History is more than words; it is people: their lives, actions, and culture. Unfortunately, it is often the case (both locally and on a wider scale) that certain cultures and lives are forgotten. Throughout history, the story of the Gypsy, Roma and traveller people has been poorly upheld due to centuries of ostracism yet, through the stories of the Romani Nevi-Wesh (New Forest Gypsies) we can begin to better understand their culture and lives.
The origins of the Romani
Dating back to A.D 500, the origins of the Romani people’s origins can be traced back to the Punjab region of Northern India, where, after the 11th-century Afghan invasion, they were forced to migrate elsewhere. They then resided in the Anatolian peninsula, dividing into countries such as Egypt and Romania. It is because of this stint in Asia Minor that when they later arrived in Europe, people referred to them as ‘Gypcians’ – a shortened form of the old English word ‘Egyptians’. Later, this would become ‘Gypsies’.
The Romani people in Britain
It is recorded that around the 16th century, the Romani first arrived in Britain, during the rather tumultuous reign of Henry VIII, where unfortunately, life did not get any easier. By 1530, Henry had passed the “Egyptians Act” ordering all Romani people to leave the country within 16 days or face harsh and often cruel punishment.
Lamentably, under Mary I, these laws were extremified, often being met with death in the case of non-compliance. By 1600, under Oliver Cromwell, many Romani were sent to work on plantations in the Americas.
However, the presence of Romani resonated throughout the countryside and edges of towns within Britain, carving a living through hard and demanding work such as agriculture and labouring. Culturally, the Romani were known for their rich culture in fields such as Art, dance, and music. Despite the constant and brutal acts of the government, it is the case that the Romani were able to prevail due to their work ethic, skill, and perseverance.
The Romani Nevi-Wesh
Romani people first appeared in Hampshire in 1638, residing in an area close to Alton for some time. Attracted by both the beauty and the rich supply of fresh water, it was an idyllic location for travellers. For the best part of 300 years, Romani people were permitted to freely travel and stay wherever they pleased. This was the case until the 20th century where -in what can only be described as unjustified discrimination – Romani people were restricted from staying in an area for more than 48 hours.
In 1926, the Forest Commission introduced a ‘compound’ system to corral the Romani people into official enclosures. Seven such places were identified, each of which numbered roughly 400 people. After the war, the compounds were closed and the Romani people were given council housing. Contrary to such torment, their strong culture in arts remained, a factor that is well preserved today – a symbol of strength and integrity
Tragically, it is the rather forgotten truth that the history of the Romani people is a constant and unforgiving disintegration of both lifestyles and culture. Such a brutal treatment should not only be remembered, but we should actively reflect and question such treatment of minorities. Simply because it happened here, in the New Forest, does not mean it did not happen at all.
Written by Jack Harris
