Blue Plaque: Percy Manning

300 Banbury Road, Oxford

In 2017, a blue plaque was unveiled at 300 Banbury Road, Oxford, to honor Percy Manning, a distinguished antiquary and folklorist whose extensive work significantly contributed to the understanding of Oxfordshire's history and culture. (oxfordmail.co.uk)

Born in 1870 in Headingley, West Yorkshire, Manning moved to Watford in 1880. He matriculated at New College, Oxford, in 1888, where he developed a profound interest in antiquities and archaeology. Despite facing academic challenges, including severe aphasia, Manning's passion for collecting and preserving historical artifacts remained unwavering. (en.wikipedia.org)

Manning's dedication to preserving Oxfordshire's heritage led him to amass a diverse collection of artifacts, documents, and artworks. His interests spanned various periods and aspects of local history, including Stone Age tools, Roman coins, medieval tiles, and items reflecting disappearing customs and folklore. Notably, he documented superstitions, customs, and beliefs, providing invaluable insights into the region's cultural practices. (glam.ox.ac.uk)

A significant aspect of Manning's legacy is his role in the revival of Morris dancing. In 1899, he revitalized the Headington Quarry Morris Dancers, equipping them for a performance that caught the attention of folk music revivalist Cecil Sharp. This event is considered a pivotal moment in the English folk revival movement. (glam.ox.ac.uk)

Manning's contributions were not limited to collecting artifacts; he actively engaged in scholarly activities, publishing articles and presenting papers on Oxfordshire's folklore and customs. He was a member of The Folklore Society from 1896 until his death in 1917, where he shared his research and findings with fellow enthusiasts. (en.wikipedia.org)

After his death in 1917, Manning's extensive collections were bequeathed to the University of Oxford. His manuscripts and archives are held at the Bodleian Libraries, while his artifacts are housed in the Ashmolean Museum and the Pitt Rivers Museum. These collections continue to serve as valuable resources for researchers and the public, offering a window into the rich tapestry of Oxfordshire's past. (archives.bodleian.ox.ac.uk)

The blue plaque at 300 Banbury Road serves as a testament to Manning's enduring impact on the study and appreciation of Oxfordshire's history and folklore. It commemorates his dedication to preserving and sharing the region's cultural heritage, ensuring that his contributions are remembered and celebrated by future generations.