Flitch of bacon custom

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Flitch of bacon custom

The Flitch of bacon custom is an ancient English tradition dating back to at least the 12th century. The custom involves awarding a flitch (or side) of bacon to married couples who can prove to a jury of six bachelors and six maidens that they have not regretted their marriage for a year and a day. This tradition is most famously associated with the town of Dunmow in Essex, England.

History

The origins of the Flitch of bacon custom are somewhat obscure, but it is believed to have been established by the monks of Little Dunmow Priory in the 12th century. The earliest recorded instance of the custom dates back to 1104. The tradition was revived in the 19th century and continues to be celebrated in Dunmow to this day.

The Ceremony

The ceremony typically takes place every four years and involves a procession through the town of Dunmow. The claimants, who must have been married for at least a year and a day, present their case to the jury. If the jury is convinced that the couple has lived in harmony and has not regretted their marriage, they are awarded a flitch of bacon. The couple is then carried aloft in a ceremonial chair and paraded through the streets.

Modern Celebrations

The modern Flitch Trials are a significant event in Dunmow, attracting visitors from all over the world. The trials are held in the grounds of the Dunmow Maltings and are accompanied by various festivities, including a fair and a parade. The event is organized by the Dunmow Flitch Trials Committee, which ensures that the tradition is upheld and celebrated in a manner befitting its historical significance.

Cultural Impact

The Flitch of bacon custom has been referenced in various literary works, including Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales and William Langland's Piers Plowman. It has also been the subject of numerous local legends and folklore, contributing to the rich cultural heritage of Dunmow and the surrounding region.

Related Pages

• Dunmow
• Essex
• Little Dunmow Priory
• Geoffrey Chaucer
• The Canterbury Tales
• William Langland
• Piers Plowman