[MR] Wikipedia: Britain’s 1275 Earthquake

[Garth Groff and Sally Sanford]

Noble Friends,

We usually think earthquakes only happen in California or other far away
mythical places, but they can occur anywhere and anytime due to our shifty
world's plate tectonics.

It should come as no surprise that Britain has had its share of
earthquakes, including a major trembler on 11 September 1275. Given the
lack of scientific data, the epicenter cannot be determined for certain,
but the shaking was strongest across southern England. It has been
estimated to have had a magnitude of 7-8 on the Richter scale, though such
measurements did not exist at that time.

Accounts claim there was substantial damage to buildings (both stone and
wattle-and-daub buildings would not fare well in an earthquake), and human
casualties are also mentioned. The chief and lasting damage was to Saint
Michael's Church atop Glastonbury Tor. Most of the building was destroyed,
but the stone tower somehow was left standing. The tower still stands today
and is a must-see if you visit Glastonbury. The path up the Tor will leave
you winded (there was plenty of wind waiting for me once I reached the top).

The earthquake is discussed at
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1275_British_earthquake .

You may find this discussion of the Tor and St. Michael's Church to be more
interesting (great photos too):
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glastonbury_Tor .

Yours Aye,

Mungo Napier, Laird of Mallard Lodge  🦆
Continuing a crusade to keep the original Merry Rose relevant and in
business.