“Unearthed Romance: A 17th-Century Lovers’ Ring Reveals Secrets of the Past Near an Enigmatic English Manor!”
The home sits on five acres and features impressive exterior and interior designs, such as a large garden and elaborately decorated rooms. In 1967, it was added to England’s National Heritage List, making it a protected structure.
It was the estate’s rich history that led the metal detectorist to search nearby two years ago. And luckily, they did not go home empty-handed.
After unearthing a small metal object, the detectorist realized they had discovered a lovers’ ring, one that attests to a heartwarming 300-year-old romance.
Who Did The Lovers’ Ring Belong To?
After finding the ring, the metal detectorist declared the discovery to the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS), a program in England that allows people to report artifacts that may be culturally or historically significant. It was then given to the Lancaster City Museum.
Now, Lancaster City Council has announced the discovery to the public via a Facebook post.
According to experts, the centuries-old piece of jewelry was a posy ring. Unlike modern engagement rings, these were historically given by either partner at any stage in a romantic relationship.
The ring found at Whittington Hall was lovingly inscribed with the words “present my affection.” Similar rings, like one found in Essex in 2023, bear comparable declarations of devotion and love.
Colchester and Ipswich Museum ServiceA 15th-century ring bearing the inscription: “I desire to serve you.”
While nobody knows to whom this ring belonged, it stands as a testament to humanity’s shared fondness for love stories.
