This is our members homepage. I’ll use it to keep you up to date with plans – the episodes I’m planning and all that sort of thing. Feel free to use the comments box below to share any thoughts, email me at david54031@gmail.com.
Just saw that the members was launched and signed up as quickly as possible. Looking forward to it . Some subjects I’d love to see would be the navy as it became so highly regarded . And something maybe for the history of England as an Empire and its territories , such as history or Australia, India , South Africa to name a few . Thanks for all your great work .
Excellent, thanks Troy. The Navy in particular is definitely something I’ll put on the list; it’s a subject I have always loved anyway. And yes, without doubt we’ll get to the empire thing. So great, thanks!
Hear, Hear!
A small series of casts on the development and importance of the British navy would indeed go down a treat!
Incidentally my spellchecker insisted on trying to change “importance” to “impotence” in the sentence above, I suspect the French of tampering with it… 😉
Bahahaha! The American laughs gleefully! I would really enjoy hearing things from the brutal Empire’s….. ahem, I mean from the Mother Country’s perspective. Just remember, we *wanted* to continue to be British citizens; we just wanted all the same rights and representations the British citizens in Britain had. Ben Franklin especially was very sad when we broke away. And George Washington had learned his soldiering as a “Redcoat”.
I think we’ve finally learned to get over it. Been tough couple of hundred years, quite painful, but Ok, fair enough.
Shame you spoiled all that Tea though.
Signed up! I have gone for the monthly option, gives you more money overall and a steady stream of income. If it was me Mr Crowther the Ale and Wenches would see me blow it all very quickly if I got the money in one go!
As for topics I like the look of this. I particularly like the idea of brief biographies of lesser known people from history.
Hi, really looking forward to listening to this and have signed up BUT I have a windows phone and windows computer so no access to iTunes. Tried the generic “podcast” button on the phone, which does only recognise HoE not AngloSaxons(!!)- nothing. Tried I Podcast which finds HistoryBitches, got as far as downloading but then says my phone doesn’t support this type of podcast. So. Can I down load via a pc and move my ironing board to the room where the pc resides? No helpful Podcast button on the desktop. Help please! The only comment from tecchie son was “I told you not to get that phone”
Many thanks
Alison
Hi Alison – I confess I did not test Windows, because I did a survey and only a couple of people used it. Sorry. I have done a search and can’t see anything very positive. I have emailed Podcast Lounge, which is highly rated by users; I have also emailed another user who I know uses a Windows phone – though not sure if he uses it for THoE specifically.
In the meantime, you can download iTunes to your windows PC and do it there; or you can go int the history of England website, log in and play it there – go into the episode and you’ll see a player.
Sorry about this; I’ll follow up also with some user groups and see what I can dig up.
I loved the first shedcast about diplomacy. So far, a worthwhile investment. I always look forward to your podcasts and reserve special quiet time for them. Thanks very much!
Hi! After 200 + free podcasts, thought it about time I give back! Thanks for the great podcasts so far and look forward to what membership has in store.
Well, this is fun. Signed up for the £4 monthly deal and looking forward to the exclusive content. I’ll have to change my Twitter bio to “Lover of good books, bad football and sheddy podcasts”.
Just to add that my (Android) podcast app of choice, “Podkicker” picked this up really easily: Podcasts/ Add/ Rss/ type the url, tick the “password protected” box, enter user & password, hit “subscribe” & Bob is your father’s brother.
I got the coin from the survey today in the mail!!! Thanks David… I’m not sure what is cooler: getting the coin or getting a letter from England in my mailbox here in America, HA.
I enjoyed the first of the members podcast and look forward each week to a new one from you from your podcasts.. Keep up the good work.
Hi all glad to be on board. I thought I saw somewhere how to access members oly content via iTunes, but I can’t see how to do it…any suggestions?
Jonathan
Fab thanks. It works like you say, however episode 1 doesn’t appear – maybe it only lets you download the current one. iTunes used to let you get at the back episodes but in an “upgrade” they made this more difficult. Don’t worry, I’ll do it directly. But presumably someone joining in say 10 episodes’ time is entitled to the whole series? Or only from when they sign up? Decisions, decisions.
Hi Jonathan…Not sure why that would be happening; yes, everyone should get access to everything. I have just cancelled and then redone my iTunes feed – and it is still there. If you are in itunes, go to the podcast page for the Members only Feed; in the right you should see a little blue circle with 3 white dots. click on that and try ‘Refresh Podcast’ – that worked for me… let me know if it works
Ii used the above link on iTunes. I am subscribed but it states that there are no episodes 🙁 even after the refresh
Hi Karen. Thanks for joining! And sorry you can’t get your feed (I don’t know how to do smiley faces, sorry!). I’m 90% sure it’s there – just went and deleted mine and downloaded it again. There are two episodes. I’ll email you to try to help
Dear David,
I really do appreciate your fabulous podcast, it is a highlight of my week,(there are of course other highlights, just in case my family were to read this). I emailed you a couple of years ago and had subsequently tried to leave a donation but abjectly failed, I think because my so called New Zealand dollars can’t have been a recognised currency at the time, but now I can subscribe, which I do most happily, it is but a trifle compared to the hours of entertainment you have given.
Kind Regards
Dan Asquith
Hi Dan. Of course as long as the rest of your family fail to become members, your secret is safe with us all here. For a small fee, none of us will tell them. Used notes, please. In the meantime – thanks for the kind words!
Its taking me a while (last time I wrote I was on the Battle of Maldon back in summer!) but I’m now up to date (well just started episode 200, so just signed up and looking forward to the shed episodes as the first 200 freebies have been excellent 🙂
Hi David,
Gossiping about what a poo year politically this has been ( other viewpoints are available!) down the pub last night I dredged up from the depths of memory that my extended essay at uni was on political corruption in my then home town of St Albans in, I think, early 19th century – lots of newspaper reports/adverts about which candidate would be in which pub buying drinks etc. It seemed to be very open and blatant and must have happened elsewhere. Could this style of political corruption be a shed cast at some point, maybe in the run up to the next election?
Loving the shed casts now I can get them thanks to the 2 Mikes.
Alison
Impressive use of the ‘p’ word. I like it. Political corruption sounds like an interesting topic! Can’t promise anything i have to say, since I have a fairly long list of reading and writing!At the moment, I think I am focussing on putting up Shedcasts on topics around the period we are up to in the free series – but always open to suggestions!
The History of Rotten Boroughs Podcast. I would like more bird tweeting in my podcasts, please. (No, I’m not joking. I love the snippets of birdsong that are picked up by happenstance.)
OK, for a real topic suggestion, you ought to do an episode about the History of Codebreaking in WWI and WWII.
P.S. I have tried multiple times in the past to send donations but I guess since I was trying to pay in US Dollars it never seemed to work. But it worked now, so anyway, bully for me! Very glad to support your show. I enjoy it very much.
Hi Mark…and welcome! Maybe I’ll witch microphones again – everyone seems to love the birdsong! Yes, rotten boroughs; they will without doubt have their day. Code breaking is a good shout too – I could probably do that out of phase. suggestions always welcome…
Paid for a year as david c is excellent but while I got diplomacy podcast cant get wills . On the site I am automatically linked to podcast addict. That downloads but wont open its player. On pockets casts that I use mostly cant get the episode. Hmmm
Oh well merry whatever
Hi David… Enjoyed the latest shedcast “Dr John Morton” a great deal, but pedants, of which I am one, will enjoy pointing out that “Wisbech” is commonly pronounced “Wisbeech” or “Wisbeach”, unless you’re going to tell us that the pronunciation has changed via the Great Vowel Shift or something weaselly like that. It is a silly place anyway.
Dear David
I have just become a member. I’d like to email the site but I don’t see how I can, so I’ll ask you. I don’t understand how I can access the podcasts. I always listen on my MP3 player and I download the pocasts via MediaGo. How can I put the member podcasts into MediaGo and thence on to my MP3 player?
Mark (kram-denial@yahoo.co.uk)
Hi David,
I feel a wave of guilt and anxiety wofting into the interweb, and my months of guilt are easing away, as I am now relieved to be a fully paid up member. Been listening now for about 4 months and sadly nearly caught up, so I want be able to listen to new shedcast as I wish! Been great listening thanks David, not sure if you are meant to laugh and smile so much with a History lesson, but got to hand it to you it is a great achievement and is a real gem of information and not a little entertainment too. History is soooo much more interesting when we have suitable references to Monty Python & Star Trek, authentic bird calls in the background, and Winnie impersonations to boot! Thanks for all and keep on doing what you do.
Jon, I am so pleased to have been able to assuage your guilt and anxiety! Actually, I did feel those waves subliminally, and set up Shedcasts to help – glad it did the trick! Thanks for the kind words, live long and prosper, and always look on the bright side of life!
Followed ‘how to download’ for Shedders and it worked immediately so I. am. ready! Only took me 4 weeks. Shouldn’t take me too long to whip through 1-5, especially with a sneaky duvet day. Love reading all your other Shedder’s comments too and, just saying, my cat also loves HoE podcasts & we schedule some spesh girl time when cricketrugbygolffootballsnookerwheelerdealerstopgearepisodeseen4timesalreadyboredom, is on…. So Whoop to the Shed King – David I 🙂
It would be good…but…actually one of the frustrations is that I’d dearly love to know more myself about the impact of some English events abroad. For example, international reaction to the execution of Charles I. But without becoming an expert on any particular country, or indeed several, it’s really difficult. So I suspect this is beyond me.
I am endlessly wittering on about how the Battle of Ashdown was fought just outside my hometown (maybe). How about a shedcast (or series of shedcasts) about famous British battles and battlefields?
It is a thing to go on about endlessly Gareth! Famous British battles would be obscenely, self indulgently enjoyable, would be a festival of detail about weapons, formations, armpits…slightly scaring myself at the prospect. Again, thanks for the suggestion. Maybe we should have battle of the month sort of thing? So much history, so much to write…
Also (I suggested this on the FB group) but my wife (who’s from Maryland) would love a shedcast about Baron Calvert, the founder of the state Maryland (and the only British aristocrat who’s coat of arms remains part of a US state flag).
I just wanted to drop in from across the pond to say how much I continue to enjoy the THoE podcast very much but I’m really liking the Shedcast. It goes into such detail on a small topic, its great!!!!
Also wanted to say I just ordered my Harry’s Truman set (with the ENGLAND freebie). I hear Harrys on several podcasts but spent my money using the ENGLAND code word for you..
Finally, thanks for the upcoming Thomas More episode, he continues to this day to be such an intriguing person and so important to history both obviously and quietly behind the scenes…
Hurrah! Thanks Bill. I hope your chin therefore competes with babiest of bottoms to remain clean and smooth. Now, I must get in touch with all to find out about how well we’ve set the pace of the shedcasts so far, and see how it’s going.
Aren’t all these Shedfolk lovely! ShedCrew.. Shedposse.. Tribe of Shed..Shedania.. hm. Half term and I am ready to ROCK those unheard episodes but have covered lots, so lately I’m going with the anarchic approach of ‘pick a number, listen to that episode’. Does play havoc with the chronology, though :)) Great work, Shed King David 1
A long time ago, in a podcast far, far away, you recommended Bernard Cornwall’s Anglo Saxon Warrior series about Uhtred and how it was the best semi fictitional depiction of the period. I have just read the last of the books – thank you for the recommendation.
Hi David,
After what seems like years following your podcast I have finally signed up for the shed cast as well. I am really looking forward to your history of Scotland. I have been reading historical novels by Dorothy Dunnett (Niccolo and Lymond serie – highly recommended!). They are set all over Europe around the end of the 15th and middle of 16th century, respectively, and require a decent understanding of the politics at the time. Whilst I feel reasonably OK with English history, Scotland is vague and France even worse. Maybe political alliances/geopolitical/foreign policy could be an area of interest for a future shed cast.
Enjoying it all. Many thanks.
Hi David,
I love your History of England podcast and am looking forward to diving into the Shedcast material! Your podcast has changed my long commute from wasted hours to time spent learning fun stuff, so thanks for that 🙂 As a Kiwi living in the US, I second the earlier comments regarding the intertwining histories of the English speaking world. When you get to it, it will be fun to hear about the Empire and about the US War of Independence.
Thanks again for your wonderful podcast!
Rachael
I have to say it’s a real thrill getting posts such as this, without wanting to get too maudlin, obviously. That would never do! But thank you. I had the same experience years ago with Mike Duncan. I am also looking forward to Empire…it gets taught a lot less now, because it’s a source of embarrassment now; it’s not going to be easy, I have promised myself I will be ruthlessly honest. US War of Independence? Still hurts. Not quite as much as Hastings, but it’s close.
David,
Thanks for your great podcasts. I’m only up to the reign of Edward III, but am greatly enjoying the entire series. I’ve been listening while training for a marathon, and find your series to be a great entertainment while I train. Keep up the good work, and if you ever find yourself in the great state of Utah (we have a town named St. George!) look me up.
Hello David: I have to tell you why I finally subscribed to your wonderful podcast. Quite simply, despite developing a members only area, you have clearly remained devoted to your “free site” fans. I’ve been a fan of yours since 2014 and have donated once or twice, but I follow a number of other history podcasts and have donated to them as well. However, your commitment to continuing to provide free content has impressed me more than words can express. THANKS!!
Mark (Stonington CT, USA)
It’s a real small world! I was in the Navy stationed in Groton. We lived in Griswold. (I’m now in North Carolina.) My Son is 22 and living in Voluntown!!!!! He will be a senior at UMASS in the fall.
What a small world to see Stonington in a message on here. across the pond and back again!!
I think this podcast and Website is fantastic.
Enjoy the spring now that the blizzards are past (hopefully)
Hello, David,
I need your help listening to the members podcasts of your terrific program.
I can listen to the shedcasts on the computer from the website https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/feed/podcast/members… no problem. I have followed the download instructions for iPhone and have the podcast on the podcast app on my iPhone. However, when I attempt to listen to a podcast from the feed on my iPhone, I receive the following message: “There are no episodes currently in the podcast feed.”
There are no restrictions set like “auto delete podcasts” or “only download new podcasts.”
Any suggestions? I really want to listen from my iPhone…walk the dog, wait at the doctors’ offices, etc.
It sounds as though you are doing everything right, so it is strange it’s not working, and difficult to help. All I can really say is that I know a lot of people (myself included as it happens!) are downloading to their iPhone – so it does work.
All I can think of is to start again; to delete the podcast subscription from your iphone, and then set it up again. Either something odd has happened, or you’ve made a mistake typing in the rather long and complicated URL.
I’m really sorry I think that’s all I can suggest – let me know if it works
Yours is the first podcast I’ve ever listened to; originally my thought was that listening to a podcast at bedtime would help me get to sleep. I soon realised that I was getting less and less sleep because your podcasts were so enjoyable, so that idea went out the window! Thank you for the wonderful work you have done and I look forward to the Shedcasts too (hopefully with lots of birdsong!)
Many people say I send them to sleep actually…delighted you are not one of them. sadly the birdsong is out of my hands – I never know when it’s there and when not – I can’t hear it for some reason. But it’s spring so the birds are giving it laldi so there’s a good chance. Thanks for the kind words, and thanks for joining
Hi David,
Bird song live feed……keeps making me smile…..would’nt be the same without it!thought for the day…..now I am fully caught up to date and I just had to re-start with the re run of early Anglo Saxon pod casts……another great achievement by DC.
thought on my mind about all this Royal Hunting over the centuries we hear so much about……we keep hearing when certain species became extinct in the British Isles, wonder if any of this was due to the royal expertise of hunting…..ie wolves, beavers, bears, lynx, etc. May be an interesting area for review / Shed Cast?? Keep up the good work as ever.
Hurrah! Jon, I have never heard any of my birdsong. When Chronologically was the last one you heard? I keep wondering in the new mic picks them up. I have bought a book quite a while ago on hunting ion medieval days. But have shied away from ding an episode for fear of people thinking its a nasty topic. What do you think?
sorry I am mostly listening back after completing your new Ango Saxon updates and then just keeping going so on my catch up I am around 63 and saving the current well Henry VII podcasts……don’t ask! So birdsong I am listen too is quite old, will miss it if you manage to eradicate (ok silence) them with your new mic! Re hunting ….yep get your thought, but I do find it interesting to hear when certain species died off or killed off, hard to believe a few hundred years ago. bear, wolf, lynx all wander the wild wood. keep up the sterling work…
If you are looking for ideas, here is one that I would like to hear (and it may already have been suggested or done); podcasts on the history of specific locations and buildings / ruins / whatever that are currently visible. For example, a podcast on York could include its overall history, the history of some of its major buildings and ruins, discussion of medieval life based on the Shambles, name origins, etc. If they work,you might be able to get a tie-in to the tourist industry. And one other idea for a podcast – things that people think are true or have been portrayed as true, but are really false – bad history. For example, to go back to York, William Wallace never conquered York. Anyway – love the podcasts. Keep up the good work.
Hi there – both excellent ideas, thanks! Both definitely on the list, though possibly not til next year when I’ll be full time podcasting again. Thanks – and keep them coming!
David, wishing you continued success at this. My podcast pointer is in the 1390s. I am glad to be a contributor of such a truly quality product.
I do not understand the context when you refer to “the court”. Sometimes I think it’s related to the judges or and sometimes I think it means to a king’s servants. I don’t think this question has been asked before. Thank you!!
Yes, it’s a really good question, and I am guilty of not being clear. The word does have two meanings by 13th century; the kings court and a court of law. The issue is that the word starts as the place where the king administered justice with his great men – court had that single meaning. That function is delegated to regions, and then develops separate administrative functions, so eventually by 16th century, justice is no longer delivered in the court where the king sits – though in a sense all law courts are still kings courts. But, the kings great men still come to meet with him – and in fact not so great ones as the power of royal patronage grows. So the function of the court where the king sits becomes different – its now just a place for consultation, meeting, and display.
Not sure this helps! Not sure I am explaining it very well…
Hi,
I haven’t commented yet, I don’t think. On the what to add subject. I am really enjoying the History of Scotland and I love the spin-off like the beards or the printing ones. I think it would be great to have topics beyond England to put the history of England into context in the wider world. I really enjoy the History of Europe ones you do. For e.g. it would great to explore the whys and wherefores of England not getting embroiled in the Thirty Years War but then collapsing into civil war.
Luke
David congratulations again on a wonderful podcast. I’ve read a few comments and replies above. Are you no longer full time on the podcasts? I dont think I realised that – I certainly havent noticed a drop in output!
Let me suggest a topic: gunpowder, and the impact of gunpowder on warfare in Europe and England in particular. It seems like a really dramatic, change to warfare, the dawn of a new era, with widespread implications.
