Work has begun to deliver a fascinating new heritage trail at four locations in the Tendring district thanks to funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund.
The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail, launching in March, will explore the rich history and folklore of the region, revealing the unique untold stories of the families affected by the infamous historic witch trials – considered as some of the most severe in Essex.
To ensure historic accuracy and sensitivity, Tendring District Council (TDC) has been working in partnership with Alison Rowlands, a professor of European history at the University of Essex who specialises in witchcraft in the early modern period.
Professor Alison Rowlands said: “I’m excited to be involved as a historical advisor on this brilliant project, through which we will foreground the stories of the many women (and a few men) from Tendring Hundred communities who were tried as witches in the 16th and 17th Century. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the historical stories are reworked in woodcarvings and digital technologies by our creative experts.”
Scenic landmarks in Manningtree, St Osyth, Harwich and Walton-on-the-Naze will host beautifully sculptured benches and information boards designed with direct significance to the history of each area. These will be complemented with web content and augmented reality – accessed by phone – to link the user to real time stories.
Alasdair Craig of Essex Chainsaw Carving who is carving these assets, said: “I am delighted to be involved in such a unique and interesting project. The stories represented by these sculptures are fascinating, and it’s rare you get a chance to incorporate something like that into a carving.”
The witch trail builds on the success of the Mayflower Trail in Historic Harwich and the Clacton 150 Heritage Trail from Holland Haven to Jaywick Sands.
Gary Scott, Portfolio Holder for Arts, Culture and Heritage, expressed his enthusiasm for the project that aims to raise public awareness and appreciation of Tendring’s history.
“The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail will enhance our diverse heritage offering, for both residents and tourists,” said Councillor Scott. “We anticipate this will be a popular attraction due to heightened interest in witchcraft persecutions that have been reignited with the publication of best-selling books featuring the trail locations.”