• ‘Your Heritage’ Short Course in Rye.  Are you interested in finding out more about your family history or local history, but don’t know how to go about it?You are invited to join a Your Heritage4 week short course on how to get started. Classes will take place at the Tilling Green Community Centre and the first session is on Friday, 8th June 10:00 am – 12:30.  To register ring 01797 229600, or call into recepion at the community centre.
• Many thanks to the Rye Fund!  In November 2011 the Rye Fund awarded Rye Castle Museum a grant  of £500 which was to be used to update the software on which the  Museum catalogues all its artefacts and documents. The software  (called MODES Complete) has now been purchased and,  thanks to our capable and experienced Conservation Advisor and Curator, the   task of transferring the existing records on to the new database is already well underway. The Museum
  gratefully acknowledges the help and support given by  the Rye Fund in the vitally important task of ensuring that our records are up to date and easily accessible.
• We have  a Facebook page!  Click here to see it.  It’s on our Useful Links list too.
• Our East Street site is now open most weekends!  If you can help us fill in remaining gaps in the stewares’ rota for the nect weeks we can change this to read ‘The East Street site is now open every weekend’.  Being a steward (a couple of hours perhaps once a month) gives you the chance to get to know your Museum (and your town) better — and you’ll meet some very interesting visitors.  If you think you  would like to join the  ranks of Rye Museum Volunteers who act as stewards at East Street do ring  01797-226728 and let us know!

Plan ahead:  Put these  in your diary

Tuesday, 12th June East Street 7:30 p.m.
Rye Through Time by Alan Dickinson

Alan has more to tell about the fascinating places featured in his book of Then and Now photos of the same name.   How has Rye managed to accommodate so many changes over the past 150 years and still remain quintessentially Rye?  There will be a chance for questions and discussion.

Saturday.7th July  11 High Street
Annual Garden Party

This event, held in Rae Festing’s lovely garden, is always a highlight of the year.  Watch this space for information on the special attractions for 2012.

Tuesday, 24th July East Street 6:30 p.m.
Annual General Meeting, Rye Museum Association

Our latest events

Tuesday, 8th May
Rex Remembers by Rex Swain

What a wonderful evening’s entertainment! Town Crier Rex Swain, master storyteller, appeared in full regalia to spin story after — punchlines beautifully timed — about his own past and Rye’s, peopled with a host of colourful characters some of whom members of the audience remembered too. Rex loves poetry and tradtional songs — he sang an amusing long one about a hod carrier excusing himself from work today, and he treated us to one about Mermaid Street at night (published in the Rye Millenium book edited by Jo Kirkham) and when Jo mentioned another he recited that too, flawlessly.  It was an evening of great memories and impressive feats of memory. Bravo Rex, Town Treasure!

Saturday, 5th May
Coffee Morning and Table Sales

Despite the cold and rainy weather there was a comfortable turnout for this event — including many visitors to Rye as well as regulars.   New members were volunteer helpers on the refreshments table — much appreciated!  as were the delicious cakes contributed by new as well as longstanding members — and eaten to the last crumb.

Tuesday, 10th April
The Civil War in Sussex by Brion Purdy

Historian Brion gave an entertaining and erudite talk on  the Civil War in Sussex supported by illustrations and detailed and accurately dated accounts of distinguished Sussex families, such as the Ashburtonsm, Frewens, Gages, Lumsfords and Pelhams who largely supported the Parliamentarians.   Actual campaigns on  Sussex soil were few, such as the siege of Arundel Castle and a minor skirmish at Haywards Heath. Three Roundhead supporters from Rye were among those who signed the death warrant of Charles I.  Overall, in the words of Jo Kirkham, the Museum Chairperson, the talks were a ‘tour de force’!

Tuesday, 3rd April
Official opening of the summer season

A happy event.  Among the attendees were our MP, Amber Rudd,  our Mayor, John Breeds,  Joyce Hargreaves and Arthur Woodgate.  The Museum has purchased one of Brian Hargreaves paintings of Rye which will soon be on display.  Nonagenarian Arthur Woodgate who still writes regularly about Old Rye received a Rye Museum Association Honorary Life Membership certificate, presented by the 2 year old granddaughter of our Chairman, Jo Kirkham.

Pictured are the Museum’s two youngest members, Jessica and Elizabeth Kirkham (ages 5 and 2),  Honorary Life Member Arthur Woodgate (in his 99th year) and MP Amber Rudd.

Women's Tower

Update on  the Women’s Tower project:  ‘A local project with National Significance!’

If you would like more information about the project please email – community@ryepartnership.org

Coming Soon:  Another ‘unusual’ afternoon event

By popular demand we’ll be having more afternoon events at the East Street Museum following the success of a our recent ‘What is it? session. This generated much curiosity and speculation (sometimes wild)  about objects presented by the Curator, Linden Thomas, and others brought by participants.

The star example was a large wooden framed contraption with a metal tray in the middle.    Was it an instrument of torture? a bird feeder?  a pen for twins?  Linden finally revealed that it was a Victorian ‘bed wagon’–used for warming up and airing your bed. The pan in the middle held charcoal and the frame kept the bedclothes from catching fire. There were further questions of course, e.g. was it left in the bed with two people lying on either side of the hot coals?

Another puzzler from Linden turned out to be a slim early ice skate. It had holes at either end which would have been used for cords to fasten onto one’s boot or shoe.

When we came to the visitors own items, there was more speculation.  Priscilla Ryan brought an unidentified ‘thing’ which still remains a mystery. Here it is in itsopen state. Suggestions included: a whisk? a lemon squeezer? an insect catcher?  something to do with tatting or lace making? We still do not know.  Do you?

One of our number recognised a bone needle case with thread cutter, another tool was thought possibly to have been used by the Rye makers of beautiful mosaic Tunbridge Ware (examples of which you can see in our Museum).    Other objects eventually identified included a cork squeezer,   a soft boiled egg topper, a hand warmer bottle, an old-fashioned tin opener, a syringe—for ears perhaps?  but some, like Priscilla’s ‘thing’ remain mysteries.

We all left with increased respect for Georgian and Victorian inventiveness!

Watch for details of our next unusual afternoon event.

Much has happened in the last months so check previous posts under Latest News (e.g. March News) at right to see what you might have missed.  And if you want to plan further ahead click on Talks 2012 at right.

Publications and Souvenirs

The list of publications and souvenirs for sale at the Tower  has just been updated.  Click on the Publications page at right.  Alan Dickinson’s latest book Rye Through Time  is one of the titles recently added.   This is a most attractive and informative Then and Now collection,  one of its most welcome features being that all the Now photos are in colour.     Besides books, cards,  postcards (e.g. Captain Pugwash) and DVDs we now also have models (Ypres Tower), WWII replicas, dolls and more.

Members generously responded to an appeal for more books for the second-hand bookstall recently for which many thanks — but reopening East Street for the summer season means we once again  need more.  If your bookshelves are too full, why not choose some to bring to the Museum?

