Storytime Saturday Part 1

When renovating old houses, especially those steeped in history like Victorian homes, it’s not uncommon to uncover unexpected artifacts hidden within the walls. I once helped a friend who was restoring a 19th-century home, and while they didn’t find bones, discovering old newspaper clippings and hand-forged nails gave a fascinating glimpse into the era’s lifestyle. The discovery of bones wrapped in muslin and hidden inside walls, along with animal remains and even a woman's shoe, might sound like something out of a horror movie, but it reflects a very real aspect of historical building customs. These items were often placed intentionally as charms or protective symbols. In Victorian times, superstitions around warding off evil, curses, or bringing good fortune were widespread. Concealing animal bones or shoes was believed to invite protection or fertility. Local historians often help piece together the meanings behind such findings, as they relate closely to regional folklore and customs. In Plymouth, for example, pigeons were significant, and their remains might have symbolic value. Women's shoes found in buildings often symbolize fertility or protection—practices that today might seem strange but were once common. For anyone renovating a historic house, these discoveries underscore the layers of stories embedded in the architecture. Rather than something sinister, such as a murder dungeon, these relics tell tales of human hope, fear, and belief systems. This experience has shaped my appreciation for old homes, teaching me that every nail, bone, or hidden artifact has a story waiting to be uncovered. If you're planning to renovate, taking the time to investigate such findings can transform your project into a deeper connection with the past.