island that Houston began the grand task of forming his volunteers into a respectable army, aided by deserters from the United States Army stationed in Louisiana and the arrival of two sixpounder cannons donated by the city of Cincinnati, Ohio. Still not satisfied with the odds against his army, Houston continued to march east. Some scholars argue that he was retreating to seek aide from General Gaines and the United States Army forces stationed along the Sabine River. Others argue that Houston was awaiting the right time to turn and attack Santa Anna, while at the same time forcing the Mexican supply lines to be stretched to the breaking point. When he reached the fork in the road where one path led to Nacogdoches and the safety of the United States, and the other to San Jacinto, Houston stopped his horse and pointed his army toward San Jacinto. Finally, after weeks of marching east in constant rain, mud and cold, the men of the Texas Army had something to cheer about. They knew that a fight with the Mexican Army was in the near future.
On April 20th, Houston marched his army to the little community of Lynchburg to take control of the ferry across the Buffalo Bayou, and then counter-marched to camp on the plain of San Jacinto. Santa Anna, who had received word of Houston‟s movements on the 19th of April, had rushed to take control of the ferry before Houston, but arrived too late. On April 20th, Santa Anna left his camp at New Washington for San Jacinto and to face the Texas Army. In an attempt to determine the strength of Houston's forces, Santa Anna ordered his only piece of artillery onto the field to fire on the Texians positioned among the trees along Buffalo Bayou. The Texians brought out their two artillery pieces, now dubbed “The Twin Sisters”. Disobeying orders from Houston, Sydney Sherman took his cavalry unit onto the field in hopes of capturing the Mexican cannon, whereupon the Mexican cavalry also took to the field. A small skirmish took place between the two forces of artillery and cavalry, the outcome of which was indecisive. The die was cast. No matter the outcome, the battle of April 21 at San Jacinto would be the final battle of the Texas Revolution. In order to reach the plain of San Jacinto, both armies had had to cross Vince‟s Bridge, the only access or escape route. Knowing the importance of closing all escape routes, Houston ordered the bridge burned. There was no turning back now. At 4:30 p.m. the order was given to attack, catching the Mexican army completely by surprise. Three reasons are generally agreed upon for this. First, General Cos‟ 500 troops had been force-marched the night before from the town of Richmond to reinforce Santa Anna‟s contingent and had arrived at 9:00 A.M. As they had no reason to fear an attack from the Texians so late in the day, Cos‟ exhausted men were told to rest. Secondly, the original forces that had arrived with Santa Anna had been up all night preparing breastworks in case the Texians were to attack at dawn, and were now sleeping. Finally, no pickets had been posted to give warning of the approaching Texians. With shouts of “Remember the Alamo” and “Remember Goliad”, Houston‟s rag-tag army, made up by now of Anglos, Tejanos and at least one free black, burst upon and routed Santa Anna‟s isolated detachment. In only eighteen minutes they had secured victory for Texas, killing 630 Mexicans and taking some 700 prisoners. Santa Anna had escaped, but was captured the following day dressed as a private. In order to save his life, Santa Anna, by agreement with Sam Houston, ordered his remaining armies to return to Mexico. By June 15th lead elements of the retreating Mexican Army had crossed the Rio Grande at Matamoros. Texas was finally a free and independent Republic. ************************************************************************
Since 1991, the sights and sounds of musket and cannon fire have reverberated over the San Jacinto Battlegrounds. Hosted by the San Jacinto Volunteers, the recreation of this important battle in Texas and U.S. history is performed by volunteers from all parts of Texas, the U.S. and even overseas. Starting out with just a small handful of volunteers and very few spectators, this event has grown to be the largest reenactment of the Texas Revolution in the state, this year hosting more than 220 volunteers and 33,000 spectators. Although the numbers of combatants from each side is far from the actual numbers which participated in the battle, the public enjoys the unique opportunity to learn from visiting the various camps and to watch an historically accurate account of what transpired on April 20 – 22, 1836. Three camps are set up to represent the Texas Army, the Mexican Army and the Runaway Scrape refugees. The visitors to the park are invited to talk to the reenactors and to
ask questions about what life was like in the early days of Texas. Children and adults alike are taught the art of military drill, using toy muskets. The artillery crews choose visiting boys and girls to work a simulated cannon drill, an accomplishment that they thoroughly enjoy. Meanwhile, the lady volunteers are busy cooking 1830‟s style food. In the Mexican camp this means that lots of frijoles, tortillas and picadillo are to be found while in the Runaway Scrape camp it is sweet potato mash, turnip greens with ham hocks and cornbread that are cooking over an open fire. This food, which takes most of the day to prepare, is served to the volunteers at a large banquet in the late evening as a way to say “thank you” for all of their hard work. Around 2:00 P.M. the camps are closed to the public to prepare for battle. A professional pyrotechnic team volunteers their time to come out and add special effects to the reenactment. Charges are strategically placed near the Mexican cannon and in the Texian camp to simulate cannon balls skipping along the ground and exploding amongst tree limbs. More charges are used to represent the killing of the Mexican cannon crew and the destruction of a tent in the Mexican camp just before the Texians reach the breast works, all adding a sense of realism to the event. In order that the viewing public have a better understanding of what they are witnessing, a narration of the various events of April 20th and 21st is read over a large public address system by Dr. Carl Hacker. This gives the public a clearer understanding of the events they are witnessing. Once the first shot from the Texian cannon is fired at the sleeping soldados, the narration stops and the public has an opportunity to witness the events that history tells us happened that fateful day in 1836. The Texians charge across the field, the Mexican Army soldados are routed, and the prisoners are taken back to the Texian camp as the narration resumes. Santa Anna is then brought into camp disguised as a private. He is recognized by his troops with shouts of “El Presidente” and is then brought before the wounded Sam Houston to discuss the terms of surrender. The day‟s reenactment ends with a prayer, led by members of the San Jacinto Volunteers in both English and Spanish, for the fallen heroes of both sides. A wreath is then placed on the battlefield to honor both armies. If you are interested in volunteering to be a part of the reenactment of the Battle of San Jacinto, please contact Colonel Jerry Tubbs at coloneltubbs@yahoo.com. This is a juried event; so new volunteers are required to send in a picture of themselves in costume and a brief résumé of their experience with black powder. Jerry Tubbs and Charlie Yates are commissioned Colonels in the modern day Texas Army. For more information, articles and a calendar of events on the Texas Revolution, visit www.texianlegacy.com on the web. A special note of Thanks goes to Elizabeth Glidden for her most able assistance with this article. Here are some of the pictures taken at the Battle of San Jacinto. This is an annual event to recreate the battle that won Texas her independence from Mexico. There were just over 300 re-enactors on the field included women and children with 30,000+ visitors to witness the re-enactment. http://www.flickr.com/photos/sandyjames/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/e06158/4550843747/in/set-72157623800894773/
Competition One Black Earth, End of the innocence David N. Alderman Copyright © 2009 by David N. Alderman
To be in with a chance of winning this book by David Alderman, just check out his website and answer this simple question: Q. What is the name of the upcoming sequel to Black Earth: End of the Innocence? Website: http://www.davidnalderman.com Just email me with your answer and full postal address before July 15th and you will be entered into the draw to receive a signed/dedicated copy of this book. Note: There is an extract from this book within The Re-Enactor this month!
