A coachful of Society members accepted the invitation from Mistress Beth to journey back in time and visit her at work at Mary Arden’s farm at the weekend. We found her hard at work clearing a backlog of laundry.
Her master and the various other members of the household seem to treat her well. We were pleased to see that she was given a wholesome meal for her efforts comprising potage, fish with pickled salad, and fruit pie. We inspected the kitchens and questioned the staff who were preparing the food.
After dinner, some of our party practised their archery and falconry skills while others of us took part in the dancing later in the afternoon. We visited the local blacksmith and went for a walk across the wildflower meadow. All were agreed that it was a day out well spent. Our thanks to Mistress Beth for the invitation and to all who volunteer at Mary Arden’s farm. It is an extraordinary place.