HistoryFest focuses on less well-known aspects
OVERLOOKED aspects of Guernsey’s history was the theme of the weekend as Castle Cornet welcomed a steady stream of visitors for its first event of the season.
HistoryFest brought to life the castle’s 800-year history and prioritised lesser-known areas of the past.
Castle keeper David Malledent was dressed in an 1880 British soldier’s uniform.
‘We’re trying to show people what it was like doing simple things on a daily basis and often soldiers would be sat around trying to entertain themselves,’ he said.
‘We’re here to play dominoes and show people how soldiers would relax and stay amused.’
Caspar Green, 5, who played dominoes with the soldiers, is a big history fan and Castle Cornet is his favourite place to visit on weekends and during school holidays.
He was so excited to be back at the castle to watch the noonday cannon and explore the grounds once again.
He said he even hoped to live in the castle one day.
One family were visiting Guernsey from Sark and, despite living there for eight years, had never been to Castle Cornet.
‘The boys love history and learn about it at school,’ said mum Charlotte Jones.
‘We’ve really enjoyed it here and have learned so many things about Guernsey’s involvement in the First World War that we had no idea about.
‘There’s lots for kids to get involved with and we’ve all loved it.’
Cheryl Armitage and Caitlyn Le Patourel, members of the Military History Group, who were dressed in costumes from different eras, explained that they had seen a steady stream of visitors so far and were hoping that lovely weather would bring many more islanders and tourists to the castle to learn about Guernsey’s military history for the rest of the weekend and the season to come.