We have a Facebook page!  Click here to see it.  It’s on our Useful Links list too.

Our East Street site is now open most weekends! 

Our Ypres Tower site is open 7 days a week all year round.  Visitors who have been disappointed not to be able to visit the East Street site as well during the winter months are encouraged to come back as it  will  now normally be open each weekend.    There are new exhibits!    Watch for photos of the official opening of the summer season which took place on  April 3.  Among the attendees were our MP, Amber Rudd,  our Mayor, John Breeds,  Joyce Hargreaves and Arthur Woodgate.  The Museum has purchased one of Brian Hargreaves paintings of Rye which will soon be on display.  Nonagenarian Arthur Woodgate who still writes regularly about Rye received a Rye Museum Association Life Membership certificate, presented by the 2 year old granddaughter of our Chairman, Jo Kirkham.

Volunteer Stewards Needed!

Did you notice the proviso above about weekend openings of East Street?  This is because there are still gaps in the stewards’ rota for the next weeks.  Being a steward (a couple of hours perhaps once a month) gives you the chance to get to know your Museum (and your town) better — and you’ll meet some very interesting visitors.  If you think you  would like to join the  ranks of Rye Museum Volunteers who act as stewards at East Street do ring  01797-226728 and let us know!

Update on  the Women’s Tower project:  ‘A local project with National Significance!’

Women's Tower

Watch this space for good news on our efforts to raise funds to repair the Women’s Tower and begin using it to show visitors what life was like for early 19th century women and children.  Our Women’s Tower is one of the oldest examples of a Women’s prision in Britain.  Restoring it is a joint project of the Rye Museum Association and the Rye Partnership. As our goal begins to come in sight contributions are all the more welcome.  Can you help us reach our target?  For more information on the Tower please click here.

If you would like more information about the project please email – community@ryepartnership.org

Our latest event

Tuesday, 10th April
The Civil War in Sussex by Brion Purdy

Historian Brion gave an entertaining and erudite talk on  the Civil War in Sussex supported by illustrations and detailed and accurately dated accounts of distinguished Sussex families, such as the Ashburtonsm, Frewens, Gages, Lumsfords and Pelhams who largely supported the Parliamentarians.   Actual campaigns on  Sussex soil were few, such as the siege of Arundel Castle and a minor skirmish at Haywards Heath. Three Roundhead supporters from Rye were among those who signed the death warrant of Charles I.  Overall, in the words of Jo Kirkham, the Museum Chairperson, the talks were a ‘tour de force’!

Is this event in your diary?

Saturday, 5th May. East Street 10:30 – 12:00 
Coffee Morning and Table Sales

There will be bric- a-brac, books and plenty of cake.  Bring your friends too.

Tuesday, 8th May
Rex Remembers by Rex Swain

Our very popular Town Crier is coming to share his recollections of Rye in his earlier days.  He has been well-placed to see aspects of our town — including personalities and visitors — that most of us haven’t and he tells good stories.  A treat is in store!

Members £2.00  Non-Members £3.00      There will be a raffle and refreshments.

Coming Soon:

Another ‘unusual’ afternoon event.  .

By popular demand we’ll be having more afternoon events at the East Street Museum following the success of a our recent ‘What is it? session. This generated much curiosity and speculation (sometimes wild)  about objects presented by the Curator, Linden Thomas, and others brought by participants.

The star example was a large wooden framed contraption with a metal tray in the middle.    Was it an instrument of torture? a bird feeder?  a pen for twins?  Linden finally revealed that it was a Victorian ‘bed wagon’–used for warming up and airing your bed. The pan in the middle held charcoal and the frame kept the bedclothes from catching fire. There were further questions of course, e.g. was it left in the bed with two people lying on either side of the hot coals?

Another puzzler from Linden turned out to be a slim early ice skate, with holes at either end which would have been used for cords to fasten the skate onto one’s boot or shoe.

When we came to the visitors own items, there was more speculation.  Priscilla Ryan brought an unidentified ‘thing’ which still remains a mystery. Here it is in itsopen state. Suggestions included: a whisk? a lemon squeezer? an insect catcher?  something to do with tatting or lace making? We still do not know.  Do you?

One of our number recognised a bone needle case with thread cutter, another tool was thought possibly to have been used by the Rye makers of beautiful mosaic Tunbridge Ware (examples of which you can see in our Museum).    Other objects eventually identified included a cork squeezer,   a soft boiled egg topper, a hand warmer bottle, an old-fashioned tin opener, a syringe—for ears perhaps?  but some, like Priscilla’s ‘thing’ remain mysteries.

We all left with increased respect for Georgian and Victorian inventiveness!

Watch for details of our next unusual afternoon event.

Other Recent Events

The Tudor Room of the Mermaid Inn was the venue for our 13th March talk on the History of Rye Cricket Club by Martin Blincow.  The Cricket Club is one of Rye’s oldest and the photos and memorabilia on display to supplement the excellent slide presentation provided fascinating glimpses into the wider history of the town as well as this favourite sport.  The food was excellent too!

Though not a museum event as such, we hope you saw the BBC2 TV programme featuring Rye on 14th March.  Part of a series called Britain’s First Photo Album, it is presented by John Sergeant who is retracing the steps of  Victorian photographer Francis Frith, investigating how the scenes Frith depicted have changed over the past 120 years and taking a ‘today’ photo from the same (or nearby) spot. The Rye slice began with a photo of the Ypres Tower and the view beyond,  then showed Rye’s splendid Town Model at the Heritage Centre (its first airing on national TV!) Then there was exploration of Rye’s smuggling era  by visiting  the cellars at the White Vine, the Mermaid Inn and the interconnected attics of Market Street (convenient for moving contraband when customs officers knocked).  The final set of Then and Now photos contrasted a cargo vessel of Frith’s day with a pleasure craft of today along the Quayside.

Much has happened in the last months so check previous posts under Latest News (e.g. March News) at right to see what you might have missed.  And if you want to plan further ahead click on Talks 2012 at right.

Publications and Souvenirs

The list of publications and souvenirs for sale at the Tower  has just been updated.  Click on the Publications page at right.  Alan Dickinson’s latest book Rye Through Time  is one of the titles recently added.   This is a most attractive and informative Then and Now collection,  one of its most welcome features being that all the Now photos are in colour.     Besides books, cards,  postcards (e.g. Captain Pugwash) and DVDs we now also have models (Ypres Tower), WWII replicas, dolls and more.

Members generously responded to an appeal for more books for the second-hand bookstall recently for which many thanks — but reopening East Street for the summer season means we once again  need more.  If your bookshelves are too full, why not choose some to bring to the Museum?

Rye Museum on Facebook

If you use Facebook, do check the  Rye Castle Museum page.  Jamie Kirkham does an excellent job of keeping it up-to-date for us.  The more ‘Likes’ on the page the more benefits we earn from Facebook, so what about going  to our Facebook page and giving  us a ‘Like’?

