Significant Discovery of Historical Protective Marks at Gainsborough Old Hall

A significant collection of “carved rituals” and “witches marks” has been uncovered at a historic site. English Heritage reported that these marks, found at Gainsborough Old Hall in Lincolnshire, represent “one of the most identified” discoveries across its 400 properties. Approximately 20 carvings were found etched into the walls, with some thought to have been intended to ensnare demons and invoke the Virgin Mary for safeguarding. Kevin Booth, the head of collections for the charity, commented: “It is astonishing that, centuries on, the amazing old buildings in our care still have secrets waiting to be discovered.” Over the last two years, English Heritage volunteer Rick Berry has mapped these carvings at the Tudor property. His investigation brought to light “rare curse inscriptions” that English Heritage suggests were likely created during the period when William Hickman was the owner of the hall. One particular inscription features Hickman’s name written inverted. English Heritage stated: “The practice of defacing a name was widely believed to curse the named person.” The charity also noted that a curse of this nature had not previously been observed at any of its locations. Mr Berry also located marks within the hall’s servants’ wing. English Heritage identified “inscriptions believed to trap demons and Marian marks, which are believed by some to call on the Virgin Mary for protection,” alongside the discovery of a pentangle. The organization added: “Despite modern connotations, it was originally used to protect against evil.” In addition to the carvings, approximately 100 burn marks were documented at the hall. English Heritage indicated that these marks were historically thought to offer protection against fire. Mr Booth remarked: “The Old Hall has undoubtedly had a tumultuous past, not least under the ownership of the apparently unpopular William Hickman.“But why it’s the scene of a high concentration of protective carvings remains a mystery.”