It also seems to have slipped into battles now (I’m up to Ep 216). It would be interesting to hear how it changed tactics, who got it first and took advantage, who used it well, its impact on diplomacy, etc. If there isnt enough material for a stand-alone podcast, maybe roll it into the next History of Europe update.
General question I’m sure you’ve gotten before but I’m watching the Showtime Tudors TV series and really wanted your take on the accuracy of the series as well as your general impressions. I love watching the “History Buffs” videos done by Nick Hodges and his take on movies and wondered if such a format would work for you. Oh wait, even better, you and Nick Hodges going head-to-head critiquing a historical movie. My cup would runneth over…
Had the same experience. Have to blame Jonathan Rhys as Henry the 8th. No…depth/intensity as an actor? I always had an image of Henry dominating the room physically and bellowing to his underlings which he doesn’t pull off. As you said in a podcast on Holbein’s painting of him “what are you looking at, loser?”. Anyways, do you have any suggestions of good films to watch on the period?
…well…it’s got to be A Man for All Seasons really. I think that’s as good a portrait of Henry as you are going to get; and the wonderful moment when he jumps off the barge and his courtiers look nervous until he laughs. I object a bit, because is hagiography when it comes to More, but such a compelling (if overblown) story, and so beautifully acted.
Hi Troy, and thanks! You are very kind. I suspect, though that I would find a book too hard. You have to carefully reference everything, and honestly I like the physical thing of speaking; sitting in front of the mic imagining talking to all of you is actually the fun bit, and whence flow the gags., I suspect a book from me would be just another ‘me too’ book from someone without the academic chops. So it’s a no then!! Sorry, I started ranting, but as you can see I have thought about it. …but thank you so much for the confidence, I appreciate it.
Hi David – listening to the latest History of Scotland episode, was interested (disturbed) to learn of the ritual drowning of enemies. I don’t know of many of examples in history. However, it did remind me that there is a execution-by-drowning scene in Walter Scott’s classic Rob Roy. *Spoiler*: Having been captured by angry Highlanders, the cowardly government agent Morris is tied up and thrown into the nearby Loch for his role in Rob Roy’s capture.
Scott tended to carry out a lot of historical research for his novels so it seems likely that drowning – in the Highlands at least – carried well beyond the 8th century.
Ha! Interesting – and yes, I don’t know much about Scott, but I understand the spirit of antiquinarianism was alive and well at the time, I can imagine him collecting evidence. So yes, it has the ring of truth to it.
David, I’ve been catching up on HoE and I stumbled across your St. Barts commentary. I recall that I had mentioned that something like this, a walking tour of some sort, would be interesting, and I must say, you certainly delivered. It was great! I went on Google and pulled up photos and Google earth. It was great! Thank you
David,
I am curious whether or not people in England intersted in their heritage, like many Euopean-Americans are. Do people wonder if they are Viking, Saxon, Norman, Briton, etc?
Thanks! (ps I am currently relisting to the Agincourt episodes. So good)
Hi David,
Finally got off my backside and became a member. I’ve listened to all of your content, and want to thank you for all your hard work. HoE and Anglo-Saxon podcasts have enriched my life.
Adam Lewis, Jacksonville, FL, US
A Freeloader No More!
I’ve done it. Made myself an honest man by throwing some coin into the collection plate. At last I’ll be able to sleep at night. Bliss.
I vote for little bios of important European figures. Specially from the Low Countries and Spain!!! Also this community is a credit to its creator. The comments on THOE posts reflect a thoughtful and kind bunch 🙂
They are a nice bunch are they not! You included, if I can be slightly over familiar. Actually Bios from Abroad. I like it. I really wanted to do a series on the Dutch republic, but no one would allow me.
Any plans on continuing the history of Scotland at some point David, maybe with some Scottish input? I mean no offense but you are English and an English history of Scotland would kinda like me, as a non-native American, doing a history of the native people of North America. I can definitely tell the story but my view will always be colored by my background no matter how hard I tried to weed it out.
Hi Michael, and yes indeed! I have got very tied up with the Anne Boleyn thing we re coming onto, but plan to get the History of Scotland going again later in October, and we can spend some quality time in November.
As regards Scottish input…well…I could not agree more that being totally objective is pretty much impossible. But that of course is the same for your average Scot. I would of course be delighted to have Scottish input! But for the time being it’ll have to be my view…
In the spirit of honesty I am very much enjoying coming into the conversations about Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII’s being well Henry VIII. The problem is not I do not enjoy it or think you shouldn’t cover it but it is like seeing Shakespeare at some point no matter how genius the writing you want to get out and see the rest of the landscape of English writing.
Yes… Michael I have to say I am rather conscious of it and recognise that some folks will not want to spend a whole month on Anne. It’s meant that I have written much longer episodes that normal which has been a bit exhausting, so that I don’t go on too long. And I’ll get my teeth back into Scotland, starting right now!
David, you have pioneered something very cool here; just adding, again, my thank you. Like all of your listeners we envision everyday life, say, 600+ years ago… clothing, drinking water, attempts to cure everyday ailments, gawd-knows-what living in people’s intestinal tracts… is there any written history on the state of the commoners’ health? Maybe I’m interested in how much they knew that water could make them sick. It seems like more is documented in this regard about life aboard English navy ships. I can’t imagine rum being a substitute for water. See where I’m going with this? Thank you, 🙂 Gene
Hi Gene, and thanks. There is some stuff, though I haven’t looked into it, but certainly there’s a lot about medicine. Of course their view of the world was completely different to our medically speaking, they new nothing of bacteria, and so water was a factor only in the balance of humours. However, there is also some understanding of and attempt to regulate public health in the ordinances of towns. Actually, there is some mild dispute about the dangers of water, and how far it really is true that beer was always substituted for water. I assume on ship, they would take beer as well, but their potential on the longer voyages of exploration to replenish beer was limited. not so with water. Interesting anyway – I must plan an episode!
Hi Troy…and yes ! “Thomas Cromwell: The untold story of Henry VIII’s most faithful servant” is good, takes a factional view of the fall of Anne Boleyn, and covers much more than normal of his early life which is good. For contrast I also read a much older book by Beckingsale “Thomas Cromwell: Tudor Minister” which is ‘a classic’ and mercifully short, if a little dry. But there are billions. And they all have the same cover!
Loving the podcast so much, your delivery is fabulous! I almost wish I had discovered it a year from now because I’m a shameless binge listener and terribly impatient – I hate waiting for new podcasts to come out! Can I make a suggestion – could the comments on this page be in reverse order? Takes a bit of scrolling to get to the latest comments.
I have to agree the Shedcast and HoE podcasts are just brill!. It took all of last year to catch up but now I have, I have to wait for my weekly fix rather than back to back episodes. Have had to listen to the radio 🙁
Oh my, what a long list of messenges. Anyway, I just want to say how sad I am to have the highlight time of the Anne Boleyn-Henry XIII, Cromwell, etc. over, for I really, really enjoyed it all!
In addition I want to say that I’m not keen on the navy-stuff mentioned above (right at the start of these messages), although, of course, I’ll remain a Shedcast member. Not too keen on all that warfare and all those kings in Scotland either… I do like the idea of some podcasts over the whole American-England prevarications (is that a word?).
I would also hope to see some more in-depth Shedcasts on some of the ‘characters’ that appear in the History of England podcasts, for, the thrill is by no means over yet, with Henry’s son Edward coming up, (not to mention his various wives after Anne), followed my Queen Mary, then Queen Elizabeth and all the people around these monarchs. Can’t wait!
Hi Leni, and I am so glad you posted this just now! I am on the verge of doing a questionnaire for members, and you’ve suggested I need to add some. It is really useful to have people like yourself as a corrective; to me, the British Navy seemed like a absolute winner- I can see from a different perspective, might not be quite so exciting! so, more people, more personality is what I take from this? Edward VI will be great I think; he’s much less well trodden, and the personalities around him are very strong.
Just logged in today after watching the 3 soccer, ooops football matches this morning here in the USA, to tell everyone Merry Christmas. Snow before Christmas just puts us all in the holiday spirit (as long as we are not buried in it). We had snow this weekend here in the south and watching today’s matches just seemed like a way to jump on and say thanks for the podcast and Shedcast… David, I hope you and family and all the members have a great holiday with family and friends. Maybe we can just for a little while focus on the holiday and tune out all the negative things we seem to be in…
End of year comment:
I too have caught up and now impatiently wait for the next episode(s)…
I agree with someone above that it’s nice to hear more about lesser-known figures around the monarch, and also the commoner heroes, like Thomas Wyatt, William Marshal et al. Rags to riches and all that.
I really really enjoyed ‘Let There be Light’. Super interesting. Thanks for that. As a typically tortured traditionally brought up Englishman with the duty to believe, I am glad I now have the freedom to think – and listen to your talks! Like you, I’ll never say ‘the’ bible again! (And William Tyndall is added to our roll call of commoner heroes)
Thank you for all the education and entertainment. Learning and laughing are my favourite things.
Terry
Enjoyed the recent podcast on Macbeth, but thought that I should point out that the American comedian Stephen Colbert, with deliberate pretentiousness, pronounces his name “Coal Bear”. Obviously that’s not how you should pronounce his name, but it’s how he is known. Truthiness at its best!
Ah! Actually I did wonder, and dither, and then decided ‘nah, he wouldn’t do that surely’. I stand corrected! Anyway, I can forgive anyone who encapsulated the idea of truthiness most things…
Finishing up the third Cromwell then taking the quiz… lord help me!!
I liked your bringing up the Wolf Hall book and Show. It’s impossible to listen to the podcasts and not picture Cromwell as Mark Rylance, Anne as Natalie Dormer and so on…
I kind of shake my head while listening to try and remove those “visions” and the Mantell books, which I enjoyed.
I must also mention that at the beginning of the third podcast,when you said “its the final countdown” I immediately started singing the song EXACTLY when you did, thats just great…
as always you are the best..
Really enjoying the latest episodes and the Cromwell fair. I’m also revisiting the Richard III episodes after listening to The Daughter of Time on radio 4 extra. It has an interesting premise and now I’m re-listening and reading everything to try and find out if Henry VII did try to have titulus regis repealed unread
Either way, I recommend The Daughter of Time to you and other members of the History of England.
Don’t ever stop David. When you get to the present, just start over again or go in reverse. If you decide to introduce a Super Mega Platinum VIP Membership at some point and charge a bit more I will happily pony up for that too. And I am not even English (Swedish as it happens). Cheers!
Thank you; I hope your comment goes viral!! And I am confirmed in my fellow feeling for the Swedish nation. When we get there, I’ll give Gustav Adolf an even bigger write up.
Just starting out way back at the beginning — racing towards 1066 — awesome — it is my royal read on the throne daily — I definitely need to find the maps mentioned in the 2011 Podcasts — I opted to be schooled on an American air base in Herts in the early sixties to avoid wearing a uniform to school; but then spent 28 years in uniform in the US Forces. To be honest — 200 years of American history was all I could handle in school. Love your podcasts — I’m finding dodges to my daily schedule to try and catch up. I’ve been addicted to the TV series Vikings — you Podcasts have added a new level of enjoyment. Thanks again
Thanks Warren. You need to get yourself a job with extensive travel! My podcast consumption has sunk to an all time low now I am not commuting. Hope you enjoy the podcast, and shed a tear and shake a fist for me when you do get to 1066.
A new member here, after having listened over the past four months to casts 1 through 240 (some even twice, just to let it all sink in). This podcast has had me branch off into some fascinating topics – tribal migrations through Europe, trade patterns and language, with a topping of modern English shed phrases to boot! To think it all began with a bunch of hairy Vikings on my TV screen.
I’d very much appreciate some shedcasts to deal with military and technological development, importantly the context of such developments in England in comparison with other countries.
Oh, one last thing- sometime when going on my iPhone through the casts on the website, I get error messages for failing to load a page. Any idea why’s that?
Hi Tomer, and thanks so much for joining. Funnily enough I had just put on a my list early modern warfare, and will see if there’s more about technology, nice idea.
On the webpage messages; are they related to a particular page or random? Just wondering if its a connection problem or something?
David
Ah, some serious long-distance synchronicity at its best! I love it when it happens.
Regarding the webpage issue, it seems to be an on-and-off thing, though when loading other pages everything seems fine. Perhaps a server issue? I don’t want to clutter the comments section any further with this though; if the issue persists, I’ll reach out by email. Cheers!
David – Glad to be back on the Members Shedcast, as I am no longer a Member Outcast. Thank you for all the work you have done to get us back on track and make it easier to enjoy your podcasts.
I have two suggestions – 1) Can you use a different icon for the shed cast? When driving, with my long distance glasses on, it is difficult to tell them apart, and I should be keeping my eyes on the road. Just changing the color, using the same icon otherwise, would do the job. You have many US listeners, and I bet many listen on our otherwise miserable commutes to and from work. 2) In these member comments, could you place the most recent comments at the top? I stopped looking at them because it looked like it was “abandoned” from the top, until I finally scrolled down.
Thanks again for creating an original and fun podcast!
Now the logo should be different; it’s supposed to be a sort of mauve colour. I’ll have to work out why it’s not coming out with this logo/ So yes, I’ll find a way. I don’t know about your other comment – but I bet Jesse can do that. I’ll have a chat with him. Welcome back!
Yesterday morning, I was trying to pick a HOE podcast while I was driving, and I saw a purple choice to distinguish from the yellow option! Great job, David – that really does help. You have to be the most customer-responsive podcast host on the planet!
Like Tomer, I am a new card carrying member. I have to go back and listen to the Saxon series once again as some of them didn’t work the first time. I have since learned how to get my phone to play an errant episode.
The whole podcast series has been fascinating. One of the things I have found interesting is how many other listeners have gone through your past 7 years of work in a few months time. Alas, I am not at all unique. What a pity.
I have never been one to binge watch any tv series. A few months ago I tried to watch the original Star Trek series but after 2 or 3 episodes I found it an incredible waste of time. And yet, listening to 242 and counting podcasts seems very productive.
David, I mentioned to you previously why I chose the moniker “Baron Ogle”. My son was having a bit of fun with me today and my “title”. In response I let him know the title is hereditary and as my only son, he will inherit it one day. We both laughed. The comment got me to wondering. When a noble passed away and his eldest son inherited the title, was there some kind of ceremony honoring the occasion?
Hi Wayne and yes there’s a good point – surely membership must be passed down from generation to generation as a sort of heirloom!
Um it’s a good question, and honestly I either don’t know or don’t think there was. The monarch was very careful to make sure there was a payment involved – from Anglo Saxon times, even pre feudalisation the inheritor was required to pay a ‘heriot’ a payment to take up their land, and that is a feudal due still gathered by Henry VIII’s time. But ceremony – not sure.
Yes I remember you telling us about the inheritance tax. How little things have changed. As far as having a ceremony, I assumed it would depend on the monarch and the lord. Some were more inclined to a good hooley than others.
(I also figured out how to change my user name is displayed. It’s a nice option.)
Just returned from 9 days in England/Wales where my trips to Sudeley, Ludlow, Worcester Cathedral, Conwy castle…. all so much more fun and meaningful after listening and learning from your wonderful podcasts!
Hi David, I’ve just listened to Shedcast26 on Hans Holbein – wonderful as usual, by the way – and you asked for comments re future episodes. So, re the biographies of William Marshall and Eleonore of Aquitaine: yes, yes, yes! And as to a History of the British Navy, I think I agree with the view that as a series in itself it might prove a bit dry – long lists of ships, or battles, or benefactors etc. Whereas as an occasional series offering deeper analysis of the period in which the HoE finds itself. it would be a very welcome addition.
Anyway, that’s my tu’penny worth. Cheers.
Just joined – I’m sure I am one of your many members from “across the pond”. I cannot tell you how much I love the podcast! Can’t wait to hear about Scotland (which sadly I do not know that much about, have not even seen “Braveheart”…but I do want to visit!). I am especially interested in listening to the shedcast about Hans Holbein! If I can make one suggestion, I don’t know if it is possible to have searchable “keywords” for the podcasts – an American friend is going to York (tomorrow actually) and I was trying to advise her on which episodes to download and I had a bit of trouble figuring out which ones dealt with York. I suggested the Brothers York and the 2 Pilgrimage of Grace ones (which I haven’t heard…I have been obsessed with the Henry VIII ones since I found the podcast). At the risk of making this comment way too long, I found it from the “History of English” podcast where he gave you a shout out. I get to travel to London once a year on business so I always throw in some personal days and I will love playing the relevant podcast before I go see the historical site!
Hi, and thanks for joining – welcome. I hope you enjoy the shedcasts, and do let me know either way. I will have a think about keywords; tags must be possible, though the question will always be whether or not I have chosen the right ones, but I will have a think.
Hello! I just joined after 252 wonderful free episodes. I love what you do and I just wanted to support you and your efforts. Thanks! On to the new content!
Hi David. Just to let you know listening to all your podcasts got my through my long run training for my first marathon – I did well – a mention to you for the support 🙂
I am particularly interested in Edward VI – he is a forgotten man/boy as people always assume Henry VIII was succeeded by Mary.
Living in South Africa, stumbled across the History of England a month ago now on EP.97, it’s awesome, going to get stuck into the History of Scotland now. Thank you for such a in depth review of the history of Great Britain especially for keeping the History of England free, that is very kind of you and compelled me to subscribe so you are financially rewarded for your outstanding effort.
One question are the bird tweets i sometimes hear in the background for real (it all adds to the image of England’s pastures green…)?
Fantastic, thanks so much for signing up. Yes…those are birds outside the window. Then I buy a new, better mic. Which gets rid of them-a shame! Such is progress….
Hello David,
I’ve been listening to your shedcasts for a while now and really appreciate you even more after spending some time in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland last spring (I’m from America). Thanks for offering up the great places to visit!
David, just a note to tell you how much I appreciate your wit and cleverness in putting together what is the best podcast I’ve ever listened to. The detail is rich and deep, and your asides and insights have illuminated English history life me. I’ve been an avid student of English history for years and your podcasts has embellished what I have learned. Oh and your interview with McCullough was brilliant; he’s a fave of mine. Plus, your history has shed light on England’s current crisis, if only by highlighting the evolving nature of England’s political growth and development. It has helped me to understand my country’s (US) own growth and divergence from the mother ship.
Enough smarminess. Great job. I’m delighted to be counted as a long time traveler with you on this journey.
ok,David …..this is a question which has been bugging me ever since I discovered your marvellously entertaining podcasts. “hate it or loathe it” and “the rough end of a pineapple” are they genuine Crowtherisms or did you filch them from someone else ??? I find I’m using them unintentionally and getting odd looks from people…should I reference you ??
