One way to spot an 18th century landscape is by the presence of an extravagant, expensive, and purposeless structure.
Like a set piece, but with more staying power, many follies were born of the humour and goodwill of the financier. Fashionable faux castles, gothic ruins and roman temples representing a sense of fun in a predominantly practical, built environment.
Here are 8 of our favourite follies. Tell us about the fanciful buildings that you like in the comments.
1. The Druids Temple, Ilton, North Yorkshire Grade II listed
Druid’s Temple, Masham © Copyright Paul Allison
In a quiet clearing surrounded by the serene Yorkshire countryside, you wouldn’t expect to see what looks like the crumbling remains of a prehistoric monument.
The structure was commissioned in 1820 by then-sheriff of Yorkshire, William Danby, in an attempt to alleviate local unemployment. Workers were paid a shilling a day for their labour, and…
View original post 885 more words
Chris The Story Reading Ape's Blog 
An interesting post, Chris. Thanks for sharing. 🙂 — Suzanne
LikeLiked by 1 person
A fascinating peek into the whimsy of the time!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for picking up on this great post Chris- I really enjoyed it and shared on Facebook,Google+ &Twitter
LikeLiked by 1 person
Welcome Paul 👍
LikeLike
When I was doing my research for my M.Litt. at NUI Galway in Ireland, I was traveling through Co. Donegal to find a “Giants Grave” that wasn’t. On my way to and from the site, I noticed something that looked almost like a Bronze Age bolder burial. When I returned to my B&B, I asked the proprietor about it. He told me that the local farmer found some stones and assembled it into that shape to attract passers-by.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sounds right Kurt 😃
LikeLike
Follies have continued right up to our present day, sadly they just are not as visible most of the time. Then again politically they shine a bright light on them self. Hugs
LikeLiked by 2 people