Bourne NWR group met today to share knowledge, articles, topics and anecdotes about the national country theme of The Channel Islands
We approached the topic firstly from a geographic viewpoint. Situated in the English Channel they lie closer to Normandy, France than the south coast of England. We learned of their population size, dimensions, topography and what are the several islands making up this archipelago: Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, Herm and several other tiny islands.
Only a few miles long and wide, they have a unique identity, history, culture and political autonomy. Neither British nor French. They are known as Crown Dependencies.
Historical Background.
Putting them next into historical context we soon learned that 2 events: 1066 when King Harold was defeated at Hastings by William of Normandy and in 1204 King John’s defeat by the French shaped their independence lasting to this day. Islanders are British citizens self-governed by two bailiwicks. A recent chapter in the history of the Islands dates to 1940 – 1945 and Second World War when the islands were occupied by Nazi Germany.
We explored the industries past and present making the islands famous. Things like the woollen garment manufacture, dairy products, potatoes and finance. Words such as ‘jersey’ and ‘guernsey’ in relation to knitwear have entered into our language. Some had experience of working with the VAT Free status of goods exported from Jersey.
Finding out about a place can be achieved (where visiting is impossible) through the literature of the place. I thought to get a feel for some novels set over the last 200 years and found many to chose from.
Book shortlist:
- Toilers of the Sea by Victor Hugo
- The Book of Ebenezer Le Page by GB Edwards 1981.
- Mr. Pye by Mervyn Peake 1953
- Menagerie Manor by Gerald Durrell 1964
- A Doctor’s Occupation by John Lewis 1991
- The Girl from the Channel Islands by Jenny Lecoat 2020
Food was the next topic :
- Jersey Royal Potatoes: These waxy potatoes, grown exclusively in Jersey, are known for their unique flavor and are a protected product.
- Black Butter: A sweet, apple-based spread, traditionally made in Jersey, is a unique local specialty.
- Jersey Cabbage Loaf: A round loaf of bread, originating from Jersey, often served with meals.
- Jersey Milk: Known for its richness and creaminess, it’s used in many dairy products and desserts.
- Seafood: Jersey boasts fresh seafood, including lobster, scallops, and oysters.
- Gâche: A traditional sweet bread, similar to a fruitcake, is a staple in Jersey.
- Bean Crock (Les Pais au Fou): A traditional Jersey stew, often featuring pork and beans.
There was a period during the American War for Independence 1775 when the French sent a Man O War ship to the British Channel Islands territories. The women of the island made a ruse to trick the French into believing the island was much more populous and well-defended than it was. They dressed in scarlet petticoats and wore scarves around their stiff bonnets – pretending to be men. They manned the sentinel posts on the cliff tops, rushing from one to another in view of the ship. Thus thwarting an attack by the French whilst the British were preoccupied by war with United States.
Next meeting 22nd July.