Old Church Lore

Delving into the tangled relationship between faith and everyday life, this lively volume uncovers the hidden rituals and oddities that once shaped English society. Its author, a noted antiquarian, stitches together obscure documents and vivid anecdotes, offering readers a blend of scholarly insight and genuine amusement.

From the ancient right of sanctuary that shielded fugitives within church walls to the curious practice of marrying under a white sheet or even beneath a gallows, the book paints a portrait of a world where the sacred and the secular collided in surprising ways. Visitors will discover chapels perched on bridges, the ringing of curfew bells, and the strange symbolism etched on saints’ images, each chapter a window into a bygone era’s customs.

Richly illustrated and organized with a handy index, the collection invites listeners to wander through medieval markets, royal festivals, and eerie parish rites. It’s an entertaining tour of history that enlightens as much as it delights, perfect for anyone who enjoys quirky facts wrapped in vivid storytelling.