Living History Day

History through the Ages.  

On Saturday 9 October, Leighton-Linslade Town Council celebrated the 10^th Anniversary of its annual Living History Heritage Day with a Walk through History. Local residents were invited to explore the various time zones located around the town centre that formed the theme for this special event. The timeline took visitors through different centuries from the Romans to the present day with historical re-enactments, musical entertainment and local history. 

Leighton Middle School sports field once again played host to military encampments re-created from the Roman, Medieval and the English Civil War period. Roman Tours gave young visitors the opportunity to dress up in authentic roman costume and face the rigorous training regime of a true roman warrior. John Bright’s Regiment of Foote provided a living history encampment and a drill at arms along with children’s army bringing to life the tumultuous period of the war between the Parliamentarians and Roundheads. 

War Horse, a member of the federation of the Cavalry of St George recreated a 15^th century joust and gave visitors the opportunity to see close up the magnificent costumes of a Polish winged Hussar and a Norman Knight. Knights from Lion Rampant provided a thrilling medieval display which included “skill at arms”, hand to hand combat on foot.

Visitors to Leighton Middle School were amused and enlightened by tales of the royal and social side of life in Victorian England by Queen Victoria and her Lady in Waiting. Professor Heard gave members of the public the opportunity to see early cinematography at its best with his fascinating and wonderful Magic Lantern Shows. Amongst the pictures some slides originally taken by a local photographer from Piggots Photographic Studios. A Company of First Foot Guards (1815) presented an authentic military camp and display of arms, also added interest to this window on 19^th century history in the grounds of the school.  

 Displays of vintage vehicles by the Chiltern Vehicle Preservation Group and Watford Classic Car Club included vehicles ranging from a 1933 Morgan Sports 3 wheeler to a Jensen Interceptor, from Morris Minors to a 1930 Rolls Royce De Sanca De Ville. Whatever the age of the vehicle it certainly attracted the admiration of visitors of all ages.  

A selection of American and British World War II military vehicles formed part of a 1940’s display in the high street which included a local pub decorated in the style of the time.

Popular music attracted a large crowd to The Market Cross where local entertainers, Fiona Harrison, girl trio, RAZZ and rockers, the Pink Cardiacs performed music from the 1940s through to the 1970’s including Swing, Rock and Roll and an Abba tribute.

All Saints Church was again the focal point for local societies and historical groups who always attract a large amount of interest with their informative display and exhibits.  Exhibitors included Leighton Buzzard & District Archaeological & Historical Society, Leighton Buzzard Society, Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway Society, Town Twinning Forum, Knitting & Crochet Guild and Leighton Buzzard WI. Other exhibits included stained glass, a recently discovered map of Leighton Buzzard dated 1838 and a fascinating talk on the history of Graffiti and Gargoyles.

A musical programme was performed by the over 50’s local choir, Rock of Ages, Leighton Buzzard & Linslade Girl Guides and early medieval music was performed by Trevor James. 

Other exhibits and activities enjoyed on the day included Leighton Buzzard Writers Group, a Ghost Tour of the town, local historical display in Leighton Buzzard Library, Vintage Bicycles, a couple of “Mumpers” (vagabonds), candle maker, Giant Scalextric and Roses Roundabouts for the younger visitors.  

Leighton Linslade Town Council would like to thank everyone who participated in making this tenth heritage day an extremely successful event.