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LITTLE HALLINGBURY VILLAGE HISTORY SOCIETY
VISIT:
thaxtedessex
Apart from its set pieces, such as the magnificent church of cathedral proportions and the 15th century Guildhall, the most attractive little town of THAXTED itself merits a mention as an architectural gem. It is the venue for a music festival held over four weekends - last two in June and first two in July - attracting performers of international repute. The festival is known for its ambitious repertoire including orchestral and choral works. Thaxted is also the venue of the famous Morris Ring on the first weekend after spring bank holiday attracting up to 300 dancers from all over the country. Dancers process through the streets and ceremonies culminate with a haunting horn dance performed as dusk falls. Morris dancing regularly takes place in Thaxted on most bank holiday Mondays.
Thaxted Guildhall is a fine example of a medieval Guildhall few of which now remain. From documentary evidence it appears to have been built between 1393 and 1420, possibly by the Cutlers Guild. The building occupies a strategic position adjacent to the church and the site of the medieval market place. Open on Sundays and bank holiday Mondays only, 2pm to 6pm from April to September.
Thaxted Windmill was built in 1804 by John Webb, a local farmer, at a time when the demand for milled wheat and malt was increasing. The mill stands on the site of the earlier church mill and was constructed of local bricks. It was used to grind corn into flour but ceased working between 1900 and 1907. The building fell into increasing disrepair until 1973 when the Thaxted Society commenced work to restore it. Open on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holiday Mondays, 2pm-6pm from May-September (telephone 01799 513779).
The photographs taken by John with Colins camera ( John: "No. I dont need to take my camera, nothing to photograph in Thaxted" ), on one of the societys evening walks.
To Download the tune "THAXTED" & Free Thaxted ScreenSaver - Click Here.
I should add here this 'tune' Thaxted is not the 'famous' tune Thaxted, but one I wrote in about 10 mins one morning whilst waiting for it to stop raining.
One of the select groups of Little Hallingbury Village History Society members 'On Tour' ..
