Did You Know These Chester Facts

As the headline announces, the question is, did you know these Chester facts? Some are quirky, some maybe not so. But, with a city so steeped in history and culture, there is always bound to be quite a few snippets. Some may be familiar to you, some maybe not so. Be careful though, I may throw in a couple of curveballs. Don’t forget though, it’s only a bit of fun. So, if there is a possibility of a something like a mis-quoted year, please don’t shoot me for it.

Anyway, did you know these Chester facts? Let’s start to have a look at some shall we. They won’t be exhaustive, so I’ll be on the look out for some more. And you know what that means don’t you. There may well be a part two…..or, dare I say it, a part three. Hmm…..I can just see the rolling of eyes now. But there again who knows. You may find out something that will astonish your muckers down the pub the next time you see them.

Right then, did you know these Chester facts?

Did You Know These Chester Facts?

Let’s kick off with a right good old bit of history. Hands up those that read my article last week about Chester Lifestyle Roman Style? Is that all? I can only see two fingers. Or is that a negative, two fingered salute. Hang on though, I get it now. Someone is getting in the swing of things and it is a Roman “V”, meaning five.

I digress, so let’s get back on track. The article last week mentioned that ‘back in the day’ as they say, Chester was known as Deva Victrix in Roman times. But before those who read last week’s article, or anyone else for that matter, shout out, “we know, we know!!” – what does Deva Victrix actually mean? As you most likely also already know, Chester was a Roman military fortress and, in fact, Deva Victrix means, “Victorious Goddess of the North.”

Was there actually a goddess though? It would appear not. From ancient Roman mythology these were the main recognised Roman goddesses: Minerva was the goddess of wisdom and craft. She watched over schoolchildren and craftspeople such as carpenters and stonemasons. And there was Venus, goddess of love and Diana, Roman goddess of the hunt. No female known as Deva Victrix though it seems, so it looks like the title was bestowed upon Chester itself. So, Chester – “Victorious Goddess of the North.”

Hmm…..that reminds me. I wonder what my very own Deva Victrix is making for tea tonight?

When In Roman Times

While still in Roman times this is something you may find surprising.

This particular quirky snippet about Chester is quite amazing really. Look away if you are a Welsh visitor to my Chester Lifestyle website. A Tudor law stated that Welshmen were not allowed in the city of Chester between sunset and sunrise. And not only that. Read on…..

Another law in place, apparently stated that it was legal to shoot a Welshman with a bow and arrow within the city walls after midnight. Is it true that this law was actually ever in place? And is it true it still exists? Good questions indeed. But according to legend and all that. As we know, just over the border we have Saltney. A fine place indeed.

Mind you, to be on the safe side, if you are heading back to Saltney and you are illegally still in the city approaching midnight, then it’s best to have your last sherbet in a pub such as Wetherspoons on Foregate Street. Or Number 15, or the Queens Head. That way, enjoying a pint outside the city walls should see you safe from flying arrows. I wonder if the same ‘logic’ applies to honorary Welsh people? If so, you may wish to take extra care, Ryan Reynolds!!

Yes indeed, Chester is a fascinating city full of history and character. I suppose you could say that as of today, it is also full of characters. You know who you are!!!

A few interesting snippets about Chester in case you’re interested.

Chester Racecourse – AKA The Roodee

Did you know for instance that, Chester’s racecourse, the Roodee, is Britain’s oldest sporting venue in continual use. The very first race at the Roodee took place in 1539. Horse racing replaced the particularly violent and bloody traditional local football game which was played there.

The switch from a violent footie match to horse racing was the brainchild of the Mayor, Henry Gee. As a consequence, it is thought that this is where the term ‘gee-gees’ (the phrase to refer to horses), comes from. How about that. Who’d have thought an internationally known term for horses originated from Chester.

