l'escargot
Well-Known Member
Re: Oh Really .....
I am sure we will - whenever in Newport you have passed within 25 yards of my boat (unless I am out).
I can never resist a bit of "playing" /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
I am surprised that your mother does not recognise the term, it is sometimes translated to "Corkhead", but it is generally accepted as originating from the islanders who would re caulk the ships that were dried out on Ryde sands for the purpose.
(A quick search shows Answers.com elaborates a bit more:
Caulkheads, Overners and Vectians
Historically, inhabitants of the Isle of Wight have been known as Vectians (pronounced Vec-tee-ans) from the Latin name for the Island, Vectis. Although the term is still sometimes used; as with many other small island communities the term Islander is more common. Vectian can also be an adjective pertaining to the Island or its inhabitants, and also refers to certain geological features which are typical of the Island. The term Overner is used for inhabitants originating from Mainland Great Britain. This is an abbreviated form of Overlander; an old English term for outsider still found in a few other places such as parts of Australia
People born on the island are colloquially known as Caulkheads (comparable with the term Cockneys for those born in the East End of London). However, many argue that the term should only apply those who can also claim they are of established Isle of Wight stock either by proven historical roots or, for example, being third generation inhabitants from both parents' lineage. (it looks like you might still qualify!)
One theory as to the origin of this name is that the term is derived from the once prevalent local industry of caulking boats; a process of sealing the seams of wooden boats with oakum. Another more fanciful story is that a group of armoured Island horsemen were chased into the sea by the marauding French, and took refuge on a sandbank when the tide came in, thus appearing to float in the sea despite their heavy armour, hence the name Cork- i.e. Caulk-, -heads. In local folklore it is said that a test can be conducted on a baby by throwing it into the sea from the end of Ryde pier whereupon a true caulkhead baby will float unharmed. Thankfully there is no record of the test ever being carried out.)
I have to admit to being an Overner myself (from one of the other islands nearby - Portsea) but always worked with many Caulkheads who have always proudly defined themselves as such. There is even a dinosaur named after them now here.
I thought everyone had heard of the "Caulkhead Clarion" (County Press) and "Caulkhead (Solent) TV". You must also know what "Nammit" is?
Anyway, don't get me wrong, I love the island and wish I knew it 50 - 100 years ago. I am particularly fond of the Medina.
Unfortunately, we live in times of change and I am realistic enough to see that. It doesn't always have to be for the worse though.
I am sure we will - whenever in Newport you have passed within 25 yards of my boat (unless I am out).
I can never resist a bit of "playing" /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
I am surprised that your mother does not recognise the term, it is sometimes translated to "Corkhead", but it is generally accepted as originating from the islanders who would re caulk the ships that were dried out on Ryde sands for the purpose.
(A quick search shows Answers.com elaborates a bit more:
Caulkheads, Overners and Vectians
Historically, inhabitants of the Isle of Wight have been known as Vectians (pronounced Vec-tee-ans) from the Latin name for the Island, Vectis. Although the term is still sometimes used; as with many other small island communities the term Islander is more common. Vectian can also be an adjective pertaining to the Island or its inhabitants, and also refers to certain geological features which are typical of the Island. The term Overner is used for inhabitants originating from Mainland Great Britain. This is an abbreviated form of Overlander; an old English term for outsider still found in a few other places such as parts of Australia
People born on the island are colloquially known as Caulkheads (comparable with the term Cockneys for those born in the East End of London). However, many argue that the term should only apply those who can also claim they are of established Isle of Wight stock either by proven historical roots or, for example, being third generation inhabitants from both parents' lineage. (it looks like you might still qualify!)
One theory as to the origin of this name is that the term is derived from the once prevalent local industry of caulking boats; a process of sealing the seams of wooden boats with oakum. Another more fanciful story is that a group of armoured Island horsemen were chased into the sea by the marauding French, and took refuge on a sandbank when the tide came in, thus appearing to float in the sea despite their heavy armour, hence the name Cork- i.e. Caulk-, -heads. In local folklore it is said that a test can be conducted on a baby by throwing it into the sea from the end of Ryde pier whereupon a true caulkhead baby will float unharmed. Thankfully there is no record of the test ever being carried out.)
I have to admit to being an Overner myself (from one of the other islands nearby - Portsea) but always worked with many Caulkheads who have always proudly defined themselves as such. There is even a dinosaur named after them now here.
I thought everyone had heard of the "Caulkhead Clarion" (County Press) and "Caulkhead (Solent) TV". You must also know what "Nammit" is?
Anyway, don't get me wrong, I love the island and wish I knew it 50 - 100 years ago. I am particularly fond of the Medina.
Unfortunately, we live in times of change and I am realistic enough to see that. It doesn't always have to be for the worse though.