Our style of Living History is very different
to re-enactment. We do not take on a character or have a particular role
to play. We dress as authentically as possible and use authentic tools
and equipment, but because we are not 'in character' we have the freedom
to explain why events happened and provide the historical /
archaeological evidence for them. We can answer a much more diverse
selection of questions with sensible answers!
Our period Anglo-Saxon
or Viking
tent and contents acts as a backdrop to all our activities and during
our displays, we like to engage the public, as much as possible, in whatever
we are doing, whether it be a game of Nine Men's Morris, drop-spinning
or helping people try on some chainmail. The opportunity to loose some
arrows is also offered if a safe area can be provided.
As an additional element to our displays, we have a
modern gazebo, which houses our display boards full of information about
the period and a table of objects that can be handled or tried on. On
the table we also leave out a selection of hand-outs and small goods available
for sale, as souvenirs of a memorable experience.
We do not offer battle re-enactments. We aim to help the public understand that the majority of people were simple farming types who spent their time working the land and supporting themselves - not warriors.
We have provided displays for:
- Norfolk Wildlife Trust
- BBC Local History Day at the Forum, Norwich
- West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village, Suffolk
- St. Mary and St. Micheal's Church, Kirton
- and many more
