They have stepped back in time.
And the family life of the 17th century proved fascinating for today’s curious schoolchildren.
Youngsters from two Kirklees schools got a taste of life from 400 years ago when they were at Oakwell Hall.
The historic house and adjoining park are hosting a Civil War re-enactment this weekend and as a taster for that, families recreated the days of cooking on open fires and perfoming household tasks.
Pupils from Birstall Primary Academy and St Patrick’s Primary School were among those getting to know what it was like living in the 17th century.
Members of the English Civil War Society, who will stage the weekend re-enactment of the Battle of Adwalton Moor, were dressed up and going about the daily business of running a grand house.
It meant the children were able to meet a variety of characters from the 1600s, including houseowner John Batt, servants, a lady’s maid, a musician, a laundress, a woodturner, a pewter caster and a musketeer.
See more images from the event below.
Funding for the weekend event came partly from PPG industries, best known as the company behind the Johnstone’s paint brand.
This year they have committed to donating £11,000 which will be split between three projects: supporting the development of an iron age roundhouse in the park; developing an environmental education package which will concentrate on how plants can be used to encourage wildlife and as food and medicine; and this weekend’s Civil War re-enactment.
Clr Graham Turner, Cabinet member for Resources said: “We are extremely grateful for the support of PPG, thanks to their donations the hall and country park have been able to improve and expand on the facilities and services we offer to visitors over the years.
“Events like the Civil War Spectacular bring the park to life in a unique way and provide a fantastic day out for local families and visitors from further afield. These types of event take a great deal of organising and just wouldn’t be possible without the support of local businesses and the hall’s friends of group”.
The Battle of Adwalton Moor was one of the most important actions fought in the north of England during the Civil Wars that ended, six years later, with the execution of King Charles I. In 1643, around 10,000 soldiers fought hand to hand, with the King’s supporters winning.
For entry details contact 01924 326240.
