Welcome to Dead Man’s Field
The field known as Challenge, (or Dead Man’s Field), where we have our popular fully serviced pitches, has a fascinating history; read on to find out about dark deeds in 18C Dorset.
Why is this field known as Challenge ?
Close to this spot, on 28th April 1792, a duel with pistols was fought between James Warden, a sea captain, and Norman Bond, a local landowner. Both men were from Charmouth, where Warden had a reputation as an unpleasant and bad-tempered fellow.
28th April 1792, a duel with pistols was fought between James Warden and Norman Bond
A Fateful Day in 1792
On 24th April, Warden approached Bond on Charmouth High Street and started an argument, threatening to shoot Bond’s dogs, accusing him of allowing them to take game birds from his land.
A hot-tempered exchange ensued and Bond, unable to tolerate the abusive language coming from Warden, offered to settle the matter in a duel.
And so it was arranged. Four days later, the two men met ‘on a heath on a high hill between Charmouth and Axminster and close to the Hunters Lodge Inn.’
As was the custom of duelling at the time, the two men took turns to fire their pistols. Warden, to whom the challenge had been issued, was given the honour of firing first. However, his pistol ball only grazed Bond’s hat – it was now Bond’s turn to take aim.
According to a contemporary report, at this point, Bond lowered his pistol and spoke, saying:
“Now, you have shot at me and missed. Retract what you have said, or acknowledge that you are wrong, and I will fire mine into the air. If you do not, there will be nothing left for me but to shoot you.”
Warden was cantankerous to the end
Warden, cantankerous to the end, refused to offer the requested apology. Bond therefore took careful aim and shot Warden through the heart.
Bond was reported to have slowly walked up to his lifeless foe simply stating, “I believe he is dead, gentlemen.”
Bond left the scene but was later charged with murder and fled to Barbados.
Warden was buried in Charmouth churchyard, where his tomb still stands.
Since that tragic day in 1792 this piece of land has been locally known as Challenge, or Dead Man’s Field.
So Much to Discover when you Stay at Monkton Wyld Holiday Park
Discover over 30 Local Walks & Bike Rides from our Park when you come and stay with us
Situated in the heart of the enchanting West Country, Monkton Wyld Holiday Park serves as an ideal starting point for those keen to explore the stunning local countryside.
Boasting over 30 walking maps and detailed guides, guests are equipped to venture out and uncover the diverse landscapes that surround the park.
From verdant hills and gentle streams to time-honoured woodlands, there’s a route tailored for every kind of walker.
Each map and guide is designed to ensure guests can fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and charm of the region, making every walk a memorable journey.
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