Competition Two A brand new competition to win a signed copy of “Landscape of Memory” (Living Folklore in England) by Jerry Bird. I have printed an entire chapter (courtesy of Jerry) over the next few pages, have a read through and answer this simple question: Q: Who introduced William & Dorothy Wordsworth to Culborne? Email me with your answer and full postal address before August 15th 2010 and you‟ll be entered into the draw. I would like to extend my gratitude to both Jerry Bird and David Alderman for their support of this ezine and the offer of the books. Note: In last month’s competition to win a copy of the book by John Fitch V, John very kindly donated 2 signed books as prizes which he will be sending to the 2 lucky winners shortly!
POETS AND LEPERS If you‟re ever in the vicinity of Porlock on the Exmoor coast in Somerset, the invigoratingly steep walk through the dense ancient woodland from sea level at Porlock Weir to Culbone Church, about 400ft above is well worth the effort. The path follows the coast for a short distance and then turns inland to join part of the spectacular toll road up through Worthy Wood that follows the fast-flowing stream. A short tunnel behind the toll house leads to the pathway to Culbone through Yearnor Wood. The path was once the packhorse road from Porlock to Lynton and clings perilously to a ledge on the steep wooded hillside; the roar of the sea hundreds of feet below a constant companion for the walker. The woods here were once the site of a major charcoal burning industry. The original burners were reputed to be a colony of lepers who were forbidden from crossing to the Porlock side of Culbone Water. Stony ruins marking the site of the burners‟ huts and sawpits can still be seen and a network of paths connects them to the main track through the woods. It is a very atmospheric place, full of the ghosts of past travellers and inhabitants. Perhaps it is no coincidence that in 1797 while Samuel Taylor Coleridge was staying at Ash Farm, a little higher up the valley, he received (with the aid of a few grains of opium) the inspiration for his great poem Kubla Kahn. Could this perhaps be the place “where Alph the sacred river ran through caverns measureless to man down to a sunlit sea”? Certainly, the following lines from the poem could well refer to this dramatic and picturesque landscape: But oh! that deep romantic chasm which slanted Down the green hill athwart a cedarn cover! A savage place! as holy and enchanted As e'er beneath a waning moon was haunted By woman wailing for her demon-lover (Kubla Kahn, Samuel Taylor Coleridge 1798) Coleridge introduced William and Dorothy Wordsworth to Culbone at around this time, taking them on the path from Porlock climbing up through the woodland which abounded in “wild deer, foxes, badgers and martin cats”. They spent a great deal of time wandering around coastal Exmoor, and it is during this period that Coleridge wrote The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, and it is thought that he imagined the hermit character‟s cell to have been in the woodland around Culbone, which does seem to have inspired a good deal of his poetry at this period: The hanging woods, that touched by Autumn seem'd As they were blossoming hues of fire and gold, The hanging woods, most lovely in decay, The many clouds, the sea, the rock, the sands, Lay in the silent moonshine - and the owl, (Strange, very strange!) the Scritch-owl only wak'd, Sole voice, sole eye of all that world of beauty! (Osorio, Samuel Taylor Coleridge 1797) The tiny, picturesque church is dedicated to St. Beuno, or Kil Beun, which is the derivation of the current name for the settlement. The saint was the son of a sixth century Welsh princess. He established a monastery at Clynnog on the Lleyn penninsula where he was buried in 640CE. It is likely that St Bueno arrived from Wales as a missionary to convert the
inhabitants of Exmoor, the remnants of the Dumnonian tribes of pre-Roman Britain who at the time had remained stubbornly pagan and probably still spoke the Celtic language, having largely held their own against the Saxon invaders, who did not gain control until 938CE. A form of the Celtic language was still spoken on Exmoor as late as the eighteenth century. In legend he performed a miracle by saving his niece, Saint Winifred after her head was cut off by a furious King Caradog when she rejected his advances. Saints Beuno and Winifred have many sacred wells dedicated to them in their native Wales. A little pamphlet is available in the church which indicates many points of interest: ancient oak pews, the Saxon windows including a strange impish face akin to, but not quite the same as a green man, the nineteenth century slate-covered deal spire and thirteenth century porch. The Domesday Book (in which it appears as Chetnore) and the Guinness Book of Records both make mention of this quaint building, which is regarded as the smallest parish church in England, as well as being the smallest complete medieval church in Britain, being just thirty five feet in its overall length. One amusing piece of folklore has it that the spire was originally the upper part of the strangely truncated spire at St Dubricius in Porlock which was blown off in a gale and transported here by the wind. According to legend, Dubricius was a close friend and advisor of King Arthur, and he officiated at the wedding between Arthur and Guinevere. Some historians are of the opinion that the spire at Porlock is so shaped because it was used as a lighthouse in medieval times. Further west along the coast in Cornwall St Nectan‟s Kieve, a tiny medieval monastic sanctuary once fulfilled a similar role in an almost identical setting to that of Culbone.
Many of the tombstones in the churchyard at Culbone bear the surname Red, a variation on Ridd of R.D. Blackmore‟s Lorna Doone fame; the village of Oare, where the epic romantic novel is set lies within the same parish, just over the high ridge of the moors to the south west. It was apparently a custom in the late eighteenth century for unmarried women to scatter hempseed in the churchyard here at midsummer. Also buried here is the American writer and Christian mystic Joan d‟Arcy Cooper who lived in the hamlet for some years and played the church harmonium. She was of the opinion that the church window with the decorated mullion on the north side of the church was carved out of a single slab of stone which pre-dated the church and may have had pre-Christian religious significance. She certainly believed that the site was once of ancient spiritual importance and in her rather fanciful book Culbone - a Spiritual History, she claims that it had once been the home of an ancient Sumerian sage to whom wise men travelled from long distances to receive his wisdom. She considered Culbone to have been a “spiritual sanctuary” built on the “etheric plane” long before the arrival of Christianity. She also claims that Christ came to Culbone on the occasion of his legendary visit to Glastonbury. It would appear that its past history was not always as peaceful as the present. In the Assize rolls of 1280 it is recorded that Thomas, the local chaplain was indicted “for that he had struck Albert of Esshe [or Ash, the name of a prominent local family] on the head with a hatchet, and so killed him”. By the sixteenth century the church and the local settlement (at that time known as Kytnore, and later, Kitnor) had been abandoned, but were re-established by a colony of lepers who lived by charcoal burning and trading in timber and the skins of feral goats, which still lived in the forest until very recently. Some of these goods were taken to the port at nearby Porlock Weir for export. The community died out in 1622 upon which the site was abandoned once again until,
according to Joan Cooper, a sort of commune was established in 1715 by a group of families from Somerset, who rebuilt some of the old stone dwellings which had become ruinous. In some accounts the settlers were actually a penal colony, dumped here by ship and left to their own devices, as the area was so remote there was no need to fence them in. They were eventually succeeded by Indian slaves who were allowed to work as charcoal burners in the forest for a period of twenty-one years in order to gain their freedom. The hamlet benefited by being close to the packhorse route from Porlock to Lynton, which was widened in the 1800s to allow the passage of carts, and for a time in the nineteenth century there was a small monthly market here and one of the cottages became a public house, known as the Fox and Hounds. A market cross was erected in the churchyard (replaced in 1966). According to the historian James Savage, writing in his History of the Hundred of Carhampton (1830) “A wake, or as it is called in this part of the country, a revel, used to be held annually in Culbone church-yard; but it has been discontinued many years”. The church has been abandoned and restored several times over the years, according to the changing fortunes of the hamlet‟s occupants. The two green man roof bosses in the chancel ceiling probably date from around 1888, when that part of the roof was last rebuilt. It is possible they may have replaced earlier, medieval carvings. According to an old Somerset saying: “Culbone, Oare and Stoke Pero” are “Three Churches Parsons seldom go”, though the little church still has fortnightly services. Culbone is now an isolated sleepy place with just a handful of ancient looking dwellings clustered around the tiny church in a steep cleft of wooded hillside, untroubled except by the occasional group of ramblers passing through. Many of the latter will be Pagans and earth mysteries enthusiasts seeking the many stone rows, circles and megaliths which abound in this area. High above the church stands the Culbone stone. The information panel on the fence next to the style reads: "The Culbone Stone is an early medieaval standing stone approximately one metre in height, which was discovered in 1940. It lies in woodland close to the parish boundary, and features an incised wheeled cross, the style of which suggests it dates from 7th to 9th century. The stone is legally protected as a scheduled ancient monument." I would tend to disagree with this dating. The incised wheel may have had one of its four spokes lengthened in the medieval period, maybe to Christianize a pagan symbol, or perhaps merely to provide a direction indicator for the settlement and church in the valley below. However, a nearby stone row with similar sized stones may indicate a more ancient, preChristian provenance for this small but interesting megalith, which is probably not in its original location, having been re-erected when it was re-discovered in 1940. There are also several cairns and barrows close by in the wood. When I visited it last it certainly had a mysterious, somewhat magical air about it. The Culbone Stone is situated in a clearing amongst a grove of low-growing trees, stunted by the prevailing wind, and despite the rain and wind on that occasion, it had an impressive presence and stillness about it; a place of ancient spirits if ever there was one. Note: I have removed the various pictures which accompany the book to reduce the size of the file. The book itself is full of wonderful pictures which help to illustrate the wonders described within the book.