 

  ‘A local project with National Signifigance!’

The bid for a Heritage Lottery Fund grant to bring the Women’s Tower of the Ypres Tower complex to its former glory has gone in!  –a joint project of the Rye Museum Association and the Rye Partnership.  As one of the oldest examples of a Women’s prison in this country it is important to rescue it from its current state of poor repair — and we wish to use it to acquaint visitors with what life was like for early 19th century women and children.  Contributions to the Women’s Tower Fund still welcome!

If you would like to ‘Have your say’ or would like more information please email – community@ryepartnership.org

For more information on the Tower please click here.

This month so far

It was heartening to see newcomers at our Volunteers Evening on 6th March, even better to learn about their interests and watch them sign up to be stewards, to help with children’s activities or school visits or displays or distributing posters,  or to join the teams cleaning up at the Tower and East Street in readiness for the opening of the new season!

If you think you too would like to join the  ranks of Rye Museum Volunteers you needn’t wait until the next such meeting.
Simply ring 01797-226728.

The Tudor Room of the Mermaid Inn was the venue for our 13th March talk on the History of Rye Cricket Club by Martin Blincow.  The Cricket CLub is one of Rye’s oldest and the photos and memorabilia on display to supplement the excellent slide presentation provided fascinating glimpses into the wider history of the town as well as this favourite sport.

Though not a museum event as such, we hope you saw the BBC2 TV programme featuring Rye on 14th March.  Part of a series called Britain’s First Photo Album, it is presented by John Sergeant who is retracing the steps of  Victorian photographer Francis Frith, investigating how the scenes Frith depicted have changed over the past 120 years and taking a ‘today’ photo from the same (or nearby) spot. The Rye slice began with a photo of the Ypres Tower and the view beyond,  then showed Rye’s splendid Town Model at the Heritage Centre (its first airing on national TV!) Then there was exploration of Rye’s smuggling era  by visiting  the cellars at the White Vine, the Mermaid Inn and the interconnected attics of Market Street (convenient for moving contraband when customs officers knocked).  The final set of Then and Now photos contrasted a cargo vessel of Frith’s day with a pleasure craft of today along the Quayside.

Much has happened in the last months so check previous posts under Latest News (e.g. March News) at right to see what you might have missed.  And if you want to plan further ahead click on Talks 2012 at right.

Are these events in your diary?

Sunday, lst April:   Summer hours begin

Winter hours end.  Summer hours begin.  Meanwhile the Ypres Tower continues to be open 7 days a week,  East Street only for talks and special events.  See Hours and Charges at right for details.

Tuesday, 3rd April, East Street 12 noon
Official 2012 opening  of  East Street  

For space reasons, this event is for Members.   MP Amber Rudd will be joining us for the occasion! Come get up-to-date with progress this past year and exciting plans for the future.

Tuesday, 10th April,  East Street 7:30
The Civil War in Sussex by Brion Purdy

Historian Brion is one of our Trustees and was a key member of the former Local History Group which did so much for the Museum.  He now lives in Hastings and  continues to provide excellent walks and talks on the history of the area.  This time his topic is the turbulent time of the Civil War focussing on the events and the impact in Sussex.  Don’t miss it.

There will be a raffle and refreshments.    Members: £2.00  Non-Members £3

Publications and Souvenirs

The list of publications and souvenirs for sale at the Tower  has just been updated.  Click on the Publications page at right.  Alan Dickinson’s latest book Rye Through Time  is one of the titles recently added.   This is a most attractive and informative Then and Now collection,  one of its most welcome features being that all the Now photos are in colour.     Besides books, cards,  postcards (e.g. Captain Pugwash) and DVDs we now also have models (Ypres Tower), WWII replicas, dolls and more.

Members generously responded to an appeal for more books for the second-hand bookstall recently for which many thanks — but reopening East Street for the summer season means we once again  need more.  If your bookshelves are too full, why not choose some to bring to the Museum?

Rye Museum on Facebook

If you use Facebook, do check the  Rye Castle Museum page.  Jamie Kirkham does an excellent job of keeping it up-to-date for us.

  ‘A local project with National Signifigance!’

The Women’s Tower is one of the oldest examples of a Women’s prison in this country but it is currently in a poor state of repair.  The Rye Museum Association along with the Rye Partnership is carrying out a Community Consultation for a Heritage Lotttery Fund to bring the Tower back to its former glory and to give people the opportunity to see it for themselves!

If you would like to ‘Have your say’ or would like more information please email – community@ryepartnership.org

For more information on the Tower please click  here.

What is it?
Our afternoon event on Wednesday 22 February

There was plenty of curiosity and speculation (sometimes wild) at the East Street Museum on Wednesday afternoon as —all seats taken–some 20 of us handled objects few of us had seen the likes of before and pondered on their intended uses.   Curator Linden Thomas began with a large wooden framed contraption with a metal tray in the middle:  a pen for twins? an agricultural machine? a clothes rack?  something to do with birds? . . .  It was, we finally learned, a Victorian bed warmer/airer with a pan for charcoal in the middle and a frame to keep the bedclothes from catching on fire.   Another puzzler from Linden turned out to be a slim early skate, with holes at either end which would have been used for cords to fasten the skate onto one’s boot or shoe.

There were more objects eventually identified:  a cork squeezer, soft boiled egg topper, a hand warmer bottle, a bone needle case with thread cutter, an old-fashioned tin opener, a syringe—for ears perhaps, but some remain mysteries.  Is Priscilla Ryan’s beautifully made contribution a lemon squeezer or an insect catcher?   The afternoon was both fun and informative – we all left with increased respect for Georgian and Victorian inventiveness — and we plan to have more such afternoons.

What might you bring?

Rye Museum on YouTube:
Smugglers of Romney Marsh   

The full video (44 minutes) lets you travel the Marsh with Richard on his bike,. visiting Midley, Lydd, Romney, Dungeness, Hawkhurst …and the Mermaid Inn with its secret passages,   all the while discovering  more about the long smuggling era from its 14th century beginnings to  the mid 19th century  (and beyond?)     How did it begin?  What was the local name for it and why? Why did it take so long to get under control?  Why was tea smuggled?   Do you know any smugglers’ tricks?

The privileges of the Cinque Ports and the two Antient Towns,  the Hawkhurst Gang,  dragoons, Martello Towers and the Royal Military Canal all figure in the story of the trades’ rise and decline. In each case, do you know how?   Do you know the full Kipling poem about watching the wall while the gentlemen go by?   Click here for  the whole episode.

Are these events in your diary?

Tuesday, 6th March. East Street 6:30 p.m.
Volunteers (and Would-Be Volunteers) Evening 

We need volunteers of many different kinds.  Perhaps you would like to be a steward once a month?  Welcoming visitors to our museum is helpful to us and can be  rewarding for you: you’lll meet some interesting people!  But perhaps you would rather help serve refreshments at our talks,  or help prepare for and tidy up after events or deliver posters and newsletters, or help with children’s activity afternoons or spring cleaning, or write/edit for the website?  (Thiat list is not exhaustive.)     Come along to the Volunteers evening to find out more about plans for the coming year and perhaps discover a way you could contribute to their success.

