41 Morningside, Coventry. CV5 6PD
+44 (0)24 7667 6721. <mumminguk@mail.com>

 

This Collection aims to hold photocopies of everything significant that has been written bout Folk Plays & related subjects. There is no attempt to be selective & everything which could be read by anyone is considered, good or bad.

Not specifically included are:

Besides folklorists, the subject has attracted writers from other disciplines such as English Studies, Theatre & Drama Studies, etc., all of which are included.

The Collection contains all published specialist books & booklets, together with ephemera & trivia, some video & audio tapes; also listings of other collections, of which some microfilm can be accessed. The copies are assembled loose into volumes by subject, & could thus save future researchers effort, time & money.

Broad categories are:

General

Hero-Combat

Wooing Plays

Longsword Plays

Derby Tup

Hobby Horses

Miscellania

Robin Hood Plays

Folk Plays & the Other Arts

Single subject volumes

(Unpublished Works)

(Single traditional teams)

 

The special section for unpublished works— Theses, Papers, Dissertations, Essays, etc, is unique in its scope & presently contains more than 80 items

At the last count the main sections contained 2,717 separate items in 143 volumes. (A volume is 'full' at about 100 sheets) The Collection is being actively developed & expanded and we are working on an Access database which will provide bibliographic details unmatched anywhere.

I can now say that, to the best of my belief & within the stated parameters, this Collection holds more material than any other which is publicly accessible! If anyone can challenge this claim, or is following a like interest, I shall be delighted to hear from them as kindred spirits are few & we could probably collaborate to mutual advantage.

Access, including evenings & weekends, can be accorded to any serious enquirer by arrangement. Accommodation can often be provided. Relevant parts of the Collection are available, with the obsessed compiler, for related events on an 'expenses' basis.

Enquiries by post are accepted; & photocopies of much of the material can be supplied to members of Ring clubs & often to others. Donations of material will be received with gratitude & delight- & payment if required. R K S. xi.2000.

Chief Archivist- Chris Metherell, BSc, 81 Kenton Rd, Gosforth, Newcastle on Tyne, NE3 4NL. 0191 2842438.