Local museum to travel through time with Living History Weekend

By Chloe Brewster 4th Jul 2025

Chanz Des Reis members march to battle in the High Medieval period. (Credit: Stow Maries Aerodrome)
Chanz Des Reis members march to battle in the High Medieval period. (Credit: Stow Maries Aerodrome)

A local aerodrome will be holding yet another action-packed event - this time a multi-period dive into the most fascinating periods of English history.

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, the largest surviving World War One aerodrome in the world, will give visitors a chance to experience 900 years of history in a single weekend in the company of expert living historians from around the country.

The Stow Maries Living History Weekend on July 19 and 20 will see the grounds of the Museum transformed with the sights, sounds and smells of  English history.

Different groups of living historians will represent the Early and Late Medieval periods, including the Barons' Wars; the Stuarts; the early Victorian period; and World War One and Two. 

With so much to see and hear, there is sure to be something for everyone.

The crash of sword on sword will mingle with the rattle of rifle fire as the smells of medieval food and crackling campfires linger across the popular site. 

The 10th Essex group on parade. (Credit: Stow Maries Aerodrome)

Among the groups that have been invited to demonstrate their skills and knowledge are:

· Chanz Des Reis Medieval Society: A High Medieval group, covering civilian, ecclesiastical and military life from 1066 to 1266, including armour, cooking and basket making.

· Sericum et Gladium: A group representing the period from 1245 to 1265 with armour, 13th century music and song, period games, cookery, authentic clothing and crossbow-making.

· The Company of 1415: A living history group showcasing aspects of Medieval life, from cooking, loom weaving and medieval games to archery and Men at Arms demonstrations.

· William Norris Household: A group portraying the household of Sir William Norris, who fought for Lancaster and was at every major battle throughout the War of the Roses.

· Tastes Thru Time: Regular visitors to Stow, the group's display Witchfinders! will bring to life the witch-hunting scourge in Essex in the 17th century.

· The BlueJackets: This group, renowned for their depictions of members of the Royal Navy through the ages, will be representing elements of the crew of HMS Warrior in the 1860s.

· The 10th Essex: Living historians who provide a visual remembrance of the brave men of the 10th Essex who served in the Great War.

· The Lufberys: Presenting as members of the Royal Flying Corps and Armed Forces who would have been based at, or training at, Stow Maries during the Great War.

· Great War Society: A nationwide living history group whose members dress in period uniforms and equipment, learn the drill, and undertake the training from World War One.

Ian Flint, Chief Executive Officer of Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, said: "Living history is one of the very best ways to learn about the past. 

"Meeting and engaging with people who are wearing the clothes, eating the food and telling the tales of centuries gone by gives a fascinating glimpse into the way we used to live. 

"With so many different periods in history represented, we are looking forward to an excellent weekend."

Entry on both days is at the Museum's standard admission rate (adults £12/concessions £9/0-5 free) and visitors who buy an advance ticket for Saturday 19 July receive free admission for Sunday 20 July..

For more information and bookings visit the Stow Maries Aerodrome website.

     

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