The English Billhook

The conversion of the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity from the 6th to the 8th centuries was a transformative period in British history. It not only marked the decline of the old heathen gods but also represented a profound shift in the cultural and spiritual landscape of England. Christianity spread rapidly across Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, supported by royal patrons and foreign missionaries. However, this transformation was not a simple case of one religion replacing another; it involved a strategic assimilation of pagan traditions, places of worship, and even gods themselves. One of the key strategies that facilitated this transition was the practice of building Christian churches on sites traditionally dedicated to heathen deities. This helped to physically and symbolically assert the dominance of Christianity while simultaneously allowing a degree of continuity in worship. Despite the widespread conversion to Christianity, many Anglo-Saxons resisted the total abandonment of their old gods, continuing to venerate them in secret for generations after the official conversion.

Introduction to Anglo-Saxon Leather working Leather working was an essential craft in Anglo-Saxon England (circa 5th to 11th centuries) and played a crucial role in everyday life. The Anglo-Saxons were skilled artisans who relied on natural resources for crafting items, and leather was highly prized for its durability and versatility. The leather working process during this period involved a blend of practical craftsmanship and traditional techniques passed down through generations. Leather was primarily obtained from the hides of domesticated animals, particularly cows, sheep, and goats. The hides were tanned to preserve them, a process that involved treating the skin with natural substances like oak bark, which was abundant in England. This method, called vegetable tanning, helped to make the leather durable and resistant to decay. The tools used by Anglo-Saxon leatherworkers were fairly simple but effective, including: Awls: pointed tools for piercing holes. Knives: for cutting the leather into shape. Bone and wooden needles: used for stitching pieces together. Scrapers: to remove hair and fat from the hide during preparation. The crafting of leather goods required several key techniques: Cutting and Shaping: After the hide was tanned, it was cut into appropriate shapes using sharp knives. Stitching: Anglo-Saxon leatherworkers used thread made from sinew, gut, or leather strips to stitch pieces of leather together. Leather thongs were also used for lacing items. Decoration: Leather items were often tooled or stamped with patterns for decoration, a process that involved pressing or carving designs into the leather while it was still damp and pliable. Dyeing: Leather could be dyed using natural substances like plant materials or minerals to achieve different colors. However, this was not as widespread as other techniques, and many leather items remained their natural hue. Leather was employed for a wide variety of purposes, from the practical to the decorative. Common leather goods included: Clothing and Footwear: Shoes, belts, and gloves were made from leather to provide protection and warmth. Pouches and Bags: Leather bags and pouches were essential for carrying goods and personal items, often worn at the waist or across the body. Horse Tack: Saddles, reins, and harnesses for horses were made of leather, reflecting the importance of horses in transportation and warfare. Armour: Leather was sometimes used as part of armor, especially for straps and bindings on metal armor. It was also used to make protective garments like leather jerkins. Leather working was both a domestic craft and a specialised trade in Anglo-Saxon society. Many households would have been capable of basic leather working, but more complex items, such as finely tooled belts or saddles, were likely made by skilled artisans. Leather goods were practical, but they also served as status symbols; finely made and decorated items were prized possessions among the wealthy. Leather working not only fulfilled practical needs but also had cultural and symbolic importance. Leather items were often decorated with intricate designs, reflecting the Anglo-Saxon appreciation for craftsmanship and artistry. In summary, Anglo-Saxon leather working was an essential craft that provided functional, durable goods for everyday life while also allowing artisans to express their skill and creativity. The tradition of leather working from this period influenced later medieval craftsmanship and continues to be studied and admired today. Materials and ToolsTechniquesUses of LeatherSignificance in Anglo-Saxon Society

