Monks, Shepherds and Wool

HARRY HAWKINS

Harry attended Goldsmiths’ s College, University of London, but left to take up Highway Engineering first with contractors on air force bases (operated by American Air Force) and then for different county councils. In 1980 he arrived in Cumbria to work in the Highways Department of the County Council at Skirsgill and from 1990 to retirement 1996, in the County Personnel Department. On retirement, Harry began research into Shap Abbey, which involved a detailed examination of  the Shap Abbey Records. ‘The Chapel at Keld’ and ‘The Premonstratensians at Preston Patrick.’ were papers published in CWAAS Transactions. There are a further two items of unpublished research which can be accessed from the Internet Archive: The Records of Shap Abbey, Cumbria 1180-2000 and Records of Armathwaite Priory, Ainstable, Cumbria c.12-1552. Benedictine Nuns.

PRESENTATION

This presentation has been developed following the detailed research of the records of Shap Abbey.

Wool was the most important export commodity and revenue source for the monarchy of England in the Middle Ages and English

Monasteries were the largest source for the wool. The presentation seeks to explain the medieval wool market, the quantities produced and the involvement of the monasteries.

The Armitt: An insight in to  the history of the museum and its collection

FAYE MORRISSEY

Faye Morrissey is the Manager & Curator of The Armitt: Museum, Gallery, Library in Ambleside, Cumbria. For the past five years, Faye has been working to raise the profile of the organisation and develop wider awareness and participation in the museum’s activities which now includes annually changing exhibitions, an evolving events programme, group visits and community outreach, and the launch of escape box experiences. Previous to this role, Faye held the position as Head of Operations and Visitor Services at Delapré Abbey in Northampton. Faye is originally from Lancashire.

PRESENTATION

The Armitt is an independent museum and library situated in the heart of the Lake District – Ambleside. But where does the name “Armitt” come from, what does the collection contain, and why is it important? In this illustrated talk you will find out about the history of The Armitt, its significant collections and people, the programming activities taking place and how it continues to play a part in local and wider community.