Name Index

To

Ye Ancient Bull Ring at Totnes

Trans. Devon. Assoc. vol. XXXII, (1900), pp. 106-110.

by

T.W. Stainthorpe, A.M.I.C.E.

Prepared by Michael Steer

The paper was read at the Association’s August 1900 Totnes meeting and complements a report on the discovery of the ancient bull ring submitted to D&C,N&Q, 1900, vol.1, pp. 26-28. Animal blood sports were among the most beloved entertainments of 16th and 17th century England. Bull-baiting, in which dogs were set upon chained male cattle, was particularly popular. Audiences delighted in watching the bulls throw the attack dogs into the air with their horns, and it was widely believed that baiting helped make the bull’s beef more tender and safe for consumption. The centre of Ashburton is known as "The Bull Ring". Fences used to be placed along the pavement and the cattle and sheep would be gathered in the centre for sale. Kerb stones, the holes where the fences used to fit can still be seen. Prior to the market, the space was reserved for bull-baiting. This article resulted from discovery of the original stone block and ring to which the bulls were fixed for baiting in Totnes. The article, from a copy of a rare and much sought-after journal can be downloaded from the Internet Archive. Google has sponsored the digitisation of books from several libraries. These books, on which copyright has expired, are available for free educational and research use, both as individual books and as full collections to aid researchers.