English Heritage has acquired rare footage of the first Battle of Hastings reenactment, held in 1966. The film captures what The Guardian describes as ‘a lot of pushing and shoving’ between students from Kent and Sussex participating in the event. The footage offers a glimpse into how the iconic 1066 battle was portrayed decades before modern reenactments became widespread.
While the original Battle of Hastings took place in 1066, the reenactment depicted in this newly discovered footage occurred nearly nine centuries later. It was staged on a hilltop field near Hastings, mirroring the general landscape of the original confrontation. The scene reportedly included participants brandishing spears and chanting ‘Harold! Harold!’ in reference to King Harold II, who led the English forces against William the Conqueror.
- English Heritage acquired film of the first Battle of Hastings reenactment.
- The event occurred in 1966, not 1066.
- Footage shows ‘a lot of pushing and shoving’ between students.
- Participants included students from Kent and Sussex.
- The reenactment featured people shouting ‘Harold! Harold!’
Who Is Affected?
The footage primarily features students from Kent and Sussex who participated in the 1966 reenactment. While no specific names are cited, the event represents an early effort to bring English history to life through grassroots reenactment. English Heritage, which now holds the film, may use it for archival purposes or public exhibitions.
How Did We Get Here?
Reenactments of historical battles have grown in popularity over the past several decades, often drawing thousands of spectators and participants. However, this newly discovered footage predates most organized reenactment societies. Its style and execution differ significantly from contemporary reenactments, which tend to emphasize historical accuracy in costume and choreography.
The article humorously notes that the Norman army was delayed due to traffic on the A27 from Brighton, requiring a 20-minute postponement while participants got into costume. This anecdote highlights the informal nature of early reenactments compared to today’s highly structured events.
Verified by the source:
- English Heritage acquired film of the 1966 Battle of Hastings reenactment.
- The footage shows conflict between students from Kent and Sussex.
- Participants shouted ‘Harold! Harold!’ during the reenactment.
Still unconfirmed:
- The exact date and location of the 1966 reenactment within Hastings.
- Whether any surviving participants have commented on the footage.
- Plans for public screening or digital release by English Heritage.
Why It Matters
This footage serves as a unique historical artifact, documenting one of the earliest large-scale reenactments of the Battle of Hastings. It provides insight into how historical memory was preserved and performed in the mid-20th century, long before digital media and formal reenactment groups became commonplace.
Future developments may include public screenings or online uploads of the footage. English Heritage has not yet announced specific plans for its release.