The spear has been a crucial weapon in English warfare, both for its versatility and its effectiveness in various military contexts. Its use spans from the early medieval period through the Renaissance, reflecting the evolution of military tactics and societal changes. During the early medieval period, particularly in the Anglo-Saxon era (5th to 11th centuries), the spear was a primary weapon for warriors. The typical Anglo-Saxon spear featured a wooden shaft with an iron spearhead, often used for both thrusting and throwing. Spears were commonly used by the fyrd, the local militia, who were not professional soldiers but could be called upon to defend their territories. The Norman Conquest of 1066 introduced new military strategies and weaponry. The Normans used spears in conjunction with cavalry, enhancing their effectiveness. Norman knights would often use lances, a type of spear designed for mounted combat, which significantly impacted the way battles were fought. Throughout the 12th to 14th centuries, the spear remained a staple in English warfare. During the Renaissance, the spear evolved into the pike—a longer version designed to counter cavalry and other infantry. The pike became essential in pike and shot formations, which combined pikemen and early musketeers. This period marked a transition as firearms began to dominate the battlefield, but the spear still played a critical role in holding lines and providing defence against charges. Spears were integral to the formation of shield walls, where warriors would stand side by side with overlapping shields and spears projecting outwards. This formation was highly effective in defensive situations and required discipline and coordination. The lance, a type of spear used by mounted knights, was crucial in medieval cavalry charges. The momentum of a charging horse combined with the reach of a lance made it a devastating weapon against both infantry and other cavalry. Spears could be used for both offensive and defensive purposes. In sieges, they were effective for defending walls and fortifications. In open battle, their reach allowed soldiers to strike enemies from a distance, keeping them at bay and reducing the risk of close combat. The spear's enduring presence in English warfare highlights its fundamental role in historical military tactics. From the shield walls of Anglo-Saxon England to the pike formations of the Renaissance, the spear adapted to changing warfare demands, proving its effectiveness across centuries. Its legacy is a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of English military strategy.

The billhook, often referred to simply as a "bill," is a traditional weapon that originated in medieval Europe, primarily used by infantry soldiers. It evolved from an agricultural tool used for pruning and cutting branches. Here's an overview of its use in warfare: Design and Features Blade Shape: The billhook has a distinctive curved blade with a hook at the end. This design allowed it to be effective in both slashing and hooking motions. Pole: It was mounted on a long wooden pole, typically 5 to 8 feet in length, giving it the reach needed for battlefield combat. Additional Features: Some bills included extra spikes or cutting edges, enhancing their versatility in combat. Historical Context Origins: The billhook's use in agriculture dates back to antiquity, but its adaptation as a weapon occurred in medieval Europe, especially in England. Infantry Weapon: It was primarily used by foot soldiers, known as billmen in England. These soldiers were often part of the militia or levies, rather than professional soldiers. Tactical Use Versatility: The billhook was effective against both infantry and cavalry. Its design allowed soldiers to pull riders off horses, cut through armor, and engage in close combat. Formation Fighting: Billmen often fought in tight formations, using the long reach of their weapons to create a defensive line that was difficult for cavalry to penetrate. Anti-Armour Capability: The curved blade and hook could penetrate or bypass armour, making it useful against heavily armoured opponents. Famous Engagements Wars of the Roses: The billhook was notably used during the Wars of the Roses in England (1455-1487), where it proved effective in the brutal hand-to-hand combat that characterised many battles of the period. Battle of Flodden: In 1513, during the Battle of Flodden, English billmen played a significant role in defeating the Scottish forces. Decline Advancements in Firearms: With the advent of gunpowder weapons and changes in military tactics, the billhook gradually became obsolete as a frontline weapon. Continued Use in Agriculture: Despite its decline in warfare, the billhook continued to be used as an agricultural tool, which is a testament to its practical design and utility. In summary, the billhook was a versatile and effective weapon for medieval infantry, adapted from a common agricultural tool. Its design made it suitable for various combat scenarios, contributing to its widespread use in European warfare before the rise of firearms.

The "Broken Back Seax" is a type of knife or dagger that was characteristic of the Anglo-Saxons, the Germanic inhabitants of England from the 5th century AD until the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name "seax" itself refers to a type of single-edged knife that was commonly used among the Germanic peoples during this time period. The term "broken back" refers to the shape of the blade. A Broken Back Seax typically has a straight cutting edge for the majority of the blade's length, but towards the tip, the spine of the blade abruptly angles downward, creating a distinctive break in the profile of the blade. This design feature is thought to have provided additional strength to the tip of the blade, making it more effective for thrusting and stabbing motions. Broken Back Seaxes were versatile tools and weapons, used for various tasks including cutting, slicing, and stabbing. They were often carried by Anglo-Saxon warriors as a sidearm in addition to their primary weapons such as swords or spears. These knives were also frequently used for everyday tasks such as hunting, woodworking, and food preparation. The Broken Back Seax is an iconic symbol of the Anglo-Saxon period and has been found in archaeological excavations throughout England and other parts of Europe where the Anglo-Saxons had influence.

