Join archaeologist Ben Robinson, known for his work on BBC's 'Villages by the Sea', as he uncovers the rich history along Britain's coastline. They delve into Cornwall's ancient tin trade and the cultural legacy of Cornish pasties. The discussion takes a fascinating turn with tales of Viking wives seeking refuge and the haunting mystery of a mummified crusader discovered in a lead coffin. Robinson's insights reveal how coastal settlements shaped national identity, weaving together legend and history into a tapestry of the past.
The historical significance of Cornwall's tin trade demonstrates its pivotal role in medieval England's economy and international connections.
Women's crucial contributions in Cornwall's tin mining industry, particularly as 'bowl maidens,' reveal often overlooked labor dynamics in history.
The legend of St. Bega highlights how mythology influenced land ownership and identity formation in the development of seaside villages.
Deep dives
The Rich History of Coastal Villages
Coastal villages in Britain have a profound connection to maritime history, often containing hidden stories and influences from both local and international events. Each seaside destination is not just a recreational spot but a historical crossroads shaped by trade and interaction with the wider world. The discussion emphasizes that even inland locations often have maritime ties, highlighting that towns could have connections to the sea, such as Birmingham's sea life center, demonstrating the pervasive influence of the maritime world. The podcast stresses the importance of recognizing the vast history beneath what might seem like ordinary seaside visits.
Mining the Past: Cornwall’s Tin Trade
Cornwall's tin trade was pivotal to England's medieval economy, with roots tracing back to prehistory. The discussion reveals that Cornish tin was exported as far as Germany and Israel, evidencing the region's historical significance in the metal trade. Interviews highlight the challenges of uncovering physical evidence of medieval tin mining, often obscured by later activities, yet they also illuminate the historical documentation that underscores its importance, such as references in the Doomsday Book. This rich legacy showcases Cornwall's unique position in European trade and its connection to the continent.
The Role of Women in Tin Mining
The podcast sheds light on the crucial but often overlooked role women played in Cornwall's tin mining industry, referred to as 'bowl maidens.' These women, alongside children, were essential in processing the ore, highlighting a historically significant aspect of labor that has been neglected in mainstream narratives. The use of unique local terminology, such as 'bow' for mine, connects modern listeners to the regional heritage, emphasizing the cultural significance of these laborers. This glimpse into the past illustrates how both men and women contributed to the industry that laid the groundwork for Cornwall's economic structure.
Saint Bega and Coastal Legends
The lore surrounding Saint Bega illustrates how legends shaped the development of seaside villages, influencing their histories and land ownership. The story recounts how this Irish saint fled a forced marriage to settle in Cumbria, hinting at the intertwining of mythology and history. This narrative, albeit muddled by historical timelines, showcases the broader patterns of land acquisition and the construction of local identities in medieval England. The podcast posits that such legends were often leveraged to legitimize ownership and control of valuable lands, illustrating the intersection of faith and power in the historical narrative.
The Evolution of Coastal Settlements
The transformation of coastal villages from medieval agricultural settlements to modern tourist destinations is a focal point of discussion in the podcast. Many important settlements initially grew inland and only developed significance later due to shifts in societal needs and trade opportunities. The evolution of places like Sea Houses is explored, revealing how local landowners guided this growth, reflecting broader trends in coastal community development and economic sustainability. This transformation emphasizes the dynamic nature of these areas, continually adapting to the pressures and possibilities of changing times.
Matt Lewis is joined by archaeologist Ben Robinson from BBC's 'Villages by the Sea' to explore the deep historical ties along Britain's coastline, from the ancient tin trade of Cornwall to the fascinating legend of St. Bega in Cumbria.
They discuss how the seaside has played pivotal roles in shaping the nation's history, unearthing lost stories of Viking wives seeking sanctuary and the mystery of the mummified crusader found encased in a lead sarcophagus.
Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and edited by Amy Haddow. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.
All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.
Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.
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