"Sw
an upping: A Quirky Tradition of British Culture" British culture is full of unique traditions and customs, some of which may seem bizarre to outsiders. One such practice is the ancient tradition of swan upping, which takes place every year on the River Thames. Swan upping is a ceremony that involves the counting and marking of all the mute swans on the River Thames. These majestic birds, which have been protected by the British Crown since the 12th century, are owned by either the Crown or two of the city’s livery companies: the Worshipful Company of Vintners and the Worshipful Company of Dyers. The practice of swan upping dates back to the 12th century when swans were a prized commodity for their meat, feathers and down. During this time, most swans were owned by wealthy landowners, and ownership was a status symbol. In the 15th century, however, the Crown claimed ownership of all swans in England, and this law remains in place today. Swan upping takes place over five days in July each year, and the event is presided over by the Queen’s swan marker and his assistants. The team, dressed in traditional rowing dress, navigates the river in a skiff, looking for swans and their young cygnets. Once spotted, they capture the birds and bring them ashore, where they are weighed and checked for injuries or illness. The swans are then marked with unique identification numbers or other distinguishing features, such as a series of nicks on their bills. This makes it easier to keep track of the swan population and ensure the birds are not poached or hunted by others. Aside from its practical uses, swan upping has also become a beloved British tradition, steeped in symbolism and pageantry. The event is attended by the Queen’s swan marker, local dignitaries and school children, who are taught about the history and importance of these graceful creatures. While swan upping may seem like a strange spectacle, it is a cherished part of British culture, highlighting the country’s deep-rooted appreciation for both its wildlife and its rich history. While modern times have changed many things, swan upping continues to be a treasured British tradition that reminds us of a time when swans were a symbol of luxury and status, and the River Thames was bustling with trade and commerce.
