A sword believed to be 200 years old has been discovered sticking out of a drought-hit castle lake, earning the nickname "Kent's Excalibur". The antique weapon was found by volunteers at Chiddingstone Castle in Edenbridge last Thursday.
The volunteers were clearing fallen branches when they spotted metal poking out from the surface of the water. Using a grappling hook, they fished the object out and carefully handed the precious find over to castle curator Naomi Collick, who has been delving into its mysterious past.
Mystery Surrounds Sword's Origins
Theories about its ownership include World War Two soldiers, a Victorian bandsman, an art dealer and even a ghost. Some social media users have compared it to Excalibur, the mythical sword thrown into a lake as King Arthur lay dying.
Naomi, 33, said: "The volunteers were called Gordon and Paul so not Arthur unfortunately - but quite noble names still I think. You never know, maybe they will be called to rule the country. Hopefully the sword is at the centre of another great story."
Volunteers' Excitement and Initial Assessment
She said the volunteers were excited and proud to have made the discovery, adding: "When [they] showed it to me, I was just in shock really. I was so amazed. We have not discovered anything like this before on the grounds, so it was absolutely fascinating."
With a gilded hilt featuring the head of a lion, the piece is believed to be made of brass and is in very good condition. The curved blade itself is encrusted with rust and was covered in mud from the lake. Staff at the castle have wrapped it in acid-free tissue and are using gloves to handle it.
Possible Historical Connections
Research suggests it might be a Victorian bandsman's sword from the early 1800s used for ceremonies. The lake was built in the 1800s so it is expected to be at least 200 years old. Denys Eyre Bower, an eccentric former owner of the castle, was an art dealer who collected swords so it is also thought it could be one of his.
Another theory is that it might have belonged to troops who were stationed at the castle during World War Two. The most magical theory is it belonged to the ghost of a soldier who local legend says has haunted the lake since falling in.
Naomi said: "There are a few different theories but it is still a bit of a mystery. There are so many options really."
Ongoing Investigation and Drought Impact
Museums and other experts have been contacted as the castle's owners try to confirm where the sword came from and how it got there. They are also doing extensive research and scouring through the archives at the historic house with Tudor origins. The curator has reported the sword to the finds liaison officer for the area.
Naomi said: "Really I am hoping that someone might come forward with some information on it. It is basically a case of detective work really. It is definitely very fragile so we need to be very careful."
News of the find comes after officials confirmed that more than two thirds of England is now in a drought amid a scorching hot summer with very little rain. Naomi said this has had a huge impact on the grounds of the castle. She said: "If the water level goes down any further due to the heatwaves and droughts maybe there is more to be discovered."
