Towton Battlefield Society
Marston Moor Walk
I am grateful to Graham Darbyshire for the following account of our trip to the Marston Moor Battlefield.
“On Wednesday 1st July 22 Society members and guests gathered at the monument at Marston Moor for a tour of this prime Civil War battlefield.
Our guide for the evening was Russell Marwood of the York Archaeological Trust, who did a fine job guiding us around the many sites on the battlefield which not only of interest to historians but also the general public.
Russell was ably assisted by our very own Dave Cooke and between them they led discussions on the lay of the land and other topographical issues connected to the battlefield including the various positions taken up by Prince Rupert and his Royalist forces and also the positions of the Parliamentarians led by Oliver Cromwell.
The Battle of Marston Moor was a decisive battle fought on the 2nd July 1644 and over the duration of the tour we learned of the importance of the battle.
Well done to Russell for a fine evening.”
Hut painting
Over the last few weekends several members have worked hard on a project to rejuvenate our Visitor Centre. The cabin has been completed repainted on the outside and the re-decorating on the inside is nearly complete. Graham Darbyshire has worked really hard on this project and we now have new display materials and content and would recommend a re-visit. The key can always be obtained from the Crooked Billet Pub if the centre is unmanned.
Kirby Wharfe
Again I am indebted to Graham for the following update.
“The Battlefield Society was on hand at the Kirby Wharfe village Fete on Saturday 4th July along with re-enactors of the Frei Compagnie to support the village in raising much needed funds for the upkeep and restoration of the church which is a fine example of a Norman period building.
The Frei Compagnie put on an archery display, “Arming of the Knight” and a kids bill drill. The Society had a stand in the glorious July sunshine and took the opportunity to promote itself.”
Richard III Foundation Conference
If anyone is interested in attending this conference please contact me on 01302 882488 or refer to the Richard III Foundation website. It is to be held on 3rd October at Market Bosworth. The Society is offering a £15 subsidy to members who wish to attend and help man a stand during the intervals.
PTO.
Saxton Village Hall
One of our members now sits on the Saxton Village Hall committee. We are its largest user and Terry Williams has already had an active few weeks collaborating with the Parish authorities on behalf of the Society. As many of you will be aware, this village Hall which has recently undergone some repairs and improvements is the Hub of the local community and is a meeting place which allows us to gather at the heart of the Battlefield. The Village Hall has always been very kind to us and we view a close working relationship as an integral element of our Society.
Terry has managed to arrange for two large notice boards to be erected which will help tidy the Hall and give our Society a focal point within the building. Regular visitors will also be aware that time has depleted the stock of usable and comfortable chairs and as we are by far the biggest user with attendances often in excess of 60 we have decided to help the village purchase some more comfortable seating and the costs of this are currently under investigation.
Next meeting
Our next meeting is the very important “Open Evening” at Saxton Village Hall on 3rd August. This is always well attended but this year we will be even busier due to our closer links with the community, the planning issue, the involvement with local schools and the quality of the content. Leaflets have been delivered around all the local villages inviting them to come and meet us. We already have stands for the local parish council, the Battlefields Trust, a Bowyer, our own information stands, a medieval doctor, a slide show, weaponry and much more. Please come along and enjoy the evening. We will be providing free refreshments and I will open the doors at 18.30 to allow plenty of time for a good set-up.
Mark Taylor