The Society of Colonial Wars

in the British Isles

Photographs of the 26th to 29th September 2002 Winchester Event

On Thursday after a short business meeting, we attended an interesting talk on the History of the The Royal Americans and how they became the Duke of York's Own Rifle Core, the King's Royal Rifle Corps, the 60th, and the Green Jackets.This was followed by Dinner in a separate room of the Royal Winchester Hotel.

On Friday we visited East Meon. (See Photo view of Church). The Vicar (See Photo view of Vicar etc).told us of the History of the All Saints Church which dated back to William the Conqueror in 1066. The Font was transported from Belgium around 1150 and is one of only seven Black Tournai Marble beautifully carved to include the story of Adam and Eve.(See Photo view of Font).

Also in the Church was an old Pipe Organ. (See Photo of Organ).

The east window glass is a First World War Memorial. The arms of Imperial Russia and the American Stars and Stripes can both be seen alongside patron saints. (See Photo view of East Window and Detail)

After having coffee at the ancient Court House (private property) we went to the National Trust's Uppark. There we were given a talk by Dai Evans on how the stately home was rebuilt and faithfully restored further to a maintenance firm of builders accidentaly setting fire to the House. We went round the exhibition and saw the video of the fire before having lunch and going round the beautifully restored house.(See Photo of Uppark House)

On Saturday the Warriors attended a talk on the Royal American Regiment and were guided round the museum and had the models and exhbits explained. (See Photo).

The ladies then joined us from a visit to a silk mill and we went into Winchester Hall to see King Arthur's Round Table. (See Photo of King Arthur's Round Table)

We all went to a fish restaurant for lunch and had a marvellous spread of different fish to eat

After lunch we walked to the Cathedral through the City wall (See Photo of City Wall)and then along a pretty riverside meadow walk to St Cross. (See Photo of St Cross )

In the evening we were taken by coach to have a formal dinner at a private stately house called Avington Park. Unfortunately the coach could not drive through the gates so we had to walk down the drive.It was a beautiful night and the stars were out. On arrival we had a log fire and champagne reception.(See Photo of Reception). We then had a very fine Diner of exceptional food and wine.(See Photo of Diner).

On Sunday we attended Holy Eucharist at the Winchester School Chapel and afterwards were taken on a guided tour of this ancient and distinguished accademic institution.(See Photo of School House).

We then had a light lunch at the Hotel before departing. A very enjoyable and interesting few days in the company of friends new and old).