Book Description: Black Earth, End of the innocence On the evening of his high school graduation, Nathan Pierce collapses on stage. Plagued with visions of a strange girl intent on killing herself, he wonders if his mental instability is a consequence of the deadly car accident he was in days earlier. Heather Rhodes, wracked with guilt because of the fatal wreck, finds she is unable to forgive herself and begins to question her own beliefs. While the death of a newborn weighs on her heart, on her mind is the strange gift she was able to use to protect her and Nathan in the accident…a gift that Heather wonders may have just been a figment of her imagination. Cynthia Ruin, aka The Pink Rabbit, decides that her high school graduation night should be used for partying, not traveling down the football field. At a nightclub in Scottsdale, Cynthia finds more than she bargains for when a stranger from her past decides to exact his revenge on her for a prior rejection. Nathan, Heather, and Cynthia come to realize that their current problems are nothing compared to the stars falling from the sky. During the global crisis, the President of the United States makes it her personal mission to keep the country on the right track to becoming a world superpower, while a hostile entity known only as Absolute threatens her administration. Meanwhile, word starts to spread that the falling stars may not be stars at all...
The Battle of Mortimer‟s Cross C1461 September 18th & 19th 2010 The Wharf Field, Main A49, Leominster, Herefordshire, UK An annual recreation of this Wars of The Roses Battle, between the houses of York and Lancaster. The Battle of Mortimer‟s Cross was originally fought on February 2nd 1461 in Herefordshire between the forces of the 18 year old Edward, Earl of March and Owen Tudor. Owen Tudor had been on route to join the rest of the Lancastrian army when he was stopped by Edward at Mortimer‟s Cross.
Come and join us: Battle Re-Enactment including archery in large arena Living history encampment Medieval traders Beer tent Food stalls Entertainment including medieval dancing and a barber surgeon!
All authentic groups are welcome, traders too! (reasonable pitch fees) Check out the website for more details Separate plastic camp site, water on site, toilets, wood for fires
www.mortimerscross.co.uk
Scourge of evil, the Warrior Monk (or So You Want to be a Templar……?) Recently there has been a significant increase in the number of Warrior Monks making the rounds the festivals, but they still lack the numbers to compete with the Jack Sparrows, d'Artagnans and Tinker Belles who inundate the events. It is my goal to shed some light on the legendary Warrior Monks of the Crusades with this brief overview. Hopefully this will motivate a few to pick up their Standards and lead the way, now strap on that armor, and follow me. In the beginning (a history behind the Warrior Monk movement)… Although the concept of a „righteous war‟ was nothing new in history, the Crusades brought about a development that was new to the Christian/Western world and not thoroughly embraced by the masses: the Warrior Monk. Religion played a dominant role in the average medieval person‟s life. For the most part the fear of hell and damnation directed the actions of everyday life. The teachings of the Church sought to dispel violence and spread the word of peace. This approach was all well and good but stood in conflict with a growing trend of armed men seeking station in life by feat of arms. From childhood these men spent their lives learning the finer arts of warfare, and gaining fame and fortune through the exercise of these hard-won skills. They say that idle hands are the devil‟s playground, so when there were no conflicts to keep these lads busy, they tended to seek entertainment and wealth, and to exercise their craft on their neighbors. These fellow Christians could be anything from another armed camp to a farming village, filled with untrained and poorly armed peasants. For some time the Church tried to activate a program called the “Peace of God” in an effort to curtail the violence being done to the innocent masses. It outlined authorized days for fighting to be allowed during the week. Unfortunately, this did not have the effect the Church was seeking. Apparently boys who train hard tend to play hard, and their actions incurred the Clergy‟s wrath. Particularly I regards to the burning of churches to collect a quick payday from the wealth these facilities were known to keep within their walls. At about this time, when the Peace of God initiative was being forwarded, the Middle East saw the expansion of Islam. Until 638, the Holy City of Jerusalem had been intermittently a Christian center. The city fell to Islamic control during the same period in which the Seljuc Turks were threatening the Eastern Orthodox territory of Byzantium, especially the city of Constantinople. A great split had occurred in the Roman Church between the Roman and Eastern Orthodox branches over doctrinal issues. Until that time the Eastern Orthodox Church seemed to lead the way in developing its Byzantine society, largely due to its central location on major trade routes, allowing them to share in a variety of technologies and advancements. As the seemingly unstoppable armed juggernaut of Islam progressed inexorably westward, the leader of the Byzantine Empire appealed to his Western brothers for help, since they both claimed to be Christians.
