Bisley Well Dressing – A Cotswolds tradition
Discovering Bisley’s Ascension Day Tradition
In the charming village of Bisley, near Stroud, senior pupils from Bisley Blue Coat School uphold an Ascension Day tradition that dates back to 1863. This annual event is a highlight of village life and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Cotswolds which is a must see event for those touring the Cotswolds.
The Procession Through Bisley
Each year, adorned in period costumes and bearing floral displays, the pupils process through the streets of Bisley. Accompanied by a silver band, their destination is the historic wells. These wells, consisting of seven water chutes beneath the slope below All Saints Church, were restored in 1863 at the behest of Reverend Thomas Keble and funded by public subscription.
The procession is a vibrant and colourful spectacle, with the pupils dressed in traditional attire that reflects the historical significance of the event. The floral displays they carry are meticulously crafted, showcasing a variety of flowers that add to the visual appeal of the procession. The silver band provides a lively soundtrack, enhancing the festive atmosphere as the procession winds its way through the village streets.
The Church Service and Procession
The tradition continues with a short church service, followed by a procession to the wells. This procession is led by the oldest 22 children from the village school, who carry wreaths and garlands. These symbols include Stars of David, the letters A.D. and the year, letters spelling out the word ‘Ascension’, and five hoops.
The church service is a solemn and reflective part of the tradition, providing an opportunity for the community to come together in worship and thanksgiving. The procession to the wells is a highlight of the event, with the children proudly carrying their floral creations. The wreaths and garlands are carefully arranged to create a stunning display, and the symbols they carry add a deeper layer of meaning to the procession.
Period Costumes and Generational Involvement
Year 6 children dress up in replicas of the old blue uniform which would have been worn at the turn of the 20th Century. Some Bisley families have been involved in the well-dressing for generations, adding a sense of continuity and community to the event. Close by the wells are the large troughs once used to water the animals of the village, now home to several ducks.
The period costumes worn by the children are a key feature of the tradition, providing a visual link to the past. The blue uniforms are carefully recreated to reflect the style of the early 20th Century, and the children take great pride in wearing them. The involvement of multiple generations of Bisley families adds a sense of continuity to the tradition, with parents and grandparents passing down their knowledge and experience to the younger generation.
The Custom of Well Dressing
The custom of well dressing is common in Derbyshire and other areas of England, including Malvern in Worcestershire. The act of dressing wells with flowers has pagan origins, rooted in the worship of the life-giving force of water. However, it is believed that Rev Keble wished to mark the restoration of the wells.
Well dressing is a fascinating tradition with deep historical roots. The practice of decorating wells with flowers dates back to ancient times, when water was seen as a vital and life-giving force. The floral displays are a way of honouring this essential resource, and the tradition has been passed down through the generations. In Bisley, the well dressing tradition is a way of celebrating the restoration of the wells and the community’s connection to its history.
The Restoration of the Wells
The Rev W H Lowder designed the Bisley wells, which were built by Messrs Wall and Hook of Eastcombe at a cost of £95. Rev Thomas Keble, who was vicar of Bisley from 1827 to 1873, instituted the Blessing of the Wells ceremony on Ascension Day. This ceremony remains a prominent feature of village life.
The restoration of the wells was a significant event in the history of Bisley. The wells, which had fallen into disrepair, were restored to their former glory thanks to the efforts of Rev Keble and the support of the local community. The Blessing of the Wells ceremony was introduced to mark this restoration, and it has become an integral part of the Ascension Day tradition. The ceremony is a way of giving thanks for the restoration of the wells and celebrating the community’s heritage.
The Keble Legacy
Rev Thomas Keble was the younger brother of Rev John Keble, one of the leaders of the Oxford Movement in the Church of England, also known as the Tractarians, in the mid-19th Century. ‘The Bisley School’ became one of the most influential groups in that movement. Thomas Keble was succeeded as vicar of Bisley by his son, Rev Thomas Keble, Junior, who served from 1873 to 1903.
The Keble family has left a lasting legacy in Bisley. Rev Thomas Keble was a key figure in the village’s history, and his contributions to the community are still remembered today. His brother, Rev John Keble, was a prominent leader in the Oxford Movement, which sought to revive the Catholic heritage of the Church of England. The Bisley School, influenced by the Keble family, played a significant role in this movement. The legacy of the Keble family is evident in the continued celebration of the Ascension Day tradition and the enduring sense of community in Bisley.
The Wells and Their Significance
The wells in Bisley are not only a historical landmark but also a symbol of the village’s heritage. The seven water chutes beneath the slope below All Saints Church are a testament to the community’s efforts to preserve its history. The wells were restored in 1863, and the tradition of well dressing was introduced to celebrate this restoration. The wells are a focal point of the Ascension Day tradition, and their significance is highlighted by the annual Blessing of the Wells ceremony.
The wells are also a reminder of the importance of water in the village’s history. In the past, the wells provided a vital source of water for the community, and their restoration was a significant achievement. Today, the wells are a symbol of the village’s heritage and a reminder of the community’s connection to its history. The annual well dressing tradition is a way of honouring this heritage and celebrating the community’s achievements.
The Role of the Community
The Ascension Day tradition in Bisley is a true community event, with residents of all ages coming together to celebrate. The involvement of the local school, the church, and the wider community is a testament to the strong sense of community spirit in the village. The tradition has been passed down through the generations, with families taking pride in their involvement and passing on their knowledge and experience to the younger generation.
The community’s involvement in the tradition is evident in the meticulous preparation and organisation of the event. From the crafting of the floral displays to the organisation of the procession and church service, the event is a collaborative effort that brings the community together. The tradition is a way of celebrating the village’s heritage and fostering a sense of pride and belonging among residents.
The Importance of Tradition
The Ascension Day tradition in Bisley is a reminder of the importance of tradition in preserving cultural heritage. The annual event is a way of honouring the village’s history and celebrating its achievements. The tradition has been passed down through the generations, with each generation adding its own unique touch to the event. The continued celebration of the tradition is a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving its heritage and passing it on to future generations.
Traditions like the Ascension Day celebration in Bisley play a vital role in fostering a sense of community and belonging. They provide an opportunity for residents to come together, celebrate their heritage, and create lasting memories. The tradition is a way of connecting the past with the present, and it serves as a reminder of the community’s shared history and values.
Finally…
The Ascension Day tradition in Bisley is a testament to the village’s rich history and enduring community spirit. This unique event, with its blend of historical costumes, floral displays, and ceremonial processions, offers a fascinating insight into the cultural heritage of the Cotswolds. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking to experience local traditions, a visit to Bisley during Ascension Day is a memorable addition to any tour of the Cotswolds.
The tradition is a celebration of the village’s heritage and a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural traditions. It is a way of honouring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to the future. The Ascension Day tradition in Bisley is a shining example of the power of tradition to bring communities together and create a sense of pride and belonging. So, plan your tours of the Cotswolds and discover the magic of Bisley’s Ascension Day tradition.
