BOXING HARE: Resistance, Cemetery & War Graves
Fighting Hares in the Church Cemetery
We have chosen the church cemetery as a location for our second hare. The fighting hares stand as a reminder that our village was not always peaceful. Within the cemetery are Commonwealth War Graves, a reminder of times past when life in Middleton was changed by the Second World War.
Did you know that it is actually the female hares who ‘box’?
They are protecting themselves by fighting off unwanted male attention! In modern times, our hare can be seen as an ancient declaration of the rights of women. Boxing behaviour is quite energetic and erratic, leading to the phrase ‘Mad as a March Hare!’
Hares are so fertile that in ancient times it was believed that they were hermaphrodite. It was also believed that they could reproduce without losing their virginity! This link to the virgin birth of Mary could be one of the reasons why the symbol of the three hares has been found so often in churches in roof bosses, covering roof intersections.
A Tribute to the Armed Forces
As female hares fight to protect themselves, they are a fitting symbol to remind us of those in The Armed Forces who left Middleton to protect our way of life and fight for peace. The Commonwealth War Graves within our cemetery honor the brave souls who sacrificed their lives during the Second World War. These graves serve as a testament to the courage and dedication of our servicemen and women.
The Armed Forces have always played a crucial role in maintaining peace and security. Their unwavering commitment ensures that we can enjoy the freedoms and safety we often take for granted. By remembering their sacrifices, we honour their legacy and ensure that their bravery is never forgotten.
First World War
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
Wold Wagoners
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
Second World War
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
Life during the War
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
War Community
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
End of the War
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
Village Resistance
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
War Graves
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
The Rectory
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
Methodist Chapel
Written by M. Gillum
May 2025
St Andrews Church
Written by K. Kaye
May 2025
Rectors
Written by M. Gillum
July 2025
Vicarage
Written by M. Gillum
July 2025
Reading Rooms
Written by G. Wisher
Published June 2025
Welcome to the Heritage Trail
Discover the rich history and stories of Middleton on the Wolds through our Heritage Trail. This initiative is funded by the UK Government, and the Middleton on the Wolds Parish Council. It was the instigated and delivered by Volunteers of the Middleton on the Wolds Green Group.
Throughout the village, you’ll find sculptures of hares, each equipped with a QR code. Scan these codes to access a wealth of information and photos about our village’s heritage.
Maps will be available from the local post office, or to print from this site to help you locate all the sculptures, allowing you to walk around the village and immerse yourself in its history.
The sculpture on the village green is dedicated to Geoff Wisher, our late beloved village historian. We extend our gratitude to his family for providing much of the information you will discover amongst these pages.