After a long absence, and various rumours surrounding its disappearance, the iconic ship’s anchor is now back in place outside the Rye Heritage Centre and the anchor has been lovingly restored to its former glory…all shipshape and Bristol fashion. For years the anchor has been one of Rye’s key landmarks, enjoyed by residents and visitors from all over the world ( and as a great photo opportunity).
Rye owes a huge thank you to all of those involved in the restoration project including Carl Bagwell MBE, Harbour Master James Bateman, Deputy Harbour Master Karl Sandercock, and all those lovely Environment Agency volunteers at the Scots Float Depot, especially Nick Smith. The three ton anchor dates from around 1530 and was recovered from Rye Bay in 1993. The anchor was probably from a large “man o’ war” vessel similar to the famous Mary Rose, which carried 800 men. Ships often lost their anchors by lowering them while moving too fast through the water.
Rye Heritage Centre is now in its 25th year as it opened in 1990 and continues to serve the town as a key attraction and visitor information centre. To help celebrate our Silver Jubilee, on Sunday August 2 (Maritime Festival) we will be running the Rye Town Model, Sound and Light Show throughout the day, free of charge. The first show will commence at 10am and then runs every 30 minutes with the last show at 4:30 pm. Whilst the show is free, we will be collecting donations to pass on to our chosen local children’s charity “Demelza House”, so we look forward to seeing you.
Photo: Garth Maxted. Peter Cosstick is Manager of Rye Heritage Centre.