Gates of the Abode - A season of talks and workshops on death, departure and the unseen at Abney Park; this lecture is part of the Tales of Departure series.

What significance lies in the early legend of Dick Whittington resting in a cemetery, and how does this imagery reflect the deeper themes of life and fate, and their connection with London history? The Whittington Stone story symbolises resilience and the spirit of London. Its significance lies not only in its historical roots but also in its ongoing role in shaping the medieval city landscape and social-economic development. 

Abney Park, one of London's great Victorian garden cemeteries, offers a fitting place to consider this legend of resting, resilience and fate. Like the stone on which Whittington is said to have paused before turning back towards his fortune, Abney Park is itself a place of pause — a resting point in North London's landscape where centuries of the city's history, ambition and legacy lie quietly gathered. 

This talk will delve into the early texts and chronicles that trace the roots of Whittington's legend, revealing how historical narratives and folklore have evolved over time.

Speaker Biography: 

Alessandra Curtis is a British-Italian folklorist, with a background in archaeology, driven by a passion for material culture and London history. Drawing on a wealth of social history and curious details, she explores the forgotten meanings attached to every-day items that tell stories of ordinary people, often overlooked in conventional records. 

Meeting point:
Please meet at the Harriet Delph room, next to the cafe, at the Stoke Newington High Street entrance.
Please arrive 10 - 15 minutes before the start time of 7:00pm.

Access information:
The Harriet Delph room is located next to the Abney Park Cafe.
There is level access at the High Street entrance to Abney Park.
Accessible toilet facilities are available.