I was aware of well dressing and blessing in Derbyshire, but had no idea
that such a thing went on anywhere else. Anyway, today was the
dressing and blessing ceremony of the Haslemere well.
Haslemere
well was in use from mediaeval times until the late 19th century. The
last watercarrier, Hannah Oakford, used to charge 1 penny per bucket to
deliver fresh water to townspeople. She died in 1898.
This is the well and the dressed plaque.
Not quite up to Derbyshire standards I think, but interesting that we should wish to do this. This is the blessing ceremony.
And here is the musical presentation.
Here are some close ups of the decoration.
Haslemere
well is just off the present High Street. As it was such a lovely day
today, I thought you might also like to see the view from the well.
I truly love this tradition... I find it beautiful:-)
ReplyDeleteYes, it was a pleasure to find it happening here.
DeleteWell !! Water palaver!!
ReplyDeleteBut at least all the boring stuff was finished long ago.
Delete