A swan pit is a water-filled enclosure where swans were fattened and eventually killed for human consumption.
History
From the medieval period swans were kept in ponds and were a source of income and made acceptable gifts. Selected wild cygnets had their wings clipped and bills cut into a distinctive pattern bearing the owner's mark.
An example of a swan pit can be found within the grounds of the Great Hospital, Norwich. The Grade II listed tidal pool was built in the 18th century and is fed with water from the adjacent River Wensum.
References
- New York Times article Archived 2021-02-21 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved 16 November 2010
- Phillips, E. A Short History of the Great Hospital. 1999. pp 35.36. Jarrolds
- British listed buildings Archived 2012-04-30 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved 19 November 2010
External links
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