I think everything is filched, Jesse. It’s a magpie thing, shiny words and phrases I pick up. Hate it or loathe it is Marvin the paranoid android, the glory that was Douglas Adams, Hitchikers guide. Along the lines of ‘why stop now just when I’m hating it’. Rough end of a pineapple is apparently an Aussie phrase, slightly higher quality than their other classic ‘don’t come the raw prawn with me’. So it’s not filched from an individual, in this case, but an entire nation. Even ruthless was my mate’s dad when we were 8 or something. Sorry! Thing of me as a chronicler, preserving, rather than a historian, creating.
Hi Love the Podcast though I started only recently on about episode 245 so I am catching up from the start and listening to the most recent as well!
Lived in Groby from the age of 14 (in 1970) till university so know bradgate park and love old John been called an upside down beer tankard! Scattered my mum and dads ashes round the tankard!
So glad you decided against all the musical interludes by the way!
Love history and am researching the history of my early 18th century home in a northamptonshire village. Reading old legal documents makes you blind, all that does at my age!
I just checked out the ship! great coffee cups. The shirts look good too. Do you ship to the USA? gotta have one of each product. Plus, the most important question, are you getting beer mugs one day!!!!!
David,
My load is now lighter …my payment information had been incorrect in Patreon but now I have updated it so now I am back to pulling my fair share for the excellent podcasts you produce.
Just curious, have you considered any work around the history of the relationship between England and her wayward former colony. I am of course referring to my home, the United States because, from my perspective it would be interesting to see what that history looks like from the other side of that relationship. I fully understand that you are busy doing great work (that I throughly enjoy by the by) but really this is your fault because your curiosity is stoking my curiosity.
Hi Michael and welcome back! I did notice..and worry, gently!
yes, I have a basic problem approaching me, which is how I deal with all the colonisation coming up – into how much depth I go. The danger is that I end up trying to produce a history of a reasonable percentage of te world, which I am ill qualified to do. So – I don’t know, essentially!
Hi David, just signed up for my very first podcast membership thanks to your efforts! I have listened through the entire free HOE podcast (twice) and clearly need to support your endeavor.
As an engineer by career with an avid interest in history, your podcasts have been a constant beloved companion and counterweight to the day to day madness of this technological world.
I certainly gain perspective about my crises and stressors when viewed against historical figures’ daily challenges and real threat to life and limb if the outcomes are not acceptable to “the boss”!
Please keep up the incredible work, your love and passion for the subject are apparent and welcomed. Every time I hear the intro music I just relax into whatever task or hobby I am doing in parallel (ironing, gardening, CAD design of supercomputers, etc).
-Barrett (I’m female by the way, my family gave me 3 family last names)
Portland, OR, USA
Hello Barrett, brilliant and welcome! I hope you enjoy the shedcasts. It is fabulous to think of people as far away as Portland listening to tales of England. I do have fond memories of Portland – though brief, it has to be said, I stayed a day in 1984 in the ubiquitous Greyhound tour of America with a mate. And very generous of your family!
Thanks again, and do tell me what you think; writing podcasts outside the chronology of the History of England is quite a different experience
David
I just wanted to say, I just moved up the east coast (america, guess I need to say) to Connecticut for a job promotion. I had seen/heard the ad for the Intelligent speech show but couldnt see how to spend the $175 plus getting to downtown NYC, ugh.
So, This morning I was still unpacking at my new apartment at 4am, doing laundry, unpacking, and listening to all your podcasts as usual. I was a week behind due to the move. I am listening to you and Roifield discussing tea and curry, loving every moment. I sat down to get some coffee and checked things. I saw your comment about the price reduction and change of venue. I just said oh what the hell I have to go. I listen to you, Mike Duncan and Heather Teysko so this is a no brainer.
I will be geeking out quietly wearing a Shedcast T-Shirt to show my alliance, ha.
I am about to finish “Crown of Blood” and have to ask.. Was Jane’s Father a nut, a fool, stupid, a zealot, or all of the above. He committed treason and was absolved of it yet continued to try to overthrow Queen Mary even with his own Daughter still in the tower while he was free. I know we cant get in his head after 500 years but wow what a fool.
Thanks for all you do and I look forward to seeing you in NYC, dont worry, the more maps the better!!!!
Bill
Fantastic, it’ll be brilliant to see you there Bill, it’s lovely of you to go to all the trouble. And yes, Henry Grey is quite a piece of work. I suppose there are a couple of things; the extraordinary sense of pride and dynasty; you could find yourself in a bloody brawl for getting a piece of etiquette wrong; and Henry thought (amazingly) he should have been accorded more respect by Mary. And/Or felt guilty at letting his daughter down and thought to save her rather than kill her? I agree, stunningly poor judgement!
Hi David, having listened in huge chunks whilst driving, gardening and, indeed, ironing, over the last couple of months, I’m now anxious that I’m catching up fast with your real time podcasts (I’m on episode 213 at the time of writing) so thought I ought to become a member to get hold of more content. Also I felt a bit shifty about getting such a mahoosive amount of free entertainment from you. I’ve recommended the History of England fairly indiscriminately to almost everyone I know so hopefully one or two of them might subscribe too. Keep up the good work and thank you.
Hi again David, I have just listened to episode 268 and the interview with Diarmaid MacCulloch about Cranmer and wondered if you were aware of the annual Cranmer Awards, organised by the Prayer Book Society? Several years ago, my son somehow found himself representing Salisbury Diocese after a public speaking thing at his school. Competitors had to memorise a collect, epistle and gospel reading from a given Sunday and recite it in front of an audience. It was an extraordinary occasion and not half as boring as it sounds. Anyway, thought you might be amused and pleased by the idea. https://www.pbs.org.uk/competitions-bursaries/the-cranmer-awards
Hi David,
Just had to leave a message to say how much I’ve enjoyed the podcast. I’ve been bingeing relentlessly these past few months, so I’ve decided to hold off from going cold turkey for a bit by signing up to the members area.
Now that I’ve got out I expect I’ll get so excited when a new episode comes out there will be a small dribble of wee.
I got a thought about learning more about Margaret Beaufort after the podcasts and watching a show here in the states about the 100yrs war. She was so very instrumantal in fashioning the Tudors. So, when wanting more info where does one go? Well, to this website of course! I looked through the book data and it pointed me to a book on exactly what I wanted.
As always, I say thank you for the website and shedcasts.
Just a quick note here to let you know how glad I was to renew my membership for a second year, David. I discovered HoE and quickly joined about this time last year. Your podcasts have brightened my daily commute and helped to zip flights right along. The added bonus to this entertaining line-up of podcasts (I listen to them all) is that I am learning a little history along the way. Thank you!
All is good.
I just wanted to congratulate you as I believe you’ve improved your French a lot and I like the accent (!)
And, your episode titles are really good, too…
Sorry to hear the news. I wish you well in the recovery and hope everything works out ok. You bring me and others a great deal of happiness listening to you and learning about English History.
I was very glad to have met you in New York last summer at the conference.
Get better so you can explain cricket to me!!!!
I am usually shy about making a comment to someone online, but at this time I feel I have to wish David well and wish him a speedy recovery. Your podcast is one the things I always look forward to. The least I could do for all the hours of enjoyment you’ve given me with your wit, humor and knowledge is send you positive thoughts. Rest and heal. Oh, and I have a copy of the game, Kingmaker. Love it. 🙂
I’ve just caught up on the podcast and am really sorry to hear you are ill. I hope your recovery Is going well. You give us so much. Please take good care of yourself. – Mary
I discovered your podcast about a week ag o and have been listening to it constantly since then. Just love it. Subscribing was a pleasure. Sad to hear you’re ill. Get well soon. Tarquin
Podcasters are right: it really does bring a feeling of cleanliness and good karma to become a member or patron of the wonderful and informative podcasts that we have been enjoying for close on a decade.
Hello David,
I am listening to the Henry the VIII episodes at the moment (and watching Wolf Hall: it’s a great combo): there are a number of advertisements at the end of the podcasts which all sport an Aussie accent. Is this purely because I am downloading my episodes from the Australian iTunes store, or do you have a deal with Aussie companies? Not a big deal: I just wondered.
I hope you get better soon and as painlessly as possible. I hope you and your family have a lovely Christmas.
Best wishes,
Pete Lawson.
Hi Pete, and I am delighted to hear of your feelings of cleanliness of spirit! And thank you! Um, on the advertising question, yes I think Acast the hosting company have offices all over the place a arrange local deals…
It is wonderful to hear your voice again, I must have missed your posts on Twitter earlier this month, but saw it today, and downloaded both episodes right away. I hope recovery goes well, and happy holidays to you and your family.
Hi, David,
I am finally catching up on the episodes and just heard that you are ill. Please take care of yourself, take all the time you need to recover, and spend as much time with your family as possible. Meanwhile, I can listen to shedcasts while I do my weekly ironing. 🙂
May you and your family have a peaceful, happy holiday season and new year!
Jane Terry
My wife said to me this evening “So what would you like for your birthday?” As a retired man of a certain age, I have pretty much all I need in life. But I didn’t have a membership to the History Of England. I can tell you David this this has now been addressed and I am looking forward to my daily workouts in the company of the many previously unheard shedcasts etc. Thanks for all your work, clearly a labour of love, and the best of luck to you, particularly health-wise, in 2020.
I discovered your podcast just over a year ago, and thoroughly enjoyed binge-listening to it for the better part of a year. I finally did the right thing and became a member in the fall.
In your December podcasts, you apologized to members that they’d signed up and hadn’t received anything for two months. I hope you don’t really feel a need to apologize. I’m sure many members feel the same way I do: this isn’t a purchase of a commodity; it’s a privilege to be a member and part of the community that supports you and wishes you well. You’ve given much joy, and it will give more joy to hear you again — when you’re able. We all wish you the very best.
Hallo David
Thank you for these wonderful podcasts. I have followed this for years and I am now using my twelve weeks revisiting everything from the start. Most of all David, how are you? You are so missed. Get well.
Terry Garratt
Wish you well. Have also been re-listening to the old episodes and really enjoying them again. Right now in these times, I think a little David Crowther is good for the soul. Take care and be safe. To us all.
Hi David, so thrilled to see a new HoE podcast “Enter Good Queen Bess”. I have been rationing my listening to make the podcasts last longer. But today I caved and just loaded the Marshall series onto my iPhone. Hoping you are feeling much better.
Andrew Palmer
Another post for support from San Diego. I’ll renew my subscription when it comes due in a couple weeks. Hoping the pubs open up for you. We get frequent UK status videos from Kevin Shelley who did the Narrowboat series on youtube, vimeo and Amazon Prime as The Countryhouse Gent. Wish I could buy all y’all the first ten rounds, just to hear the stories.
Hallo. I love your podcasts and was quite bereft when you were…otherwise engaged. However, my playlist is weirdly richer to the tune of 3 copies of Shedcast 1(one) this week and I am beginning to feel put-upon. Though I will never say that you have “delighted us enough”, it would be nice if you could stop it!
I think the answer Colin, is that you need to focus a but, and concentrate on getting through those podcasts. Honestly, I was saying to the wife to other day that I’m beginning to question your committment…!
I’m struck by the system of royal “taxation” (I’m at HOE episode 79) that set a quota for a shire reeve (or other official) to be extracted from the peasantry, and then the official had to obtain his own wealth by extracting whatever additional he could. This seems extortionate. It reminds me of the gangs and warlords around the world and their schemes for “protection money.” Yet somehow, at least in your telling, it is less violent and more sanctioned back then than it seems today.
This is my favorite podcast–by far. Keep up the good work. I’ve joined as a member. Cheers from the Kansas City area.
Thank you for your kind words and becoming a member! Yes, Tax farming seems extremely dangerous; and tax was probably quite unfair. So if you were a local dignitary, you’d sidle up to the tax assessor, and get him to underestimate your holdings…so that your tax bill was tiny. If you happened to be a peasant you didn’t have that luxury, Famously, William Cecil, Elizabeth I’d Principal Secretary was assessed with income at £133. It was in fact over £4,000! Tax farming though is endemic in Europe, when today’s modern bureaucracies didn’t exist.
hello David,
thank you for the new African series. I have little knowledge of African or in general colonial history, and the introduction really helped me to put random bits into context. Looking forward to the next episodes!
David,
Surfing though the comments I’m glad to hear you doing well during your hospital stay. Like you I know that hospitals aren’t places to spend more time that is absolutely necessary. I am keeping up with your posts – great work. SO here is something you might like to spend a few minutes looking at. I collect for the U.S. National Archives photo and film WW1 and WW2, and other things. This link is to a collection of photos by the U.S. Navy Combat PHoto Unit while they were in the UK prior to D-Day.. Scotland – Slapton Sands and other places around the Isle. https://flic.kr/s/aHsmGDaMCm IF your really interest his a link to all the stuff I’ve posted. Hope it helps pass the time. https://www.flickr.com/photos/42642564@N02/albums.
I’ve been listening to your podcast now for about a year and a half. (I’m in Edward IV’s reign…”bring a bottle, get a pardon”… now, that’s my kind of monarch! And I’m an American.) Been freeloading this entire time…embarrassing, shameful…I know! I’ve been telling myself, for some time, I was going to donate or join, just never got around to doing it…until today! I am proud to say I am now a member of this little community.
In all seriousness, your podcast has brought me great joy! I’ve learned so much, and you make it pretty darn entertaining too. Loved your rendition of “Pearl,” quite a touching piece of work.
I’m sure I’m not the first to write this to you (and admittedly, it’s a bit of a weird thing), but I feel like I’ve formed some type of personal relationship with you. Thanks for all your efforts. You have literally given me hours of learning and entertainment.
Hi Chad, welcome, and thank you! It is one of the reasons I love podcasting that it is in some weird way rather intimate…obviously don’t want to go overboard but as I write and record, I feel as though I am talking to my friends…almost none of whom I have ever met!
I had a wonderful time yesterday with the intelligent speech conference. Yall did a great job with everything as usual. I enjoyed the first one live in NYC but if we cant get back to that I’m fine with the online get together. It was easy, everything worked (as far as I saw) and I found 2 new podcasts. We viewers really must pick at least 1 or 2 topics that dont interest us and watch it anyway. Always learning something new and found 2 new podcasts.!
Thanks to you for starting it off with beer and thanks to everyone involved for a fun day.
Hello David
Have been trying to send you a donation but it’s difficult!
I reside in Qatar but was using my Barclays card and your page needs a UK address. My billing address is in Qatar.
I’m not so good with some things (don’t use Facebook etc ) but I think I have (been) signed up for a miserable monthly of 5 dollars. Anyhow, the just giving went through so I sent something for that.
I’ve been listening for ever, and still look forward…
So, please stay healthy (if only for me )
Terry
aka Terence Sutcliffe
Just to see who might be listening….. I’m opening this Zoom session on Tue Jul 20th, just to see who might join…
Gene Anderson is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: David Crowther
Time: Jul 20, 2021 06:30 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
should be 2:30pm London time
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,95301575416# US (San Jose)
+12133388477,,95301575416# US (Los Angeles)
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 213 338 8477 US (Los Angeles)
+1 669 219 2599 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 953 0157 5416
Find your local number: https://ucsd.zoom.us/u/av8faOXMh
David, open forum, actually, only if it’s fun. I was wondering if there are others that have the same fixation on what life was really like, say, 900 years ago. Your approach inspires us to read more. I have trouble with context sometimes when you introduce a new name; so I was wondering how others go about placing them into the period. I have the appropriate kill switch if this goes some other direction. Else, this could be a hoot and we’ll want more. 🙂 Gene
Yes! After listening to this podcast for MANY HOURS, I finally just signed up as a member and couldn’t see anything on either the “Resources” page OR the “Themes” page…
Good day to you all, I was wondering, is there a way to get the HoE main show into my Apple Podcast App without the adverts. I’m a member of another podcast and on their Patreon feed, you can hear the ‘free’ show but there are no ads in it. It’s not a biggie, just wondering.
I think you can if you use the ‘RSS’ feed from the website but I have no idea how you do that! You can also listen through the App – but I haven’t promoted that yet because it’s not finished, and also I’m about to change my host so it probably will stop working for a while
Thank you for the reply. I used the RSS link and the Apple Podcast App just downloaded a second HoE feed, it also had adverts. I did use the phone app but the sound stops when the phone goes into lock. Like I say, no biggie.
Just finished the shed cast on beers and ales. Just a courtesy confirmation, David, that your viewpoint in this regard is highly respected by a whole bunch of us. I’m watching a decline in drinkable beers here, and I live just 2 miles from Stone Brewing headquarters. Beers here are turning to grapefruit juice. The finest cask ESB brewery in San Diego county fell to the pandemic economy. My favorite London pub, The Harcourt, is down to one cask ale. CAMRA fits my agenda. I still hope to buy you some pints in the future.
David, I sent you an email this week that I paid the annual subscription on May 2 and then the automatic payment kicked in on May 8. Courtesy check if you can fix that. Please and thank you. Gene
I’m having problems loading an old episode – I’m slowly working my way through and HoS41 – The French Alliance keeps telling me “Error 404 The Requested URL could not be found but may be available again in the future.” – Every other episode seems OK. Thanks
Ria
Hi Sir David. I’m from Namibia (Windhoek). Ran into the podcast 3 weeks ago and I’ve listened to all 300+, I couldn’t stop. Working, cooking, walking; I had your voice in my ear all the time. Dreadful I know , and I listened to them twice once chronological and once backwards according to the eras (Liz was my favorite cause the podcast gets better with every episode and the early Edwards for some reason) Looking forward to delve into the BarnCasts. Eleanor is first in line cause I’ve heard her name most. I forgot why I’m writing, but your Podcast is sublime. Just Brilliant. Thank You.
Hi Natange and what a thrill to hear from you, so far away! And thank you so much for being so generous, so pleased you are enjoying the podcast. I have to tell you I love writing it, such a privilege that people listen – so thank you! And I hope you enjoy the shedcasts
History in Technicolor is also awesome and Master and Commander is one of my favourite films as well. So Beautiful, no matter what Wolf says. Every shot a painting. Thank You’s for the brilliant entertainment all round. And I Learned some stuff too. I’m sure I have.
Hello David! I have just become a member. Where do I start…I am in awe of you. I am amazed by you. The amount of research you do is absolutely phenomenal. Your sense of humour is fantastic. What a hard working, dedicated, intelligent person you are. I hope that you have done well with your continued learning course, that you were able to do whilst providing the superbly, excellent podcasts. You are truly a super human, a God of History.
