How sweet was life in Oliver Cromwell’s time?
Buzz along to the Cromwell Museum to find out in a very special event!
The CROMWELL MUSEUM in Huntingdon is hosting a free, fun family event ‘All about Bees’ on Saturday 17 June 11am-3.30pm, as part of the HUNTINGDON SUMMER FESTIVAL.
Attending the event will be the Huntingdon Beekeeper’s Association (HBKA). There will be a display of beekeeping equipment including a replica 17th Century ‘skep’ (hive), wax sculptures, photos and equipment, and honey for sale.
Roger Wood of HBKA said: ‘Bees in Cromwell’s time were hugely important. Unlike modern bees, they were kept in ‘skeps’ – conical woven baskets with flat bases. Honey was used as a sweetener rather than sugar, and beeswax candles gave off a better light and were less smelly than the cheaper tallow variety. Cromwell would certainly have been aware of the benefits of bees, and may even have owned some hives himself.’
The beekeepers will be talking to the public all about bees, how they are housed and cared for, with examples of modern equipment and a honeycomb and wax produced by the Associations’ bees at Hinchingbrooke Park.
Along with honey for sale, there will also be free colouring sheets for children, and copies of 17th century recipes available inside the Museum.
The event will take place directly outside the Museum in Market Square. Entrance to the Museum is free (with a suggested donation of £2 per visitor), and visitors can see many authentic objects on display relating to Cromwell including his hat, boots and powder flask.
Corinne Galloway, Curator of the Cromwell Museum said: ‘The Museum has now completed its first successful year as a Charitable Trust, so we’re delighted that “All About Bees” signals a wonderful start to an exciting programme of future events and exhibitions for the public.’