A medieval fashion show with displays of 15th century attire was just one of the innovations on the opening day of the Barnet Medieval Festival at Byng Road playing fields.
Re-enactors paraded in clothes worn by peasants, middling sorts such as farmers and merchants, and the nobility.
Kathleen Davies, (above left) dressed as a 15th century noblewoman, described the fashions of the day, and explained how wealth had so much influence in medieval clothing.
She said Lord and Lady De Mowbray were dressed ready for an audience with the King. His lordship’s gown was trimmed with white fox fur and the Duchess’s gown was made from cloth of gold.
Yet again the festival – which continues for a second day on Sunday 10 June – proved its popularity with more combatants, many in full armour – despite it being the hottest of the day of the year – taking part in the re-enactments of the 1461 Battle of St Albans and the 1471 Battle of Barnet.
Barnet Councillor Emma Whysall, ward member for High Barnet, fired a cannon to open the festival with the help of gunner Ben Godden.
Now in its fifth year, Barnet has become well established in the annual calendar of military festivals.
Its military co-ordinator Howard Giles believes the festival’s appeal is due to friendly nature of the event and a location on the edge of the Green Belt that resembles the countryside as it might have been in medieval times.
In her welcome, Dr Susan Skedd, festival director, said history and culture were entwined in the event and Barnet played an important role in the history of war with the first use of guns following the introduction of cannon.
“Barnet Council is currently asking for residents’ views on what culture means to them.
“We hope you agree that re-enactments of 15th century battles and the medieval life that is here on display should help influence the council’s future strategy on culture in the borough.”
The medieval fashion show was a first for the organisers. For commentator Kathleen Davies – who did a display last year on dressing a medieval noble woman – it was another chance to take advantage of her interest in medieval fashion.
She opened the show with a display of clothes worn by peasant women. They were made from woollen hose and the women’s hair was covered as they “didn’t tend to show their hair except on their wedding day”.
Among the many displays around the medieval campsite was a demonstration by Dowager Countess of Wiltshire (Chris Carr) who showed Anita Mynett (right) some of the beauty products of medieval times.
“Personal hygiene and beauty were just as important in medieval times – and it proves that not everyone could be accused of being smelly.”
An equestrian display by five horses from the Freelance was another of the highlights under the direction of Kate Vigurs.
Before the start of the re-enactment of the Battle of Barnet, the combatants knelt for a minute’s silence in memory of those who died that day.
Such was the heat that in a pause in the conflict, mugs of water were handed round.
A Merrie Noyse – one of two groups of medieval musicians – played 16th century renaissance instruments. From left to right, Rod Pomery (long drum), Sue Pope (guitar) and Paul Baker (hurdy-gurdy).
Emma Whysall (left) was supported at the opening ceremony by Councillor David Longstaff, chairman of Barnet Town Team and the Chipping Barnet MP Theresa Villiers who marvelled at the way the festival has become such an integral part of the life of Barnet.
“Being the only battlefield site in Greater London does make us unique. There is no doubt that making the most of our heritage is does encourage a strong community spirit,” said Ms Villiers.
There were over 350 re-enactors taking part in events from 30 different households led and organised by the House of Bayard. Their organiser Linda Godden congratulated the festival committee of their efforts to build up the event.
“Barnet is a fantastic event for us. The crowds are brilliant in their response, the campsite is so inviting, and we love coming to such a safe, friendly festival.”