Pope Urban II saw in this request remarkable opportunities to reunite the Church and liberate the Holy City of Jerusalem. To do this, he could redirect the warlike efforts of the European nobility with a cause and reward that would be hard to resist. All monotheistic religions include the concept of pilgrimage, a journey to Jerusalem being in the play book of Christians. Those Christians leaving for the East could check that block, and exercise their God-given skills with the sword and other sharp pointy instruments to free the Holy City. To top it off, while doing this, they would receive remission/forgiveness of their sins. A warrior couldn‟t ask for a better deal. The simple math of this is: all armed men in the Outremer (the general name given to the Crusader states established after the First Crusade) liberating the Holy City equals no armed bands roaming the European country side sacking villages and churches. Talk about a stimulus package! The story of the Crusades is rich in many ways: valor, fortitude, commitment, treachery, and faith to name a few. I won‟t go into the specifics on the Crusades, because that‟s for the reader to find out. Trust me, you won‟t be disappointed! Church’s hammer, a pilgrim’s shield… Jerusalem was liberated in 1099, and a problem that the Pope hadn‟t figured on was that the vast majority of Crusaders that went East wanted to return home now. Nobility had holdings they needed to go back and check on. Peasants and others had completed their pilgrimage and freed Jerusalem, so their sins were forgiven, and they wished to return to a less hostile, more familiar setting: Europe. This left the Outremer understaffed, if you will, with people that could maintain possession of sites that were just recovered. Militant bands of locals ambushed pilgrims on their march in from the sea to Jerusalem. It was said that one couldn‟t walk the trails without seeing the bleached bones of former pilgrims who had been attacked and robbed. Nine volunteers stepped up, offering their skills as warriors and commitment to the Faith, to protect pilgrims on their way to and from the Holy City. Long story short, with the help of some very influential people connected with the Church, the concept of the Warrior Monk was developed. Monastic oaths were taken to keep them on the straight and narrow…hopefully. Much of the rest of the “hardships” that folks tend to think they endured weren‟t much more than they faced as regular knights on campaign. For some it was probably a boost, for they were suddenly looked after, fed, and equipped, and not having to struggle to keep up station. It‟s about here that all the myths of a certain Order start, but I won‟t go into that. I leave that to the audience to dive into if they so wish. From here I will discuss a few of the major Military Orders of Warrior Monks that developed and how they appeared in an effort to help fans develop a strong portrayal the next time they step out and through the gates of the nearest fair/festival. Leaving the past behind….. You‟ll want to work off a basic foundation, and here‟s where to start:
For your legs: Hose, with or without leg wraps will serve you well. An arming cap made of cotton, linen, or leather for your head. Period shoes, many can be obtained from a variety of dealers. Under the armor or robe/tunic you‟ll develop, you‟ll want a Padded gambeson. This serves to protect your body‟s hard points from chaffing with armor on. Padded chausses will cover your legs, hose, and wraps and are a sound investment if you plan to wear and portray a full serving Brother of any Order. Now for the good stuff; armor. Easily the most recognizable feature of a knight, next to his helmet, Mail, or chain mail as some refer to it, will serve you well for this time period. (butted, round ring riveted, flat ring riveted, welded) This includes the second layer of defense for your head, the Mail coif. Although usually part of the mail shirt, in later times of the Crusades period, it became a separate item. Front greaves made of plate can be added for shin defense and make for a remarkable appearance. The third layer of defense for the head and probably the first recognizable feature identifying an individual as a knight is the Helm. Norman helms with nasal guard, Basic steel cap, steel cap with early face plate (transitional), Early Kettle Hat or “chapel-de-fer” are recommended. For your hands, remember they are what make the sword work; leather gloves, or Mail mittens/gauntlets. In a pinch though, you could serve with bare hands. Shields: the early “poster boards” of Knightly individuals, and in the case of Warrior Monks, an awesomely intimidating warning to the enemy with their spiritually significant applied colors and patterns. A 4‟kite shield for earlier years, along with lower status members of the Order, and the instantly recognizable “Heater” shield of the later years. To help deliver the word to the infidel, you‟ll need one or two of some very persuasive tools in the right hands: warclubs (studded), period maces, period swords (for the Military Orders, these would be simple in appearance), dagger, two-handed axes, or Frankish ax. Spears/lances round out an awesome portrayal, especially when equipped with an Order specific pennant. These should be roughly 14‟ in length, but are frowned upon at some events. Now that you‟ve got what it takes, it‟s time to chose your colors and represent! Special Note: For thrifty Brothers, you might choose a long sleeve robe, which can conceal the absence of a mail shirt, and allow you to make do with a mail coif and hand protection.
Looking for a few good men…. The following are examples of the Military Orders in the time of the Crusades. You must know that when most people hear of the Crusades they immediately think of the Middle East, but “Crusades” were taking place in a variety of locations at the same time, all offering the same indulgences for participation. Locations included Spain, Portugal, Southern France, and Eastern Europe (Lithuania, Estonia, Poland, etc.).
Knights Hospitaller The Knights Hospitaller are by far the oldest of the Orders, but not in the militarization of the organization, which happened after they started to compete with the Knights Templar for benefits and privileges in the Outremer. They were originally founded by Italian merchants as an organization to take care of the sick in the Holy Land. They hired mercenaries to handle protection duties, until the Order reached the point of recognition by the Church to branch out with military capabilities to mirror that of the Templars. Their attire was a black cappa or surcoat and cape, equipped with a white Maltese cross. To distinguish between “full serving Brothers” who‟d taken the monastic oath, and lower station Brothers, the same attire was done in brown for the lower members of the Order. Later in their evolution, they went to red surcoats that were originally for Full Brothers but later adopted by all. This Order also had females serving in nursing roles. They later changed their name to the Knights of Malta or the Knights of St. John. This Order is still in existence today but in a purely humanitarian role.
Knights Templar By far the most written about and recognized of the Medieval Military Crusading Orders was the Knights Templar. Much of their history has been muddied and diluted through all the fictional works that ride their surcoat strings. It was those original nine volunteers that helped found the Templars, taking their name from the location of the home in Jerusalem. The Templars started as strictly a Military Order, with the purpose of providing armed escort for pilgrims in the Holy Land. Many of the other things they are given credit for developed as a result of having to support this original effort. At the start, around 1119-20, members of the Order would have been given a plain white cappa or surcoat. The famous red cross of the Templars wouldn‟t be approved for another 20 years or so. The red cross is also a matter of speculation. It changes depending on geographical location and the desires of the Grand Master of the time. Paintings at various churches show the wide variety. To distinguish between “full serving Brothers” who‟d taken the monastic oath and lower station, or lay/associate Brothers (Sergeants, Turcopoles), the same attire was done in brown with the red cross for the lower members of the Order. The major item for which the Templars were noted was their flag, or Beausant. Here again there is a question as to exactly what it looked like, but most have at least two colors in common: black and white. Their arrangement again changes by geographical location, and some include a Templar red cross.
There is still debate as to whether this Order included any female affiliation. Teutonic Knights The Teutonic Knights began during the time of the Third Crusade for the care of participating Germans. There had been some national friction between the French, English, and Germans, and Richard the Lionheart would reap the rewards of this upon his departure from the Outremer. While the Teutonic Order had a presence in the Outremer, it could never fully compete with the resources of the Templars and Hospitallers in that region. They directed most of their focus and efforts to actions in Northern and Eastern Europe. The Teutonic Order modeled its military programs after that of the Templars. They are often confused with Templars due to the use of the white surcoat. It should be noted that they used a black cross on their uniforms, and lay or associate Brothers (no monastic oath taken), and those of lesser station in the Order, wore a truncated cross. This Order also included females who served in support and nursing roles. The Teutonic Order still exists but in a purely humanitarian role.
Additional Orders during the Crusades Following are just a few of the other Military Orders developed during the period:
Order of Montjoie-Iberian peninsula Order of Calatrava-Iberian peninsula Order of St. Thomas of Canterbury- English detachment of Hospitallers Schwertzbrüder of Livonia- absorbed by the Teutonic Order after some issues Orders of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem- An Order made up of lepers; fought in the Holy Land Order of Montesa-Iberian peninsula Order of Aviz-Iberian peninsula Order of the Hatchet- A female Order of Knights in Spain
Hollywood and the Warrior Monks Generally movie makers take liberties when showing the Orders on the big screen. Excessive armor and appearances that don‟t meet the Orders‟ statutes are common place. They can however provide you with motivation and a starting reference to work from. Some characters can serve you well though; the Hospitaller from Kingdom of Heaven (KoH), and Christopher Lee‟s Templar Grand Master from the 97 Invanhoe show. Visually, KoH blurred the line between Crusader and the Templar Warrior Monk through the use of one cross to represent the both. The 1997 BBC series “Ivanhoe” comes close to getting it right, but they take liberties with the “dress code” of these monks by giving them the long hair of secular knights, something from which they tried to distance themselves. Hair that touched the ear was the greatest length allowed, with the beard to help
social exchanges with the locals of the Outremer. The movie from Sweden, Arn the Knight Templar, includes some good images but appears to use the cross of Portuguese Templars. These provide a visual stepping off point, supported by a good deal of personal research. The result will be rewarding.
