In 1647 Civil War raged in England. Much fighting took place in the Midlands.
Diseworth is a village between Ashby and the River Soar, an area where many military actions took place. Soldiers were billeted in requisitioned local houses in the surrounding villages. Perhaps the soldiers were bored, or considered they should leave their mark for posterity.
Many years later, when one house in the village was demolished, a panel of plaster was found which appeared to have been graffitied by the troops The panel depicts the parish church in Diseworth. Soldiers are seen aiming with their pikes at a bird on the church. A shoe also appears at the top of the church (considered a sign of good luck).
Throughout history people have left their mark in one way or another which registers their presence, ability or feelings. Graffiti has helped us to understand better those who were here before us. Were the soldiers bored, lonely, frightened or keen to leave us something to remember them by?
