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Encounter the History of the Castles of England

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In excess of 30 medieval castles still exist in the southeast section of England as a reminder of the days when Great britain was a country separated by ruling families who created strong forts to guard their lands from invaders, both international and local. Modern castle tours allow tourists to get a feeling of how significant these beautifully protected complexes are to the rich historical past and tradition of Great britain. Checking out the the royal collections of noteworthy aristocrats like Mary Queen of Scots throughout guided tours of the Arundel Castle in West Sussex give tourists a sense of the grandeur and style that surrounded the British aristocracy in medieval times. The specialized guides tell tales that bring the past to life as they recount famous battles and tales that beseige this exciting castle. At the majestic Guildford Castle, visitors can safely ascend to high atop of the Great Tower to see the wide ranging view that was used by the castle’s defenders to see approaching enemy troops. Indoors are exhibits that let visitors study models of the castle as it was formerly constructed in the 1300s. Informative videos explain the function that Guildford Castle played out in British history. As soon as the wonderful Herstmonceux castle comes into view, tourists are astounded by the moat that stresses how solid defenses were required to dissuade invaders when this castle was built in the violent times of 15th century England. Although once in ruins, the castle has been beautifully restored and is now house of the Queen’s Bader Institute. Surrounding the castle alongside the moat are public grounds that reflect the Elizabethan era when lands were sophisticated playgrounds for the aristocracy. Immediately after the turning forest paths that steer towards forest sculptures that are shown in the Shakesphere garden, Rose Garden and the Herb Garden offer visitors a feeling of how the beauty of valiance was once played out in the midst of these impressive settings. High upon the well-known white cliffs of Kent, the Dover Castle’s breath-taking views over the English channel make it apparent why this old site has been put to use for centuries to secure the south eastern shores of Britain. Dover Castle was designed by William the Conqueror in 1066 after his win at the Battle of Hastings, however there are ruins around the castle that date back much further, and evidence of enhancements through the years. Seeing the many versions of this strategic site, which includes a hall once referred to as Arthur’s Hall, gives modern visitors a taste of Britain’s rich history. When you come into Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boylen, the homely feeling is quite different from other southeastern English castles. The displays of individual items and recreations of the dresses worn by the six wives of Henry the VIII reflects the richness of 16th century Tudor life style. But the group of weaponry, armour and tools of torture and execution in the Council Chamber speak of a much darker side of life full of high intrigue and authentic threat that lurked in the medieval courts. Find out more information about some of the many Castles in England

The History, Properties and Uses of Spun Poly Material

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It was in England in 1941 that British scientists John Whinfield and James Dickson first invented poly fabric. However, it wasn’t until 1950 that an American company named Dupont began to make polyester in the United States.

Since 1960 polyester cloth has become the most widely used material in the production of garments. This is due, in part, to its ability to resist both fading and shrinking. In addition to the production of clothing, companies discovered that poly fabric worked well in the manufacturing of table linens, chair covers, placemats, table skirting and aprons. As well received as it was for apparel and home decor, 100% poly cloth was not the best pick for table napkins. Table napkins made of 100% polyester lacked absorption and did not have the feel of cotton fiber, which one associated with high-priced table linen.

Along came spun poly fabric. Spun polyester was initially developed for heavy-duty use and home furnishings. In an effort to make a boat cover from spun polyester, Johnston Industries unknowingly produced a spun poly that, compared to its predecessor, was lighter in weight with an better feeling to it. While dying this new version of spun poly, they learned that the cloth became even softer, making it perfect for table cloths.

Such a meaningful discovery had Johnston Industries discontinuing their development of boat coverings. In order to better the spun poly fabric that had been made, Johnston Industries decided to hire a textile expert by the name of Bob Pomeranz. Bob’s expert knowledge of spinning machines allowed him to spin a cloth free from pilling, the irritating fiber clumps that take away from a cloth’s appearance. Johnston Industries’ finished product was a durable tablecloth resistant to shrinkage with the power to maintain its coloring and release soil.

Spun polyester could now be used to produce tablecoths with the feel of cotton fiber cloth. Best of all, unlike cotton fiber, a spun polyester tablecloth would remain colorfast , even after being laundered umpteen times. To a greater extent, the more you laundered a spun poly tablecloth the softer and better it would feel to the touch.

The textile industry found that spun poly was good, not just for table linens, but in the making of chair covers, place mats, table skirting, aprons and even napkins. In fact, spun poly table napkins were quite absorbant, a feature that 100% polyester napkins lacked.

Both 100% polyester and spun polyester have their place, not just in the house, but in restaurants, nursing homes, hospitals and the party rental industry as well.