Stalling Down Traditional Cache
FFINITEE: Archived this cache thanks for all your logs
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(regular)
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This cache is an Ammo Box hidden upon the area of Stalling Down near Cowbridge.
The Down itself is very dog and child friendly, parking is available at numerous access points to the Down, but please do not take vehicles onto the main ground. Refreshments are available at the roadside cafe. Of interest to the children, big and small...the Down is regarded as being a popular area for Kite Flying. Wheelchair access could prove difficult due to the terrain.
The Battle of Stalling Down
Recorded to have occurred sometime between 1401 and 1405.
The site is officially shown as Stalling Down, but is also known as 'Bryn Owen' (Owens Hill).
The battle itself was between the Welsh and French under the command of Owain Glyndwr, and the English under the command of Henry IV. The reason for the battle was that Owain Glyndwr, who was a noble Welshman and a descendent of Llewellyn the Last, for most of his life, lived - and fought - as an Englishman, but by 1400 his growing sense of Welsh patriotic pride - and a squabble over land with his English neighbour - led him to raise an insurrection against the English in Wales.
In September, 1400 Glyndwr was proclaimed Prince of Wales. That same day he attacked Ruthin Castle, followed by raids on a succession of English strongholds in Wales. Initially the Welsh flocked to his banner, and Glyndwr successfully pushed back the startled English.
In 1405 Henry IV led a force of English troops into Glamorgan in a fresh attempt to overcome Glyndwr. The English met the Welsh and their French allies near Cowbridge, in a low field now called Stalling Down.
In a ferocious battle that lasted for a full 18 hours, the English and Welsh cut each other to shreds. Though actual details of the battle are scarce, legend tells that the blood ran fetlock high on the horse's legs, so fierce was the fighting. In the end, the Welsh were triumphant and Henry was forced to retreat.
Despite Glyndwr's triumph, the English superiority in numbers, and persistence, eventually wore down Welsh resistance. Glyndwr and his men were pushed back to Harlech Castle, the Welsh cause was effectively lost, when that stronghold fell. Glyndwr's wife and children were captured and spent the rest of their lives imprisoned in London.
As for Glyndwr himself, a great mystery lurks around his fate. He lived the life of a fugitive for several years, and it is known that in 1415 he refused a pardon, but then he disappears from history. Legend tells that he did not die, but sleeps, waiting to return when Wales is at greatest need.
Hope you like the views, Northwards to the valleys, and if you are lucky, close by to the East you may see some racehorses being trained. There are a couple of FTF momentos, and a few starting swap items in the box. Please be careful when replacing the cache to hide it as best as possible. There is PLENTY OF ROOM for swaps. Please keep all items INSIDE the sealable bag in the ammo can.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Haqre gur Tbefr Ohfu. Npprff sebz orybj naq cngu vf jvguva 10sg bs pnpur.
Treasures
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