When 'Poldark' came to Corsham...

We had a fascinating time at the Archive office last week, with a grandstand view of the filming of a new BBC adaptation of 'Poldark'.

The roads just outside Corsham Court, namely Church Square, Church Street and the High Street, were transformed into an interpretation of 18th century Truro on market day. Horses, carriages, actors, extras, sheep, geese, produce, chickens, a Punch and Judy stall, technicians and camera operators all milled about the area while Corsham life carried on in between takes.

It was in interesting few days, not least because as historians, we know that the dramatic treatment of history is an area of intense debate. We could clearly see the attention to detail employed by the production team. They've been seen, considering buildings and shots in the vicinity for some time already, so obviously a lot of effort is expended. I personally hope that the end result is as engaging as the original version. 

During all the excitement, we welcomed a former student of Bath Domestic Science College to the office, for an oral history interview. We chatted happily about the 1975 version of 'Poldark' before and after the interview, and had to explain to Alice and Carol (aged 20) exactly what it was - and more crucially, what all the fuss was about. When told that the new Ross Poldark is being played by actor Aidan Turner, they began to understand...

And here are a few random photos of the filming for you to enjoy! 

Carriages and horses await

Church Street, with atmospheric gravel?

Corsham Post Office, still open for business but dressed as an 18th century Print Shop

Sheep, geese, extras and technicians

This dressed shop front was beautiful - The Silk Merchant - When England was 'the nation of shopkeepers'.

Corsham Town Hall

The view form the office - actors in tricorn hats and breeches enjoy a syrofoam cup of coffee