In the end….. No matter which Order you decide to commit yourself to (because it‟s not just a hobby, it‟s a commitment…lol!), you‟ll find plenty of resources to help you put your image together. I would recommend authors such as Helen Nicholson, Gordon Napier, Piers Paul Reid, David Nicholle, and series like the OSPREY Publishing on Crusades topics. They have wonderful color prints that will help set you up for success in putting together your Warrior Monk kit. Don‟t let the Davinci Code or the Last Templar fool ya! So next time you see one of these dour fellows roaming the lands of a fair, don‟t be afraid to ask him about it. He‟ll be more than happy to share his experience. Deus vult!
Event Listings 20th June until 31st August: Camp Chantier Patrimoine-Chateau fort de Guise. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=119346998088002 22nd June until 31st August: L‟Archange Saint-Michel, Presence dans L‟Histoire Exhibit, Dol-de-Bretagne (35) http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=119994071366989
July 2010 1st – 18th Mercado Medieval de Obidos/Obidos Medieval fair, Obidos http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=108797599163410 2nd – 4th ISCAR Medieval, Valladolid, Spain http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=105599409474637&n= 2nd – 4th e Valia, Chieri, Italy http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=128894600462074 2nd – 4th Lres 10eme Medievale De Ternand, Ternand, France (69620) http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=123710440996682 3rd & 4th The Knights of Royal England at Linlithgow Palace nr Edinburgh, Scotland www.knightsroyal.co.uk 3rd & 4th Fete Medievale, Briancon Cite Historigue Vieille Ville, France http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=101496936566309 3rd & 4th Chetwynd Medieval Fair. Commemorating an actual historical market and Chetwynd, Shropshire in1318. The current location is at Shropshire Lavender http://www.shropshirelavender.co.uk 3rd &4th Dorset Medieval Festival, Winterbourne Came, Dorchester, Dorset, UK http://www.dorsetmedievalfestival.co.uk/
3rd & 4th Kluszyn 2010, Warsawa http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=116708548364302 3rd & 4th Fete et marcher medieval, Chateau d‟helecine, Belgium http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=318225612880 9th – 11th Tournoi de Franche-Comte 2010, Moncley (Besancon-25), France http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=377227486349&n= 9th – 11th Celtival 2010, Villa Wassermann, Giavera del Montello (TV) http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=119012884790739 9th – 11th Tournoi international de chevalerie de Franche-Comté http://tournoi.franchecomte.free.fr 10th & 11th The Knights of Royal England at Linlithgow Palace nr Edinburgh, Scotland www.knightsroyal.co.uk 10th & 11th Abbey Medieval Tournament, Caboolture, Australia http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=374015126574 10th & 11th Tewkesbury Medieval Festival, Tewkesbury, UK www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.org/ 10th & 11th Indian Festival- Ferme des Bisons – Bisonfarm, La Ferme des Bisons Recogne B6600 Bastogne http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=125290104158592 10th & 11th Fonmon Castle, Fonmon, Rhoose, Barry, Wales http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=110029069031955 10th & 11th Romans Live, Ribchester Roman Re-Enactments, Ribchester, uk http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=142209745905 10th – 13th Villimpenta tra Scaligeri e Gonzage, Castello di Villimpenta, Italy http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=111684165525731 13th – 18th Viking Market in Gudvangen http://www.facebook.com/gudvangen 15th – 17th The Battle Tradionaly of Grunwald (1410-2010) at Grunwald, Poland http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=358736576231&n= 17th Enconto de Malucos Medievals, Dentro do Castelo de Obidos, http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=116766978367851 17th & 18th MSS at Royal Gunpowder Mills, UK For information: http://www.medieval-seige-society.co.uk 17th & 18th 2e Historisch Rendez Vous Beekse Bergen, Hilvarenbeek http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=126385204046012 17th & 18th The Knights of Royal England at Hever Castle, Kent, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 17th & 18th Kelmarsh Hall, Northamptonshire, UK Multi-Period event 17th & 18th Medieval weekend, Magdalen College Museum, UK http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=118643841512693
17th & 18th Tournoi International de Combat Medieval, Laroque http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=123313331027411 17th & 18th Ealdfaeder at Sutton Hoo near Woodbridge, Suffolk, UK For information contact: pete@gippeswic.demon.co.uk 23rd – 24th The Knights of Royal Engalnd at Hever Castle, Kent, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 24th & 25th 700th Anniversary Event, Chirk castle, Shropshire, UK http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=125274897494255 24th & 25th Berkeley Castle Skirmish, Gloucestershire, UK www.berkeley-castle.com/reenactments.php 24th & 25th Coracles & Castles, Cilgerran Castle, Pembrokeshire, Wales http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=111450295534065&n= 24th & 25thTournoi de L‟Ullywood team, Rozoy Belleval 02 http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=132041600157762 24th & 25th The Battle of Azincourt, France www.azincourt-alliance.org.uk 24th & 25th MSS at Appuldurcombe House, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, UK For information: http://www.medieval-seige-society.co.uk 30th Valnerina Longobarda. Conferenza “Da Faroaldo ai Franchi”, Ferentillo (TR) http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=127106990654512 31st & 1st The Knights of Royal England at Hever Castle, Kent, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 31st & 1st The Tournament of Walraversijde, Oostende, Belgium http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=152000491459 31st & 1st Ealdfaeder at Sutton Hoo near Woodbridge, Suffolk, UK For information contact: pete@gippeswic.demon.co.uk 31st & 1st The Storming of Tyr Mawr-battle of Bosworth 525th anniversary event, Ty Mawr Medieval hall, Montgomeryshire, Wales. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=132470586782824 23rd July to 15th August Zu Ebener Erde und Erster Stock, Burg Liechtenstein. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=109420215750127
August 2010 6th – 8th The Knights of Royal England at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 7th & 8th Midlands History Festival at Stratford Armouries, Stratford, UK www.mid-fest.co.uk 7th & 8th Feathers & Flights, Cilgerran Castle, Pembrokeshire, Wales http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=103269639709469&n= 7th & 8th De fer et de feu, Rebecq, Belgium http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=316716813226