Tuesday. 13th March. Tudor Room, Mermaid Inn  7:30 p.m.  {NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE)
The History of Rye Cricket Club by Martin Blincow

A fascinating insight into Rye’s past via a favourite sport–complete with photos, memorabilia, slides . . . . . .

Watch it! Rye on BBC2
Wednesday 14th March 6:30 p.m.

We have just received word that Rye will be featured on a new BBC2 TV programme on Wednesday 14th March at 6.30 p.m. The series is called Britain’s First Photo Album and features John Sergeant retracing the steps of Victorian photographer Francis Frith who (as many of you will know) took many classic photos of Rye. In addition, the Rye Town Model will get natiohal TV coverage for the first time.

If you are interested in the entire series: it commences on Monday 12th March and runs for 2 weeks.

Sunday, lst April:   Summer hours begin

Winter hours end.  Summer hours begin.  Meanwhile the Ypres Tower continues to be open 7 days a week, weather permitting!     East Street only for talks and special events.  See Hours and Charges at right for details.

Tuesday, 3rd April, East Street 12 noon
Official 2012 opening  of  East Street 

For space reasons, this event is for Members.   MP Amber Rudd will be joining us for the occasion! Come get up-to-date with progress this past year and exciting plans for the future.

An Invitation from the Sussex Military History Society
Saturday 26th May 2012 at Newhaven Fort 

Those of you interested in military history might be interested in attending the Sussex Military History Society’s Study Day on 26th May in Newhaven. The theme for the day is ‘Land, Air & Sea’ with all speakers giving expert illustrated lectures. For more information go to www.sussexmilitary.org.uk or contact Stewart Angell 07714923925.

Other Recent Events

Tuesday, 14th February
Rebellious Rye – Corruption, Protest & Reform in the 19th Century by Peter Ewart

Peter, master painter in words, invited us to be spectators of Rye’s rumbustious, even sensational goings-on as a rotten borough  in the mid 1800s when it repeatedly made the national press.  Scurrilous posters vilifying opponents,  rival (and simultaneous) mayors,  blatant bribery via loans and 34 pubs, the perils of  pre-secret ballot voting, Jeremiah Smith’s arrest, imprisonment in Newgate — and his triumphant return to what may have been the greatest celebration Rye has ever known– all this and much more in a colourful, fast-paced panorama  which on the one hand we all found fascinating and on the other made us grateful to be spectators from a distance of 150 years rather than caught up in all the excitement ourselves.  Many thanks Peter!   (And for more on Rye’s past, ask at Rye Library for a copy of Peter’s A Poor Man’s Rye: the daily life of a local labouring family 1847-1930 which gives a picture of life on Hucksteps Row and the Landgate area in days gone by.

Monday, 13th February,  East Street 2 p.m.
Children’s Half Term Activity Afternoon for under 10′s

This time the activities  included making monster skittles (plus paper balls)  and planting cress heads and all the  children chose to have their faces painted!   Parents seemed to enjoy the afternoon too.  You can see that the children certainly did.

News Flash

Our Links list was growing so long we have just moved it to a separate page.  See Useful Links at right.  This time we’ve added brief descriptions  to give an idea of what you will find at each site and each place.

Publications and Souvenirs

The list of publications and souvenirs for sale at the Tower  has just been updated.  Click on the Publications page at right.  Alan Dickinson’s latest book Rye Through Time  is one of the titles recently added.   This is a most attractive and informative Then and Now collection,  one of its most welcome features being that all the Now photos are in colour.     Besides books, cards,  postcards (e.g. Captain Pugwash) and DVDs we now also have models (Ypres Tower), WWII replicas, dolls and more.

Members generously responded to an appeal for more books for the second-hand bookstall recently for which many thanks — but regular sales mean we once again  need more. Though we are now closed for the winter we do have regular events during that period so if your bookshelves are too full . . . .

Rye Museum on Facebook

Did you know there is now a Rye Museum page on Facebook?   Our thanks to Jamie Kirkham for setting it up for us. All you need to do to see it is type Facebook Rye Castle Museum in a Google search box.

Reminder

Are you caught up with recent Museum news, events and activities?  

Much has happened in the last months so check previous posts under Latest News and other headings at right to see what you might have missed.  If you want to plan still further ahead click on Talks 2012 at right.

  ‘A local project with National Signifigance!’

The Women’s Tower is one of the oldest examples of a Women’s prison in this country but it is currently in a poor state of repair.  The Rye Museum Association along with the Rye Partnership is carrying out a Community Consultation for a Heritage Lotttery Fund to bring the Tower back to its former glory and to give people the opportunity to see it for themselves!

If you would like to ‘Have your say’ or would like more information please email – community@ryepartnership.org

For more information on the Tower please click  here.

What is it?
Our afternoon event on Wednesday 22 February

There was plenty of curiosity and speculation (sometimes wild) at the East Street Museum on Wednesday afternoon as —all seats taken–some 20 of us handled objects few of us had seen the likes of before and pondered on their intended uses.   Curator Linden Thomas began with a large wooden framed contraption with a metal tray in the middle:  a pen for twins? an agricultural machine? a clothes rack?  something to do with birds? . . .  It was, we finally learned, a Victorian bed warmer/airer with a pan for charcoal in the middle and a frame to keep the bedclothes from catching on fire.   Another puzzler from Linden turned out to be a slim early skate, with holes at either end which would have been used for cords to fasten the skate onto one’s boot or shoe.

There were more objects eventually identified:  a cork squeezer, soft boiled egg topper, a hand warmer bottle, a bone needle case with thread cutter, an old-fashioned tin opener, a syringe—for ears perhaps, but some remain mysteries.  Is Priscilla Ryan’s beautifully made contribution a lemon squeezer or an insect catcher?   The afternoon was both fun and informative – we all left with increased respect for Georgian and Victorian inventiveness — and we plan to have more such afternoons.

What might you bring?

Rye Museum on YouTube:
Smugglers of Romney Marsh   

The full video (44 minutes) lets you travel the Marsh with Richard on his bike,. visiting Midley, Lydd, Romney, Dungeness, Hawkhurst …and the Mermaid Inn with its secret passages,   all the while discovering  more about the long smuggling era from its 14th century beginnings to  the mid 19th century  (and beyond?)     How did it begin?  What was the local name for it and why? Why did it take so long to get under control?  Why was tea smuggled?   Do you know any smugglers’ tricks?

The privileges of the Cinque Ports and the two Antient Towns,  the Hawkhurst Gang,  dragoons, Martello Towers and the Royal Military Canal all figure in the story of the trades’ rise and decline. In each case, do you know how?   Do you know the full Kipling poem about watching the wall while the gentlemen go by?   Click here for  the whole episode.

Are these events in your diary?

