The English Civil War in the Tamar Valley
This was a delightful talk – humorous, informative and full of local connections from a civil war re-enactor. Paul started by stripping off – literally! He explained that during the 17th century, Great Britain was experiencing a mini Ice Age and thus people wore layers of clothing to keep warm. He demonstrated the clothing that a soldier would wear at that period, and took off several layers as he was just too warm.
It is hard to do justice to a comprehensive talk about a complex period of history between those who are commonly called the Cavaliers and Roundheads but which had multiple motivations and strands. Cornwall (and Plymouth) was largely for the King, whereas Devon was for the Commonwealth.
Tavistock changed sides, related to issues of taxation but also about independence soldiers also often changed sides, and sometimes would just decide to go home. Paul showed us the various weapons but stressed that they were nor very reliable and some of the major battles had only a few hundred casualties.
The fighting took place over Devon and Cornwall with many familiar local names – the battle of Polson Bridge in1643, a number of battles over New Bridge and Horsebridge with the mention of the ford at Latchley. A significant event was in Tavistock when Fitzford Manor (now the Gate House) was taken in a battle within the town.
