Crooked Spire
Here is the reason why the spire is twisted
Folklore places the devil atop the major landmark in Chesterfield, wich is Derbyshire largest town. refered to in the domesday book as “cestrefeld!”, meaning open field, its early prosperity was created chiefly by its role as a market town that served the whole of the north-est of Derbyshire. But this historic place has been the home of murderers, myths & legends. The last three men hanged in Derby Goal all hailed from Chesterfield. On the 10th August 1888, Aurthur Thomas Delaney was executed for the murder of his wife at Chesterfield; on 30 July 1902, John Bedford was hanged for the murder of Nancy Price at Duckmanton; and on the 29th of December 1905, John Silk went the same way for the murder of his mother at chesterfield. The town, which claims stronger links with the south yorkshire city of Sheffield then the county city of Derby, is surrounded by some of the most beautiful unspoilt countryside in the country. Built over a Roman site, it is also situated of an iron fort. The Romans probably settled here because the area is so rich in natural minerals like coal, lead & tin.
The famous crooked spire at St Mary’s and all saints Parish church dominates the skyline for miles around. It is said to have twisted many years age through a combination of heavy lead cladding and unseasoned timbers used in its construction. However, I much prefer the story that claims the Devil landed on the church one day, twisting his tail arounf the spire to secure him as he looked down on the town. A wedding was taking place and as the newly-weds emerged from the Parish church, the Devil noticed the bride was wearing white. In shock and horror the Devil flew down to look at the bride and groom, forgetting to unravel his tail from the spire. It twisted as a result. So what was the reason for the Devils urgency? Folklore states the bride was a virgin-and the Devil had never seen a virgin in Chesterfield before!
mlgkats
very nice writing
moonstone
thank you Mel
Woodie
Never seen a virgin in Chesterfield made me lol.
In Nottingham I’ve been told the lion statue roars if a virgin walks passes! ;-))
moonstone
ye but you know myths?
PhotogeniquE IPA
really interesting. Knew the ‘official’ reason for the twist, but had never heard the other version.
frogster
Interesting story
Jeff Burns
Superb Writing
Michael Oubridge
Beautifully written Sue :)
moonstone
Thank you all jsut though i’d share some Chesterfield history with you all