On 7th March 2009, 21 FOCAS members assembled at Carlisle Record Office where David Bowcock , Assistant County Archivist had selected and laid out numerous fine examples of documents from the Carlisle Cathedral Archive. After a brief introduction by David we were free to browse these documents with david on hand to answer queries. We were also able to view plans and photographs of progress on the building of the new Record Office.
[in the Record Office]
At about 12.30 pm lunch was taken at the ‘Prior’s Kitchen’, situated in the under-croft of the fratry
At 1.30 pm members assembled in the Fratry which now houses the Cathedral Library where Canon David Weston, the former Canon Librarian of Carlisle Cathedral had laid out a magnificent display of documents and items which charted the history of Carlisle Cathedral throughout its development from Augustinian priory to the Anglican Cathedral it is today.
[In the Library]
Canon Weston gave a detailed and scholarly presentation, describing each selected document or item which held his audience spellbound. Time was allowed to have closer inspection of the items on display before we climbed the Prior's Tower. Here Canon Weston interpreted the decoration on the wonderful and important 16th century painted ceiling of the first floor room with its symbols and heraldic devices.
This was a very successful visit and thanks are due to David Bowcock who gave up his Saturday morning to allow us to use the Record Office, to Canon Weston for making the visit to the Cathedral so interesting, and last but not least to Michele Moatt for making the arrangements for the event.
It was particularly pleasing to see so many new faces at this event (in addition to the stalwarts)
Jim C/Anita A 2/5/09