Tuesday, 6th March. East Street 6:30 p.m.
Volunteers (and Would-Be Volunteers) Evening 

We need volunteers of many different kinds.  Perhaps you would like to be a steward once a month?  Welcoming visitors to our museum is helpful to us and can be  rewarding for you: you’lll meet some interesting people!  But perhaps you would rather help serve refreshments at our talks,  or help prepare for and tidy up after events or deliver posters and newsletters, or help with children’s activity afternoons or spring cleaning, or write/edit for the website?  (Thiat list is not exhaustive.)     Come along to the Volunteers evening to find out more about plans for the coming year and perhaps discover a way you could contribute to their success.

Tuesday. 13th March. Tudor Room, Mermaid Inn  7:30 p.m.  {NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE)
The History of Rye Cricket Club by Martin Blincow

A fascinating insight into Rye’s past via a favourite sport–complete with photos, memorabilia, slides . . . . . .

Sunday, lst April:   Summer hours begin

Winter hours end.  Summer hours begin.  Meanwhile the Ypres Tower continues to be open 7 days a week, weather permitting!     East Street only for talks and special events.  See Hours and Charges at right for details.

Tuesday, 3rd April, East Street 12 noon
Official 2012 opening  of  East Street  

For space reasons, this event is for Members.   MP Amber Rudd will be joining us for the occasion! Come get up-to-date with progress this past year and exciting plans for the future.
An Invitation from the Sussex Military History Society
Saturday 26th May 2012 at Newhaven Fort 

Those of you interested in military history might be interested in attending the Sussex Military History Society’s Study Day on 26th May in Newhaven. The theme for the day is ‘Land, Air & Sea’ with all speakers giving expert illustrated lectures. For more information go to www.sussexmilitary.org.uk or contact Stewart Angell 07714923925.

Other Recent Events

Tuesday, 14th February
Rebellious Rye – Corruption, Protest & Reform in the 19th Century by Peter Ewart

Peter, master painter in words, invited us to be spectators of Rye’s rumbustious, even sensational goings-on as a rotten borough  in the mid 1800s when it repeatedly made the national press.  Scurrilous posters vilifying opponents,  rival (and simultaneous) mayors,  blatant bribery via loans and 34 pubs, the perils of  pre-secret ballot voting, Jeremiah Smith’s arrest, imprisonment in Newgate — and his triumphant return to what may have been the greatest celebration Rye has ever known– all this and much more in a colourful, fast-paced panorama  which on the one hand we all found fascinating and on the other made us grateful to be spectators from a distance of 150 years rather than caught up in all the excitement ourselves.  Many thanks Peter!   (And for more on Rye’s past, ask at Rye Library for a copy of Peter’s A Poor Man’s Rye: the daily life of a local labouring family 1847-1930 which gives a picture of life on Hucksteps Row and the Landgate area in days gone by.

Monday, 13th February,  East Street 2 p.m.
Children’s Half Term Activity Afternoon for under 10′s

This time the activities  included making monster skittles (plus paper balls)  and planting cress heads and all the  children chose to have their faces painted!   Parents seemed to enjoy the afternoon too.  Photos coming.

News Flash

Our Links list was growing so long we have just moved it to a separate page.  See Useful Links at right.  This time we’ve added brief descriptions  to give an idea of what you will find at each site and each place.

Publications and Souvenirs

The list of publications and souvenirs for sale at the Tower  has just been updated.  Click on the Publications page at right.  Alan Dickinson’s latest book Rye Through Time  is one of the titles recently added.   This is a most attractive and informative Then and Now collection,  one of its most welcome features being that all the Now photos are in colour.     Besides books, cards,  postcards (e.g. Captain Pugwash) and DVDs we now also have models (Ypres Tower), WWII replicas, dolls and more.

Members generously responded to an appeal for more books for the second-hand bookstall recently for which many thanks — but regular sales mean we once again  need more. Though we are now closed for the winter we do have regular events during that period so if your bookshelves are too full . . . .

Rye Museum on Facebook

Did you know there is now a Rye Museum page on Facebook?   Our thanks to Jamie Kirkham for setting it up for us. All you need to do to see it is type Facebook Rye Castle Museum in a Google search box.

Reminder

Are you caught up with recent Museum news, events and activities?  

Much has happened in the last months so check previous posts under Latest News and other headings at right to see what you might have missed.  If you want to plan still further ahead click on Talks 2012 at right.

  

  ‘A local project with National Signifigance!’

The Women’s Tower is one of the oldest examples of a Women’s prison in this country but it is currently in a poor state of repair.  The Rye Museum Association along with the Rye Partnership is carrying out a Community Consultation for a Heritage Lotttery Fund to bring the Tower back to its former glory and to give people the opportunity to see it for themselves!

If you would like to ‘Have your say’ or would like more information please email – community@ryepartnership.org

For more information on the Tower please click  here.

Rye Museum on YouTube:
Smugglers of Romney Marsh   

Smugglers Lantern

Jo Kirkham recently talked with The Bald Explorer, a ‘tourist within his own country’ named Richard Vobes, who travels about investigating and making videos about places of special interest in Britain.  In this clip from his Episode 3, on theSmugglers of Romney Marsh, he and Jo are in the Ypres Tower where he (and you) learn about the Tower,  the  key role of Rye in the smuggling trade, and the story behind the artifacts Jo shows:  how a smuggler’s lantern worked,  how hydrostatic balls revealed the ‘proof’ of smuggled spirits. . . .  And did you ever  wonder why Rye has so many ghost stories ?  Click here for the 5 minute extract.

The full video (44 minutes) lets you travel the Marsh with Richard on his bike,. visiting Midley, Lydd, Romney, Dungeness, Hawkhurst …and the Mermaid Inn with its secret passages,   all the while discovering  more about the long smuggling era from its 14th century beginnings to  the mid 19th century  (and beyond?)     How did it begin?  What was the local name for it and why? Why did it take so long to get under control?  Why was tea smuggled?   Do you know any smugglers’ tricks?

The privileges of the Cinque Ports and the two Antient Towns,  the Hawkhurst Gang,  dragoons, Martello Towers and the Royal Military Canal all figure in the story of the trades’ rise and decline. In each case, do you know how?   Do you know the full Kipling poem about watching the wall while the gentlemen go by?   Click here for  the whole episode.

Are these events in your diary?

Wednesday, 22nd February.  East Street 2 p.m. start
‘What is it?’   plus Afternoon Tea

By popular demand we are having another event where you can try to guess what objects are– and, if you like, bring a mystery item of your own.  Our first such afternoon, quite apart from the information gained, was so enjoyable and generated so much talk and social interaction across age, gender, occupation and other communication inhibitors,  we’re offering a similar opportunity again.   Do you have something to bring?  We’d like to see it.  No?  Do come anyway.  £2.00.

