h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Saturday 11th June 2005

I have been very slow to enter the Tolkien Weekend update in my journal. There always seems to be something else I have to do!

Saturday and Sunday 14th and 15th May 2005
We were so lucky with the weather. Two glorious sunny and very busy days. The event was in its' fifth year but this year was special, as it was celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the publication of "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy by J.R.R.Tolkien. Yes, I know there have been films, too The event is set in and near his childhood haunts, which inspired him to write the books.

Now just in case you are in any doubt that this is about Tolkien take a look here:
http://www.tolkiensociety.org/ The area originally known as the Millstream Project this year officially became "The Shire Country Park", again emphasising the connection. See http://www.birmingham.gov.uk/shirecountrypark

There were guided walks in the of J.R.R., wildlife walks along the River Cole, a guided walk around Moseley Bog, the spooky setting for parts of the books, and a walk round his childhood haunts.

An Archaeology Walk was also led by the City Archaeologist. A Bus tour on a 1950's "Brummagem" (NOT red) double decker took fans to see the "two towers" - said to have inspired him when a student at nearby St. Phillip's Grammar School - Perrott's Folly and an ornate victorian chimney on land now owned by Severn Trent Water.

Narrations and drama excerpts from "The Lord of the Rings" took place in Moseley Bog, and people in Lord of the Rings costumes were everywhere - quite a sight and a bit scary too!

Sarehole Mill is a working water mill, but unfortunately that day there was insufficent water to operate it! Good weather has its' drawbacks. In addition to all sorts of activities in the Tolkien tent, there was a great deal to do for those less enthusiastic about the author. Two large craft marquees, a Re-Enactment group, miniature railway, RSPB and WWF stalls, Moseley Bog Group display, woodland craft demos, gypsy caravan, a Farmers' Market, amusements for the "little ones" and a Poetry marquee with folk music, songs, local poets and readings from "The Lord of the Rings".

Oh, and food and drink in abundance thank goodness, it's thirsty work

It is interesting to note that people come from all around the world each year, some even booking their holidays to coincide with this event.

Plans for a Tolkien Visitor Centre are afoot which will be welcomed. It was a glorious weekend, with a good attendance and we have to say a big thank you to the organisers for another cracking weekend. It is very hard work for everyone involved, but one of the most enjoyable events in the Birmingham calendar.

Websailor

My dear Websailor

What a wonderful weekend. We would have loved to have gone, but I fear that unless I had an electric wheelchair it would have been too much.

Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about it and shall copy it for K. and then he can read it.

Good night my dearl. Sleep tight

Also Ran1

So delighted you are with us again A1. I didn't get the chance to do much at the Tolkien w/e as I was working most of the time, but had a quick peek round the Farmers Market which was brilliant, and a wander round the marquees.

There is so much going on that the time passes very quickly. It meant 6am to 9pm both days but worth it. I also get to see so many of the lovely volunteer people from all the different groups.

Sleep tight,
Websailor