Did You Know These Chester Facts – More Historic Stuff

Did you know, our famous Roman Amphitheatre is the largest in the country. In its day, it had seating for no less than 7,000 spectators. Just imagine the football style roar from the masses. What is the Latin for “Come On You Glads” (short for gladiators in case you were wondering).

I wonder if this law still exists? By all accounts, it was still law as recently as 2014 it seems. Way back in 1208, a law was passed in Chester stating that there cannot be another market within 6 and two thirds miles of Chester Market.

A genuine threat or as scary as a “Keep Off The Grass” sign? Actually, in 2014 this law was used to prevent a car boot sale being held at Tescos. As many Cestrians will know, there are quite a few car boots going on (in normal circumstances it must be said) well within that range.

Hopefully though, people are reasonable and flexible enough nowadays to consider whether or not not to rely on such a law. I must check to see if this is still a law. Anyone know?

The Famous Walls

For yonks and yonks and yonks, locals and visitors alike have been fascinated by our famous Chester Walls. But did you know that our Chester Walls are widely recognised as the oldest, longest and most complete in Britain. In the region of two miles long, parts of our Walls are almost 2000 years old. Also, did you know that Chester is the home for the best surviving Roman Fortress Wall in Northern Europe (near Northgate).

Still On The History Theme

Still on the history theme, Chester is also famous for its covered walkways at the first floor in each of the city’s four main streets, which allows for a rather unique looking, double level shopping option. This rare architectural feature dates back to at least the 13th Century and is unique not only in Britain, but around the world. We call this stunning piece of history, The Rows. It has been said that The Rows date back to the medieval era and that they may have been built on top of rubble remaining from the ruins of our buildings originally constructed by our Roman ancestors. However, their true origin is still subject to speculation. 

Nowadays though you can see an impressive mix of how modern day meets history. On The Rows nowadays you will find a fine array of retail outlets, drinking and eating establishments all mingling in with the spectacular backdrop of the impressive architecture.

But in asking that question of did you know these Chester facts, it has been reported that The Rows, back in medieval times, was used as a medieval toilet. Judging by what goes on over a busy weekend, is that something else that has managed to find its way to modern times?

Did You Know These Chester Facts – And There’s More

Did you know for instance that there is a rather unassuming cottage tucked away alongside the banks of the River Dee that holds a special Beatles connection? This rather charming property, allegedly once a tavern for weary fisherman to gather and enjoy a drink, has the curious name of ‘Nowhere’. It is said that the name of “Nowhere” was the inspiration for John Lennon to pen the hit song “Nowhere Man.” If so, imagine how much that cottage is worth now!! Wowser!!

At the time the sport of horse racing replaced the particularly violent and bloody traditional local football game which was played there. The transition from a violent footie match to horse racing was the brainchild of the Mayor at the time, Henry Gee. As a consequence of that, it is thought that this is where the term ‘gee-gees’ (a term to describe horses), comes from. What about that then. Who would have thought a globally recognised term for horses originated from Chester.

Let’s keep going shall we. The Eastgate Clock in Eastgate Street is said to be the second most photographed clock in England after Big Ben. Anyone else had to navigate around a group of tourists dripping with cameras in and around Eastgate Clock.

We all know about our world famous attraction, Chester Zoo. There’s been many and article written on it HERE, but did you know that Chester Zoo was the first zoo in the UK to breed gorillas in captivity.

Grosvenor Park

It is claimed that the Grosvenor Park Miniature Railway, a small gauge railway in Chester, is one of the oldest in the world.

And what about the park itself? Well apparently, the park was originally part of the estate of the Duke of Westminster and was gifted to the city in the late 19th century.

It is also the home to a statue of Richard Grosvenor, the Second Marquess of Westminster. Designed by Thomas Thornycroft, it was erected to commemorate the generosity of the Marquess and unveiled in 1869, paid for by public subscription.

