Unveiling Exeter's Feline Legacy: A Tale of Cats, Clocks, and Nursery Rhymes
In the heart of historic Exeter, a captivating tale unfolds, intertwining the lives of cats, the passage of time, and the origins of a beloved nursery rhyme. It's a story that not many are aware of, and it all starts with a simple yet intriguing claim: Exeter Cathedral boasts the world's oldest cat flap.
Now, this isn't your typical cat flap with a swinging door. Instead, it's a carefully carved opening in a door, a testament to the ingenuity of the 16th century. Its purpose? To grant cats access to the cathedral, specifically to manage the rodent population. What makes this even more intriguing is the fact that cats have been an integral part of the cathedral's history for centuries.
A Well-Paid Feline Workforce
Imagine a time when cats were on the payroll! In the 15th century, a cat was employed to control rodents in the north tower, receiving a weekly wage of one penny. This wasn't just a symbolic gesture; it was a practical solution to a common problem. The cat's duties were facilitated by the cat flap, allowing it to move freely and keep the cathedral's rodent population in check.
The idea of a cat earning a salary might seem amusing, but it reflects the value placed on pest control in medieval times. It also highlights the evolving relationship between humans and animals, where cats were recognized as efficient and effective workers.
The Clock Connection
The story takes an unexpected twist when we consider the cathedral's astronomical clock. This medieval marvel, dating back to 1483, not only displays lunar phases and the calendar but also chimes every quarter-hour, signaling the striking of the Peter Bell. Here's where it gets fascinating: this clock might have inspired the beloved nursery rhyme 'Hickory, Dickory, Dock.'
The connection between the rhyme and the clock is not just a coincidence. The use of animal fat to lubricate the clock mechanism attracted vermin, and the cat's presence was essential to keep these unwanted visitors at bay. The rhyme's reference to a mouse running up the clock could very well be a nod to the real-life scenario in Exeter Cathedral.
A Historian's Perspective
Exeter Cathedral's historian, Diane Walker, sheds light on this intriguing connection. She explains that the animal fat used in the clock mechanism would have been a magnet for vermin, hence the need for a cat. While a direct link to the nursery rhyme is speculative, the presence of cats in the cathedral during that era is well-documented.
The mention of a 'hole at the bottom of the door' adds a layer of authenticity to the story. It's a tangible piece of evidence that connects the past to the present, leaving room for imagination and historical speculation.
The Broader Significance
This seemingly lighthearted tale carries a deeper significance. It showcases the often-overlooked role of animals in historical contexts, particularly in maintaining the functionality of human-made structures. The cat flap and the cat's employment are reminders of the symbiotic relationship between humans and animals throughout history.
Moreover, it invites us to reconsider the origins of everyday things, like nursery rhymes. What we take for granted as childhood memories might have fascinating historical roots, waiting to be discovered and appreciated.
In the end, Exeter Cathedral's cat flap is more than just a quirky historical detail. It's a gateway to understanding the past, appreciating the contributions of animals, and recognizing the interconnectedness of seemingly unrelated aspects of our cultural heritage.
