'The Enchanted Elm' - St Michael & All Angels - Taddington, Derbyshire - Wooden Church Artefacts on Waymarking.com

A large piece of carved elm in St Michael & All Angels' church, Taddington.

From a printed sheet by the exhibit. The legend of the tree -
"The Enchanted Elm.
Once in your life you will hear a tale that you know to be untrue but that you believe in your heart to be the most truthful story you have ever heard. The Elm tree by which you now stand was once a towering giant that was shelter to ferns and four footed creatures and offered a safe haven for birds and insects. Its branches supplied strong perches; its gnarled roots provided a warren of tunnels and hiding places.One day an ageing gentleman whose back had been causing him much pain, sat for a moment under the enormous Elm, to take refuge from the sun's dazzling shine. He pressed his back hard against the bark in an effort to relieve the ever-present ache. To his surprise, he felt himself sinking back into the tree's flesh, felt the power of the earth being drawn up through the tree's roots nourishing his withered body. He rose to his feet and was amazed that he felt able to conquer anything. He felt invincible. Word soon spread of the miraculous healing powers of the great Elm. This tree that had been an eternal source of food, protection and friendship for nature's kin became a source of hope and well-being for the people of Taddington. At least it seemed eternal. One night, as a young family drove their horse and cart cautiously through the rain-soaked country lanes in search of a place to stay, a dreadful storm struck. The father frightened for his wife and children chose to take refuge under the Elms welcoming limbs, till the storm passed. As shards of white broke up the gloomy darkened sky, he gazed through the thick branches, and it suddenly appeared as if the great and terrible flashes of light were directly above him. Then he felt sudden panic grip his heart and his chest felt it was enclosed within iron bars. A loud crash ripped the air in two, and as the storm raged, the branches above him appeared to close in and shelter the family and when morning came they were safe. The sun rose high in the clear blue heavens and warmed the sodden land. The sleepy family clambered down from their cart to stretch their legs and the father decided to admire the tree. But alas, its beauty was no longer intact for when the lightning had threatened the innocents beneath its caring branches, the tree had sacrificed its own life and was now scored though destined to wither and die. Or have we, the people of Taddington, by redeeming a piece of the tree, provided it with a small measure of immortality? We hope so. When you leave here today, take a measure of the Elm's protective spirit."

And another, explaining the meaning behind this piece -
"The Enchanted Elm.
A few years ago, during a holiday in France, one of our villagers entered a church, and featured in a side aisle was a large unadorned piece of tree trunk. A notice inviting visitors to hammer a nail into it and then make a donation for church funds, was displayed by the tree. It was thought this idea could be transported to our own Well dressing and Flower Festival here in Taddington. As our theme for that particular year (2009) was 'The Tree of Life' it seemed appropriate to try out this new money raising venture.

An elm tree, grown locally, but sadly laid to waste due to the dreaded Dutch Elm disease, was made available, thanks to a local farmer. Rather than just having a tree trunk it was decided some carvings would add interest for our visitors.

The first carving was of the church's patron saint, Saint Michael, who is depicted on horse-back, his wings being replaced by a cloak and his sword with a pendant displaying his title. Sadly, at this time, a young Taddington mother, Vanessa, died. Known for her kindness and cheerful disposition it was agreed that a commemoration was in order and as such, a lion, symbolising the courage she showed during her illness would prove to be a worthy carving to dedicate to her. This still left one area uncarved so it was decided that the Derbyshire Coat of Arms would be an appropriate subject. The tree was now completed. Since 2009 this elm has raised over £3,435 for our church.

Sadly, last November, James Whitby, the man who brought this fundraising idea to fruition by designing and carving this magnificent trunk of elm died. He was a much liked and respected member of our community and his contribution to our Festival, over a number of years, has been appreciated. We hope and trust this beautiful craftwork will be viewed as his legacy to our church. As you hammer in a nail and make your donation, please remember James (Jim) Whitby (1937 - 2018)"

Approximate age of artefact (Year): 2009 Times available for viewing: Daytime hours Entrance fee (if applicable), local currency: 0 Relevant website: Not listed

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