Past Events

The day started bright and sunny as the Boston Hanse group got to the marketplace to set up their stalls. The international Hanse day was starting early with a bustling market around them. Darran, Clare and his team at the Borough had done a great job. New gazebos sparkled in the sun, their first outing. The Ingram Memorial was quickly restored to a medieval market place. Beautiful flags and bunting made by the group and by residents were appearing on the tents. Spinners Heather and Kim set up their wheels and their wares.

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The medieval forge Vitriol and blacksmith Byron lit the fire, and we were off.  Ian of Boston Bows spent the morning making parts for a bow using tools based on those from 800 years ago. (Our liability insurance covered the day!)

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The group were visited by some pupils of Butterwick primary School who had worked with Alison on the history of the Hanse Merchants of Boston. They brought with them thank you letters beautifully written and some pictures they had drawn of Boston buildings. ‘Very well observed and drawn with flair’ Alison Fairman chair of the group said. 

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Hundreds of visitors were able to talk to representatives of local groups. They watched and took part in whittling with the Woodies, the Boston wood carvers. Some mosaic talents were to the fore with the Boston Mosaic group usually based at Fydell House.

 

Transported were there, looking for inspiration for the future events. Many met ‘Brother’ Julian the Brewster with samples of his ale  Some  were disappointed that the beer was alcohol free but it was pronounced delicious.

 

Very tasty were the medieval spice cakes and honey biscuits made by ‘Sister’ Rachel.  The Boston Stitchers brought their Books of Boston, the history of the town in embroidery. The talents shown at this market were remarkable.

 

‘I hadn’t realised what went on in Boston’ said one visitor to the market. ‘I’ve never heard music like it but I want more’  a passerby of the Lincoln Waites who led the procession through Pescod Square, through Narrow Bargate to the Stump. The morning ended at the Memorial Stone of ancient German Hanse Merchant Wissulus de Smalenburg in the chapel where ‘Brother’ Julian read a prayer and flowers were laid. 

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Thanks went to the PCSOs who joined the group and said they had thoroughly enjoyed the morning. ‘We’d like more events like this’ said several of our visitors ‘it brings the town to life’. Our jester was taken ill on his way to Boston, so was unable to appear, but we hope he will

come again.