Nomansland, Hertfordshire facts for kids
Nomansland Common is a large open area of land in Hertfordshire, England. It's located south of Harpenden and southwest of Wheathampstead. People sometimes just call it "No Man's Land."
This common land has a unique history and natural features. Its name comes from a time when no one group fully owned it. Today, it's a popular spot for many outdoor activities and a great place to explore.
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How Nomansland Common Was Formed
Long, long ago, during the last Ice Age, a huge glacier blocked a river that flowed through this area. This created a big lake where Nomansland Common is now. When the ice melted, the water drained away. It left behind the thin, stony soil you can still see today.
Because of this soil, Nomansland Common has never been great for farming. Even during World War II, people tried to grow crops there. But the land produced much less food than other farms, even with lots of help from fertilizers. After the war, it was turned back into grassy land for people to enjoy.
A Look Back in Time
Nomansland Common has a long and interesting history. Its name, "No Man's Land," tells us a lot. For many years, no one group fully controlled it. This led to many arguments between powerful groups like the St Albans Abbey and Westminster Abbey. Both claimed the land was theirs.
Old Disputes and Battles
In the 1400s, these arguments sometimes got heated. For example, in 1427, Westminster Abbey tried to build a gallows (a structure for hangings) on the common. But workers from St Albans Abbey quickly tore it down! A few years later, a shepherd died on the common. Both local churches argued over where he should be buried. Eventually, a group decided that both abbeys could share the right to let their animals graze on the land.
A big battle, the Second Battle of St Albans, happened nearby in 1460. Part of this fight, when one side (the Yorkists) ran away, took place on the common. Years later, in the 1700s, people found cannonballs and 25 skeletons there. These are believed to be from that battle.
The Legend of the Wicked Lady
In the 1600s, stories spread about robbers who attacked travelers around the common. The most famous was a female highway robber known as "The Wicked Lady." People believed she was Lady Katherine Ferrers from a nearby village called Markyate. A road that goes through the common, Ferrers Lane, is named after her. There's even a pub (a type of restaurant/bar) on the edge of the common called The Wicked Lady.
Sports and Pastimes
Nomansland Common has also been a place for different sports and activities throughout history.
Famous Fights and Races
In 1833, a very famous bare-knuckle boxing match took place here. It lasted an incredible 99 rounds! Sadly, one of the fighters, Simon Byrne, died after the match. The people involved in the fight faced serious consequences for what happened.
Nomansland Common was also the birthplace of modern steeplechasing in England. This is a type of horse race where horses jump over obstacles. The first official steeplechase race in England was held here in 1830. It quickly became very popular!
Hidden Activities
Even though it was against the law, some people believe that cock fighting (where two roosters fight) continued on the common until the early 1900s.
Fun Today
Today, Nomansland Common is a wonderful place for outdoor fun. A road called Ferrers Lane cuts through the middle of the common.
Open Spaces and Woodlands
The land south of Ferrers Lane is mostly open grassland. It's perfect for walking dogs, riding horses, and having picnics with family and friends. The land to the north has grown into a lovely woodland. Local children know it well because it has what many believe is "the best climbing tree in the world"!
Model Aircraft Flying
Nomansland Common is also a popular spot for the Nomansland Flyers, a local model aircraft club. You can often see them flying their model planes on Saturdays. They have specific times when they are allowed to fly:
- Electric Models: During daylight hours
- I/C Models (with engines): Monday to Saturday, from 10 AM to 7 PM