So, a month or so ago I listened to the Elizabethan theater episode(s?) and hear of Kyd and Marlowe and the Duchess of Malfi and all that. At the same time I was reading the Silkworm, JK Rowling’s second book about Cormoran Strike and Robin. At each chapter head there is an obscure quote. Duchess of Malfi! Thomas Kyd! I actually know where these quotes come from! I can pretend to be fully educated! Thank you for the leg up. And who knew the author of Harry Potter was into Elizabethan theater?
Now there’s a link! I saw some of the TV productions, not read the books I must do. I must admit that in writing these episodes, I was constantly aware of the wafer thin nature of my knowledge, so I am glad you enjoyed them
Special parts of the podcast: When David utters ‘before you could say…’ i.e. “before you could say miscarriage of justice, his head was on a pike” or the little “Hahaa’s” after a wafer thin pun.
It’s the little things, the little things. What a treasure this is.
History in Technicolour: after The Last Samurai maybe Red Cliff. It’s a massive Trilogy though, all shot as one, like The rings of some Lord. I haven’t seen yet, but it looks Epic, with colossal battle scenes and birds eye strategic manoeuvrings.
Hi David
Quick note to let you know how much I enjoy your podcast. Love your humor and the way in which you make the topics interesting and informative.
Cheers from the USA
While playing with Podcasts on my new Apple Watch I have managed to delete my Members feed completely, on my iPhone as well. I would like to rectify this bit of unintended technical vandalism and restore it. But, despite poring over your website I can’t seem to find out how to make this happen so that the Members Podcast appears along with the free History of England podcast which I have managed to reinstate. Help!
Hi David!
I just want to drop a note about how much I’ve enjoyed the podcast, and how glad I am to finally become a member. You’re a constant and delightful companion in my ears, thank you!
Thank you Tomas! That’s really kind, and I very much appreciate you taking the trouble to get in touch, it makes a big difference – I am a sucker for flattery!
As I mentioned on Patreon, how you have eluded me lo these many years is beyond my grasp. I still do not completely dismiss mischievous, snickering leprechauns or a Baskervillian mist. Yet, found you I have. You’ve quickly become my most enjoyable traveling companion.
I’m currently to the Irish debacles episodes of Elizabeth I. Isn’t it fascinating to learn how many long running future troubles link back to a single action or a counterintuitive, heavy-handed decision made by one person? I know, it’s not the monarch, rather those evil advisors.
I offer two book recommendations. As a fellow Bernard Cornwell fan, I’m curious if you have read his “Heretic” series? As well done as the Saxon Chronicles, this three-parter is set during Edward III’s French campaigns and centers on a young longbowman who has the remarkable knack for being at every major battle. So well done you can practically feel the mud between your toes.
The other is “The Steel Bonnets” by George MacDonald Fraser. An historical non-fiction about the Anglo-Scottish border reivers. Very informative and easy to read. I have not read other of his work, but understand he was also an historical fiction writer.
Sincere thanks and appreciation for all you do. While we share a similar sense of humor, what I appreciate most is the perspective you lend. Evil deed? Perhaps. Evil intentions? Not necessarily. Okay. No, it’s the wit. Keep smiling and doing what you do better than any.
Michael, my memory sucks and I have a powerful, powerful memory that I have replied before so forgive me – may just be me thanking you for becoming a member. Anyway…the Irish thing is just agony isn’t it? So many occasions when we could have done things differently and better; so many opportunities missed. And yes you are right, one thing leads to another, sucks us in.
I have read the heretic series – I am a huge fan of Cornwell; mainly because he’s a great story writer, but also because he does his research, and he let’s you know about the liberties he’s taken. And yes I have read the Steel Bonnets; we went on a family holiday to the north east, and picked up a copy there. A very dramatic and um ‘romantic’ history but as sure as eggs is eggs i am glad I didn’t live there at the time. Bandit country.
Thank you Michael for getting in touch and becoming a member.
Hi David. I’m having difficulty using the mobile app on my iPhone 13. Some days it works, other days (like today) it freezes and might be dead. Any help will be appreciated
– I hate to iron fabric without hearing your voice.
Hi there, and I am really sorry about the freezing; I have no idea why that would be, but I will ask Jesse if he knows of a reason. The only thing I can think of would be a bad connection if you are streaming? I can help with the downloads though. At the top right is a menu symbol – three horizontal lines. Hit that and you’ll get a drop down list of options and near the bottom (you can scroll down if necessary) is an option ‘All Downloaded Podcasts’ – that’s where they live. I’ll get back to you if I can find a better answer on freezing.
I keep getting an email saying that my payment keeps getting declined. Could it be because my bank is now deciding to cause a problem because the charges are coming from England? I’ve always used the same card for the last three years and I’ve never had a problem until recently.
David, now that you’re moving past 1650 or so, what about an episode on highwaymen and the perils of travelers. I have an engraving of Claude Duval, which is just amazing. I saw the larger format engraving in a Marylebone pub and the detail was stunning. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/16050/lot/315/
Maybe even an episode on engravings (?)
You’re doing great, sir.
Hi David
Enjoying the shedcasts on tourism etc and am just finishing the the second one.
I don’t know whether you have ever read the discworld books by Terry Pratchett? I can’t imagine that a man with your sense of humour and sense of the absurd have not read at least a few of them.
The young gentlemen of the aristocratic families of Ankh-Morpork are accustomed to going on “The Grand Sneer” where they go off on tour and sneer at the other city states of the discworld.
I have always loved that thought and wondered if there was any truth in the idea? Did the young gentlemen of Britain go off on the Grand Tour for a bit of fun and mockery or was it all taken very seriously?
Cheers
Hi Simon and yes! Most certainly I love Terry Pratchet; not quite as much as Douglas Adams for some reason, but yes!
I am busking here. I don’t think there’s any doubt that people went on the grand tour to marvel at the wonders of the Ancient world and were duly amazing and inspired for the most part; and they went to improve their minds and culture. At the same time, the 18th and 19th centuries were periods of a towering sense of nationalism, patriotism and national pride that would have Guardian readers howling in horror – so it would be extremely surprising if there wasn’t a deal of sneering going on about those countries’ relative poverty also. That, for what it’s worth, is my busk!
I’m listening to the reign of Elizabeth the 1st. I scanned the episodes, and I’m so disappointed that you don’t have an episode of the English Renaissance: Philip Sidney, William Shakespeare, Ben Jonson, and Philip Marlowe (and many others). Those plays are performed today! Can you have a guest speaker?
Sadly, Megan P from Seattle
Undoubtedly my question is caused by user error or user misunderstanding: the History of Scotland podcast will not take the password I use for the History of England podcast. I know the password is correct because I copied and pasted it. Any thoughts on the subject would be helpful. Eliza
Hi Eliza – I am reallysorry there’s a problem; I have emailed you so hopefully we can carry on the conversation. In the meantime I have not been able to recreate the problem, buit please let me know if you don’t receive an email, or if it goes into you spam filter, and we can carry on direct.
Hello David,
Just joined, been binge listening since the beginning of 2023, now running out of episodes, hence ‘forced’ to become a member. Love your dry humour. You quote from many books I have also enjoyed, but I never heard a quote from Terry Prachett’s Discworld series. Perhaps you don’t now them and I recommend them with all my heart.
Kind regards from Gouda,
Hello Henk, and lovely to hear from you. And you are quite right; it has been mentioned by a few others actually. I did love Terry, and he’s absolutely the same absurd tradition as Monty P & Douglas Adams. Somehow the quotes didn’t stick in quite the same way. I may look him up again; I remember one very funny talk from an old boss who was using Discworld quotes about management…And best wishes to Gouda from South Oxfordshire!
I have just joined having discovered HoE in the last few weeks. I’ve been binge listening ever since. I truly love the podcast, your humane attitude and dry self deprecating humour.
I also echo the comments about Terry Pratchett. I recognise the Douglas Adams references but some of your humour reminds me of discworld. Sorry if you’re a bit sick of hearing that.
I’m looking forward to the continuing story of England according to DC/ladybird/1066andallthat. While I enjoy historical non-fiction I sincerely admire your apparent enjoyment of the amount of research you undertake in order to make HoE as successful and enjoyable as it is. Thank you so much
Hello Susan, and thank you so much for getting in touch and saying such kind things! It’s very kind of you – and especially for becoming a member of course.
I have read loads of Discworld novels and love them very much; and yes I agree Terry is in a straight line of descent from Douglas. I shall read some anew!
Hi David,
I am not sure this is the right place for this request, but I looked and did not find any place that seemed more appropriate. I apologize in advance if I missed something. The purpose of the post is to ask about your support for “independent podcasters”. First of all, I think it is a great idea. Of course, part of the reason that I think that is that I am one of those. I have had a podcast for a couple of years on the history the space program and nothing would give me a greater thrill than to hear it mentioned on the History of England. I have been a listern and a fan pretty much since the beginning and your podcast in particular is part of the reason I started Terranauts three years ago at a time of, shall we say, career transition. You see it, as it happens you and I are of a similar age and we seem to have have similar family situations. Instead of a shed, I have a basement “studio” – you will, of course, notice the quotation marks. So, hearing you and seeing your success was a big part of me thinking that I might be able to do this thing. I have certainly learned a lot in three years – mostly I have learned how hard it is to grow a podcast. Hah! Terranauts has a small, but, I like to think, devoted following. I’d like to think more people would like it if they heard it.
OK, enought prattling on. If there is a way to join the club of “Crowther Approved Podcasts” I would love to know.
Thanks again for all you do and have done
Also thanks for your continued support to independent podasters
Iain
There’s something odd about logging in. When I login, it takes me to an admin page which tells me I’m not allowed to access it. Then I have to go back to the main site to use it.
Hello David!
I have a question going way back to early days. I’ve gone back to listen and relisten a number of times to the early episodes to catch that the Gewisse and Hwicce were two different tribes (is that the right word?). One as a part of Mercia and the other Wessex. Could you clarify at all about these two groups… and perhaps why the names are so similar? Is there any relationship between the two?
That’s a very good question which I have never thought to ask! I have always assumed they are just tribal names, acquired by groups of Saxons in the invasion period. I don’t think there’s necessarily a connection between the two; but if you will forgive me, there are actually two very good Wikipedia articles on both names. Culturally, both tribes were Anglo Saxon, mlore specifically Saxon; the Hwicce are subsumed into Offa’s kingdom of Mercia
You get hecklers when you deliver political leaflets? Wow! All I get is the odd flick of the net curtains…and a deep sense of embarrassment. I do hate doing it!
David… I had uhh idea…. I would pay money for a YouTube Channel that was, say, 3 or 4 people in period costume talking at some pub in the year 966, then, 967 and so on up to 1918. Seems that you’d have the right connections to make that happen. Then, I picture that becoming a perfect BBC series. Maybe start with 15 minute segments? That could be a hoot.
Hi Gene, and it is an undeniably good idea, that has been on my list for ages.But I just don’t have the time. If I was entreporeneurial, I’m go for it (and other things), but I have come to love walking over the grass to my shed in a 30 second daily commute, and working away with no one to bother me.
After much listening, I’m up to podcast #221. Only 6 years to go till I’m caught up. I was wondering, were there any purposeful explorations by the English before John Cabot?
Hi jack, and the light is at the end of the tunnel! Though of course, I’ll be working hard to take the end of the tunnel further away… um, no, ,y understanding is that John Cabot was where it started; there many have been fishermen and all that, but nothing organised
“At a Gallop” perfect for my attempts to get key facts from 17th C into my aged brain. Stuff has to be hammered in repeatedly these days. Thanks for this and all the rest.
I just signed up after listening to the first 14 episodes of the History of England podcast….I had no idea how big this project was/is -its pretty bloody impressive!
Hi Ben and thank for joining up! I saw your checkout, and it always give a nice start to the day. I hope you enjoy the shedcasts; to get the best from membership can I encourage you to head to the members page, here: https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/members. That gives you links to places for the advert free Hisotyr of England feed, and the Members’ App in particular. Hppe you enjoy it all!
Hi David, I am loving the Charles II period but was slightly amused by your pronunciation of the village of Kineton. My father was brought up in the tiny village of Radway which sits at the base of Edgehill basically on the battlefield. The locals pronounce Kineton with the Kine part sounding like time or lime not the Kin, Tim or Lim way that you pronounced it in the episode. I know you so love this type of feedback! Keep up the good work though, I love the podcasts. Paul
David. Just realized my membership had run out. Signed back up, but hamhandedly managed to do so at both Monthly and Annual levels. Please cancel the first and keep me at Annual level. Been listening on and off for years. Am on Episode 226 now. Thanks for keeping my company as I run. Exercising the body and the mind at the same time. That seems worth the 40 pounds a year, whatever that that is in CAD . . .
Hi there and thank you for being a member, thoroughly lovely of you. I have checked – you managed to cancel the monthly one, and I have refunded the £4 (hopefully in CAD then!) but keep an eye on it and let me know if it’s a problem. And good luck with the exercising!
Just saw that the members was launched and signed up as quickly as possible. Looking forward to it . Some subjects I’d love to see would be the navy as it became so highly regarded . And something maybe for the history of England as an Empire and its territories , such as history or Australia, India , South Africa to name a few . Thanks for all your great work .
Excellent, thanks Troy. The Navy in particular is definitely something I’ll put on the list; it’s a subject I have always loved anyway. And yes, without doubt we’ll get to the empire thing. So great, thanks!
Hear, Hear!
A small series of casts on the development and importance of the British navy would indeed go down a treat!
Incidentally my spellchecker insisted on trying to change “importance” to “impotence” in the sentence above, I suspect the French of tampering with it… 😉
I have to say I am glad you picked up the spell checker. Hurrah for that. Impotence is not a favourite word…
Perfidious French!
I know!!
Agreed. This is interesting stuff… I also hope that David covers the American Revolution from a British/7 Years War context.
I look forward to it. Well, actually, look forward is to strong, I feel a mixture of anticipation and cold fury…
Bahahaha! The American laughs gleefully! I would really enjoy hearing things from the brutal Empire’s….. ahem, I mean from the Mother Country’s perspective. Just remember, we *wanted* to continue to be British citizens; we just wanted all the same rights and representations the British citizens in Britain had. Ben Franklin especially was very sad when we broke away. And George Washington had learned his soldiering as a “Redcoat”.
Traitors!
I think we’ve finally learned to get over it. Been tough couple of hundred years, quite painful, but Ok, fair enough.
Shame you spoiled all that Tea though.
Signed up! I have gone for the monthly option, gives you more money overall and a steady stream of income. If it was me Mr Crowther the Ale and Wenches would see me blow it all very quickly if I got the money in one go!
As for topics I like the look of this. I particularly like the idea of brief biographies of lesser known people from history.
Hi, really looking forward to listening to this and have signed up BUT I have a windows phone and windows computer so no access to iTunes. Tried the generic “podcast” button on the phone, which does only recognise HoE not AngloSaxons(!!)- nothing. Tried I Podcast which finds HistoryBitches, got as far as downloading but then says my phone doesn’t support this type of podcast. So. Can I down load via a pc and move my ironing board to the room where the pc resides? No helpful Podcast button on the desktop. Help please! The only comment from tecchie son was “I told you not to get that phone”
Many thanks
Alison
Hi Alison – I confess I did not test Windows, because I did a survey and only a couple of people used it. Sorry. I have done a search and can’t see anything very positive. I have emailed Podcast Lounge, which is highly rated by users; I have also emailed another user who I know uses a Windows phone – though not sure if he uses it for THoE specifically.
In the meantime, you can download iTunes to your windows PC and do it there; or you can go int the history of England website, log in and play it there – go into the episode and you’ll see a player.
Sorry about this; I’ll follow up also with some user groups and see what I can dig up.
Instructions to be added; the super summary seems to be that really Podcast Lounge is the App you need for a Windows phone…
Hi, Alison,
I have an Android phone, and find that Podcast Addict works really well. ITunes not necessary.
Margafret
Hi I’m so excited to support your new member podcast and wish you lots of luck in your professional podcasting career!
Brilliant, thank you! Hope you still think so after the first few shedcasts!
I loved the first shedcast about diplomacy. So far, a worthwhile investment. I always look forward to your podcasts and reserve special quiet time for them. Thanks very much!
Thanks to you for giving it a go!
Hi! After 200 + free podcasts, thought it about time I give back! Thanks for the great podcasts so far and look forward to what membership has in store.
Lovely thanks!
Well, this is fun. Signed up for the £4 monthly deal and looking forward to the exclusive content. I’ll have to change my Twitter bio to “Lover of good books, bad football and sheddy podcasts”.
Just to add that my (Android) podcast app of choice, “Podkicker” picked this up really easily: Podcasts/ Add/ Rss/ type the url, tick the “password protected” box, enter user & password, hit “subscribe” & Bob is your father’s brother.
fantastic, thanks; I’ve added to the instructions – hopefully correctly!
I got the coin from the survey today in the mail!!! Thanks David… I’m not sure what is cooler: getting the coin or getting a letter from England in my mailbox here in America, HA.
I enjoyed the first of the members podcast and look forward each week to a new one from you from your podcasts.. Keep up the good work.
Bill
Ah excellent, thanks Bill. I was slightly worried – our ;local post office is…well, I’m glad you got it!
Hi all glad to be on board. I thought I saw somewhere how to access members oly content via iTunes, but I can’t see how to do it…any suggestions?
Jonathan
And I am equally delighted (probably even more, actually..). There’s a page in the members area you can use – https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/members/howtodownloadshedcasts/
Fab thanks. It works like you say, however episode 1 doesn’t appear – maybe it only lets you download the current one. iTunes used to let you get at the back episodes but in an “upgrade” they made this more difficult. Don’t worry, I’ll do it directly. But presumably someone joining in say 10 episodes’ time is entitled to the whole series? Or only from when they sign up? Decisions, decisions.
Hi Jonathan…Not sure why that would be happening; yes, everyone should get access to everything. I have just cancelled and then redone my iTunes feed – and it is still there. If you are in itunes, go to the podcast page for the Members only Feed; in the right you should see a little blue circle with 3 white dots. click on that and try ‘Refresh Podcast’ – that worked for me… let me know if it works
Hi David
Ii used the above link on iTunes. I am subscribed but it states that there are no episodes 🙁 even after the refresh
Hi Karen. Thanks for joining! And sorry you can’t get your feed (I don’t know how to do smiley faces, sorry!). I’m 90% sure it’s there – just went and deleted mine and downloaded it again. There are two episodes. I’ll email you to try to help
Dear David,
I really do appreciate your fabulous podcast, it is a highlight of my week,(there are of course other highlights, just in case my family were to read this). I emailed you a couple of years ago and had subsequently tried to leave a donation but abjectly failed, I think because my so called New Zealand dollars can’t have been a recognised currency at the time, but now I can subscribe, which I do most happily, it is but a trifle compared to the hours of entertainment you have given.
