The ship painting at 4 Market Street in Tavistock offers a unique glimpse into the maritime history of the Tudor period. Henry VIII, often regarded as the "Father of the English Navy," significantly expanded the navy, commissioning the construction of impressive ships like the Mary Rose and the Henry Grace à Dieu.
By the 1540s, the navy had grown to about 60 ships, playing a crucial role in defending England’s coastline and engaging in naval battles.
What's the connection with Tavistock?
The connection between Tavistock and the Tudor navy is highlighted by figures like John Russell, 1st Earl of Bedford, who served as Lord High Admiral between 1540 and 1542. Russell’s links to Devon and his role in coastal defence and maritime activities suggest a strong regional connection to the navy. Another significant figure is William Hawkins, father of Sir John Hawkins, who was involved in trading and naval activities, including privateering missions sanctioned by the crown. John Hawkins was Francis Drake's cousin. Drake first sailed on ships commanded by his cousin. Their careers were marked by a mix of piracy and privateering ( attacking enemy ships under licence). They were also among the earliest Englishmen to trade enslaved people across the Atlantic from West Africa to the Caribbean.
The painting's depiction of a warship, complete with Tudor royal insignia, raises questions about its origins and purpose. Could it represent a ship like the Mawdelyn Russell or the Paul of Plymouth, both with ties to prominent Tavistock figures? Or perhaps it symbolized the town’s involvement in maritime trade and privateering during the Tudor era.
Research into the building's ownership and historical records, conducted by Deborah Watson, uncovered tantalising clues but stopped short of definitive proof. However, the connection between Tavistock merchants and the Hawkins family, as well as the town’s involvement in arms trading and maritime ventures, suggests a vibrant and active role in Tudor maritime history.
An interesting aspect of this period is the Anglo-Islamic trade. By the late 16th century, England had established trade relations with Morocco, exchanging military ordnance and other goods for valuable resources like saltpeter, essential for gunpowder. This trade, driven by political and economic motivations, highlights the complex and far-reaching nature of England’s maritime activities.
Tavistock’s rich maritime heritage
The ship painting, therefore, is more than just an artwork; it is a symbol of Tavistock’s rich maritime heritage and its connections to the broader historical context of the Tudor period. As we continue to explore its story, we gain a deeper appreciation of the town’s role in the dynamic and often turbulent world of Tudor maritime history.
The journey to preserve the ship painting is far from over, but the combined efforts of historians, conservationists, and local authorities are a testament to its significance. As we work towards securing its future, we continue to uncover the rich history embedded in this remarkable piece of art.
Visit the Ship painting
You can see as much of this unique history as we understand by visiting the Tavistock Guildhall Heritage Centre and view the ship painting interpretation installation.
You can find out more about Tavistock's Maritime Legacy on September 6th 2024 during Tavistock's Heritage Open Days. Dr. Geri Parlby, Chair of Tavistock Heritage Trust is giving a talk in the Guildhall Heritage Centre at 16:30. The talk is FREE but it's probably best to reserve a seat. You can reserve a seat by following the link - RESERVE ME A SEAT
In advance of the official launch you can see the full interpretive display about the Ship Painting in the Guildhall Heritage Centre. It's a wonderful multimedia exhibition and it's also FREE.
Tavistock Heritage Trust is working with partners to restore and save the painting, if you would like to make a small donation to support this valuable work please follow this link.
If you would like to find out more about the array of projects Tavistock Heritage Trust are currently involved in follow this link https://www.heritageintavistock.org/our-projects
The Ship Painting Project is a Tavistock Heritage Project in conjunction with Tavistock Town Council and supported by Devon County Council and TIDE and Interreg.
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