I took my camera and decided to photograph and document the details of centuries past.

The High Street itself is obviously ‘Old England’ with its tudor-framed buildings, but I loved the closer details. Here I have captured the door ironworks, stone textures, lead window frames, doorway detailing for coaches, stone mason finishes, hooks signage (not sure what for by Judges Close?!) and drinking fountains.

The plaque that took my most interest was a memorial plaque to the Martyrs (witches) that were burned at the stake in 1556 for their refusal to renounce their faith.

Burning at the stake must have been a truly horrible death. This event took place on a Saturday, which was market day, presumably for the maximum impact on the townsfolk.

This made me curious. Did they advertise the burning in 1556? It was long before the internet, telephones, and most printed publications.

Was there reserved seating at the front for dignitaries and the higher-ranking officers and clergy? Was it a family affair with all the children attending?!

Unfortunately, West Sussex Census records are only available from 1841. Also back in the 15th century it was known as Grenestede. It is likely the town had a much smaller population and the news of the Protestant Martyrs was probably spread by word of mouth.

Cloth and Paper Parchment paper had just been invented, and the first press is thought to have been introduced by William Caxton. (c. 1422 – c. 1491) in 1476, so posters were possible although somewhat rudimentary.

I decided to create my own poster based on my findings. One of the most time-consuming elements was finding the correct ‘tone of voice’ of the 15th century and I probably spent was too long looking at what typefaces and manuscripts had been created in this era.