Kind Regards
Dan Asquith
Hi Dan. Of course as long as the rest of your family fail to become members, your secret is safe with us all here. For a small fee, none of us will tell them. Used notes, please. In the meantime – thanks for the kind words!
Dear David
Its taking me a while (last time I wrote I was on the Battle of Maldon back in summer!) but I’m now up to date (well just started episode 200, so just signed up and looking forward to the shed episodes as the first 200 freebies have been excellent 🙂
Bring it on!
Karen
I don’t know if this has been covered or asked, but I would like to learn more about how nobles have their lands attained by the King or whatever.
Yes, I am sure I can look at this; especially since we are in a period with Henry VII where attainders are a key political weapon. I’ll have a think
Hi David,
Gossiping about what a poo year politically this has been ( other viewpoints are available!) down the pub last night I dredged up from the depths of memory that my extended essay at uni was on political corruption in my then home town of St Albans in, I think, early 19th century – lots of newspaper reports/adverts about which candidate would be in which pub buying drinks etc. It seemed to be very open and blatant and must have happened elsewhere. Could this style of political corruption be a shed cast at some point, maybe in the run up to the next election?
Loving the shed casts now I can get them thanks to the 2 Mikes.
Alison
Impressive use of the ‘p’ word. I like it. Political corruption sounds like an interesting topic! Can’t promise anything i have to say, since I have a fairly long list of reading and writing!At the moment, I think I am focussing on putting up Shedcasts on topics around the period we are up to in the free series – but always open to suggestions!
The History of Rotten Boroughs Podcast. I would like more bird tweeting in my podcasts, please. (No, I’m not joking. I love the snippets of birdsong that are picked up by happenstance.)
OK, for a real topic suggestion, you ought to do an episode about the History of Codebreaking in WWI and WWII.
P.S. I have tried multiple times in the past to send donations but I guess since I was trying to pay in US Dollars it never seemed to work. But it worked now, so anyway, bully for me! Very glad to support your show. I enjoy it very much.
Hi Mark…and welcome! Maybe I’ll witch microphones again – everyone seems to love the birdsong! Yes, rotten boroughs; they will without doubt have their day. Code breaking is a good shout too – I could probably do that out of phase. suggestions always welcome…
Paid for a year as david c is excellent but while I got diplomacy podcast cant get wills . On the site I am automatically linked to podcast addict. That downloads but wont open its player. On pockets casts that I use mostly cant get the episode. Hmmm
Oh well merry whatever
Hi Jef – any luck since? the Wills one does seem to be downloading OK generally. Hows about the Great Earl?
Hi David… Enjoyed the latest shedcast “Dr John Morton” a great deal, but pedants, of which I am one, will enjoy pointing out that “Wisbech” is commonly pronounced “Wisbeech” or “Wisbeach”, unless you’re going to tell us that the pronunciation has changed via the Great Vowel Shift or something weaselly like that. It is a silly place anyway.
Dear David
I have just become a member. I’d like to email the site but I don’t see how I can, so I’ll ask you. I don’t understand how I can access the podcasts. I always listen on my MP3 player and I download the pocasts via MediaGo. How can I put the member podcasts into MediaGo and thence on to my MP3 player?
Mark (kram-denial@yahoo.co.uk)
Hi David,
I feel a wave of guilt and anxiety wofting into the interweb, and my months of guilt are easing away, as I am now relieved to be a fully paid up member. Been listening now for about 4 months and sadly nearly caught up, so I want be able to listen to new shedcast as I wish! Been great listening thanks David, not sure if you are meant to laugh and smile so much with a History lesson, but got to hand it to you it is a great achievement and is a real gem of information and not a little entertainment too. History is soooo much more interesting when we have suitable references to Monty Python & Star Trek, authentic bird calls in the background, and Winnie impersonations to boot! Thanks for all and keep on doing what you do.
Jon, I am so pleased to have been able to assuage your guilt and anxiety! Actually, I did feel those waves subliminally, and set up Shedcasts to help – glad it did the trick! Thanks for the kind words, live long and prosper, and always look on the bright side of life!
Followed ‘how to download’ for Shedders and it worked immediately so I. am. ready! Only took me 4 weeks. Shouldn’t take me too long to whip through 1-5, especially with a sneaky duvet day. Love reading all your other Shedder’s comments too and, just saying, my cat also loves HoE podcasts & we schedule some spesh girl time when cricketrugbygolffootballsnookerwheelerdealerstopgearepisodeseen4timesalreadyboredom, is on…. So Whoop to the Shed King – David I 🙂
Yahoi!Slightly upset to see cricket in the anti bucket list though!
Thinking about shedcasts, could impact on the French psyche of continual English (and other) warfare on French soil be a possible topic?
It would be good…but…actually one of the frustrations is that I’d dearly love to know more myself about the impact of some English events abroad. For example, international reaction to the execution of Charles I. But without becoming an expert on any particular country, or indeed several, it’s really difficult. So I suspect this is beyond me.
I am endlessly wittering on about how the Battle of Ashdown was fought just outside my hometown (maybe). How about a shedcast (or series of shedcasts) about famous British battles and battlefields?
It is a thing to go on about endlessly Gareth! Famous British battles would be obscenely, self indulgently enjoyable, would be a festival of detail about weapons, formations, armpits…slightly scaring myself at the prospect. Again, thanks for the suggestion. Maybe we should have battle of the month sort of thing? So much history, so much to write…
Also (I suggested this on the FB group) but my wife (who’s from Maryland) would love a shedcast about Baron Calvert, the founder of the state Maryland (and the only British aristocrat who’s coat of arms remains part of a US state flag).
OK, I see that’s Baron Baltimore…looks like an interesting subject, OK, possibly. I’ll out him on the list. Thanks for the suggestion!
I just wanted to drop in from across the pond to say how much I continue to enjoy the THoE podcast very much but I’m really liking the Shedcast. It goes into such detail on a small topic, its great!!!!
Also wanted to say I just ordered my Harry’s Truman set (with the ENGLAND freebie). I hear Harrys on several podcasts but spent my money using the ENGLAND code word for you..
Finally, thanks for the upcoming Thomas More episode, he continues to this day to be such an intriguing person and so important to history both obviously and quietly behind the scenes…
Thanks for all you do,
Bill
Hurrah! Thanks Bill. I hope your chin therefore competes with babiest of bottoms to remain clean and smooth. Now, I must get in touch with all to find out about how well we’ve set the pace of the shedcasts so far, and see how it’s going.
Aren’t all these Shedfolk lovely! ShedCrew.. Shedposse.. Tribe of Shed..Shedania.. hm. Half term and I am ready to ROCK those unheard episodes but have covered lots, so lately I’m going with the anarchic approach of ‘pick a number, listen to that episode’. Does play havoc with the chronology, though :)) Great work, Shed King David 1
We are lovely are we not! Pick a number sounds like an excellent approach to me…
Ah! So is my Controlled Assessment…..
David,
A long time ago, in a podcast far, far away, you recommended Bernard Cornwall’s Anglo Saxon Warrior series about Uhtred and how it was the best semi fictitional depiction of the period. I have just read the last of the books – thank you for the recommendation.
Epic!
John
As you say epic! Glad you enjoyed them…will Uhtred win back Bebbanburgh?
Hi David,
After what seems like years following your podcast I have finally signed up for the shed cast as well. I am really looking forward to your history of Scotland. I have been reading historical novels by Dorothy Dunnett (Niccolo and Lymond serie – highly recommended!). They are set all over Europe around the end of the 15th and middle of 16th century, respectively, and require a decent understanding of the politics at the time. Whilst I feel reasonably OK with English history, Scotland is vague and France even worse. Maybe political alliances/geopolitical/foreign policy could be an area of interest for a future shed cast.
Enjoying it all. Many thanks.
I am also looking forward to the History of Scotland! Because I confess I am learning quite a lot as well. First episode written!
Hi David,
I love your History of England podcast and am looking forward to diving into the Shedcast material! Your podcast has changed my long commute from wasted hours to time spent learning fun stuff, so thanks for that 🙂 As a Kiwi living in the US, I second the earlier comments regarding the intertwining histories of the English speaking world. When you get to it, it will be fun to hear about the Empire and about the US War of Independence.
Thanks again for your wonderful podcast!
Rachael
I have to say it’s a real thrill getting posts such as this, without wanting to get too maudlin, obviously. That would never do! But thank you. I had the same experience years ago with Mike Duncan. I am also looking forward to Empire…it gets taught a lot less now, because it’s a source of embarrassment now; it’s not going to be easy, I have promised myself I will be ruthlessly honest. US War of Independence? Still hurts. Not quite as much as Hastings, but it’s close.
David,
Thanks for your great podcasts. I’m only up to the reign of Edward III, but am greatly enjoying the entire series. I’ve been listening while training for a marathon, and find your series to be a great entertainment while I train. Keep up the good work, and if you ever find yourself in the great state of Utah (we have a town named St. George!) look me up.
Thank you Ben…and good Lord! I feel tired driving 26 miles let alone running it. Good luck! And if I am, I certainly will!
Hello David: I have to tell you why I finally subscribed to your wonderful podcast. Quite simply, despite developing a members only area, you have clearly remained devoted to your “free site” fans. I’ve been a fan of yours since 2014 and have donated once or twice, but I follow a number of other history podcasts and have donated to them as well. However, your commitment to continuing to provide free content has impressed me more than words can express. THANKS!!
Mark (Stonington CT, USA)
Very nice of you to say! And welcome to the shedcasts!
Mark,
It’s a real small world! I was in the Navy stationed in Groton. We lived in Griswold. (I’m now in North Carolina.) My Son is 22 and living in Voluntown!!!!! He will be a senior at UMASS in the fall.
What a small world to see Stonington in a message on here. across the pond and back again!!
I think this podcast and Website is fantastic.
Enjoy the spring now that the blizzards are past (hopefully)
Bill
Hello, David,
I need your help listening to the members podcasts of your terrific program.
I can listen to the shedcasts on the computer from the website https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/feed/podcast/members… no problem. I have followed the download instructions for iPhone and have the podcast on the podcast app on my iPhone. However, when I attempt to listen to a podcast from the feed on my iPhone, I receive the following message: “There are no episodes currently in the podcast feed.”
There are no restrictions set like “auto delete podcasts” or “only download new podcasts.”
Any suggestions? I really want to listen from my iPhone…walk the dog, wait at the doctors’ offices, etc.
Thanks for your time.
mlstivers@cox.net
Hi Marguerite
It sounds as though you are doing everything right, so it is strange it’s not working, and difficult to help. All I can really say is that I know a lot of people (myself included as it happens!) are downloading to their iPhone – so it does work.
All I can think of is to start again; to delete the podcast subscription from your iphone, and then set it up again. Either something odd has happened, or you’ve made a mistake typing in the rather long and complicated URL.
I’m really sorry I think that’s all I can suggest – let me know if it works
Hello David,
Yours is the first podcast I’ve ever listened to; originally my thought was that listening to a podcast at bedtime would help me get to sleep. I soon realised that I was getting less and less sleep because your podcasts were so enjoyable, so that idea went out the window! Thank you for the wonderful work you have done and I look forward to the Shedcasts too (hopefully with lots of birdsong!)
Samantha
Many people say I send them to sleep actually…delighted you are not one of them. sadly the birdsong is out of my hands – I never know when it’s there and when not – I can’t hear it for some reason. But it’s spring so the birds are giving it laldi so there’s a good chance. Thanks for the kind words, and thanks for joining
Hi David,
Bird song live feed……keeps making me smile…..would’nt be the same without it!thought for the day…..now I am fully caught up to date and I just had to re-start with the re run of early Anglo Saxon pod casts……another great achievement by DC.
thought on my mind about all this Royal Hunting over the centuries we hear so much about……we keep hearing when certain species became extinct in the British Isles, wonder if any of this was due to the royal expertise of hunting…..ie wolves, beavers, bears, lynx, etc. May be an interesting area for review / Shed Cast?? Keep up the good work as ever.
Hurrah! Jon, I have never heard any of my birdsong. When Chronologically was the last one you heard? I keep wondering in the new mic picks them up. I have bought a book quite a while ago on hunting ion medieval days. But have shied away from ding an episode for fear of people thinking its a nasty topic. What do you think?
sorry I am mostly listening back after completing your new Ango Saxon updates and then just keeping going so on my catch up I am around 63 and saving the current well Henry VII podcasts……don’t ask! So birdsong I am listen too is quite old, will miss it if you manage to eradicate (ok silence) them with your new mic! Re hunting ….yep get your thought, but I do find it interesting to hear when certain species died off or killed off, hard to believe a few hundred years ago. bear, wolf, lynx all wander the wild wood. keep up the sterling work…
If you are looking for ideas, here is one that I would like to hear (and it may already have been suggested or done); podcasts on the history of specific locations and buildings / ruins / whatever that are currently visible. For example, a podcast on York could include its overall history, the history of some of its major buildings and ruins, discussion of medieval life based on the Shambles, name origins, etc. If they work,you might be able to get a tie-in to the tourist industry. And one other idea for a podcast – things that people think are true or have been portrayed as true, but are really false – bad history. For example, to go back to York, William Wallace never conquered York. Anyway – love the podcasts. Keep up the good work.
Hi there – both excellent ideas, thanks! Both definitely on the list, though possibly not til next year when I’ll be full time podcasting again. Thanks – and keep them coming!
David, wishing you continued success at this. My podcast pointer is in the 1390s. I am glad to be a contributor of such a truly quality product.
I do not understand the context when you refer to “the court”. Sometimes I think it’s related to the judges or and sometimes I think it means to a king’s servants. I don’t think this question has been asked before. Thank you!!
Yes, it’s a really good question, and I am guilty of not being clear. The word does have two meanings by 13th century; the kings court and a court of law. The issue is that the word starts as the place where the king administered justice with his great men – court had that single meaning. That function is delegated to regions, and then develops separate administrative functions, so eventually by 16th century, justice is no longer delivered in the court where the king sits – though in a sense all law courts are still kings courts. But, the kings great men still come to meet with him – and in fact not so great ones as the power of royal patronage grows. So the function of the court where the king sits becomes different – its now just a place for consultation, meeting, and display.
Not sure this helps! Not sure I am explaining it very well…
Hi,
I haven’t commented yet, I don’t think. On the what to add subject. I am really enjoying the History of Scotland and I love the spin-off like the beards or the printing ones. I think it would be great to have topics beyond England to put the history of England into context in the wider world. I really enjoy the History of Europe ones you do. For e.g. it would great to explore the whys and wherefores of England not getting embroiled in the Thirty Years War but then collapsing into civil war.
Luke
David congratulations again on a wonderful podcast. I’ve read a few comments and replies above. Are you no longer full time on the podcasts? I dont think I realised that – I certainly havent noticed a drop in output!
Let me suggest a topic: gunpowder, and the impact of gunpowder on warfare in Europe and England in particular. It seems like a really dramatic, change to warfare, the dawn of a new era, with widespread implications.
It also seems to have slipped into battles now (I’m up to Ep 216). It would be interesting to hear how it changed tactics, who got it first and took advantage, who used it well, its impact on diplomacy, etc. If there isnt enough material for a stand-alone podcast, maybe roll it into the next History of Europe update.
Cheers, Ross
Excellent suggestion. I did a little in… in …what was it 2014/15? Great idea for a new European episode though. I have a good book on the topic…
General question I’m sure you’ve gotten before but I’m watching the Showtime Tudors TV series and really wanted your take on the accuracy of the series as well as your general impressions. I love watching the “History Buffs” videos done by Nick Hodges and his take on movies and wondered if such a format would work for you. Oh wait, even better, you and Nick Hodges going head-to-head critiquing a historical movie. My cup would runneth over…
D’you know, I have never watched it…I have tried actually, and just had to stop. Don’t know why. I saw this article which I thought was mildly amusing…https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/tvandradioblog/2011/apr/01/the-tudors-history-revelations
Had the same experience. Have to blame Jonathan Rhys as Henry the 8th. No…depth/intensity as an actor? I always had an image of Henry dominating the room physically and bellowing to his underlings which he doesn’t pull off. As you said in a podcast on Holbein’s painting of him “what are you looking at, loser?”. Anyways, do you have any suggestions of good films to watch on the period?
…well…it’s got to be A Man for All Seasons really. I think that’s as good a portrait of Henry as you are going to get; and the wonderful moment when he jumps off the barge and his courtiers look nervous until he laughs. I object a bit, because is hagiography when it comes to More, but such a compelling (if overblown) story, and so beautifully acted.
Enjoying all your work . Question , have you written a book or considered it ? I’d certainly buy it .
Hi Troy, and thanks! You are very kind. I suspect, though that I would find a book too hard. You have to carefully reference everything, and honestly I like the physical thing of speaking; sitting in front of the mic imagining talking to all of you is actually the fun bit, and whence flow the gags., I suspect a book from me would be just another ‘me too’ book from someone without the academic chops. So it’s a no then!! Sorry, I started ranting, but as you can see I have thought about it. …but thank you so much for the confidence, I appreciate it.
Hi David – listening to the latest History of Scotland episode, was interested (disturbed) to learn of the ritual drowning of enemies. I don’t know of many of examples in history. However, it did remind me that there is a execution-by-drowning scene in Walter Scott’s classic Rob Roy. *Spoiler*: Having been captured by angry Highlanders, the cowardly government agent Morris is tied up and thrown into the nearby Loch for his role in Rob Roy’s capture.
Scott tended to carry out a lot of historical research for his novels so it seems likely that drowning – in the Highlands at least – carried well beyond the 8th century.
Thought it might be of interest!
Ha! Interesting – and yes, I don’t know much about Scott, but I understand the spirit of antiquinarianism was alive and well at the time, I can imagine him collecting evidence. So yes, it has the ring of truth to it.
David, I’ve been catching up on HoE and I stumbled across your St. Barts commentary. I recall that I had mentioned that something like this, a walking tour of some sort, would be interesting, and I must say, you certainly delivered. It was great! I went on Google and pulled up photos and Google earth. It was great! Thank you
Yes, thanks! It was an interesting idea, so I thought I’d give it a go – and it was a lovely place
David,
I am curious whether or not people in England intersted in their heritage, like many Euopean-Americans are. Do people wonder if they are Viking, Saxon, Norman, Briton, etc?
Thanks! (ps I am currently relisting to the Agincourt episodes. So good)
Hi David,
Finally got off my backside and became a member. I’ve listened to all of your content, and want to thank you for all your hard work. HoE and Anglo-Saxon podcasts have enriched my life.
