The Bedesmen
of Higham Ferrers
The Bedesmen have been an integral part of the life of Higham Ferrers for over 600 years.
The following exhibition boards* were created as part of the celebrations of the 600th anniversary of the founding of Chichele College. They will hopefully give the visitor an insight into this unique tradition.
As far as research can ascertain only two Bedehouses remain in the country and both are in Northamptonshire. One in Lyddington under the care of English Heritage and the other in Higham Ferrers.
Again, as far as it is known, Higham is unique in that it is the only town that still carries on the tradition of appointing its 12 Bedesmen and 1 Bedeswoman, as laid down by Archbishop Chichele all those years ago.
These Bedesmen's Exhibition Boards are the property of Higham Chichele Society and should not be used or reproduced without the prior written permission of the Society.
*Designed by Pam Webbley