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Beating the Bounds Boats
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Beating the Bounds Boats
ENGLAND - BEATING THE BOUNDS Choirboys and dignitaries sailing down the Thames in rowing boats, en route to St. Clement Danes for the beating the parish boundaries ceremony Date: early 1930s
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Media ID 7207359
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Beating Boards Boundaries Bounds Ceremony Clement Danes Dignitaries Function Mortar Pagan Parish Ritual Route Rowing Scholars
EDITORS COMMENTS
Beating the Bounds: A Timeless Tradition Sails Down the River Thames This evocative photograph captures a unique moment in the rich history of England's ancient customs, as a group of choirboys and dignitaries set sail along the iconic River Thames in traditional rowing boats, en route to St. Clement Danes Church for the 'Beating the Bounds' ceremony. Dating back to pagan times, this ritual was once an essential function to mark and reaffirm the boundaries of a parish, ensuring that its inhabitants were aware of their community's geographical limits. The tradition was later adopted by the Christian Church, with the first recorded instance of the ceremony taking place in 1618. In this early 1930s image, we see the choirboys, dressed in their traditional robes, and dignitaries, including the Vicar of St. Clement Danes, proudly holding the parish bounds or 'mortar boards,' as they make their way down the river. The boats, adorned with colorful pennants and flags, glide gracefully through the water, reflecting the sun's rays and creating a serene and picturesque scene. As the group approaches St. Clement Danes Church, they will perform the 'Beating the Bounds' ceremony, which involves touching the church walls and the parish boundaries with the mortar boards to symbolically mark and bless the area. This tradition not only serves as a reminder of the community's history but also fosters a sense of unity and pride among its members. This photograph is a testament to the enduring nature of England's rich cultural heritage and the importance of preserving its traditions for future generations.
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