ourpasthistory.com » England
Cantiaci Hillfigures The Long Man of Wilmington
Other chalky figures exist in Kent, although the status of 'hillfigure' is dubious. A large white propeller decorates a field to commemorate the Battle of Britain, the outline of a small aeroplane at Dover commemorates the first cross-channel flight. However, these are set on flat ground rather than slopes and, while visible from the air, do not make very good landmarks for those on terra firma. A lost figure, the Buffs Badge at Canterbury, was carved into the bullet bank at the end of a firing range in 1922. A 55ft dragon, it was unfortunately allowed to grass over when the regiment whose symbol it was merged with another in 1958.So we follow the broad, verdant sweep of the South Downs into Sussex, where we find a hillfigure that is not only the undisputed lord of all the Cantiaci figures, but is also one of the most famous in the country.
The Long Man can best be viewed from the entrance to the Priory car park at Wilmington. It stands on the north face of Windover Hill, and is surrounded by memories of the past: a quarry, directly to its right; flint mines pocking the crest above; barrows, crowning the peak of the Hill. He stands 70 metres high and his staves are slightly taller.
His age and origins are a mystery, which has doubtless added to his popularity. The first documented mention is in a manuscript of 1779 which shows him with facial feastures and holding farming implements. Various theories have been put forward regarding who he represents, some of them bizarre. They include King Harold, Mercury, Baldur, Thor, Wotan, Beowulf, the Hindu god Varuna ( Flinders Petrie's suggestion, surprisingly), Mohammed, St Paul, Apollo and John Gator with his geophys equipment (my personal theory). One particularly attractive theory has him carved by the monks of Wilmington, a chalk pilgrim advertising board for the night to those travelling the Pilgrims Way across the South Downs.
No less a respected archaeologist than Cunliffe inspected examples taken from the Man and suggested Roman materials had been used in his construction. Resistivity tests have confirmed that, at various points in his history, he did indeed carry rakes, scythes, and even a plumed cap. A figure much resembling him was found on a Saxon coin discovered elsewhere in the Weald.
A legend of warring giants has sprung from his position on the hill. Apparently, two giants once lived in the area - one on Windover Hill, the other at Firle Beacon. after an argument they threw rocks at each other. The Windover Giant was struck and now lies on the side of the hill where he fell...
From the breezy peak of the aptly-named Windover Hill, high above the Long Man's head, it is possible on a clear day to look south and make out a white smudge on the hills a few miles away.
Comment
Navigate for more: Cantiaci Hillfigures The West Clandon Dragon Cantiaci Hillfigures Shoreham Cross