Dovecotes are one of those interesting buildings that we have all seen but we don’t really take to much notice of them.
The early history and origins of in England date back to the times of Roman era. However, the widespread presence of dovecotes is more credibly attributed to the influence of Norman nobility.
In fact, pigeons and dovecotes are notably mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, and both documentary and archaeological evidence point to their extensive use by the Normans.
Owing to the fact that building a dovecote was a privilege linked to lordship, these structures are commonly found near castles and manor houses. By the mid-17th century, England alone boasted over 25,000 dovecotes.
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Historically reserved for the nobility, it wasn’t until 1761 that tenant farmers were permitted to construct their own dovecotes, and even then, only with the consent of their landlords. Poaching was likely a common issue, particularly since pigeons, with their strong appetite for corn, were often seen as a nuisance by many farmers.
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Dovecotes served as a sort of ‘living larder’, similar to the large fish-ponds (or stews) prevalent in medieval life. They provided a source of fresh meat during winter and also yielded eggs and fertiliser, making them a valuable resource in medieval households.
Following 1066, the Normans brought with them a range of feudal laws, including ‘droit de colombier’ (the right of pigeon keeping), which was typically reserved for the nobility and religious institutions.
Monasteries, in particular, played a crucial role in the development and spread of dovecotes. As centers of learning, agriculture, and innovation, monasteries used dovecotes as a means to meet their self-sufficient lifestyle. The pigeons provided a reliable source of meat. Moreover, their eggs were a valuable food source, and feathers were used for bedding, believed to prolong life.
Pigeon Milk
As we know, dovecotes were historically constructed by the rich and powerful as a means to provide their households with a sumptuous delicacy: the tender meat of young pigeons, or squabs. Each pair of pigeons in a dovecote typically laid two eggs, which were incubated for about seventeen days.
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The squabs feed by both parents with a regurgitated liquid known as ‘pigeon’s milk,’ enabling them to grow rapidly. By the fourth week, these young birds were ready to fly, and in the wild, they would be pushed out of the nest by their parents.
However, in domestic settings, the pigeon-keeper would regularly ‘search’ the dovecote for these nearly mature squabs and their necks would be wrung.
At this stage, the squabs were almost the same size as their parents, but their flying muscles remained undeveloped, rendering their meat exceptionally tender and highly sought-after. Squab meat was considered a gourmet ingredient, often roasted on spits or baked with other luxurious foods.
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The association of dovecotes with such a lavish lifestyle meant that they eventually came to represent not just a source of exquisite food, but also a symbol of high social status and aspirations. The presence of a dovecote was a clear indicator of wealth and a refined way of living.
Consequently, dovecotes were typically positioned in prominent locations, often near the main entrance road leading to the house.
Not All Year Round
Contrary to popular belief, pigeon meat was not available year-round. The first squabs of the year hatched around early March, but they were typically not consumed immediately due to the intervention of Lent.
This religious observance, lasting forty days before Easter, prohibited the consumption of meat. With Easter’s earliest possible date being March 22 (a rare occurrence), pigeons usually first appeared on dining tables on Easter Sunday, with any squabs maturing during Lent being spared for breeding.
Historical household accounts indicate a clear pattern of pigeon consumption throughout the year. Large numbers of pigeons were eaten in April and May, followed by a decline in supply until a resurgence in August, September, and October, when pigeon breeding peaked. This seasonal fluctuation is evident in the accounts of Dame Alice de Bryene of Acton, Suffolk, from 1412-3.
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Her household, comprising about twenty people, consumed 100 pigeons in April, 239 in May, then numbers dipped to 54 in June and July, surged to 336 in August, 340 in September, 275 in October, and 147 in November.
No pigeons were eaten in December, January, or February, and only 4 in March. This pattern is consistent across other household accounts from the 13th to the 18th centuries, contradicting the assertions of Arthur Cooke and others.
These accounts are not just historical anecdotes but are substantiated by evidence readily available in published early household records, such as those of the Bishop of Hereford from 1289-90, which have been accessible in print since 1855.
Earl of Salisbury
While it’s true that pigeons can breed during winter, in a large population of dovecote pigeons, only a few pairs might produce squabs in these months. This occurrence is of significant interest to ornithologists due to its rarity among birds.
However, as a source of food, these winter squabs were minimal in quantity. The limited number produced in winter could fetch high prices as an out-of-season delicacy. For instance, in 1634, the Earl of Salisbury paid four times the usual price for winter squabs, but such extravagance was feasible for only the wealthiest, like the Earl.
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Most affluent households that could afford a dovecote had to rely on its seasonal productivity, accepting that pigeons were generally unavailable from November to Easter.
As for the mature pigeons, they were typically not consumed by the dovecote owners. Research into 18th-century Scottish household accounts by Una Robertson reveals that these older birds were often given to employees.
W. M. Levi, an American pigeon breeder, notes that mature birds are so tough that they’re almost inedible: disposing of these birds is challenging due to their negligible market value.
Levi suggests that they can be made somewhat palatable by steaming for two hours before roasting or stewing for even longer. However, in traditional practices, these mature pigeons were not considered worth the effort to prepare and eat.