7th & 8th Military & Flying Machines Show, Daymns Hall Aerodrome, Upminster, Essex http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=291940703278&n= 7th & 8th Matrimonio di Re Manfredi, Trani, Italy http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=133774093302268 14th Belton House National Trust WW2 RAF event, Lincolnshire, UK http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=338066422154 13th – 15th The Knights of Royal England at Hever Castle, Kent, uk www.knightsroyal.co.uk 13th – 15th Fight Camp 2010, The Grange near Coventry, UK http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=188787046360 14th & 15th Spetchley Park-Multi-period event, Worcester, UK www.lhiw.org.uk 14th & 15th Lincoln Castle, Lincoln, UK For information contact: plantychrisb@yahoo.co.uk 14th & 15th Aarschot 1489 – editie 2010, Domein Elzenhof http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=296931636114&n= 14th & 15th Ealdfaeder at Sutton Hoo near Woodbridge, Suffolk, UK For information contact: pete@gippeswic.demon.co.uk 14th & 15th Barnas Viking Festival, Trondenes/Harstad http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=445461745236&n_= 14th & 15th MSS at Bodium Castle, Sussex, UK For information: http://www.medieval-seige-society.co.uk 20th Bosworth battle, Bosworth battlefield, Sutton Cheney, England http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=126436617385628 21st & 22nd Scotlands Festival of History, The Royal Borough of Lanark, UK http://www.scotlandsfestivalofhistory.co.uk 21st & 22nd Roasting Ears of Corn Festival, Museum of Indian Culture, Allentown, PA, USA http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=383794859553 21st & 22nd The Knights of Royal England at Hever Castle, Kent, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 22nd Fete Medievale De L‟Alpe D‟Huez, France http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=105661962798645 25th – 29th Invitational European Championship Horsens 2010, Denmark http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=106580086045154 27th & 28th The Knights of Royal England at Hever Castle, Kent, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 27th – 29th Fete Medievales D‟Eguilles 2010, Eguilles, France http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=135406646474518 28th – 30th Herstmonceaux Medieval Festival, Herstmonceaux Castle, East Sussex, UK
28th – 30th Military Odyssy, Kent Show Ground, Detling, Kent, UK. http://www.military-odyssey.com/ 28th – 30th Medieval Spectacular at Pensthorpe Park, Fakenham, Norfolk http://www.blackknighthistorical.co.uk 29th & 30th The Knights of Royal England at Hedingham Castle, Essex, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 28th & 29th Balingup Medieval Carnivale, Balingup, Australia http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=124316690938117 28th – 29th September 10 Jahre mim IG Mensch im Mittelalter e.V (63165 Mulheim am Main) http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=273595664687 28th – 30th The 6th Medieval Spectacular Festival, Pensthorpe, Norfolk, UK http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=375662809571&n=
September 2010 3rd – 5th VI Rol en Vivo, Reinos Olvidados, Hereos del Destino, Monzon (Huesca) http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=131279140216486 3rd – 5th Special effects seminar, Oneail FX Studios, Amesbury, MA, USA http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=133254906689529 4th & 5th Campaign of La Boissiere-Ecole 1815 The village of La Boissiere-Ecole situated 17km west of Rambouillet near Paris 4th – 6th Medievales Internaionales De St Colomban Edition 2010, St Colomban, Quebec, Canada http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=122447047795701 5th The Knights of Royal England at Knebworth House, Hertfordshire, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 10th – 12th V Torneo Internazionale di Castell Arquato di Scherma Medievale Pesante http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=120977151273883 11th & 12th Early Medieval Alliance (EMA) event at Caldicot Castle, Wales, UK 11th & 12th Rivivi il Medioevo, Parco del LungoArda, Castell'Arquato, Italy http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=134003623277398 11th & 12th MSS at Battle of Edgecote & Tournament Spectacular, Chipping Warden, Banbury, UK For information: http://www.medieval-seige-society.co.uk 11th & 12th Caldicot 2010, Caldicot Castle, Wales, UK http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=344037991340 18th & 19th The Battle of Mortimer‟s Cross (C1461) Main A49 1 Mile North of Leominster, Herefordshire, UK For information: http://www.mortimerscross.co.uk 18th & 19th The Knights of Royal England at Leeds Castle, Kent, UK www.knightsroyal.co.uk 25th Legnano 1176, Liberia Feltrinelli Milano, Italy http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=128683167154355
25th & 26th The 17th International Napoleonic Fair 2010 www.internationalnapoleonicfair.co.uk
October 2nd & 3rd Fete Medievale des Vendages, Pierrevert (04860) France http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=106808456027168 16th & 17th The Norfolk Living History Fayre, Mannington Hall, Norfolk, UK http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=343838790024 17th MSS Autumn Clout Shoot, Bodium Castle, Sussex, UK For information: http://www.medieval-seige-society.co.uk 29th-31st The Living History Fair, Warwickshire Exhibition Centre, UK http://www.livinghistoryfairs.com/ 30th & 31st Medieval Fair & Market, Tutbury Castle, Staffordshire, UK Contact: david.smith34@ntlworld.com
November 27th & 28th Ludlow Castle Medieval Christmas fair, Ludlow, Shropshire, UK Craft fair, medieval traders, combat, have a go archery http://www.ludlowcastle.com/
December 12th MSS Christmas Clout Shoot at Bodium Castle, Sussex, UK For information: http://www.medieval-seige-society.co.uk
Set in the Peak District, in 7th century Anglo-Saxon England, The Whispering Bell is both a gripping thriller and a tender love story. Wynflaed, orphaned by famine, is rescued and raised in a hall of plenty, but the peace and security of her life is soon shattered by Mercia's war with Northumbria. She marries Wulfric, a hero of the battle of Hatfield Heath, but he is lost at Mercia's siege of Bamburgh. Wynflaed is cheated and robbed of everything by her greedy brother-inlaw. She is enslaved and made to work for Penda's army as it pursues its enemies across the land. When finally she escapes, only an outlaw can help her. ISBN 978-1-906836-01-6
www.briansellars.co.uk Email: brian@briansellars.co.uk
Ty Mawr medieval hall celebrates 550 years with events and documentary Ty Mawr near Castle Caereinon, Powys celebrates its 550th anniversary this year with special weekend events and a television documentary. The largest restored medieval aisled hall in Wales will open its doors to visitors the first weekend of every month from June to September with a costumed guided tour and medieval living history displays in the grounds, including 15th century cooking, crafts and archery. Open from 11 am to 4 pm the day offers a unique insight into life in medieval Wales and is supported by the local heritage group „History Matters‟ and reenactors from the „Montgomery Levy‟ living history society. June the 5th and 6th sees them host a visit from members of the William Stanley‟s Household, whose members from throughout the UK will help to transport the visitors back to the life and times of the mid 15th Century. Free car parking with toilets facilities and light refreshments available, disabled access on request and tickets are £6 for adults, children £3 and concessions £4. Ty Mawr will feature in a documentary as the octogenarian Dr. Peter Smith (formerly of the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historic Monuments of Wales) visited Ty Mawr in April for S4C‟s filming of the „Houses of the Welsh Countryside‟ produced to celebrate the reprinting of this landmark publication. The first episode is the medieval hall house and features Ty Mawr described by Dr Smith as his most spectacular discovery. The hall whose timbers date from 1460 was identified in 1972 and restored by Cadw and the Powis estates in 1998 , winning the prestigious building of the year award in 2000 from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. The documentary makers spent two days filming at Ty Mawr, which will be shown later this year and features interviews with the Chairman of the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historic Monuments of Wales Dr Eurwyn Wiliam. Support History Matters for free when shopping online with over 2000 popular retailers. http://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/historymatters Raise funds for History Matters when you search the Web with easysearch - the best results in one simple search. http://historymatters.easysearch.org.uk
