I did not realize until today that English Pubs where part of the national treasures championed by Prince Charles.
Reading London Pubs, with Thanks to Madonna and Prince Charles (on Globespotters) made me aware of that.
While the piece reports that Madonna and Guy Ritchie bought centuries old London pub The Punch Bowl described as the second oldest in Mayfair, Prince Charles is the spirit behind Pub is the Hub.
The reason for his involvement (I quote) is that according to Prince Charles: “Rural communities, and this country’s rural way of life, are facing unprecedented challenges … the country pub, which has been at the heart of village life for centuries, is disappearing in many areas.
By providing new services from the pub, such as a post office or a shop, not only keeps an essential service in the village or brings a new one in.”
In other countries some cafes or bars might be the meeting point.
If you live in a small town or village, can you share what place fills that spot for you?
Thanks in advance!
Related: Izakaya…The Japanese Neighborhood Bistro?…And a Cookbook
When the monasteries were destroyed by Henry VIII in the 16th Century pubs took over as providers of warmth, shelter, beer and a community focus. They became unofficial employment exchanges, the venue for paying wages and even extended rudimentary banking services.
Craftsmen and trade guilds met at pubs bearing their names eg Masons or Carpenters Arms. A worker new to an area would head for the aptly named pub where landlords often provided credit until he was established in business
When the Victorian Friendly Societies were established to provide welfare services to the working man they too met in pubs that took their names eg Forresters or Oddfellows.
Pubs have been the centre of community life for centuries and always much more than a place to buy beer. Imagine a modern soap opera without a pub – doesn’t work, does it?
Elaine Saunders
Author – A Book About Pub Names
http://www.completetext.com