Manx National Heritage

It was lovely to work with MNH this year demonstrating spinning at more of their sites. The Guild have demonstrated for years at Cregneash, but this year added the Old Grammar School in Castletown and Rushen Abbey in Ballasalla.

Quite some heritage in these two sites. From the MNH website:

• Built around 1200AD as the first church for the settlement that grew up around Castle Rushen. Later becoming a school for boys as it is now depicted. It is the oldest roofed structure still standing on the Isle of Man today.
• Rushen Abbey (Mannishter Rushen) was gifted by King Olaf I for use as a monastery in 1134.

Here are some pictures.

Orrisdale Farm Open Day

Orrisdale Farm held an Open Day on Sunday, 11 June. It’s billed to give visitors the opportunity to learn more about farming, the countryside and food production, and get up close with some of their friendliest farm animals and special furry guests.

Four members of the Guild demonstrated spinning over the day, right next to the sheep shearing! The weather was kind, and it was a great, family friendly event.

Royal Manx Agricultural Show 2023

The Guild were at the Show again this year, giving visitors a chance to “have a go” at spinning and weaving.

It was great to have a selection of looms this year: rigid heddle, inkle, 4 shaft, and last but not least peg loom, enjoyed by children and adults alike.