23 July Elephants History

Rain overnight so the washing left out overnight was a bit damp this morning (my fault as I told Mum to leave it as rain wasn't forecast!). Oh well, it's had an extra rinse 😀.

But this morning has turned out to be a sunny start to the rest of the day. So Mum and I headed into Bishops Castle to do a spot of shopping and a bacon butty in the little Herbie cafe. Then as we walked through the town to go and catch up on Dad I spotted elephants on the side of a house in the High Street. I'd never noticed them previously. Shows how much I look up when I walk about. 

I know that there is some link between Bishops Castle and elephants and I might have already found out and blogged about it (memory rubbish 😂). Mum also couldn't remember so I did a bit of investigative work.

Apparently Bishops Castle was the home to Clive of India in the 18th century and an Indian elephant became part of his family emblem.

The Clive family crest found in the town square.

Also during the Second World War many circuses moved their animals and elephants out of the cities to places such as Bishops Castle, to avoid the air raids and bombings. A large number of elephants were housed in the stables of The Castle Hotel which is at the top of the High Street.

On further digging I've uncovered an elephant art trail, of which the elephants on the side of the house is part of. I do like a good trail so something I'll drag Ian out on to when he's back from his sailing and cadet adventures.

Definately the best seat in the house when it's a lovely day.