In Anglo-Saxon England, hide tanning was a significant craft. Hides were processed to create leather, which served various purposes, including clothing, footwear, armor, and household items. Here are some true facts about hide tanning in Anglo-Saxon England: Importance of Leather: Leather was a crucial material in Anglo-Saxon society, used for a wide range of products due to its durability and versatility. It played a vital role in daily life, from clothing to tools to housing. Tanning Methods: Anglo-Saxons used several methods to tan hides, including vegetable tanning and brain tanning. Vegetable tanning involved the use of tannins from plant sources such as oak bark, while brain tanning utilised animal brains to soften and preserve the hides. Craftsmanship: Hide tanning was a skilled craft, often performed by specialised craftsmen known as tanners or leatherworkers. These artisans had extensive knowledge of the tanning process and techniques for achieving different qualities of leather. Tanning Locations: Tanning was typically carried out in specialised workshops or areas within Anglo-Saxon settlements. These locations were equipped with tools and facilities necessary for the tanning process, such as vats for soaking hides and stretching frames for drying. Economic Significance: Leather working was an economically significant trade in Anglo-Saxon England. Tanners produced leather goods not only for local consumption but also for trade with neighbouring communities and beyond, contributing to the region's economy. Social Status: Leather working was a respected craft, tanners were not typically among the highest social classes in Anglo-Saxon society. However, skilled artisans could still achieve a level of prosperity and respect within their communities. Archaeological Evidence: Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of hide tanning in Anglo-Saxon settlements, including tanning pits, tools, and residues associated with the tanning process. These findings provide insights into the techniques and practices employed by Anglo-Saxon leatherworkers. Overall, hide tanning was a vital craft in Anglo-Saxon England, supporting various aspects of daily life and contributing to the region's economy and material culture.

Anglo-Saxon folklore is rich with tales of supernatural beings and shape-shifting entities, though werewolves specifically were not as prominent as in other European cultures. Instead, there was a focus on various mythical creatures, spirits, and magical beings. The Anglo-Saxons believed in shape-shifters and creatures capable of transforming into animals or other forms. Witches and sorcerers were said to possess the ability to change shape, reflecting a belief in the supernatural and the mysterious forces of the world. While werewolf legends may not feature prominently in Anglo-Saxon folklore, the broader themes of transformation and the existence of monstrous beings are present in their stories and beliefs.

The Anglo-Saxon spear was a crucial weapon in the arsenal of the Anglo-Saxon warriors during the early medieval period, particularly in England from the 5th to the 11th centuries. It was one of the primary weapons used by infantry soldiers, alongside swords, axes, and shields. Key features of the Anglo-Saxon spear included: Design: The spear typically consisted of a wooden shaft, often around 6 to 9 feet in length, with a spearhead attached at one end. The spearhead could be made of iron or steel and was usually around 8 to 12 inches long. It could have a variety of shapes, including leaf-shaped, diamond-shaped, or socketed. Versatility: The spear was a versatile weapon, effective both in thrusting and throwing. In close combat, warriors would use the spear to thrust at opponents, aiming to penetrate armor or injure vital organs. At longer ranges, they could throw the spear at their enemies, either to disrupt enemy formations or to kill or injure opponents. Tactics: Anglo-Saxon warfare often involved shield walls, where soldiers would stand shoulder to shoulder with their shields raised, creating a defensive barrier. Spears were ideal weapons for use behind these shield walls, allowing warriors to thrust over or through the shields to attack enemy soldiers. Symbolism: Spears held significant cultural and symbolic importance in Anglo-Saxon society. They were often adorned with intricate designs or symbols, and their ownership and use could convey social status and prowess in battle. Evolution: Over time, the design and use of the spear evolved alongside changes in warfare and technology. As armor improved, spearheads became more specialized to penetrate armor, and shafts might have been reinforced for greater durability. Additionally, the introduction of cavalry and changes in battlefield tactics influenced how spears were used in combat. Overall, the Anglo-Saxon spear played a crucial role in early medieval warfare, serving as a versatile and effective weapon for infantry soldiers in England and beyond.

England was one of the wealthiest kingdoms in Europe. This was due to successful farming and trade in the towns and villages. The king, his earls and Heathenry all profited from this through taxes. The Anglo-Saxon community in England was basically a rural one. Most people depended on the land for survival. At the top of the social system was the royal house. This consisted of the king and aethelings who claimed a common ancestry with the king.

The werewolf is a creature of folklore and legend commonly referred to as a ‘man-wolf’ or ‘wolf-man’. Medieval superstition describes them as individuals transformed, or who can transform at will, into a wolf. In France the creature is called a loup-garou.  In Anglo Saxon Folklore Werewolves were either protectors or villians, but this story breaches the gap between Humans and the Werewolf.