Witches Hovel - $$2.50
This little structure lives at the Rydale Folk Museum and, jokingly, the inhabitant (whether real of imagined), is sometimes referred to as the Seventh trustee of the museum.
Witches Hovel
This little structure lives at the Rydale Folk Museum and, jokingly, the inhabitant (whether real of imagined), is sometimes referred to as the Seventh trustee of the museum.
It's a silly little model but will be fun in some hidden corner of your layout.
Other 'Witchie' Fiddlersgreen Models:
Haunted House
Witch on Broom Flying Model
Additional Historical Insights
The Witches Hovel at Ryedale Folk Museum in Hutton-le-Hole, North Yorkshire, UK, is a reconstructed structure made from leftover building materials in the 1960s to educate visitors on local witchcraft history. It represents folklore from the North York Moors, where stories of witches and magic date back centuries. The museum has hosted exhibitions like "Witchcraft in the North York Moors," exploring how fear led to "magical thinking" and persecutions, with displays on witch posts—carved wooden beams with St. Andrew's crosses believed to ward off witches near fireplaces.
These posts, rare in the region, feature apotropaic marks to protect homes. The hovel often features a volunteer "witch" sharing tales, and the museum seeks more such artifacts from across the UK, including Sussex, for preservation.
Fun Trivia
- Local legends include "The Witch's Plough," inspired by early modern accusations, and tales of witches using spells for farming or harm (superstitionsam.com)
- Ryedale's witchcraft stories often involved poor women accused due to misfortune, like failed crops, challenging modern stereotypes. (societyforritualarts.com)
- The museum runs community events, blending history with fun, like Halloween activities exploring "good" vs. "bad" magic. (facebook.com)
Model Building Tips
Incorporate natural elements like twig accents for the roof to enhance the rustic look. Use earth-toned paints with dry-brushing for a weathered effect. Position it in a diorama with miniature herbs or "spell ingredients" for thematic depth, and add a small LED for an interior glow to simulate a cauldron fire.
Enhance the spooky vibe by adding LED tea lights inside for a glowing window effect—perfect for Halloween displays. Use textured paper or foam board for the siding to mimic aged wood, and incorporate miniature cobwebs from craft stores for added atmosphere. Group it with related models like the Witch on Broom for a themed haunted village.