About Furness Whispers (and the weirdo behind it) Alright, you've made it to the "About" page! Give yourself a pat on the back – you're clearly as eager to explore Furness's past as I am to figure out what that strange scratching noise in my attic is (hopefully not a mischievous medieval imp...). So, you want to know more about this Furness Whispers shenanigans, eh? Well, pull up a stool, grab your tankard of ale (or a flagon of cider, if that's more your fancy), and let's have a chinwag in this cosy corner of the internet. You might still catch me posting the odd historical tidbit on Facebook (a historian's gotta keep up with the times, right?). But let's be honest, Facebook's a bit like that overcrowded marketplace – full of hustle and bustle, but not much room for quiet contemplation (or a decent conversation about medieval farming techniques). That's why I created Furness Whispers – to build a more immersive and interactive space for all things Furness history. This website is like that welcoming old tavern with its crackling fire, comfy armchairs, and endless tales to be shared. Here, you can delve deeper into the stories, explore interactive maps, lose yourself in quizzes, and even contribute your own research and discoveries. Think of it as a time-travelling tavern, where we can gather around the virtual hearth and share our passion for Furness's past. And who am I, the keeper of this historical tavern? Well, I'm just a local with a love of history and a tendency to disappear down research rabbit holes (the deeper and dustier, the better). You'll often find me poring over ancient manuscripts, quizzing local historians with obscure questions, or attempting to recreate medieval recipes (with varying degrees of success, admittedly). But enough about me, this is about us – creating a vibrant online community where we can explore, learn, and share our fascination with Furness's rich history. So, grab your virtual tankard, settle in by the metaphorical fire, and let's embark on this historical adventure together! P.S. Got a burning question about Furness history? A fascinating family story to share? Or maybe you just want to debate the merits of mead versus ale? Get in touch! I'm always up for a good history chat (and maybe a virtual tavern night).
About - Furness Whisper
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We aim to post weekly research updates in a narrative style, but we'll always keep you informed.
Contact
info@furness-whisper.uk
Early History & Viking Influence:
Furness, part of the Lake District area, has roots that go back to prehistoric times. It was heavily influenced by Viking settlers in the 9th and 10th centuries, and its name is believed to derive from Old Norse, where “furn” may refer to fern or bracken, and "ess" means land or district. Fun Fact: The Vikings who settled in the area are believed to have influenced the region's place names and language, many of which are still present today.
Earls of Lancaster and Furness Abbey
The Earls of Lancaster played a crucial role in the history of Furness Abbey. By the early 13th century, the Lancastrian family had gained control over the Barony of Furness, a vast swath of land in the Furness Peninsula. The abbey, founded in 1123, grew significantly under the patronage of the Earls of Lancaster, who granted it substantial land and resources, enabling it to thrive. The abbey became one of the wealthiest Cistercian monasteries in England, thanks to these generous grants, and its monks were heavily involved in local industries, including ironworks, salt production, and farming. The Earls of Lancaster supported the abbey not only for religious reasons but also as a way to reinforce their power and influence in the region.
The English Civil War (1642–1651):
The English Civil War (1642–1651) had a significant impact on northern England, including Furness. Though Furness was not the site of major battles, it was caught up in the conflict between Royalists (supporters of King Charles I) and Parliamentarians (supporters of Parliament). The Royalist forces, which controlled large parts of the north, found support in Furness, and some minor skirmishes and local conflicts took place. Fun Fact: Though Furness didn’t see major military action, it remained a stronghold for Royalists in the region during the Civil War, contributing to the broader conflicts in Lancashire and Cumbria.
Furness Culture
Furness, a region in Cumbria, draws people with its unique blend of industrial heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant local culture. Historically, it became renowned for its shipbuilding legacy, particularly in Barrow-in-Furness, where the region’s shipyards played a crucial role during both World Wars. This rich industrial past continues to shape its identity, with a strong sense of community pride and a lasting impact on local arts and entertainment. The area’s stunning landscapes, from the coastal beauty of Morecambe Bay to the rugged hills near the Lake District, also attract outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors are drawn to the region’s hiking and birdwatching opportunities, particularly on Walney Island, a Dark Sky Discovery Site. The natural scenery, combined with the industrial heritage, gives Furness a distinctive charm. Cultural celebrations like the Furness Carnival in Barrow and the Stan Laurel Festival in Ulverston bring the local community together and attract tourists seeking a taste of traditional celebrations and entertainment. The legacy of Stan Laurel, born in Ulverston, adds a unique flavour to the town's cultural offerings, with the Stan Laurel Museum being a key draw for film and comedy fans. Furness’s entertainment culture, from brass band music to modern art galleries, has something for everyone, blending the old with the new. Whether it’s the history of shipbuilding, the coastal charm, or the lively festivals, Furness offers a captivating mix of tradition, creativity, and community spirit, making it a hidden gem for both history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.