Who are ‘Cunning folk’?
Cunning folk were individuals within their communities who practised what is often called service magic—using magical knowledge to help ordinary people with everyday problems.
They were the people you might turn to for protection against witchcraft, providing charms, amulets, and remedies believed to ward off harm. They could also be consulted to locate lost property, uncover hidden treasure, identify thieves, or offer advice in times of uncertainty.
Far from being marginal figures, cunning folk played an important role in the lives of many people in the past. For those who lacked access to formal medicine, legal assistance, or other forms of support, they often served as trusted healers, advisers, and protectors within their communities.
By researching and sharing the stories of these individuals with modern audiences, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of how people lived in the past and how their beliefs, fears, and traditions continue to influence our behaviour today. Through exploring the lives of cunning folk, we can gain valuable insights into the communities they served and the enduring human need for guidance, protection, and reassurance.
With a decade of experience as a living historian, Jen has spent countless hours researching both primary and secondary sources to reconstruct the lives, practices, and beliefs of the cunning folk of the past.
Through engaging talks, immersive performances, and hands-on demonstrations, Jen aims to bring a touch of magic to history. By exploring the world through the eyes of those who lived centuries ago, she encourages visitors to consider how they might have sought help, protection, or answers in a time when cunning folk played a vital role within their communities.
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