Chester Across The Pond

Did you know that there are another 36 Chester’s in the world? What you didn’t? Well you better get reading this then HERE. It’s a post I did just over a year ago called – “We Are Not Alone.” And what do our cousins from across “The Pond” think of us here in Chester UK? Watch this space, I’m going to re-connect with some of our international friends in the near future. But in the meantime.

A poll carried out in 2013 saw our Chester proudly recognised by our cousins across “The Pond.” The poll set up by “USA Today”, saw that Chester was named the fifth prettiest city in Europe. One excellent achievement most definitely and something to be so very proud of I’m sure you will agree. In achieving this accolade, Chester beat picturesque tourist hotspots such as Prague, Budapest, Bruges, Santorini and Venice.

Well in keeping with this article title – “Did You Know These Chester Facts” – here’s a couple of curveballs I mentioned earlier.

Chester Across The Pond – Did You Know These Chester Facts

There’s plenty of fascinating facts to get stuck into regarding the 33 other Chester’s in the USA. Not forgetting the other three though in Canada, Mexico (yes, Mexico) and Jamaica. But to give you a bit of a flavour, did you know these little gems.

Chester in Illinois is the home and birthplace to…….wait for it…..Popeye the Sailor Man. Following on with the Popeye theme, Chester in Illinois is also the home for a statue of Popeye. And in honour of their famous and popular son, there is an annual “Popeye Picnic,” a celebration of the city’s connection to the cartoon character.

Chester, Illinois is also the home to the oldest continuously operating drive-in theater in Illinois, the Skyview Drive-In.

A quick mention of another Chester stateside, Chester Pennsylvania. One fascinating fact coming out from Chester, Pennsylvania is to mention the world famous musician icon from “Rock Around The Clock” fame, Bill Haley. Our Bill moved there when he was 7 years of age in 1932. He lived there for about 8 years, at which time he picked up his guitar and went on his merry, global touring ways.

These are just two famous Chester ‘people.’ There are many others. Carry on reading to find out more….

My Name Is Bond……James Bond

Also well worth a mention are the many famous people from Chester. Too many to give a shout to in this particular post, so I’ve created a “Famous People From Chester” page. You can see how many and who they are by having a look HERE.

Yes, you will famous characters like Daniel Craig…..and Boris, Chester Zoo’s famous chimpanzee. And not forgetting Boris – The Morrisons Cat. What legends. And there’s many more. Go and have a look HERE.

Did You Know These Chester Facts – Part 2

I didn’t plan to get so detailed but hey ho, I do sometimes get a bit carried away. I’m sure there’s some nodding along at this stage. I know who you are!!

However on getting a bit detailed, I think I’ll pause for now and post what is now really – “Did You Know These Chester Facts – Part 1.” No rocket science involved but the next instalment will be….Part 2. Mind you I might change the front end title a bit.

There’s still loads to post – from not only Chester UK but also from our international Chester cousins. In Chester UK alone, we’ve still got to mention incredible places like Chester Cathedral, the Town Hall, more on Chester Zoo, the sports teams and……Boo!! Ghosts, who said ghosts? And so much more. Watch this space. Any suggestions or snippets of your own then drop me a line.

Going off on a bit of a tangent, it only makes me think. I must finish my book. Yes, good idea. I’m on the case.

Chester Lifestyle Blog Posts

Right, thanks for reading my latest blog post – “Did You Know These Chester Facts” – and thanks for visiting my Chester Lifestyle website. Are you all excited and looking forward to Part 2? Oops, there’s that two digits greeting again. You Romans, you get everywhere!!

But what about my other blog posts on a variety of other topics? Well, you can read those by heading on over to HERE.

While you’re here, what about……

As This Is A Chester Related Website

As this is a Chester related website, you may be looking for the ideal Chester related gift for your loved ones. If so, then have a look at my Chester section of my new Etsy store. You can find out more about my Etsy store HERE.

Plenty of originally created downloadable digital artwork for you to have a look at HERE. And, as I say, a variety of Chester related products to choose from. Go on….you know you want to!!

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