One of the other great attractions in York is the Castle Museum and its neighbor, Clifford's Tower. Constructed in 1068 by William the Conqueror, it was never really meant to be a Royal residence. Rather, it was used for defensive purposes, as a treasury, law courts, prison, and other administrative purposes. Much of the castle and tower were destroyed by fire in 1190 and subsequently rebuilt during the 13th century. Following centuries of disrepair, industrialist John Kirk founded the York Castle Museum in 1938, on the site of the old (1701) debtors prison and of the female prison (1780). In addition to exhibits about life in these prisons, the museum re-creates life in Victorian England, Also, there is an exhibit on the history of children's toys. Just outside the prison walls, is a re-created 19th century flour mill, next to the river Foss. This year, the museum was named one of the top ten museums in the UK, and we could see why. The old Debtors prison (1701) part of the York Castle Museum. Artist's rendition of how York Castle and Clifford's Tower would have looked during the 14th century... ...and then how it would have looked two hundred years later, during the 16th century. Clifford's Tower as it looks today. A view of the inside of Clifford's Tower, taken from the ramparts. Artist's concept of how Clifford's Tower would have been used before the great fire of 1190 destroyed the central portion of it. The prison cells were not very luxurious by any means. After 300 years, this original prison door is amazingly preserved. The prison exercise yard and half-moon court. Just beyond the prison exercise yard is this re-created 19th century flour mill A Victorian era street scene has been re-created inside the York Castle Museum... ...along with several Victoria era rooms, such as this dining room... ...as well as a living room... ...and bedroom.
2 Comments
Naz
3/29/2018 06:27:35 pm
Interesting article. I must visit some day. Thanky you!
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Carl
4/1/2018 05:50:11 am
Thank you for your comment. This has been an interesting adventure.
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Carl and Lorraine Aveni are two retirees planning on traveling through Europe for at least one year.
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