IN the article (Oxford Mail, November 28, Street Fights Losing Battle), it is said that North Parade was once the frontline in a Civil War siege.
This was not so. Although it was claimed by a German professor that North Parade was the parade ground of the Royalist troops and South Parade the parade ground of Cromwell’s men, this was no more than a popular and entertaining myth.
Ruth Fasnacht, the distinguished Oxford historian, said although there is no evidence for this story she did admit it takes the romance out of the Parade.
I have written about this in a chapter of the book I co-authored with Nigel Morgan called The Origins of Oxford Street Names, which was reprinted last month.
It is sad to see the Verandah go from North Parade. Let us hope that it is the last of the losing battles.
ANN SPOKES SYMONDS Davenant Road Oxford
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