Step back in time 600 years for the ultimate Medieval experience at Bewl Water! Where entertainment & education blend seamlessly into one. Located just 10 miles from Tunbridge Wells, Kent, Bewl Water offers tranquil green meadows as well as a stunningly beautiful Lakeside surroundings. On the weekend of August 14th & 15th, 2010, Bewl Water will be transformed into a slice of 15th Century England with the full panoply of medieval life on display. Don't miss challenging Medieval combat in glittering steel armour on foot in a Fight Arena - cheer on your favorite warrior and boo the villains. Fighters wearing Gothic, Milanese and various examples of 15th Century cuirass will be knocking Seven Bells out of one another with a variety of weapons including Medieval Poleaxes, Flails (ball on chains), Flambards - 4ft long swords - bills, glaives and spears The ground will also be thumping and thundering with the beat of 14 medieval warhorses as the armoured Jousters do their best to unseat one another in an afternoon of competition and rivalry. Enjoy the Have-A-Go Archery and take in the sights, sounds and smells of Medieval Living History, cookery, crafts and woodwork. This is an opportunity to Meet The Ancestors - real-live Medieval folk in fully accurate Medieval costumes who can answer all your questions about Life in the Past. There will be coin-minting displays where you can punch out your Medieval pewter coins - plus a chance to poke through the contents of a replica Medieval Toilet complete with rats and archaeological finds! As you wander through the Medieval Encampment Village don't miss the opportunity to try on some of the vast range of replica body armour we have on display, heft the weapons, look at what they can do - you will be closely supervised so you cannot use them on anybody. You can even spend your modern money shopping at stalls belonging to Historic Traders - 15-20 of the UK's top artisan-traders and dealers in reenactment artefacts will be here. Beer, food and refreshments will be freely available onsite. Showers & full camping facilities - both authentic and plastic available to all participating re-enators. FIrewood SUPPLIED. Come for the day or stay for the weekend - it's up to you! Altogether you and your family can enjoy a BEWLiful day! Free entry to participating re-enactors. Please arrange this by emailing: Mrsjo@aol.com
Pirates of Barbary: Corsairs, Conquests and Captivity in the 17th Century Mediterranean By Adrian Tinniswood Book Review & Interview with the Author – By Chris Poore Adrian Tinniswood is a historian and educationalist who regularly lectures in the UK and US and was for many years consultant to the National Trust on heritage education. He is the author of eleven books to date including his acclaimed biography of Christopher Wren and The Verneys which was shortlisted for the BBC Samuel Johnson prize for Non-Fiction. His latest work “Pirates of Barbary” explores the rich, colourful and often brutal history of the Barbary Corsairs. The book is a patchwork of different stories that spark the imagination, from the life of John Ward, an English Sailor who became a Privateer for the Pasha of Tunis, making a fortune at sea preying on all nations shipping including his own and who eventually joined Islam becoming one of the most notorious pirates of the 17th Century to the personal stories of those unfortunate enough to be captured and forced into a life of slavery on the Barbary coast (it is estimated that over 1.25 million White European Christians were captured and sold as slaves in the markets of Morocco, Algiers and Tunis). More importantly it gives a good background to the reasons why, and how, the Barbary pirates become the scourge of the coasts of Europe, not only raiding all across the Mediterranean but also attacking shipping and villages and towns along the English coast and as far north as Iceland. The book‟s research is well laid out and readable detailing the struggle European nations and, in particular, England had with fighting this problem, probably most fascinating is the amount of Europeans that joined with the Corsairs to raid their own countries‟ shipping, some even Turning Turk and joining in a Sea Jihad against the infidel, while of course making a vast profit at the same time. And the fact that the only way to deal with this was for all the powers of Europe and the fledgling United States to pay off the Sultans, Pashas and Deys of Barbary with obscene amounts of money to leave their shipping alone is beyond belief. In its forward the book also offers some interesting connotations between the modern day pirates of Somalia and those of the Barbary Coast, showing in some ways that “things never change”. All in all the book is a very enjoyable and informative read, opening up a period of history that is all too often forgotten in the western mind! Recently I had the chance to ask the author some questions In the beginning of the book you mention your fascination with Barbary started with your research for your previous book on the Verneys, but what was it about this particular period of history that gripped your imagination? I've been fascinated by the 17th century ever since 1978, when the National Trust gave me my first job, as a researcher at Sudbury Hall, a stunning Restoration country house in Derbyshire. Since then I've written on Wren, the Great Fire of London, the Verneys and now the Barbary pirates. Each time I start a project, I realise how much more there is to know
about the period. It is without doubt the richest, most complex, most exciting in the whole of English history. In many ways the book is about the struggle that waged between the European Nations and the pirates and in particular England’s roles in that conflict. Why do you think the European powers took so long to stamp out this scourge seeing as how it affected so many nations trade? Several reasons: 1, there was a risk of annoying the Ottoman Empire. 2, the logistics of mounting an effective blockade of Algiers or Tunisia was formidable. 3, whenever one European nation moved into the Mediterranean it worried the others. 4, at different times it suited England, France, Holland and Spain to have the commerce of smaller Christian nations harassed and harmed by corsairs. It’s mentioned that an Elizabethan Act allowed for the setting up of Commissioners along the English Coast to try and deal with the problem, how effective were these commissioners and did they act under civil authority or under the Admiralty? There is still work to be done exploring the role of Commissioners for Piracy. Of the Jacobean examples I've come across, a distressing number operated in partnership with pirates. Do you think that the issue of so many English people enslaved on the Barbary Coast in the 1640’s (I believe about 30 to 40,000 at any one time) and the angry reaction of this by those at home played any significant part in the dissatisfaction Parliament had with Charles I and his ability to put a stop this menace? This is a really interesting question. William Rainborowe's expedition to free captives at Sale on the Atlantic Coast of Morocco in 1637 was clearly an attempt by the government to justify the ship money levy, which was presented as necessary if the navy were to combat the menace of pirates; and its success was seen as a vindication of the policy. But I think everyone rather forgot about the problem in the run-up to war, and I don't see Barbary slavery playing much of a role in Parliament's dissatisfaction with the King. The damage that pirates were doing to English trade is another matter, and a slightly different point! Now the book is finished what other projects do you have in mind for the future and do you think the story of Barbary Corsairs has now been fully told or is there more to come? Two questions there, and two answers! I think we're familiar with the European version(s) of the little wars in the Mediterranean now. What I hope my book does is to point to alternative readings, to show there is more than one side to the story. I suspect any new material and fresh perspectives will come from Islamic historians. As for my next book, it's early days yet. But I have a notion to look at one or two of the New England colonists of the 1630s who came back to fight for Parliament and a new Jerusalem in the 40s. Many of them had close links with the Levellers and other radical groups - perhaps America contributed more to our English Revolution than we realise!