Tuesday, 6th March. East Street 6:30 p.m. 
Volunteers (and Would-Be Volunteers) Evening 

We need volunteers of many different kinds.  Perhaps you would like to be a steward once a month?  Welcoming visitors to our museum is helpful to us and can be  rewarding for you: you’lll meet some interesting people!  But perhaps you would rather help serve refreshments at our talks,  or help prepare for and tidy up after events or deliver posters and newsletters, or help with children’s activity afternoons or spring cleaning, or write/edit for the website?  (Thiat list is not exhaustive.)     Come along to the Volunteers evening to find out more about plans for the coming year and perhaps discover a way you could contribute to their success.

Tuesday. 13th March. Tudor Room, Mermaid Inn  7:30 p.m.  {NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE)
The History of Rye Cricket Club by Martin Blincow

A fascinating insight into Rye’s past via a favourite sport–complete with photos, memorabilia, slides . . . . . .

Sunday, lst April:   Summer hours begin

Winter hours end.  Summer hours begin.  Meanwhile the Ypres Tower continues to be open 7 days a week, weather permitting!     East Street only for talks and special events.  See Hours and Charges at right for details.

Tuesday, 3rd April, East Street 12 noon
Official 2012 opening  of  East Street  

For space reasons, this event is for Members.   MP Amber Rudd will be joining us for the occasion! Come get up-to-date with progress this past year and exciting plans for the future.

An Invitation from the Sussex Military History Society for
Saturday 26th May 2012 at Newhaven Fort 

Those of you interested in military history might be interested in attending the Sussex Military History Society’s Study Day on 26th May in Newhaven. The theme for the day is ‘Land, Air & Sea’ with all speakers giving expert illustrated lectures. For more information go to www.sussexmilitary.org.uk or contact Stewart Angell 07714923925.

Other Recent Events

Tuesday, 14th February
Rebellious Rye – Corruption, Protest & Reform in the 19th Century by Peter Ewart

Peter, master painter in words, invited us to be spectators of Rye’s rumbustious, even sensational goings-on as a rotten borough  in the mid 1800s when it repeatedly made the national press.  Scurrilous posters vilifying opponents,  rival (and simultaneous) mayors,  blatant bribery via loans and 34 pubs, the perils of  pre-secret ballot voting, Jeremiah Smith’s arrest, imprisonment in Newgate — and his triumphant return to what may have been the greatest celebration Rye has ever known– all this and much more in a colourful, fast-paced panorama  which on the one hand we all found fascinating and on the other made us grateful to be spectators from a distance of 150 years rather than caught up in all the excitement ourselves.  Many thanks Peter!   (And for more on Rye’s past, ask at Rye Library for a copy of Peter’s A Poor Man’s Rye: the daily life of a local labouring family 1847-1930 which gives a picture of life on Hucksteps Row and the Landgate area in days gone by.

Monday, 13th February,  East Street 2 p.m.
Children’s Half Term Activity Afternoon for under 10′s

This time the activities  included making monster skittles (plus paper balls)  and planting cress heads and all the  children chose to have their faces painted!   Parents seemed to enjoy the afternoon too.  Photos coming.

News Flash

Our Links list was growing so long we have just moved it to a separate page.  See Useful Links at right.  This time we’ve added brief descriptions  to give an idea of what you will find at each site and each place.

Publications and Souvenirs

The list of publications and souvenirs for sale at the Tower  has just been updated.  Click on the Publications page at right.  Alan Dickinson’s latest book Rye Through Time  is one of the titles recently added.   This is a most attractive and informative Then and Now collection,  one of its most welcome features being that all the Now photos are in colour.     Besides books, cards,  postcards (e.g. Captain Pugwash) and DVDs we now also have models (Ypres Tower), WWII replicas, dolls and more.

Members generously responded to an appeal for more books for the second-hand bookstall recently for which many thanks — but regular sales mean we once again  need more. Though we are now closed for the winter we do have regular events during that period so if your bookshelves are too full . . . .

Rye Museum on Facebook

Did you know there is now a Rye Museum page on Facebook?   Our thanks to Jamie Kirkham for setting it up for us. All you need to do to see it is type Facebook Rye Castle Museum in a Google search box.

Reminder

Are you caught up with recent Museum news, events and activities?  

Much has happened in the last months so check previous posts under Latest News and other headings at right to see what you might have missed.  If you want to plan still further ahead click on Talks 2012 at right.

The Story of The Women’s Tower

In the grounds of theYpres Tower there is a smaller Tower in the Southwest corner (on the other side of the Tower’s Medieval Garden),. It is reached via a door to the left of the present official Tower entrance.  It contributes to Rye’s familiar silhouette, and looks as if it has always been part of the fabric of the Ypres Tower complex.   But it hasn’t!

In fact the Women’s Tower was built in 1837, the year QueenVictoria came to the throne.  The Ypres Tower had been the prison for Rye since the late fourteenth century but a 1835 Act of Parliament now forbade the imprisoning of women with men – so, in the corner of the exercise yard (now the Medieval Herb Garden, much visited by garden groups), a new tower was constructed just for women prisoners who were sometimes accompanied by their children.  So far as we know it is the only remaining 19th century women’s prison still as originally built, which is one reason it deserves to be saved.

It is only recently that the ‘drying out’ work on the main Tower was successfully completed with a grant from English Heritage.  It was then discovered that items stored in the Women’s Tower, also a listed building,  were suffering from damp — and worse –  so the Rye Museum Association asked for an  assessment of its condition  and this was carried out by Thomas Ford and partners, as recommended by English Heritage.

The survey confirmed fears that the Women’s Tower needs immediate and urgent attention:  a re-roofing of the tower, and repairs to the parapet and drainage system lest the roof fail altogether with disastrous consequences for the building and its contents.  Some of the photos above show  damaged areas.  The Rye Museum in partnership with the Rye Partnership is actively seeking a Heritage Lottery Fund for  this  work. Items rescued from the building have been moved to safe storage elsewhere.

Once this work is completed we intend to use the Women’s Tower for special displays on the lives of Women and children in Rye, and for much needed safe storage space. 

_______________________________________________________

We are cuurently undertaking a Community Consultation-

Aims & Objectives of the Women & Children of Rye Project Consultation

Overall Aim

To develop a report that details the findings of the consultation of the Women’s Tower project.

