Alphabe Thursday W is for Wagons
April 25, 2013
I didn’t have to go far this week to find a ‘W’ these beauties are even hung from the ceilings. They are a constant delight to all; young old, boys, girls. Although they are primarily an academic resource, and represent the rich and rural history of England to me they are colourful, shapely and a joy.
In the Museum of English Rural Life we have over 20 wagons and carts, all of which are on display. Each one has a distinctive regional design and colour, reflecting local ways of life. The earliest example dates from 1780 and comes from Horseheath, Cambridgeshire – it is the earliest dated wagon in the UK.
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Interesting how something as functional as a wagon was nevertheless decorated. It reminds me of beautifully painted narrow boats. There was no reason to make them look beautiful but still…
Yes; the quality and colour of the paint is interesting too … they were built to last … and they did!
Hi Helen! When I volunteered with you in the library last year (I don’t know if you remember?) I remember you mentioning your blog – I took your advice and have tried to start one and keep it up…and I’ve ‘followed’ you so look forward to more MERL related and other posts 🙂 …perhaps see you at MERL at some point!
Emma
Yes I remember you … and you were at the beginning of my journey … I wish you and will look out for you xxx