Lola Taplin
Patrick Wiseman
Category
Photographs
Date
Unknown
Materials
Photographic print glazed in wooden frame
Measurements
400 mm (H); 320 mm (W)
Order this imageCollection
Fleece Inn Bretforton, Worcestershire
NT 1137161
Caption
Admiration for this charismatic landlady and the inn she ran for 30 years is shared by locals and tourists alike. The photographer Patrick Wiseman and the actress Francesca Annis (b.1945) signed this print ‘Lola – thank you for the greatest pub left in England’. Assuming a classic pose and serene expression, Lola Taplin’s patterned dress and illuminated white hair contrast with the darkened backdrop. Taplin was the last descendant in a 500- year family link to the 15th-century building, once a farmhouse, situated in rural Bretforton. Continuing the dedication and traditions of her mother and those before her, the formidable Taplin maintained strict rules, including serving only drinks – no food was permitted. She also protected the practice of drawing chalk circles in front of the fireplace, aimed at preventing witches from entering through the chimneys. In honour of her wishes, although now permanently painted in, the circles remain. While witchcraft was presumably kept at bay, The Fleece Inn was struck by another misfortune – a dreadful fire on 27 February 2004, which ignited the thatched roof and timbers. Firefighters and good fortune won out, however, and the inn survived. Numerous antiques and furniture collected over many decades were rescued, including this framed photograph, although it did require conservation treatment. The repaired pub reopened the following year. Taplin had passed away in 1977, aged 83. Locals believe she still watches over the place, as does this portrait, hanging on the wall. Her shoes, too, remain where they were left in a further effort to avoid disturbing the footprint of time.
Summary
Framed gelatin silver photograph of Miss Lola Taplin, the landlady of The Fleece Inn in Bretforton for 30 years. Taplin passed away in 1977 aged 83. The print is signed 'Lola - thank you for the greatest pub left in England', by the photographer and Francesca Annis.
Makers and roles
Patrick Wiseman, photographer