The museum at Rievaulx Abbey contains a collection of carved stones found amongst the abbey ruins. Often these carved stones give glimpses into the religeous lives and beliefs, but this one gives a glimpse of daily life in the farming community of tennants on abbey lands.
It shows two men approach the central windmill, one leading and one following laden mules. The abbey had its own mill, which its tenants were obliged to use. This stone would have been part of a bigger frieze and was originally located in the infirmary. It is thought to date from the 14th century.
Much of interest can be discovered from these stones. Some of the stone from the abbey was recycled after the destruction of the abbey, often incorporated into more recent buildings. It is possible to see carved stones in the walls of some of the houses close to the abbey site.
such history that has been lost - ok, the story about them has been lost.
Sad to hear the stones have been re-purposed in other buildings and not saved to be able to restore to full glory and complete the story
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
Sorry for the late responses, but today was an outing on the Moorsbus (again!).
In some ways it is quite sad how much wonderful stone carving was destroyed at the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the time of King Henry VIII, but it is also remarkable how much has survived, and the interesting views of life hundreds of years ago that we can see thanks to their survival.
I haven't yet visited Southwell Minster, but I have read about it and have it on my list of places that I would like to visit. Thank you for reminding me about it.
Sad to hear the stones have been re-purposed in other buildings and not saved to be able to restore to full glory and complete the story
A great shot too with the light and shadows on the stonework.
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
Sorry for the late responses, but today was an outing on the Moorsbus (again!).
In some ways it is quite sad how much wonderful stone carving was destroyed at the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the time of King Henry VIII, but it is also remarkable how much has survived, and the interesting views of life hundreds of years ago that we can see thanks to their survival.
Ian
I haven't yet visited Southwell Minster, but I have read about it and have it on my list of places that I would like to visit. Thank you for reminding me about it.
Ian
Thank you both, I love these old pieces of carved stonework!
Ian