Dovecotes Rural Architecture
The design and structure of dovecotes, an integral part of English rural architecture, reflect a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
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While dovecotes are often viewed as quaint and picturesque by contemporary standards, they were initially constructed as practical structures, predominantly using local materials and vernacular architectural styles.
However, some later examples, especially those associated with grand country estates, were deliberately crafted to serve as landscape features.
In line with other Georgian-era garden structures, these dovecotes were designed in various styles according to the whims of the owner, such as the Mounthooly Doocot in Aberdeenshire, which showcases a mock-Gothic tower design.
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The interiors of these structures were characterised by numerous small nesting boxes, known as “pigeon holes,” which lined the walls from floor to ceiling. These boxes were crucial for providing safe and comfortable nesting spaces for the pigeons.
A notable feature in many traditional dovecotes was the rotating ladder, or “potence.” This ladder, mounted on a central pivot, allowed easy access to the numerous nesting boxes. This feature was not only practical in terms of egg and bird collection but also minimized the disturbance to the pigeons.
The potence is a testament to the thoughtfulness that went into the design of these structures, balancing the needs of the birds with the convenience of the keeper.
Protection from Predators
In addition to the practical aspects, ventilation was a key consideration in the design of dovecotes. Proper air circulation was essential for the health of the pigeons, and many dovecotes featured strategically placed vents or openings to facilitate this.
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Furthermore, protection from predators was paramount. The elevated design of many dovecotes, along with features such as metal grilles or narrow entrances, helped safeguard the birds from various threats. Rats were a big problem and the issue was solved by the first row of nesting boxes starting 30 cm from the ground, which was out of reach of the rats.
Another significant contribution of dovecotes to agriculture was the provision of high-quality fertilizer. Pigeon droppings, known as guano, were rich in nutrients, making them an excellent fertilizer for crops. The guano was particularly valued for its high nitrogen content, beneficial for growing vegetables and other crops.
Decline
The role and significance of dovecotes in England underwent substantial changes due to various social and economic transformations, particularly from the 18th century onwards.
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These changes marked a shift in the agricultural practices and societal structures that had previously underpinned the importance of dovecotes.One of the key factors contributing to the decline in the prominence of dovecotes was the agricultural revolution.
This period saw significant advancements in farming techniques and the introduction of new crops, which collectively reduced the reliance on pigeons as a primary food source.
The increased efficiency in agricultural production meant that other forms of meat and protein became more readily available and affordable, diminishing the necessity of maintaining a dovecote.
Legally, the relaxation of feudal laws and privileges played a crucial role. Prior to the 18th century, the right to own a dovecote was often reserved for the nobility and was a symbol of status and wealth.
Crop Destruction
However, as these restrictions eased, more people, including tenant farmers, were allowed to construct dovecotes, albeit still typically requiring the landlord’s permission. This democratisation of pigeon keeping eroded the status previously associated with dovecotes.
The economic viability of maintaining dovecotes also became questionable. With pigeons known for their appetite for grain, they could be seen as more of a liability than an asset, especially for small-scale farmers who struggled with the loss of valuable crops to pigeon feeding.
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From a symbol of status and an essential part of agricultural life, they transformed into historical relics, their practical use overshadowed by advancements in agricultural practices, legal changes, urbanization, and shifting economic realities.
This evolution reflects the broader changes in English society and economy, marking the end of an era where dovecotes were a common and necessary feature of rural life.
Legacy of Dovecotes
As the practical use of dovecotes declined, interest in their historical and aesthetic value grew, particularly in the 20th century. This renewed appreciation led to efforts to preserve and restore these structures, recognizing them as important relics of rural heritage.
Many dovecotes that had fallen into disrepair or had been repurposed were restored, often as part of broader initiatives to preserve historical buildings. These efforts were not just about maintaining the physical structure but also about preserving a link to a past way of life.
Dovecotes, with their unique architectural styles and construction methods, offer insights into the local materials and building techniques of their times. They also reflect the social structures and economic conditions of the periods in which they were built.
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In addition to restoration, there has been a growing interest in the study and documentation of dovecotes. Historians, architects, and enthusiasts have undertaken projects to record the various styles and locations of dovecotes across England. This has not only helped in their preservation but also in educating the public about their historical significance.
Rural Past
Today, many restored dovecotes can be found in the gardens of country houses, public parks, and as standalone structures in rural landscapes.
They are appreciated for their beauty and as symbols of England’s agricultural and architectural past. Some have been converted into unique living spaces or used for educational purposes, showcasing traditional rural life to new generations.
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Dovecotes have also found a place in the arts, inspiring painters, photographers, and writers, drawn to their rustic charm and historical resonance. This artistic interest further enhances their cultural significance and helps in keeping the legacy of dovecotes alive.
The preservation and legacy of dovecotes in England highlight an enduring fascination with the country’s rural heritage. As these structures transition from their original functional purpose to objects of historical interest and beauty, they continue to be cherished as an integral part of the English countryside.
Their preservation not only safeguards a piece of architectural history but also serves as a reminder of a bygone era, offering a tangible connection to the rural past of England.
