4 days ago
Exhibition showcases East Budleigh's maritime history
An exhibition showcasing East Budleigh's maritime history is taking place.
The event, held every Sunday this month at the East Budleigh Heritage Centre, features an array of artefacts and stories dating back to the Domesday Book survey.
Notably, the exhibition delves into the river and sea's influence in shaping East Budleigh's maritime heritage.
In 1086, East Budleigh was under the King's possession, while Otterton, along with Sidmouth, belonged to the Abbot of Mont St Michel, Normandy, who was actively involved in trade with France.
The exhibition also highlights the bustling trade industry in the 1300s, where vessels from Ottermouth and Sidmouth were engaged in importing wine to local merchants.
Between 1296 and 1321, the Customs Accounts of the Port of Exeter recorded diverse cargoes including wheat, figs, raisins, garlic, onions, oil, and commodities related to the wool trade.
These were transported on medieval barges.
Larger vessels, possibly early cogs, were utilised to carry cargos of iron.
Cogs were the "bulk carriers" of their day, capable of carrying 100 to 150 tons of cargo, with a crew of 10 to 20 men.
The event further explores the shipbuilding prowess in the region.
In 1513, skilled shipwrights and caulkers from Devon, including five men from Otterton, were employed by Henry VIII to construct his ship Harry Grace a Dieu and three galleys at Woolwich.
The exhibition will also feature East Budleigh's notorious smuggling past.
The East Budleigh Heritage Centre Steering Group invites everyone to explore and connect with the living heritage of the area.
The East Budleigh Heritage Centre is located at Salem Chapel, East Budleigh.
