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Saxons in the West midlands
Of all the periods in our history, the Anglo-Saxon occupation and spread is perhaps the least understood. Our area was part of the Kingdom of Mercia, under Offa the most important kingdom in the land. It is good to know that the Warwickshire Museum has mounted a major exhibition, entitled 'Offa's Kingdom', from 8th August to 19th September 1992. It then moves from Warwick Museum (Market Place) to Nuneaton Museum (3rd October - 6th December 1992) and Coventry Museum (12th Dec. - 14th February) 1992. Among exhibits on show are finds recently excavated at Bidford on Avon and Alcester's Tau Cross, a loan from the British Museum.
We know so little about the Saxons around Alcester that a chance to see fine examples of their craftsmanship in Warwickshire never before shown in the county is not to be missed.
Readers needing more information should ring Philip Wise on (0926) 412033
add link to warwick musem
The Spring issue
of 'Local Past' contained an article on Alcester Toll House. This was submitted by Mr.A.
Godfrey of Alcester but no attribution was given: our apologies to him.
A short video of
the recent Society meeting, when Miss Balmforth was the speaker, has been presented to the
Society's archives. This may be borrowed by interested readers.
By the time this
quarterly appears, a new book of photographs of Alcester and district will have appeared:
'ALCESTER IN CAMERA', published by 'Quotes Ltd' of Northants.and compiled by the
Editor of 'Local Past'. On the face of it, it would seem, that with two booklets of
photographs already published by A.D.L.H.S., there would be no demand for another one.
However, there is always a ready sale for compilations of local photographs. Copies will
be on sale at Alcester Library, Morgams, newsagents and 'Alcester Photographic' on High
Street.
Those who find
mills of great interest could do worse than visit Wellesbourne Mill it lies on the
Wellesbourne - Walton road, on the River Dene. Mr. Hamilton, the owner, has spent years
putting it in order and now produces stone-ground flour. It is very spick and span, with
notices on the constituent parts explaining their functions. The grounds are also of
interest, with features including corn-field weeds and herbs; a bodger' machine is an
unusual feature. A large barn has been renovated after the exertions of the mill and
grounds, refreshments may be obtained there. The all-in entrance fee is a worthwhile
expenditure for a good afternoon out.
© G.E. Saville 1992