Allhallowtide
Allhallowtide was, and is, a three-day Christian observance running from 31st October (All Hallows’ Eve) to 2nd November (All Souls’ Day).
It is a time when Christians, particularly Catholics, Anglicans, and Lutherans, honour saints and remember departed souls. The word “hallow” comes from Old English, meaning “saint,” while “tide” refers to a season or festival. This period focuses on reflecting on the lives of saints and the souls who have passed on in faith.
31 October – All Hallow’s Eve (Hallowe’en) This day, literally the ‘Eve of Hallowmas’ (November 1) was part of the medieval festival to celebrate the dead. There is no evidence that it has any pagan origins. Samhain, the celebration held on this day in Ireland, was a day to mark the beginning of winter by gathering and feasting, with little, if any supernatural or religious significance. ‘Hallow’ is derived from Old English for holy man or saint.
1 November – All Saints’ Day (All Hallow’s Day, Hallowmas) Also known as All Hallows or Hallowmas, it was a day to celebrate all the early Christian saints and martyrs responsible for founding and perpetuating their faith. The day was originally celebrated in May but the date was fixed at November 1 in the eight century.
2 November – All Souls’ Day This feast day originated around the year 1000 to commemorate ‘the faithful departed who had gone before.’ The existence of Purgatory, and the idea that souls could be helped towards heaven and their sufferings relieved by the actions of the living, were officially recognised by the church at the Second General Council of Lyons in 1274. The feast day thus became associated with special requiem masses for the dead, candles, alms giving and the holy sound of church bell ringing. These were all condemned as superstitious following the Reformation but the basic connection of this time of year with charity and the dead remained.
On this day we will be looking at the Allhallowtide and how it was celebrated. You can see the Museum interpretation team as they prepare and celebrate a across the Bayleaf Farmstead. Demonstrations will show how members of the household would have different tasks to carry out in the preparations for the celebrations.
You will be welcome to ask the team about their work, what they are doing (and why) and chat with them as they enjoy their hard work.
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Information for Visitors
The Museum’s 40 acres site, historic gardens and buildings are fascinating places to learn about rural history. Visitors can purchase grain from the Museum shop and feed the hungry ducks on the mill pond. Whilst enjoying the great outdoors and fresh air, look out for our working animals, which can include the Heavy Horses, Sheep and Ducks. There are a number of lovely woodland trails, including a woodland play area for children to explore.
Why not enjoy breakfast, brunch or lunch at our waterside café? Visitors can also bring a picnic as there are plenty of picnic areas available on site. Takeaway refreshments will also be available from our seasonal Shepherd’s Huts located around the Museum.
Dogs on short leads are welcome and there is ample free parking. Please note that the Museum is a no-smoking site. Visitors with access needs are advised to read our accessibility page in advance of their visit.
All activities are subject to change.
