Dartmouth, England
They say it is hard to get here, to the town by the River Dart. A long and narrow, winding road leads through the hills and valleys. And yet for centuries man has come weaving the signs of his passing into a fascinating tapestry. The resultant juxtaposition was ours to explore today.
Our vessel, proud with colors flying, seemed small next to the HMS Cumberland with which we shared our moorage. Tenders ferried sailors to and from its floating dock just as Zodiacs shuttled us to and from the Dartmouth shores. The land route to this river mouth may be difficult but for generations ships have found their way with ease. Often with great relief, they were able to slip away from the stormy wind tossed waves, between the craggy sandstone cliffs and nestle within the green embracing hillsides. Speedwell and Mayflower ventured forth from here bearing the Pilgrim Fathers. Almost sixty years ago, warships filled the waterway, packed in tight, hidden from enemy fire waiting for the call to Normandy. The fishing boats of yesterday are gone as well today, giving way to pleasure boats and ferries.
The town meanders up the slopes. Having outgrown its britches it spilled out into the tidal flats, now drained and dry and bustling with commerce. Medieval architecture butts against Tudor, Elizabethan or even Modern. But they are all sewn together by the flowers. Each courtyard, stairwell or window is festooned with brilliant floral displays in every shape and color. Stonewalls are miniature gardens. Mosses and lichens paint the edges of castles and churches built hundreds of years ago. If one ventures further afield as many of us did today, one finds the flowers spilling down from meadows high above. Rivers of bluebells and red campion finger into the woodland and cascade out at the bottom carrying us back to town.
Regalia and tradition are important parts of the past as well. Wearing the chain of office, the Mayor dined with us this evening. His office can be traced back to the year of 1323. Long ago, but not far away in the town where yesterdays and today blend into one.
