This week on WHITEBALLOON INSIGHTS we loved hearing about the enchanting Holly Barrow in the Lost Village of Dode in Kent. In the 1990s, Douglas Chapman saved a derelict Dode, an important historical site. Then in 2021, a beautiful stone barrow was created in this peaceful, natural setting. Read on to find out more.
Q: Firstly, for those who may not be familiar with the concept of a stone barrow, could you please explain what these beautiful and serene places are?
Barrows are very ancient, some 5000 years ago our ancestors built them to house and to visit their dead. Holly Barrow is a stunning modern reimagining of this concept, designed to hold and preserve our loved ones cremated ashes.
Q: And we would love to hear about Holly Barrow and how it came into being.
Holly Barrow came into being at the time of Covid. All celebrations in Dode Church including weddings were postponed and the retreat cottages were closed.
Previously a farmer in Wiltshire had constructed one and inspired by him we took the opportunity to build ours to a slightly different design but still following the blueprint set all those millennia ago.
Q: The Lost Village of Dode sounds very intriguing and mysterious. Can you tell us more about this ancient site?
Dode is a very ancient site, originally going back to prehistoric times. There is also evidence of Roman and Saxon occupation. The church which is all that remains of the medieval village was built in 1100. The village was destroyed in 1349 as a result of the Black Death – hence ‘The Lost Village’. It is a truly mystical, magical place.
Q: You are the Steward of Dode, one of the Guardians who care for and watch over the site. At one point, Ollie the owl was part of the team! How did this come to be?
Ollie was a beautiful Barn Owl, he came to us unlooked for and unexpectedly. For seven years he faithfully delivered the wedding rings above the heads of surprised guests.
Sadly he died a few years ago. He was such an important member of our team that a garden was made in his honour where he now rests.
Q: Can family and friends return to the Barrow to feel close to and remember their special person?
There are seven ‘open days’ each year at which family and friends can return to visit loved ones. At other times, particularly anniversaries access can be made available.
Q: Dode Church is just across the meadow from Holly Barrow and all sorts of ceremonies take place there, including weddings and memorial services. It must be a lovely place to gather in celebration or remembrance?
The church and grounds are a beautiful and meaningful place for all ceremonies and it is a privilege to be a part of both the place and the celebrations that take place there.
Q: There is limited space within the barrow, are people able to reserve a niche in advance if they wish to do so?
It may sound strange but many people choose and reserve their niche. Speaking with them it brings a certain peace of mind knowing that where, when the time eventually comes, they will spend eternity, and that their relatives know their wishes.
Q: Looking to the future, do you have plans for more barrows at Dode, or elsewhere?
Holly Barrow is unique, eventually it will be sealed for eternity, leaving only a grass mound and memories. There are certainly no plans to build another at Dode.
Q: And finally, you live in the beautiful Kent countryside, are there other places you love to visit in your time off that have the same meaning and fascination for you?
There are many beautiful and historic places in Kent. My favourite is undoubtedly Hever Castle, one of the few such buildings that is not owned by the National Trust or English Heritage. We visit it regularly, not just for the history of the castle or the beauty of the grounds but for the obvious love and care bestowed upon it by the owners and staff.
Thank you Douglas for sharing these insights.
To find out more about this historical site and the services they offer, please visit Holly Barrow and The Lost Village of Dode.
Header Photo: Matt James Photography