Lost Tiles from Medieval Priory Returned After 60 Years

After nearly six decades, a man has returned three medieval tiles that he took as a child from Wenlock Priory in Shropshire, England. Simon White, now in his sixties, revealed that he had kept the tiles in a toffee tin since he was just nine years old.

The tiles, which are believed to be from the late 1200s to early 1300s, were collected during a family trip to the historical site in the late 1960s. At the time, young Simon thought they would make a nice souvenir from his visit to the ancient priory. However, as the years passed, he kept them hidden away, only recently rediscovering them.

Feeling guilty about taking the tiles, Simon decided it was time to return them to their rightful place. He contacted the staff at Wenlock Priory to inform them of his decision. The staff welcomed his gesture and expressed gratitude for the return of these important pieces of history.

The Significance of the Tiles

Wenlock Priory is known for its stunning architecture and rich history, dating back to the 7th century. The returned tiles are a part of this heritage, providing insight into the craftsmanship of the medieval period. The tiles were originally part of a larger tiled floor within the priory, which served as a place of worship and community.

Simon’s story highlights how historical artifacts can hold personal memories for individuals, and how returning them can benefit the community. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving history for future generations.

Now that the tiles have been returned, they will be displayed at the priory for visitors to appreciate. This act of returning the tiles not only enriches the historical narrative of Wenlock Priory but also encourages others to consider the importance of safeguarding our cultural heritage.

Image: The Guardian — source