Adam Lewis, Jacksonville, FL, US
Hurrah! Thanks so much for joining, and welcome!
Question I’ve been dying to ask, is a ‘Quid’ a Pound ? Kinda like ‘Buck’ for USD? Or skinny, greenback, cabbage … etc.
Yup, that’s the one. Don’t know where it comes from – must look that up…
A Freeloader No More!
I’ve done it. Made myself an honest man by throwing some coin into the collection plate. At last I’ll be able to sleep at night. Bliss.
Charlie Brown
Mesa, Arizona, US
I’m proud of you Charlie! Thank you, and welcome!
I vote for little bios of important European figures. Specially from the Low Countries and Spain!!! Also this community is a credit to its creator. The comments on THOE posts reflect a thoughtful and kind bunch 🙂
They are a nice bunch are they not! You included, if I can be slightly over familiar. Actually Bios from Abroad. I like it. I really wanted to do a series on the Dutch republic, but no one would allow me.
Any plans on continuing the history of Scotland at some point David, maybe with some Scottish input? I mean no offense but you are English and an English history of Scotland would kinda like me, as a non-native American, doing a history of the native people of North America. I can definitely tell the story but my view will always be colored by my background no matter how hard I tried to weed it out.
Hi Michael, and yes indeed! I have got very tied up with the Anne Boleyn thing we re coming onto, but plan to get the History of Scotland going again later in October, and we can spend some quality time in November.
As regards Scottish input…well…I could not agree more that being totally objective is pretty much impossible. But that of course is the same for your average Scot. I would of course be delighted to have Scottish input! But for the time being it’ll have to be my view…
In the spirit of honesty I am very much enjoying coming into the conversations about Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII’s being well Henry VIII. The problem is not I do not enjoy it or think you shouldn’t cover it but it is like seeing Shakespeare at some point no matter how genius the writing you want to get out and see the rest of the landscape of English writing.
Yes… Michael I have to say I am rather conscious of it and recognise that some folks will not want to spend a whole month on Anne. It’s meant that I have written much longer episodes that normal which has been a bit exhausting, so that I don’t go on too long. And I’ll get my teeth back into Scotland, starting right now!
David, you have pioneered something very cool here; just adding, again, my thank you. Like all of your listeners we envision everyday life, say, 600+ years ago… clothing, drinking water, attempts to cure everyday ailments, gawd-knows-what living in people’s intestinal tracts… is there any written history on the state of the commoners’ health? Maybe I’m interested in how much they knew that water could make them sick. It seems like more is documented in this regard about life aboard English navy ships. I can’t imagine rum being a substitute for water. See where I’m going with this? Thank you, 🙂 Gene
Hi Gene, and thanks. There is some stuff, though I haven’t looked into it, but certainly there’s a lot about medicine. Of course their view of the world was completely different to our medically speaking, they new nothing of bacteria, and so water was a factor only in the balance of humours. However, there is also some understanding of and attempt to regulate public health in the ordinances of towns. Actually, there is some mild dispute about the dangers of water, and how far it really is true that beer was always substituted for water. I assume on ship, they would take beer as well, but their potential on the longer voyages of exploration to replenish beer was limited. not so with water. Interesting anyway – I must plan an episode!
Very interested in Thomas Cromwell . Can you recommend a book on his life ?
Hi Troy…and yes ! “Thomas Cromwell: The untold story of Henry VIII’s most faithful servant” is good, takes a factional view of the fall of Anne Boleyn, and covers much more than normal of his early life which is good. For contrast I also read a much older book by Beckingsale “Thomas Cromwell: Tudor Minister” which is ‘a classic’ and mercifully short, if a little dry. But there are billions. And they all have the same cover!
Loving the podcast so much, your delivery is fabulous! I almost wish I had discovered it a year from now because I’m a shameless binge listener and terribly impatient – I hate waiting for new podcasts to come out! Can I make a suggestion – could the comments on this page be in reverse order? Takes a bit of scrolling to get to the latest comments.
it’s a fair point…I’ll have a look, technology is not necessarily my strong point though…
I have to agree the Shedcast and HoE podcasts are just brill!. It took all of last year to catch up but now I have, I have to wait for my weekly fix rather than back to back episodes. Have had to listen to the radio 🙁
Keep up the excellent work
Hurrah! I’m not proud, I love a compliment!
Oh my, what a long list of messenges. Anyway, I just want to say how sad I am to have the highlight time of the Anne Boleyn-Henry XIII, Cromwell, etc. over, for I really, really enjoyed it all!
In addition I want to say that I’m not keen on the navy-stuff mentioned above (right at the start of these messages), although, of course, I’ll remain a Shedcast member. Not too keen on all that warfare and all those kings in Scotland either… I do like the idea of some podcasts over the whole American-England prevarications (is that a word?).
I would also hope to see some more in-depth Shedcasts on some of the ‘characters’ that appear in the History of England podcasts, for, the thrill is by no means over yet, with Henry’s son Edward coming up, (not to mention his various wives after Anne), followed my Queen Mary, then Queen Elizabeth and all the people around these monarchs. Can’t wait!
Hi Leni, and I am so glad you posted this just now! I am on the verge of doing a questionnaire for members, and you’ve suggested I need to add some. It is really useful to have people like yourself as a corrective; to me, the British Navy seemed like a absolute winner- I can see from a different perspective, might not be quite so exciting! so, more people, more personality is what I take from this? Edward VI will be great I think; he’s much less well trodden, and the personalities around him are very strong.
Just logged in today after watching the 3 soccer, ooops football matches this morning here in the USA, to tell everyone Merry Christmas. Snow before Christmas just puts us all in the holiday spirit (as long as we are not buried in it). We had snow this weekend here in the south and watching today’s matches just seemed like a way to jump on and say thanks for the podcast and Shedcast… David, I hope you and family and all the members have a great holiday with family and friends. Maybe we can just for a little while focus on the holiday and tune out all the negative things we seem to be in…
Bill
Thank you William! And good advice. Have a brilliant Christmas too.
End of year comment:
I too have caught up and now impatiently wait for the next episode(s)…
I agree with someone above that it’s nice to hear more about lesser-known figures around the monarch, and also the commoner heroes, like Thomas Wyatt, William Marshal et al. Rags to riches and all that.
I really really enjoyed ‘Let There be Light’. Super interesting. Thanks for that. As a typically tortured traditionally brought up Englishman with the duty to believe, I am glad I now have the freedom to think – and listen to your talks! Like you, I’ll never say ‘the’ bible again! (And William Tyndall is added to our roll call of commoner heroes)
Thank you for all the education and entertainment. Learning and laughing are my favourite things.
Terry
Thanks Terry, and thanks for the support. Working on Thomas Cromwell right now; impressive, but sadly not many laughs on the lad!
William Marshal has got to be my historical ‘hero’ – have you read David Crouch’s William Marshal book? Excellent, I recommend.
Enjoyed the recent podcast on Macbeth, but thought that I should point out that the American comedian Stephen Colbert, with deliberate pretentiousness, pronounces his name “Coal Bear”. Obviously that’s not how you should pronounce his name, but it’s how he is known. Truthiness at its best!
Ah! Actually I did wonder, and dither, and then decided ‘nah, he wouldn’t do that surely’. I stand corrected! Anyway, I can forgive anyone who encapsulated the idea of truthiness most things…
Finishing up the third Cromwell then taking the quiz… lord help me!!
I liked your bringing up the Wolf Hall book and Show. It’s impossible to listen to the podcasts and not picture Cromwell as Mark Rylance, Anne as Natalie Dormer and so on…
I kind of shake my head while listening to try and remove those “visions” and the Mantell books, which I enjoyed.
I must also mention that at the beginning of the third podcast,when you said “its the final countdown” I immediately started singing the song EXACTLY when you did, thats just great…
as always you are the best..
Really enjoying the latest episodes and the Cromwell fair. I’m also revisiting the Richard III episodes after listening to The Daughter of Time on radio 4 extra. It has an interesting premise and now I’m re-listening and reading everything to try and find out if Henry VII did try to have titulus regis repealed unread
Either way, I recommend The Daughter of Time to you and other members of the History of England.
Excellent – very pleased to hear it, and you remind me of happy Richard III days – well over a year ago now. I agree – Daughter of Time is a classic.
Don’t ever stop David. When you get to the present, just start over again or go in reverse. If you decide to introduce a Super Mega Platinum VIP Membership at some point and charge a bit more I will happily pony up for that too. And I am not even English (Swedish as it happens). Cheers!
Thank you; I hope your comment goes viral!! And I am confirmed in my fellow feeling for the Swedish nation. When we get there, I’ll give Gustav Adolf an even bigger write up.
Just starting out way back at the beginning — racing towards 1066 — awesome — it is my royal read on the throne daily — I definitely need to find the maps mentioned in the 2011 Podcasts — I opted to be schooled on an American air base in Herts in the early sixties to avoid wearing a uniform to school; but then spent 28 years in uniform in the US Forces. To be honest — 200 years of American history was all I could handle in school. Love your podcasts — I’m finding dodges to my daily schedule to try and catch up. I’ve been addicted to the TV series Vikings — you Podcasts have added a new level of enjoyment. Thanks again
Thanks Warren. You need to get yourself a job with extensive travel! My podcast consumption has sunk to an all time low now I am not commuting. Hope you enjoy the podcast, and shed a tear and shake a fist for me when you do get to 1066.
A new member here, after having listened over the past four months to casts 1 through 240 (some even twice, just to let it all sink in). This podcast has had me branch off into some fascinating topics – tribal migrations through Europe, trade patterns and language, with a topping of modern English shed phrases to boot! To think it all began with a bunch of hairy Vikings on my TV screen.
I’d very much appreciate some shedcasts to deal with military and technological development, importantly the context of such developments in England in comparison with other countries.
Oh, one last thing- sometime when going on my iPhone through the casts on the website, I get error messages for failing to load a page. Any idea why’s that?
Hi Tomer, and thanks so much for joining. Funnily enough I had just put on a my list early modern warfare, and will see if there’s more about technology, nice idea.
On the webpage messages; are they related to a particular page or random? Just wondering if its a connection problem or something?
David
Ah, some serious long-distance synchronicity at its best! I love it when it happens.
Regarding the webpage issue, it seems to be an on-and-off thing, though when loading other pages everything seems fine. Perhaps a server issue? I don’t want to clutter the comments section any further with this though; if the issue persists, I’ll reach out by email. Cheers!
David – Glad to be back on the Members Shedcast, as I am no longer a Member Outcast. Thank you for all the work you have done to get us back on track and make it easier to enjoy your podcasts.
I have two suggestions – 1) Can you use a different icon for the shed cast? When driving, with my long distance glasses on, it is difficult to tell them apart, and I should be keeping my eyes on the road. Just changing the color, using the same icon otherwise, would do the job. You have many US listeners, and I bet many listen on our otherwise miserable commutes to and from work. 2) In these member comments, could you place the most recent comments at the top? I stopped looking at them because it looked like it was “abandoned” from the top, until I finally scrolled down.
Thanks again for creating an original and fun podcast!
Hi Mike, and I am glad too!
Now the logo should be different; it’s supposed to be a sort of mauve colour. I’ll have to work out why it’s not coming out with this logo/ So yes, I’ll find a way. I don’t know about your other comment – but I bet Jesse can do that. I’ll have a chat with him. Welcome back!
David,
Yesterday morning, I was trying to pick a HOE podcast while I was driving, and I saw a purple choice to distinguish from the yellow option! Great job, David – that really does help. You have to be the most customer-responsive podcast host on the planet!
Thanks Mike – well, it was a good idea!
Like Tomer, I am a new card carrying member. I have to go back and listen to the Saxon series once again as some of them didn’t work the first time. I have since learned how to get my phone to play an errant episode.
The whole podcast series has been fascinating. One of the things I have found interesting is how many other listeners have gone through your past 7 years of work in a few months time. Alas, I am not at all unique. What a pity.
I have never been one to binge watch any tv series. A few months ago I tried to watch the original Star Trek series but after 2 or 3 episodes I found it an incredible waste of time. And yet, listening to 242 and counting podcasts seems very productive.
David, I mentioned to you previously why I chose the moniker “Baron Ogle”. My son was having a bit of fun with me today and my “title”. In response I let him know the title is hereditary and as my only son, he will inherit it one day. We both laughed. The comment got me to wondering. When a noble passed away and his eldest son inherited the title, was there some kind of ceremony honoring the occasion?
Hi Wayne and yes there’s a good point – surely membership must be passed down from generation to generation as a sort of heirloom!
Um it’s a good question, and honestly I either don’t know or don’t think there was. The monarch was very careful to make sure there was a payment involved – from Anglo Saxon times, even pre feudalisation the inheritor was required to pay a ‘heriot’ a payment to take up their land, and that is a feudal due still gathered by Henry VIII’s time. But ceremony – not sure.
Yes I remember you telling us about the inheritance tax. How little things have changed. As far as having a ceremony, I assumed it would depend on the monarch and the lord. Some were more inclined to a good hooley than others.
(I also figured out how to change my user name is displayed. It’s a nice option.)
By the way I love maps in general and your interactive ones are great.
Baron, Sire, you re now my hero for ever. I respond well to flattery….
Just returned from 9 days in England/Wales where my trips to Sudeley, Ludlow, Worcester Cathedral, Conwy castle…. all so much more fun and meaningful after listening and learning from your wonderful podcasts!
Now that sounds like a great trip. Sudeley is a beautiful pl;ace in particular. Glad to have helped!
Hi David, I’ve just listened to Shedcast26 on Hans Holbein – wonderful as usual, by the way – and you asked for comments re future episodes. So, re the biographies of William Marshall and Eleonore of Aquitaine: yes, yes, yes! And as to a History of the British Navy, I think I agree with the view that as a series in itself it might prove a bit dry – long lists of ships, or battles, or benefactors etc. Whereas as an occasional series offering deeper analysis of the period in which the HoE finds itself. it would be a very welcome addition.
Anyway, that’s my tu’penny worth. Cheers.
Great, thanks. It shall be done!
Can I make a suggestion? How about a biography of John Knox?
Yes! Great suggestion, thanks.
Just joined – I’m sure I am one of your many members from “across the pond”. I cannot tell you how much I love the podcast! Can’t wait to hear about Scotland (which sadly I do not know that much about, have not even seen “Braveheart”…but I do want to visit!). I am especially interested in listening to the shedcast about Hans Holbein! If I can make one suggestion, I don’t know if it is possible to have searchable “keywords” for the podcasts – an American friend is going to York (tomorrow actually) and I was trying to advise her on which episodes to download and I had a bit of trouble figuring out which ones dealt with York. I suggested the Brothers York and the 2 Pilgrimage of Grace ones (which I haven’t heard…I have been obsessed with the Henry VIII ones since I found the podcast). At the risk of making this comment way too long, I found it from the “History of English” podcast where he gave you a shout out. I get to travel to London once a year on business so I always throw in some personal days and I will love playing the relevant podcast before I go see the historical site!
Hi, and thanks for joining – welcome. I hope you enjoy the shedcasts, and do let me know either way. I will have a think about keywords; tags must be possible, though the question will always be whether or not I have chosen the right ones, but I will have a think.
Hello! I just joined after 252 wonderful free episodes. I love what you do and I just wanted to support you and your efforts. Thanks! On to the new content!
Thank you Jeffrey, and welcome.
Hi David. Just to let you know listening to all your podcasts got my through my long run training for my first marathon – I did well – a mention to you for the support 🙂
I am particularly interested in Edward VI – he is a forgotten man/boy as people always assume Henry VIII was succeeded by Mary.
Living in South Africa, stumbled across the History of England a month ago now on EP.97, it’s awesome, going to get stuck into the History of Scotland now. Thank you for such a in depth review of the history of Great Britain especially for keeping the History of England free, that is very kind of you and compelled me to subscribe so you are financially rewarded for your outstanding effort.
One question are the bird tweets i sometimes hear in the background for real (it all adds to the image of England’s pastures green…)?
Thank you again.
Andrew
Fantastic, thanks so much for signing up. Yes…those are birds outside the window. Then I buy a new, better mic. Which gets rid of them-a shame! Such is progress….
I have to agree, the birds added a nice touch. I felt like I was in garden in England.
Hello!
I’ve been listening for a while but just signed up! Thanks for making such an interesting podcast. I look forward to listening to the shedcasts.
Thanks – and thank you for joining! Fingers cross that you enjoy the shedcasts, or some of them at very least.
Hello David,
I’ve been listening to your shedcasts for a while now and really appreciate you even more after spending some time in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland last spring (I’m from America). Thanks for offering up the great places to visit!
Thanks!
David, just a note to tell you how much I appreciate your wit and cleverness in putting together what is the best podcast I’ve ever listened to. The detail is rich and deep, and your asides and insights have illuminated English history life me. I’ve been an avid student of English history for years and your podcasts has embellished what I have learned. Oh and your interview with McCullough was brilliant; he’s a fave of mine. Plus, your history has shed light on England’s current crisis, if only by highlighting the evolving nature of England’s political growth and development. It has helped me to understand my country’s (US) own growth and divergence from the mother ship.
Enough smarminess. Great job. I’m delighted to be counted as a long time traveler with you on this journey.
Dan
Thank you for taking the trouble to get it touch – very glad you are enjoying it.
ok,David …..this is a question which has been bugging me ever since I discovered your marvellously entertaining podcasts. “hate it or loathe it” and “the rough end of a pineapple” are they genuine Crowtherisms or did you filch them from someone else ??? I find I’m using them unintentionally and getting odd looks from people…should I reference you ??
Jesse
I think everything is filched, Jesse. It’s a magpie thing, shiny words and phrases I pick up. Hate it or loathe it is Marvin the paranoid android, the glory that was Douglas Adams, Hitchikers guide. Along the lines of ‘why stop now just when I’m hating it’. Rough end of a pineapple is apparently an Aussie phrase, slightly higher quality than their other classic ‘don’t come the raw prawn with me’. So it’s not filched from an individual, in this case, but an entire nation. Even ruthless was my mate’s dad when we were 8 or something. Sorry! Thing of me as a chronicler, preserving, rather than a historian, creating.
Of course ! Marvin !! I listened on my tranny (probably illegal these days!?) under the bedsheets to the glorious Peter Jones in my youth….
It was a glorious series wan’t it? I loved the TV version too.
Hi Love the Podcast though I started only recently on about episode 245 so I am catching up from the start and listening to the most recent as well!
Lived in Groby from the age of 14 (in 1970) till university so know bradgate park and love old John been called an upside down beer tankard! Scattered my mum and dads ashes round the tankard!