That „Glorious though Unfortunate Battle‟ – The Black Watch and the Attack on Fort Ticonderoga, 8th July, 1758 Duncan Campbell was one of those who took part in the disastrous attack ordered by General James Abercrombie against the defences of Fort Carillon in July 1758. This was one of the many actions fought in the course of the Seven Years War (1756 – 1763) in the vast arena of the North American wilderness. Ten days after the fight, Duncan Campbell, serving with the 42nd succumbed to his wounds. Some three years beforehand Campbell is said to have provided shelter to one who turned out to have been his brother‟s murderer. This was a fine choice for a highland gentleman; to deny the call of vengeance or the obligations of the host. A humane man, he spared the assassin and gave him refuge. A little while after his dead brother appeared to him in a dream in which he promised they would meet again at a place called Ticonderoga, which at that point and, unsurprsingly, Campbell had never heard of. On the very afternoon of the day on which the fateful engagement had been played out in New York State, a ghostly panoply of fighting men appeared in the clouds over Inveraray Castle, Clan Campbell was thus given notice it would soon mourn many of its lost sons. The name Ticonderoga derives from the Iroquois expression tekontaro:ken - „at the junction of two waterways‟, an entirely pragmatic description for the place stands astride the strategically significant narrow passage of Lake Champlain, where a short traverse cuts through to the northern flank of Lake George. Thus the fort dominated the busy trade highway between English-held Lake Hudson and the French-controlled St. Lawrence River. Such was the importance of its location that four major combats were fought out there within a mere two decades. When the French began to build in 1755, they named their new work Fort Carillon, the choice inspired by the almost musical resonance of tumbling falls nearby. Construction was spread over a period of two years and the ramparts were not completed until 1757. By then local rivalry between France and England had flared as a wider consequence of the Seven Years War, Pitt the Elder‟s expansionist triumph that a later populist leader, Winston Churchill, branded as „The First World War‟. It was from there the French launched a successful campaign against Fort William Henry, an episode familiar to all readers of James Fenimore Cooper‟s Last of the Mohicans. By the following year the British in North America had been substantially reinforced whilst the French under Louis-Joseph de Montcalm, were forced back onto the defensive. Two campaigns were planned, General Amherst would lead an attempt on the great French bastion of Louisbourg, whilst Abercrombie, as C-in-C would assault Fort Carillon. His forces were considerable, comprising some 7,000 British redcoats and 9,000 colonial militia, well supported by a formidable artillery train. His regular battalions included the 27th, 44th, 46th, 55th and the 42nd Highland regiment (The Black Watch). For the difficult and dangerous business of scouting and skirmishing he could count upon over a thousand of light infantry. Col. Gage, commanding the 80th foot, was a devoted student of that celebrated exponent of irregular warfare Richard Rogers, whose Rangers had already made a name for themselves as masters of commando style operations. Against this formidable deployment Montcalm could muster no more than 3,600 defenders all told, made up of seven battalions of French regulars, supported by marines, French
colonials and native allies. He knew the blow must fall upon the bastion of Ticonderoga and thus looked to his defences. The site enjoyed a superb tactical position, pushed out on a spur that jutted, like a salient against the course of the river, the rushing waters providing additional cover on three sides. The fourth flank was partly screened by a bog and covered by a timber outwork, a substantial palisade nine feet high, the timbers soundly buttressed, and the ground before sown with stakes and other obstacles. The fort itself was a classic star shaped construction with four corner strengths or bastions, two freestanding works, or ravelins, guarding the most exposed flanks and the whole built upon a swell of higher ground, it was altogether a most commanding position. Any successful assault could only be prepared after the major logistical effort needed to transport, men, their equipment and supplies, the great guns, ammunition and quantities of powder had been competently undertaken. The officer responsible was Brigadier Viscount George Augustus Howe, one of several remarkable brothers, all of whom were destined to leave their mark on North America. Howe, colonel of the 55th had made a particular study of the irregular pattern of warfare that so suited the terrain and had spent time with Rogers. The many lessons learnt he put to good effect, stripping his fellow officers of much of their more luxurious baggage, lightening the men‟s load, adapting their uniform, weapons and drill. He went so far as to be seen washing his own linen in rivers, a chore normally undertaken for officers by the regimental women whom he‟d sent back, this was indeed novel! In the warm flush of a continental summer, the end of June, Abercrombie‟s task force was mustering on the banks of Lake George, the ruins of Fort William Henry a potent reminder. Thanks to Howe‟s efficiency some 800 barges or bateaux, plus 90 whaleboats had been laboriously hauled overland, each of the boats would carry 22 troops with all their gear and 30 days supply of foodstuffs. On 5th July with commendable discipline and elan the regiments embarked and the great flotilla of heavily laden craft proceeded sedately down the length of Lake George. It was indeed a sight of awesome majesty, the might of the burgeoning British Empire, a rich tableau of scarlet and gold, the deep blue of the colonials, the latent power of the great guns, lashed to rafts, the silken standards lifting in a gentle breeze. Around them the sylvan glories of an untouched wilderness; tall stands of pine and fir, the light glancing from the calm, burnished waters of the lake, hills rising on every side. By dawn the following day, 6th July, the long passage of Lake George had been accomplished without mishap and the battalions were approaching the narrows; ahead of them was the expanse of Lake Champlain but, rising in its headland, reared the great mass of Fort Ticonderoga, an unconquered citadel. Montcalm, however outnumbered, was still vigilant and the shoreline was held by a commanded body of skirmishers; fire from the boats drove these back beneath the shelter of the trees and the attackers disembarked without further opposition. Once ashore, the men were detailed into marching columns but this terrain was not the level arena of Flanders, it was rather a dense web of tangled undergrowth, fallen trees and confusing slopes. Abercrombie‟s guides proved less than competent and the British were soon in difficulties. In the confusion the right, commanded by Howe, became involved in a running fight with the French, taking casualties, amongst these was their gallant commander, one whose loss would be keenly felt. Major-General Strewart writing of the action some decades after, commented: The march was continued in the same order [July 7th], but the ground not having been previously examined, and the guides proving extremely ignorant, the columns came in contact, and were thrown in confusion. A detachment of the enemy, which got bewildered in the wood, fell in with the right column, at the head of which was lord Howe. A smart
skirmish ensued, in which the enemy were driven back and scattered with considerable loss. This petty advantage was dearly purchased by the death of Lord Howe. Abercrombie, deprived of his subordinate‟s wise counsel, now took a fateful and disastrous decision. Sensibly, he could have deployed his colonials to interdict communications between the beleaguered fort and possible reinforcement from Fort St. Frederic (Crown Point). He could then have begun the laborious process of dragging the guns from their barges to the eminence of Mount Defiance and, from there commenced a bombardment, which given the weight of shot he disposed must surely have soon battered the fort into submission. He chose instead to rely on the distinctly unsound advice of a junior officer of engineers, who opined the impromptu defences covering the approach were flimsy and could be rushed with the bayonet. With drums beating and banners unfurled the regular battalions of foot moved into the attack with purpose and precision, but the defences were far stronger than had been suggested, the line of the breastwork was held by Montcalm‟s veterans. A withering hail of fire greeting the leading ranks who were flensed away as their comrades behind struggled to fight through the lines of obstacles – this was grim, close quarter work, which presaged the horror of the trenches; the men could make no headway: Masses of infuriated men could not go forward and would not go back; straining for an enemy they could not reach, and firing on an enemy they could not see, they were caught in the entanglement of felled trees. Shooting, yelling and cursing, they were assailed all the while with bullets, which killed them by scores, stretched them on the ground, or hung them on jagged branches, in strange attitudes of death. Thus far the 42nd, with the 55th had been kept in reserve but, as the assault faltered, they were now sent in. Formed nearly two decades beforehand the 42nd (Lord John Murray‟s Highlanders – the Black Watch) were proud of their natural elitism – drawn mainly from the ranks of Clan Campbell, the soldiers were men of quality and some standing. Their elan was ferocious and they fell upon the defences with gusto. The battle now reached its savage denouement as the highlanders fought and clawed their way forward, Captain John Campbell and a handful of his company became the only British forces to gain a lodgment in the enemy position but, unsupported and disdaining retreat, they were cut down to a man. As the celebrated historian Francis Parkman wrote: Then the highland soldiers of the 42nd could endure no longer. Impatient of their position in the rear, they rushed forward, hewed their way through the obstacles with their broadswords. Since no ladders had been provided, they made strenuous efforts to carry the breastworks, partly by mounting on each other‟s shoulders and partly by fixing their feet in holes, which they had excavated with their swords and bayonets in the face of the work. The defenders were so well prepared that the instant an assailant reached the top, that instant he was thrown or shot down. Losses were frightful, the 42nd, which had suffered most grievously, had lost eight officers, nine NCO‟s and 297 other ranks killed, 17 officers, ten NCO‟s and 306 men hurt – a total loss of 647, the regiment was reduced to a mere shell. The attack was a disastrous failure though, in recognition of its sacrifice the 42nd was awarded by George II with the designation „Royal‟ – never was such a distinction better merited.