Specific Aims

• To gain an understanding of barriers within Heritage Learning
• To gain knowledge of what the Community understand by terms such as ‘Heritage’ and to look at how to dispel myths
• To encourage local youth groups and schools to establish an idea of their interests within the project
• To get new people inspired and involved in the project
• To grasp the attitudes to volunteering
• To inform the heritage learning elements of the project

Objectives

• To offer people support to express their interests and thoughts of the project
• To research and help people input into the design of the Women’s Tower virtual tour
• To offer support to individuals and groups to become interested and involved with volunteering

 If you would like to ‘Have your say’ or find out more on the project  please email – community@ryepartnership.org

]]> http://www.ryemuseum.co.uk/index.php/2012/02/latest-photos/feed/ 0 http://www.ryemuseum.co.uk/index.php/2012/02/february-news-2/ http://www.ryemuseum.co.uk/index.php/2012/02/february-news-2/#comments Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:12:03 +0000 jean http://www.ryemuseum.co.uk/?p=4394 ... read more]]> Rye Museum on YouTube:

Smugglers of Romney Marsh   

Smugglers Lantern

Jo Kirkham recently talked with The Bald Explorer, a ‘tourist within his own country’ named Richard Vobes, who travels about investigating and making videos about places of special interest in Britain.  In this clip from his Episode 3, on the Smugglers of Romney Marsh, he and Jo are in the Ypres Tower where he (and you) learn about the Tower,  the  key role of Rye in the smuggling trade, and the story behind the artifacts Jo shows:  how a smuggler’s lantern worked,  how hydrostatic balls revealed the ‘proof’ of smuggled spirits. . . .  And did you ever  wonder why Rye has so many ghost stories ?  Click here for the 5 minute extract.

The full video (44 minutes) lets you travel the Marsh with Richard on his bike,. visiting Midley, Lydd, Romney, Dungeness, Hawkhurst …and the Mermaid Inn with its secret passages,   all the while discovering  more about the long smuggling era from its 14th century beginnings to  the mid 19th century  (and beyond?)     How did it begin?  What was the local name for it and why? Why did it take so long to get under control?  Why was tea smuggled?   Do you know any smugglers’ tricks?

The privileges of the Cinque Ports and the two Antient Towns,  the Hawkhurst Gang,  dragoons, Martello Towers and the Royal Military Canal all figure in the story of the trades’ rise and decline. In each case, do you know how?   Do you know the full Kipling poem about watching the wall while the gentlemen go by?   Click here for  the whole episode.

Are these events in your diary?

Monday, 13th February,  East Street 2 p.m.
Children’s Half Term Activity Afternoon for under 10′s

This time the activities will include making monster skittles (and paper balls so you can play)  and planting cress heads.  Cost: 2.50 with an accompanying adult.  For photos of the happy participants in the last Children’s Activity Day click here.

Tuesday, 14th February. East Street 7:30 p.m.
Rebellious Rye – Corruption, Protest & Reform in the 19th Century by Peter Ewart

Peter is one of our most popular speakers.   This time he will recount the scarcely credible series of dramatic events in the ‘rotten borough’ of Rye before, during and after reform — which attracted the attention of the national press.  Exciting stuff!  Some of you will know Peter’s book A Poor Man’s Rye: the daily life of a local labouring family 1847-1930; if you don’t you can ask to see it at the Rye Library.  Members £2.00  Non-members £3.00  including refreshments.  All welcome.

Wednesday, 22nd February.  East Street 2 p.m. start
‘What is it?’   plus Afternoon Tea

By popular demand we are having another event where you can try to guess what objects are– and, if you like, bring a mystery item of your own.  Our first such afternoon, quite apart from the information gained, was so enjoyable and generated so much talk and social interaction across age, gender, occupation and other communication inhibitors,  we’re offering a similar opportunity again.   Do you have something to bring?  We’d like to see it.  No?  Do come anyway.  £2.00.

Tuesday. 13th March. Tudor Room, Mermaid Inn  7:30 p.m.  {NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE)
The History of Rye Cricket Club by Martin Blincow

A fascinating insight into Rye’s past via a favourite sport–complete with photos, memorabilia, slides . . . . . .

Saturday, 31st March  Summer hours begin
Winter hours end.  Summer hours begin.  Meanwhile the Ypres Tower continues to be open 7 days a week, weather permitting!     East Street only for talks and special events.  See Hours and Charges at right for details.

NB:  If you would like to become a volunteer steward in the new season please let us know!  Welcoming visitors to our museum is helpful to us and can be  rewarding for you.  You’ll meet some interesting people too!

Tuesday, 3rd April, East Street 12 noon
Official 2012 opening  of  East Street  

For space reasons, this event is for Members.   MP Amber Rudd will be joining us for the occasion! Come get up-to-date with progress this past year and exciting plans for the future.

An Invitation from the Sussex Military History Society for
Saturday 26th May 2012 at Newhaven Fort 

Those of you interested in military history might be interested in attending the Sussex Military History Society’s Study Day on 26th May in Newhaven. The theme for the day is ‘Land, Air & Sea’ with all speakers giving expert illustrated lectures. For more information go to www.sussexmilitary.org.uk or contact Stewart Angell 07714923925.

News Flash

Our Links list was growing so long we have just moved it to a separate page.  See Useful Links at right.  This time we’ve added brief descriptions  to give an idea of what you will find at each site and each place.

Publications and Souvenirs

The list of publications and souvenirs for sale at the Tower  has just been updated.  Click on the Publications page at right.  Alan Dickinson’s latest book Rye Through Time  is one of the titles recently added.   This is a most attractive and informative Then and Now collection,  one of its most welcome features being that all the Now photos are in colour.     Besides books, cards,  postcards (e.g. Captain Pugwash) and DVDs we now also have models (Ypres Tower), WWII replicas, dolls and more.

Members generously responded to an appeal for more books for the second-hand bookstall recently for which many thanks — but regular sales mean we once again  need more. Though we are now closed for the winter we do have regular events during that period so if your bookshelves are too full . . . .

Rye Museum on Facebook

Did you know there is now a Rye Museum page on Facebook?   Our thanks to Jamie Kirkham for setting it up for us. All you need to do to see it is type Facebook Rye Castle Museum in a Google search box.

Reminder

Are you caught up with recent Museum news, events and activities?  

Much has happened in the last months so check previous posts under Latest News and other headings at right to see what you might have missed.  If you want to plan still further ahead click on Talks 2012 at right.

Our Latest Successes

We begin with good news: We are successfully through to the next state of the Heritage Lottery Fund bid for the Women and Children of Rye project which includes the restoration and refurbishment of the Women’s Tower!  Many thanks to all those who have contributed in any way to the work so far.  The next stage of this bid is now being prepared for submission in March 2012, along with other Grant applications to the Rother Community Fund and the Wealden and Rural Rother Partnership.

We are also delighted to learn we have been awarded £500 by the Rye Fund which is allowing us to update the methods of recording our collections of artifacts, documents and books.  Work on this proceeds apace under our Curator, Linden Thomas.

News Flash

Our Links list was growing so long we have just moved it to a separate page.  See Useful Links at right.  This time we’ve added brief descriptions  to give an idea of what you will find at each site and each place.

The Next Museum Events

We’ve just had a most enjoyable New Year party with scrumptious food provided by Rae Festing and splendid entertainment — another Mapp and Lucia sequel written by Dilys Mayor and performed by the  talented members of the Rye Shakespeare Company.

Now we look forward to these events:

Monday, 13th February,  East Street 2 p.m.
Children’s Half Term Activity Afternoon for under 10′s

This time the activities will include making monster skittles and planting cress heads.  Cost: 2.50 with an accompanying adult.  For photos of the happy participants in the last Children’s Activity Day click here.