So glad you decided against all the musical interludes by the way!
Love history and am researching the history of my early 18th century home in a northamptonshire village. Reading old legal documents makes you blind, all that does at my age!
thanks again!
Simon Conway
Hi Simon, and how brilliant to find a local. Groby Pool as I remember…vaguely! Thanks for becoming a member by the way, I really appreciate it!
I just checked out the ship! great coffee cups. The shirts look good too. Do you ship to the USA? gotta have one of each product. Plus, the most important question, are you getting beer mugs one day!!!!!
Yes – it’s all print on demand so produced in US and Latvia depending on where you order from. And beer tankards…great idea!
David,
My load is now lighter …my payment information had been incorrect in Patreon but now I have updated it so now I am back to pulling my fair share for the excellent podcasts you produce.
Just curious, have you considered any work around the history of the relationship between England and her wayward former colony. I am of course referring to my home, the United States because, from my perspective it would be interesting to see what that history looks like from the other side of that relationship. I fully understand that you are busy doing great work (that I throughly enjoy by the by) but really this is your fault because your curiosity is stoking my curiosity.
Micheal P. Gumbert
Hi Michael and welcome back! I did notice..and worry, gently!
yes, I have a basic problem approaching me, which is how I deal with all the colonisation coming up – into how much depth I go. The danger is that I end up trying to produce a history of a reasonable percentage of te world, which I am ill qualified to do. So – I don’t know, essentially!
Finally “Ponied Up” and became a member! I’ve followed you since the beginning, but I wanted to also be in the Shed Club.
Thanks David, for your time all these years to enlighten and entertained.
From Texas with Love.
Thank you! I do hope you enjoy being in the shed club, and that you enjoy the shedcasts. And pass by best regards to Texas!
Hi David, just signed up for my very first podcast membership thanks to your efforts! I have listened through the entire free HOE podcast (twice) and clearly need to support your endeavor.
As an engineer by career with an avid interest in history, your podcasts have been a constant beloved companion and counterweight to the day to day madness of this technological world.
I certainly gain perspective about my crises and stressors when viewed against historical figures’ daily challenges and real threat to life and limb if the outcomes are not acceptable to “the boss”!
Please keep up the incredible work, your love and passion for the subject are apparent and welcomed. Every time I hear the intro music I just relax into whatever task or hobby I am doing in parallel (ironing, gardening, CAD design of supercomputers, etc).
-Barrett (I’m female by the way, my family gave me 3 family last names)
Portland, OR, USA
Hello Barrett, brilliant and welcome! I hope you enjoy the shedcasts. It is fabulous to think of people as far away as Portland listening to tales of England. I do have fond memories of Portland – though brief, it has to be said, I stayed a day in 1984 in the ubiquitous Greyhound tour of America with a mate. And very generous of your family!
Thanks again, and do tell me what you think; writing podcasts outside the chronology of the History of England is quite a different experience
David
I just wanted to say, I just moved up the east coast (america, guess I need to say) to Connecticut for a job promotion. I had seen/heard the ad for the Intelligent speech show but couldnt see how to spend the $175 plus getting to downtown NYC, ugh.
So, This morning I was still unpacking at my new apartment at 4am, doing laundry, unpacking, and listening to all your podcasts as usual. I was a week behind due to the move. I am listening to you and Roifield discussing tea and curry, loving every moment. I sat down to get some coffee and checked things. I saw your comment about the price reduction and change of venue. I just said oh what the hell I have to go. I listen to you, Mike Duncan and Heather Teysko so this is a no brainer.
I will be geeking out quietly wearing a Shedcast T-Shirt to show my alliance, ha.
I am about to finish “Crown of Blood” and have to ask.. Was Jane’s Father a nut, a fool, stupid, a zealot, or all of the above. He committed treason and was absolved of it yet continued to try to overthrow Queen Mary even with his own Daughter still in the tower while he was free. I know we cant get in his head after 500 years but wow what a fool.
Thanks for all you do and I look forward to seeing you in NYC, dont worry, the more maps the better!!!!
Bill
Fantastic, it’ll be brilliant to see you there Bill, it’s lovely of you to go to all the trouble. And yes, Henry Grey is quite a piece of work. I suppose there are a couple of things; the extraordinary sense of pride and dynasty; you could find yourself in a bloody brawl for getting a piece of etiquette wrong; and Henry thought (amazingly) he should have been accorded more respect by Mary. And/Or felt guilty at letting his daughter down and thought to save her rather than kill her? I agree, stunningly poor judgement!
Hi David, having listened in huge chunks whilst driving, gardening and, indeed, ironing, over the last couple of months, I’m now anxious that I’m catching up fast with your real time podcasts (I’m on episode 213 at the time of writing) so thought I ought to become a member to get hold of more content. Also I felt a bit shifty about getting such a mahoosive amount of free entertainment from you. I’ve recommended the History of England fairly indiscriminately to almost everyone I know so hopefully one or two of them might subscribe too. Keep up the good work and thank you.
Hi Hatty and thank you for the kind words, and for joining. I hope you enjoy the shedcasts.
Hi again David, I have just listened to episode 268 and the interview with Diarmaid MacCulloch about Cranmer and wondered if you were aware of the annual Cranmer Awards, organised by the Prayer Book Society? Several years ago, my son somehow found himself representing Salisbury Diocese after a public speaking thing at his school. Competitors had to memorise a collect, epistle and gospel reading from a given Sunday and recite it in front of an audience. It was an extraordinary occasion and not half as boring as it sounds. Anyway, thought you might be amused and pleased by the idea. https://www.pbs.org.uk/competitions-bursaries/the-cranmer-awards
I was not so aware – but now I am and very thankful – it looks great! And lovely to have the man’s name still living , breathing and among us
Hi David,
Just had to leave a message to say how much I’ve enjoyed the podcast. I’ve been bingeing relentlessly these past few months, so I’ve decided to hold off from going cold turkey for a bit by signing up to the members area.
Now that I’ve got out I expect I’ll get so excited when a new episode comes out there will be a small dribble of wee.
Keep up the good work.
Ha! Thank you Richard, and hope to see you on the other side!
I got a thought about learning more about Margaret Beaufort after the podcasts and watching a show here in the states about the 100yrs war. She was so very instrumantal in fashioning the Tudors. So, when wanting more info where does one go? Well, to this website of course! I looked through the book data and it pointed me to a book on exactly what I wanted.
As always, I say thank you for the website and shedcasts.
Excellent! Her’s is a very interesting story
Was just wondering when we could expect an update to the History of Scotland series. Thanks.
Hi Sarah. I thought it best to finish off the Life and Landscape in Anglo Saxon England first, so I’ll be back to Scotland with two episodes on 27th October and the 3rd November. If I manage to get the writing done, I could out one of them 2-3 weeks earlier, but will see how I get on. I have finally just produced a new schedule, which is here: https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/resource/the-podcast-schedule/?fbclid=IwAR3XQcHLQJZYxR1-3U3ayy1ReM5D_BBaK-roROQMeH87YIrz-RCfAtsjmHg
Hope that’s OK
David
I just wanted to come on here and say how much I’m enjoying “Life and Landscape…” I think it’s one of the best things you’ve done.
Brilliant, thank you! I was worrying slightly that’s it’s a bit dense, so I appreciate the encouragement very much.
I concur. I love to better understand the common people and how they lived.
Just a quick note here to let you know how glad I was to renew my membership for a second year, David. I discovered HoE and quickly joined about this time last year. Your podcasts have brightened my daily commute and helped to zip flights right along. The added bonus to this entertaining line-up of podcasts (I listen to them all) is that I am learning a little history along the way. Thank you!
Thank you Robert, it is very kind of you to let me know, and I am delighted. I hope you continue to enjoy them!
All is good.
I just wanted to congratulate you as I believe you’ve improved your French a lot and I like the accent (!)
And, your episode titles are really good, too…
Still enjoying after all these years!
Ha! That is excellent! Slightly unbelievable but thank you anyway!
Best wishes and take all the time you need to recover completely. We’ll be patiently waiting.
Sorry to hear the news. I wish you well in the recovery and hope everything works out ok. You bring me and others a great deal of happiness listening to you and learning about English History.
I was very glad to have met you in New York last summer at the conference.
Get better so you can explain cricket to me!!!!
Be Well,
Bill
Hi William, and thanks for your best wishes – and yes of course I remember! I sit here in hospital proudly wearing my History of England T Shirt!
I am usually shy about making a comment to someone online, but at this time I feel I have to wish David well and wish him a speedy recovery. Your podcast is one the things I always look forward to. The least I could do for all the hours of enjoyment you’ve given me with your wit, humor and knowledge is send you positive thoughts. Rest and heal. Oh, and I have a copy of the game, Kingmaker. Love it. 🙂
Ah then there’s the unshakeable bond of the Kingmaker! Thanks for your thoughts, things do seem to be getting better at last
Yes, I too wish you the best in your recovery. Please take care and take your time, we’ll be waiting eagerly.
Hi David,
Sorry to hear you’re sick. Everyone misses you.
Get well soon… no pressure!
Julie
I’ve just caught up on the podcast and am really sorry to hear you are ill. I hope your recovery Is going well. You give us so much. Please take good care of yourself. – Mary
I discovered your podcast about a week ag o and have been listening to it constantly since then. Just love it. Subscribing was a pleasure. Sad to hear you’re ill. Get well soon. Tarquin
Thanks!
Podcasters are right: it really does bring a feeling of cleanliness and good karma to become a member or patron of the wonderful and informative podcasts that we have been enjoying for close on a decade.
Hello David,
I am listening to the Henry the VIII episodes at the moment (and watching Wolf Hall: it’s a great combo): there are a number of advertisements at the end of the podcasts which all sport an Aussie accent. Is this purely because I am downloading my episodes from the Australian iTunes store, or do you have a deal with Aussie companies? Not a big deal: I just wondered.
I hope you get better soon and as painlessly as possible. I hope you and your family have a lovely Christmas.
Best wishes,
Pete Lawson.
Hi Pete, and I am delighted to hear of your feelings of cleanliness of spirit! And thank you! Um, on the advertising question, yes I think Acast the hosting company have offices all over the place a arrange local deals…
Have a great Christmas!
It is wonderful to hear your voice again, I must have missed your posts on Twitter earlier this month, but saw it today, and downloaded both episodes right away. I hope recovery goes well, and happy holidays to you and your family.
Hi, David,
I am finally catching up on the episodes and just heard that you are ill. Please take care of yourself, take all the time you need to recover, and spend as much time with your family as possible. Meanwhile, I can listen to shedcasts while I do my weekly ironing. 🙂
May you and your family have a peaceful, happy holiday season and new year!
Jane Terry
Thanks Jane and thanks for being a member!
Just sent a small donation. Should have sent earlier.
Missed you. Nice to hear your voice again!
Terry
My wife said to me this evening “So what would you like for your birthday?” As a retired man of a certain age, I have pretty much all I need in life. But I didn’t have a membership to the History Of England. I can tell you David this this has now been addressed and I am looking forward to my daily workouts in the company of the many previously unheard shedcasts etc. Thanks for all your work, clearly a labour of love, and the best of luck to you, particularly health-wise, in 2020.
I discovered your podcast just over a year ago, and thoroughly enjoyed binge-listening to it for the better part of a year. I finally did the right thing and became a member in the fall.
In your December podcasts, you apologized to members that they’d signed up and hadn’t received anything for two months. I hope you don’t really feel a need to apologize. I’m sure many members feel the same way I do: this isn’t a purchase of a commodity; it’s a privilege to be a member and part of the community that supports you and wishes you well. You’ve given much joy, and it will give more joy to hear you again — when you’re able. We all wish you the very best.
Thanks Christopher. I do though feel a bit guilty. Just the way I am wired!
Hope you are well David. I miss you
Hallo David
Thank you for these wonderful podcasts. I have followed this for years and I am now using my twelve weeks revisiting everything from the start. Most of all David, how are you? You are so missed. Get well.
Terry Garratt
Best wishes David. Hope you and your family are coping ok with all that is going on.
Wish you well. Have also been re-listening to the old episodes and really enjoying them again. Right now in these times, I think a little David Crowther is good for the soul. Take care and be safe. To us all.
Hi David, so thrilled to see a new HoE podcast “Enter Good Queen Bess”. I have been rationing my listening to make the podcasts last longer. But today I caved and just loaded the Marshall series onto my iPhone. Hoping you are feeling much better.
Andrew Palmer
Another post for support from San Diego. I’ll renew my subscription when it comes due in a couple weeks. Hoping the pubs open up for you. We get frequent UK status videos from Kevin Shelley who did the Narrowboat series on youtube, vimeo and Amazon Prime as The Countryhouse Gent. Wish I could buy all y’all the first ten rounds, just to hear the stories.
Thank you Gene!
Not sure where you get the reviews from but here is mine:
“David Crowther is the bee’s knees of podcasting!”
Love the shed content and thanks for producing it. I have learned oodles.
Thanks! And long live Mercia!
Hallo. I love your podcasts and was quite bereft when you were…otherwise engaged. However, my playlist is weirdly richer to the tune of 3 copies of Shedcast 1(one) this week and I am beginning to feel put-upon. Though I will never say that you have “delighted us enough”, it would be nice if you could stop it!
I think the answer Colin, is that you need to focus a but, and concentrate on getting through those podcasts. Honestly, I was saying to the wife to other day that I’m beginning to question your committment…!
I’m struck by the system of royal “taxation” (I’m at HOE episode 79) that set a quota for a shire reeve (or other official) to be extracted from the peasantry, and then the official had to obtain his own wealth by extracting whatever additional he could. This seems extortionate. It reminds me of the gangs and warlords around the world and their schemes for “protection money.” Yet somehow, at least in your telling, it is less violent and more sanctioned back then than it seems today.
This is my favorite podcast–by far. Keep up the good work. I’ve joined as a member. Cheers from the Kansas City area.
Thank you for your kind words and becoming a member! Yes, Tax farming seems extremely dangerous; and tax was probably quite unfair. So if you were a local dignitary, you’d sidle up to the tax assessor, and get him to underestimate your holdings…so that your tax bill was tiny. If you happened to be a peasant you didn’t have that luxury, Famously, William Cecil, Elizabeth I’d Principal Secretary was assessed with income at £133. It was in fact over £4,000! Tax farming though is endemic in Europe, when today’s modern bureaucracies didn’t exist.
hello David,
thank you for the new African series. I have little knowledge of African or in general colonial history, and the introduction really helped me to put random bits into context. Looking forward to the next episodes!
David,
Surfing though the comments I’m glad to hear you doing well during your hospital stay. Like you I know that hospitals aren’t places to spend more time that is absolutely necessary. I am keeping up with your posts – great work. SO here is something you might like to spend a few minutes looking at. I collect for the U.S. National Archives photo and film WW1 and WW2, and other things. This link is to a collection of photos by the U.S. Navy Combat PHoto Unit while they were in the UK prior to D-Day.. Scotland – Slapton Sands and other places around the Isle. https://flic.kr/s/aHsmGDaMCm IF your really interest his a link to all the stuff I’ve posted. Hope it helps pass the time. https://www.flickr.com/photos/42642564@N02/albums.
David,
I’ve been listening to your podcast now for about a year and a half. (I’m in Edward IV’s reign…”bring a bottle, get a pardon”… now, that’s my kind of monarch! And I’m an American.) Been freeloading this entire time…embarrassing, shameful…I know! I’ve been telling myself, for some time, I was going to donate or join, just never got around to doing it…until today! I am proud to say I am now a member of this little community.
In all seriousness, your podcast has brought me great joy! I’ve learned so much, and you make it pretty darn entertaining too. Loved your rendition of “Pearl,” quite a touching piece of work.
I’m sure I’m not the first to write this to you (and admittedly, it’s a bit of a weird thing), but I feel like I’ve formed some type of personal relationship with you. Thanks for all your efforts. You have literally given me hours of learning and entertainment.
Hi Chad, welcome, and thank you! It is one of the reasons I love podcasting that it is in some weird way rather intimate…obviously don’t want to go overboard but as I write and record, I feel as though I am talking to my friends…almost none of whom I have ever met!
I had a wonderful time yesterday with the intelligent speech conference. Yall did a great job with everything as usual. I enjoyed the first one live in NYC but if we cant get back to that I’m fine with the online get together. It was easy, everything worked (as far as I saw) and I found 2 new podcasts. We viewers really must pick at least 1 or 2 topics that dont interest us and watch it anyway. Always learning something new and found 2 new podcasts.!
Thanks to you for starting it off with beer and thanks to everyone involved for a fun day.
Hi william, and hope you are well! It was a lot of fun I agree, and I enjoyed finding out out the history of English boozing!
Hello David
Have been trying to send you a donation but it’s difficult!
I reside in Qatar but was using my Barclays card and your page needs a UK address. My billing address is in Qatar.
I’m not so good with some things (don’t use Facebook etc ) but I think I have (been) signed up for a miserable monthly of 5 dollars. Anyhow, the just giving went through so I sent something for that.
I’ve been listening for ever, and still look forward…
So, please stay healthy (if only for me )
Terry
aka Terence Sutcliffe
Hi Terry, and I have seen! Essentially you have been wildly generous – I have emailed you and sent you a note in Patreon
Just to see who might be listening….. I’m opening this Zoom session on Tue Jul 20th, just to see who might join…
Gene Anderson is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: David Crowther
Time: Jul 20, 2021 06:30 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
should be 2:30pm London time
Join Zoom Meeting
https://ucsd.zoom.us/j/95301575416?pwd=dDd1Yis4dmVNcjZoa0Z5RUJNS3lyZz09
Meeting ID: 953 0157 5416
Password: davidrocks
One tap mobile
+16699006833,,95301575416# US (San Jose)
+12133388477,,95301575416# US (Los Angeles)
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 213 338 8477 US (Los Angeles)
+1 669 219 2599 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 953 0157 5416
Find your local number: https://ucsd.zoom.us/u/av8faOXMh
Good lord, Gene, what on earth is this proposed zoom call topic?! I suspect Solomon Grundy would be a more lively topic!
David, open forum, actually, only if it’s fun. I was wondering if there are others that have the same fixation on what life was really like, say, 900 years ago. Your approach inspires us to read more. I have trouble with context sometimes when you introduce a new name; so I was wondering how others go about placing them into the period. I have the appropriate kill switch if this goes some other direction. Else, this could be a hoot and we’ll want more. 🙂 Gene
David courtesy heads up that I’m seeing blanks on the Resources page on the website. 🙂
Yes! After listening to this podcast for MANY HOURS, I finally just signed up as a member and couldn’t see anything on either the “Resources” page OR the “Themes” page…
Good day to you all, I was wondering, is there a way to get the HoE main show into my Apple Podcast App without the adverts. I’m a member of another podcast and on their Patreon feed, you can hear the ‘free’ show but there are no ads in it. It’s not a biggie, just wondering.
