Select a region
One of Jersey's best-loved sites is celebrating 100 years since it was handed to the island to become a museum and historic landmark with a special new series of stamps.
Elizabeth Castle, named after Queen Elizabeth I, was built on a tidal islet in the 16th century.
To mark 100 years since the fortification was handed over by the UK to Jersey’s government as a museum and historic plot, four commemorative stamps are being issued featuring the site, which is managed by Jersey Heritage.
The stamps feature an image from Jersey Archives and three contemporary photos taken by local photographers (Tom Kennedy, Andy Le Gresley and Marc Le Cornu of BAM Perspectives).
They will be available to buy at Jersey Post from 22 August or can be ordered here.
Jersey Post shared a little of the history of the castle: "Sir Walter Raleigh, Governor of Jersey between 1600-1603, officially named the castle for Queen Elizabeth I: Fort Isabella Bellissima (The Most Beautiful Elizabeth). Some accounts suggest that he also named the castle after his wife, Elizabeth Raleigh.
"Whilst protecting the port of St Helier, the castle also offered safe anchorage for merchant vessels, gave refuge to Charles II in 1645 during the English Civil War, acted as a prison in The Seven Years’ War, became a barracks hospital for British troops in the 19th century, and was re-fortified by German Forces during the Second World War.
"2023, marks 100 years since the British Government relinquished Elizabeth Castle to the States of Jersey, for operation as a museum and historic site. A ceremony on 21st May 1923 marked the official transfer, as pictured on the 60p stamp, and the castle has since been cared for by Jersey Heritage as an important monument from the Island’s history.
"Today, the castle is host to an enthusiastic group of Jersey Militia re-enactors. These living history actors ‘patrol’ the castle, answer questions about the Island’s military history, and re-enact activities such as firing cannon shot to help create an immersive experience for visitors."
Express got to know Jersey's Post's Philatelic Team in the June edition of Connect Magazine – read the digital edition in full below...
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.