This photograph, taken around 1920, shows eight women dressed in black capes and tall, pointed hats, enjoying tea outdoors. Despite their appearance, which strongly resembles the popular image of witches, they were not a coven. They were the members of the Holy and Undivided Trinity of Castle Rising, an almshouse charity located in Castle Rising, Norfolk, England.
Founded in 1610 by Henry Howard, the third Earl of Northampton, the almshouse provided accommodation and support for 12 elderly women.
The striking uniform, the black cloak and the distinctive high, steeple-crowned hat, was a requirement of the charity’s ancient rules. It was, in effect, a mandatory uniform that designated them as residents of the Trinity. The tradition of the uniform was maintained for centuries, making the residents a unique and well-known sight in the area. The hats and capes were usually worn for formal occasions or when attending church.
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