Tuesday, 14th February. East Street 7:30 p.m.
Rebellious Rye – Corruption, Protest & Reform in the 19th Century by Peter Ewart

Peter is one of our most popular speakers.   This time he will recount the scarcely credible series of dramatic events in the ‘rotten borough’ of Rye before, during and after reform — which attracted the attention of the national press.  Exciting stuff!  Some of you will know Peter’s book A Poor Man’s Rye: the daily life of a local labouring family 1847-1930; if you don’t you can ask to see it at the Rye Library.  Members £2.00  Non-members £3.00  including refreshments.  All welcome.

Wednesday, 22nd February.  East Street 2 p.m. start
‘What is it?’   plus Afternoon Tea

By popular demand we are having another event where you can try to guess what objects are– and, if you like, bring a mystery item of your own.  Our first such afternoon, quite apart from the information gained, was so enjoyable and generated so much talk and social interaction across age, gender, occupation and other communication inhibitors,  we’re offering a similar opportunity again.   Do you have something to bring?  We’d like to see it.  No?  Do come anyway.  £2.00.

Tuesday. 13th March. Tudor Room, Mermaid Inn  7:30 p.m.  {NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE)
The History of Rye Cricket Club by Martin Blincow

A fascinating insight into Rye’s past via a favourite sport–complete with photos, memorabilia, slides . . . . . .

Tuesday, 3rd April, East Street 12 noon
Official 2012 opening  of the East Street site

MP Amber Rudd will be joining us for this occasion which also  includes food!.  Come get up-to-date with progress this past year and exciting plans for the future.

An Invitation from the Sussex Military History Society for
Saturday 26th May 2012 at Newhaven Fort 

Those of you interested in military history might be interested in attending the Sussex Military History Society’s Study Day on
26th May in Newhaven. The theme for the day is ‘Land, Air & Sea’ with all speakers giving expert illustrated lectures. For more information go to www.sussexmilitary.org.uk or contact Stewart Angell 07714923925.

Reminders

Are you caught up with recent Museum news, events and activities?  

Much has happened in the last months so check previous posts under Latest News and other headings at right to see what you might have missed.  If you want to plan still further ahead click on Talks 2012 at right.

‘Winter was icumen in’ . . .  and it’s here!

. . . so just a reminder that we will be on winter hours at the Museum until March 31st.  Thus East Street is closed except for talks and special events, but Ypres Tower  continues to be open 7 days a week (weather permitting)–except for  24th and 25th December–though with an earlier closing time of 3:30 p.m., last admission 3:00 p.m.  Admission to the Tower remains  unchanged: adults £3.00, concessions £2.50,  children under 16 free when accompanied by an adult.

NB: The official opening of the Summer Season will take place on 3rd April (12 noon) at East Street.  Our MP, Amber Rudd, will be attending.

Publications and Souvenirs

The list of publications and souvenirs for sale at the Tower  has just been updated.  Click on the Publications page at right.  Alan Dickinson’s latest book Rye Through Time  is one of the titles recently added.   This is a most attractive and informative Then and Now collection,  one of its most welcome features being that all the Now photos are in colour.     Besides books, cards,  postcards (e.g. Captain Pugwash) and DVDs we now also have models (Ypres Tower), WWII replicas, dolls and more.

Members generously responded to an appeal for more books for the second-hand bookstall recently for which many thanks — but regular sales mean we once again  need more. Though we are now closed for the winter we do have regular events during that period so if your bookshelves are too full . . . .

Rye Museum on Facebook

Did you know there is now a Rye Museum page on Facebook?   Our thanks to Jamie Kirkham for setting it up for us. All you need to do to see it is type Facebook Rye Castle Museum in a Google search box.

Cinque Port Coat of Arms

 The Cinque Ports Confederation  dates back to the 11th Century, during the reign of Edward the Confessor.  It was started by the ports Hastings, Romney, Hythe, Dover and Sandwich for mutual protecton and trade.  Edward  gave official recognition by granting a Royal Charter which was later confirmed by William the Conqueror .

Rye and Winchelsea became ’limbs’ of the Head Port of Hastings in the second half of the 12th Century.  They were incorporated as ‘Antient Towns’, which meant they were ‘worthy of veneration’.    Before Henry II died in 1189, he conferred on them the same privileges as were enjoyed by the original members of the Cinque Ports Federation.

The privileges were in exchange for services; the towns which formed the Confederation supplied ships and seamen for a set number of days per year and in times of trouble,    The privileges they received in return (legalised by Royal Charter in 1278)  enabled the Cinque Port towns to be exempted from many taxes, to trade wherever they wished and to hold their own courts.

12th to 13th Century Cinque Ports Ship

Apart from the five ports and the two antient towns, there are seven other members of the Confederation, which are considered to be Limbs of the other towns. These are Lydd (Limb of New Romney), Folkestone, Faversham and Margate (Limbs of Dover), Deal and Ramsgate (Limbs of Sandwich) and Tenterden (Limb of Rye).

In 1229 Rye supplied five ships for the King out of the Confederation’s total of fifty seven.  In 1337 the Hundred Years War began and the ships of the Cinque Ports were vital to the defence of England and for carrying the army to France. In 1415 the Confederation fleet transported Henry V and an army of ten thousand to Ifarfleur, which subsequently won the Battle of Agincourt.

The importance of Rye and Winchelsea, and the decline of Hastings elevated them to become Cinque Ports and Head Ports in their own right in the 14th Century although this does not seem to have been marked by any special event or legal formality. In typically English fashion the name of the Confederation was not changed, but continued under the somewhat cumbersome title of the ’Five Ports and Two Ancient Towns’.

Although the main duty of the Confederation was providing ships for the Crown, the Cinque Ports also organised and supplied Bailiffs to the Yarmouth Herring Fair,  an annual event which continued until the late seventeenth century. This big market and festival  fixed the price for the herring catch.  There were often clashes between the men of Rye and Winchelsea and the men of Yarmouth who resented the privileges held by the Cinque Ports towns.

The decline of the ports dates from the mid-14th century when changing ways of warfare made it necessary to have a more permanent marine force and the consequent larger ships were too big for the harbours, which had begun to silt up.   Despite the reduced strategic and tactical importance of the Cinque Ports fleet, the ports remained commercially active.  One Rye seaman accompanied Drake on his voyage around the world.

The Ports were asked by Queen Elizabeth to provide ships for the  Spanish Armada and in 1588 Rye, with its limb, Tenterden, produced–at twenty days notice–a ship of sixty tons called the William, a feat reflecting its relative prosperity at the time.

By the end of the sixteenth century a professional navy, forerunner of the modem Royal Navy, was established. The Cinque Ports continued their slow decline.

Today only Rye and Dover remain as true ports.   However, by providing ships and men for the Royal Fleet for some 400 years they laid the foundations of England’s maritime power, and their ceremonial importance–at Coronations for example– lasts to this day.