In search of Vera's Sanctuary and Cottage #sanctuarylife #bushcraft #forest #dayout #spaniel

In 1923, at 26 years of age, Vera Pragnell created a Sanctuary, a utopian commune in Heath Common, West Sussex with the inheritance her father left her. She purchased 50 acres of land and proceeded to give away half acre plots of land free of charge to anyone who was willing to settle there where they would park a caravan or build a simple house. Eventually communal facilities were created such as a shop, a school and a building used for theatre and dancing. Settlers at The Sanctuary ate a limited vegetarian diet but faced difficulties growing fruit and vegetables because of poor soil. By the early 1930s, Vera's original inspiration had been lost amid disputes and disillusionment and in 1934 the Sanctuary residents began to register formal ownership of their own properties. Vera lived in a house she named Sanctuary Cottage, part of which was kept open for any passing stranger who needed shelter or refreshment. Today we went in search of Vera's cottage to reflect on her life. Thanks so much for watching if you do and please leave a comment as I love to read them all and if you'd like to, please subscribe Music : Epidemic Sound To all those lovely people who have bought me a coffee or Ky a treat, THANK YOU, it's so kind of you and I truly appreciate it. https://buymeacoffee.com/lynnky