I think you can if you use the ‘RSS’ feed from the website but I have no idea how you do that! You can also listen through the App – but I haven’t promoted that yet because it’s not finished, and also I’m about to change my host so it probably will stop working for a while
Thank you for the reply. I used the RSS link and the Apple Podcast App just downloaded a second HoE feed, it also had adverts. I did use the phone app but the sound stops when the phone goes into lock. Like I say, no biggie.
Apethorpe Palace is now English Heritage. Loads spent on it. Open a few days a year.
Sounds as though you’ve also been there – I’d forgotten it was English heritage. It was an amazing pace to visit
Just finished the shed cast on beers and ales. Just a courtesy confirmation, David, that your viewpoint in this regard is highly respected by a whole bunch of us. I’m watching a decline in drinkable beers here, and I live just 2 miles from Stone Brewing headquarters. Beers here are turning to grapefruit juice. The finest cask ESB brewery in San Diego county fell to the pandemic economy. My favorite London pub, The Harcourt, is down to one cask ale. CAMRA fits my agenda. I still hope to buy you some pints in the future.
Hi Gene, and I share your pain. And we must resolve to buy and drink as much cask ale as humanly possible – purely in the public interest of course!
David, I sent you an email this week that I paid the annual subscription on May 2 and then the automatic payment kicked in on May 8. Courtesy check if you can fix that. Please and thank you. Gene
Hi David,
I’m having problems loading an old episode – I’m slowly working my way through and HoS41 – The French Alliance keeps telling me “Error 404 The Requested URL could not be found but may be available again in the future.” – Every other episode seems OK. Thanks
Ria
Hi Sir David. I’m from Namibia (Windhoek). Ran into the podcast 3 weeks ago and I’ve listened to all 300+, I couldn’t stop. Working, cooking, walking; I had your voice in my ear all the time. Dreadful I know , and I listened to them twice once chronological and once backwards according to the eras (Liz was my favorite cause the podcast gets better with every episode and the early Edwards for some reason) Looking forward to delve into the BarnCasts. Eleanor is first in line cause I’ve heard her name most. I forgot why I’m writing, but your Podcast is sublime. Just Brilliant. Thank You.
Hi Natange and what a thrill to hear from you, so far away! And thank you so much for being so generous, so pleased you are enjoying the podcast. I have to tell you I love writing it, such a privilege that people listen – so thank you! And I hope you enjoy the shedcasts
History in Technicolor is also awesome and Master and Commander is one of my favourite films as well. So Beautiful, no matter what Wolf says. Every shot a painting. Thank You’s for the brilliant entertainment all round. And I Learned some stuff too. I’m sure I have.
Hello David! I have just become a member. Where do I start…I am in awe of you. I am amazed by you. The amount of research you do is absolutely phenomenal. Your sense of humour is fantastic. What a hard working, dedicated, intelligent person you are. I hope that you have done well with your continued learning course, that you were able to do whilst providing the superbly, excellent podcasts. You are truly a super human, a God of History.
Susie I blush! I am printing your message out and distributing it to my children as we speak! More seriously, thank you for becoming a member!
So, a month or so ago I listened to the Elizabethan theater episode(s?) and hear of Kyd and Marlowe and the Duchess of Malfi and all that. At the same time I was reading the Silkworm, JK Rowling’s second book about Cormoran Strike and Robin. At each chapter head there is an obscure quote. Duchess of Malfi! Thomas Kyd! I actually know where these quotes come from! I can pretend to be fully educated! Thank you for the leg up. And who knew the author of Harry Potter was into Elizabethan theater?
Now there’s a link! I saw some of the TV productions, not read the books I must do. I must admit that in writing these episodes, I was constantly aware of the wafer thin nature of my knowledge, so I am glad you enjoyed them
Special parts of the podcast: When David utters ‘before you could say…’ i.e. “before you could say miscarriage of justice, his head was on a pike” or the little “Hahaa’s” after a wafer thin pun.
It’s the little things, the little things. What a treasure this is.
History in Technicolour: after The Last Samurai maybe Red Cliff. It’s a massive Trilogy though, all shot as one, like The rings of some Lord. I haven’t seen yet, but it looks Epic, with colossal battle scenes and birds eye strategic manoeuvrings.
Hi David
Quick note to let you know how much I enjoy your podcast. Love your humor and the way in which you make the topics interesting and informative.
Cheers from the USA
While playing with Podcasts on my new Apple Watch I have managed to delete my Members feed completely, on my iPhone as well. I would like to rectify this bit of unintended technical vandalism and restore it. But, despite poring over your website I can’t seem to find out how to make this happen so that the Members Podcast appears along with the free History of England podcast which I have managed to reinstate. Help!
Chris
Hi Chris – just to remind you (as you probably already know) the Free THoE and Shedcasts have to remain on separate feeds. The instructions on how to set up the shedcasts are here https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/members/howtodownloadshedcasts. They also give instructions, by the way on how to set up your THoE feed without adverts; and you might want to look at the App too – here at https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/resource/using-the-history-of-england-app-for-members as a way of getting your shedcasts, and beingn able to see the series more easily; and HoE episodes ad free to boot. Let me know how you get on. https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/resource/using-the-history-of-england-app-for-members
Hi David!
I just want to drop a note about how much I’ve enjoyed the podcast, and how glad I am to finally become a member. You’re a constant and delightful companion in my ears, thank you!
Tomáš
Thank you Tomas! That’s really kind, and I very much appreciate you taking the trouble to get in touch, it makes a big difference – I am a sucker for flattery!
Hello, David!
As I mentioned on Patreon, how you have eluded me lo these many years is beyond my grasp. I still do not completely dismiss mischievous, snickering leprechauns or a Baskervillian mist. Yet, found you I have. You’ve quickly become my most enjoyable traveling companion.
I’m currently to the Irish debacles episodes of Elizabeth I. Isn’t it fascinating to learn how many long running future troubles link back to a single action or a counterintuitive, heavy-handed decision made by one person? I know, it’s not the monarch, rather those evil advisors.
I offer two book recommendations. As a fellow Bernard Cornwell fan, I’m curious if you have read his “Heretic” series? As well done as the Saxon Chronicles, this three-parter is set during Edward III’s French campaigns and centers on a young longbowman who has the remarkable knack for being at every major battle. So well done you can practically feel the mud between your toes.
The other is “The Steel Bonnets” by George MacDonald Fraser. An historical non-fiction about the Anglo-Scottish border reivers. Very informative and easy to read. I have not read other of his work, but understand he was also an historical fiction writer.
Sincere thanks and appreciation for all you do. While we share a similar sense of humor, what I appreciate most is the perspective you lend. Evil deed? Perhaps. Evil intentions? Not necessarily. Okay. No, it’s the wit. Keep smiling and doing what you do better than any.
Michael, my memory sucks and I have a powerful, powerful memory that I have replied before so forgive me – may just be me thanking you for becoming a member. Anyway…the Irish thing is just agony isn’t it? So many occasions when we could have done things differently and better; so many opportunities missed. And yes you are right, one thing leads to another, sucks us in.
I have read the heretic series – I am a huge fan of Cornwell; mainly because he’s a great story writer, but also because he does his research, and he let’s you know about the liberties he’s taken. And yes I have read the Steel Bonnets; we went on a family holiday to the north east, and picked up a copy there. A very dramatic and um ‘romantic’ history but as sure as eggs is eggs i am glad I didn’t live there at the time. Bandit country.
Thank you Michael for getting in touch and becoming a member.
Hi David. I’m having difficulty using the mobile app on my iPhone 13. Some days it works, other days (like today) it freezes and might be dead. Any help will be appreciated
– I hate to iron fabric without hearing your voice.
Shirley
Also, I have downloaded episodes for off-line listening but I have no clue as to where they go. Looked in my downloads folder but did not find any.
Hi there, and I am really sorry about the freezing; I have no idea why that would be, but I will ask Jesse if he knows of a reason. The only thing I can think of would be a bad connection if you are streaming? I can help with the downloads though. At the top right is a menu symbol – three horizontal lines. Hit that and you’ll get a drop down list of options and near the bottom (you can scroll down if necessary) is an option ‘All Downloaded Podcasts’ – that’s where they live. I’ll get back to you if I can find a better answer on freezing.
I keep getting an email saying that my payment keeps getting declined. Could it be because my bank is now deciding to cause a problem because the charges are coming from England? I’ve always used the same card for the last three years and I’ve never had a problem until recently.
Hi there and thanks for getting in touch; I will email you
David, now that you’re moving past 1650 or so, what about an episode on highwaymen and the perils of travelers. I have an engraving of Claude Duval, which is just amazing. I saw the larger format engraving in a Marylebone pub and the detail was stunning. https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/16050/lot/315/
Maybe even an episode on engravings (?)
You’re doing great, sir.
Hi Gene, and thank you; and great idea, it shall be done!
Hi David
Enjoying the shedcasts on tourism etc and am just finishing the the second one.
I don’t know whether you have ever read the discworld books by Terry Pratchett? I can’t imagine that a man with your sense of humour and sense of the absurd have not read at least a few of them.
The young gentlemen of the aristocratic families of Ankh-Morpork are accustomed to going on “The Grand Sneer” where they go off on tour and sneer at the other city states of the discworld.
I have always loved that thought and wondered if there was any truth in the idea? Did the young gentlemen of Britain go off on the Grand Tour for a bit of fun and mockery or was it all taken very seriously?
Cheers
Simon
Hi Simon and yes! Most certainly I love Terry Pratchet; not quite as much as Douglas Adams for some reason, but yes!
I am busking here. I don’t think there’s any doubt that people went on the grand tour to marvel at the wonders of the Ancient world and were duly amazing and inspired for the most part; and they went to improve their minds and culture. At the same time, the 18th and 19th centuries were periods of a towering sense of nationalism, patriotism and national pride that would have Guardian readers howling in horror – so it would be extremely surprising if there wasn’t a deal of sneering going on about those countries’ relative poverty also. That, for what it’s worth, is my busk!
I’m listening to the reign of Elizabeth the 1st. I scanned the episodes, and I’m so disappointed that you don’t have an episode of the English Renaissance: Philip Sidney, William Shakespeare, Ben Jonson, and Philip Marlowe (and many others). Those plays are performed today! Can you have a guest speaker?
Sadly, Megan P from Seattle
I am innocent of the charge! Or well at least there are three episodes on theatre – 344-346. There’s also a guest website on the Guest Episodes feed, or on the website – https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/blog/2021/03/07/310a-christopher-marlowe-by-philip-rowe/. where you’ll also find a short guest episode on Byrd and the other one – https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/blog/2017/11/19/231a-english-music-and-the-reformation-by-heather-teysko/. Although true to say, Dyndney doesn’t get a mench. nor the fairie queen guy – Spencer, that’s it. But there is something…
I’m so glad. I took a cursory glance at the episodes. I look forward to them.
Hello David,
Undoubtedly my question is caused by user error or user misunderstanding: the History of Scotland podcast will not take the password I use for the History of England podcast. I know the password is correct because I copied and pasted it. Any thoughts on the subject would be helpful. Eliza
Hi Eliza – I am reallysorry there’s a problem; I have emailed you so hopefully we can carry on the conversation. In the meantime I have not been able to recreate the problem, buit please let me know if you don’t receive an email, or if it goes into you spam filter, and we can carry on direct.
Hi David,
I love your podcast and am glad to have finally joined as a member. Thanks for putting each one together, they’ve been amazing to listen to.
Hello David,
Just joined, been binge listening since the beginning of 2023, now running out of episodes, hence ‘forced’ to become a member. Love your dry humour. You quote from many books I have also enjoyed, but I never heard a quote from Terry Prachett’s Discworld series. Perhaps you don’t now them and I recommend them with all my heart.
Kind regards from Gouda,
Henk
Hello Henk, and lovely to hear from you. And you are quite right; it has been mentioned by a few others actually. I did love Terry, and he’s absolutely the same absurd tradition as Monty P & Douglas Adams. Somehow the quotes didn’t stick in quite the same way. I may look him up again; I remember one very funny talk from an old boss who was using Discworld quotes about management…And best wishes to Gouda from South Oxfordshire!
I have just joined having discovered HoE in the last few weeks. I’ve been binge listening ever since. I truly love the podcast, your humane attitude and dry self deprecating humour.
I also echo the comments about Terry Pratchett. I recognise the Douglas Adams references but some of your humour reminds me of discworld. Sorry if you’re a bit sick of hearing that.
I’m looking forward to the continuing story of England according to DC/ladybird/1066andallthat. While I enjoy historical non-fiction I sincerely admire your apparent enjoyment of the amount of research you undertake in order to make HoE as successful and enjoyable as it is. Thank you so much
Hello Susan, and thank you so much for getting in touch and saying such kind things! It’s very kind of you – and especially for becoming a member of course.
I have read loads of Discworld novels and love them very much; and yes I agree Terry is in a straight line of descent from Douglas. I shall read some anew!
Hi David,
I am not sure this is the right place for this request, but I looked and did not find any place that seemed more appropriate. I apologize in advance if I missed something. The purpose of the post is to ask about your support for “independent podcasters”. First of all, I think it is a great idea. Of course, part of the reason that I think that is that I am one of those. I have had a podcast for a couple of years on the history the space program and nothing would give me a greater thrill than to hear it mentioned on the History of England. I have been a listern and a fan pretty much since the beginning and your podcast in particular is part of the reason I started Terranauts three years ago at a time of, shall we say, career transition. You see it, as it happens you and I are of a similar age and we seem to have have similar family situations. Instead of a shed, I have a basement “studio” – you will, of course, notice the quotation marks. So, hearing you and seeing your success was a big part of me thinking that I might be able to do this thing. I have certainly learned a lot in three years – mostly I have learned how hard it is to grow a podcast. Hah! Terranauts has a small, but, I like to think, devoted following. I’d like to think more people would like it if they heard it.
OK, enought prattling on. If there is a way to join the club of “Crowther Approved Podcasts” I would love to know.
Thanks again for all you do and have done
Also thanks for your continued support to independent podasters
Iain
Hooray for me. I’ve made it to episode 50. Only 11 more years of content to go! Loving every minute of it.
Congratulations! And thanks, I am glad you are liking it
There’s something odd about logging in. When I login, it takes me to an admin page which tells me I’m not allowed to access it. Then I have to go back to the main site to use it.
Hello David!
I have a question going way back to early days. I’ve gone back to listen and relisten a number of times to the early episodes to catch that the Gewisse and Hwicce were two different tribes (is that the right word?). One as a part of Mercia and the other Wessex. Could you clarify at all about these two groups… and perhaps why the names are so similar? Is there any relationship between the two?
Thanks!
Terry
That’s a very good question which I have never thought to ask! I have always assumed they are just tribal names, acquired by groups of Saxons in the invasion period. I don’t think there’s necessarily a connection between the two; but if you will forgive me, there are actually two very good Wikipedia articles on both names. Culturally, both tribes were Anglo Saxon, mlore specifically Saxon; the Hwicce are subsumed into Offa’s kingdom of Mercia
Thank you David!
Thank you for talking me through hours of political leaflet delivery. Really drowns out the hecklers.
You get hecklers when you deliver political leaflets? Wow! All I get is the odd flick of the net curtains…and a deep sense of embarrassment. I do hate doing it!
Alas, mainly from my own supporters.
David… I had uhh idea…. I would pay money for a YouTube Channel that was, say, 3 or 4 people in period costume talking at some pub in the year 966, then, 967 and so on up to 1918. Seems that you’d have the right connections to make that happen. Then, I picture that becoming a perfect BBC series. Maybe start with 15 minute segments? That could be a hoot.
Second thought, no doubt we’d need subtitles
Hi Gene, and it is an undeniably good idea, that has been on my list for ages.But I just don’t have the time. If I was entreporeneurial, I’m go for it (and other things), but I have come to love walking over the grass to my shed in a 30 second daily commute, and working away with no one to bother me.
After much listening, I’m up to podcast #221. Only 6 years to go till I’m caught up. I was wondering, were there any purposeful explorations by the English before John Cabot?
Hi jack, and the light is at the end of the tunnel! Though of course, I’ll be working hard to take the end of the tunnel further away… um, no, ,y understanding is that John Cabot was where it started; there many have been fishermen and all that, but nothing organised
“At a Gallop” perfect for my attempts to get key facts from 17th C into my aged brain. Stuff has to be hammered in repeatedly these days. Thanks for this and all the rest.
Thanks, Jon, and very kind of you to say so. And yes. My memory now has an active range of two weeks.
Concur, AAG is working for me, thank you
Wow. I didn’t think it would ever happen – but I have caught up (2 years since starting). Now to crack on with the Shedcasts!
By ‘eck.Just so you know, then, that’s 2.2million words you’ve heard of my voice! Good luck with the shedcasts
I just signed up after listening to the first 14 episodes of the History of England podcast….I had no idea how big this project was/is -its pretty bloody impressive!
Hi Ben and thank for joining up! I saw your checkout, and it always give a nice start to the day. I hope you enjoy the shedcasts; to get the best from membership can I encourage you to head to the members page, here: https://thehistoryofengland.co.uk/members. That gives you links to places for the advert free Hisotyr of England feed, and the Members’ App in particular. Hppe you enjoy it all!
Hi David, I am loving the Charles II period but was slightly amused by your pronunciation of the village of Kineton. My father was brought up in the tiny village of Radway which sits at the base of Edgehill basically on the battlefield. The locals pronounce Kineton with the Kine part sounding like time or lime not the Kin, Tim or Lim way that you pronounced it in the episode. I know you so love this type of feedback! Keep up the good work though, I love the podcasts. Paul
Bloody hell! I even looked it up on the interweb to make sure I got it right! I’m sorry Paul. I was deceived!
Pronounced like a true South East Warwickshire local on yesterday’s At a Gallop episode.
Phew! Finally got it right!
David. Just realized my membership had run out. Signed back up, but hamhandedly managed to do so at both Monthly and Annual levels. Please cancel the first and keep me at Annual level. Been listening on and off for years. Am on Episode 226 now. Thanks for keeping my company as I run. Exercising the body and the mind at the same time. That seems worth the 40 pounds a year, whatever that that is in CAD . . .
Hi there and thank you for being a member, thoroughly lovely of you. I have checked – you managed to cancel the monthly one, and I have refunded the £4 (hopefully in CAD then!) but keep an eye on it and let me know if it’s a problem. And good luck with the exercising!