by Katie Thompson
What do you think of when you think of Valentine’s Day? Here in Norwich and Norfolk, we have our own take on this romantic celebration. And that includes giving it an extra day – introducing – Valentine’s Eve!
Our local tradition celebrates the antics of Jack Valentine, a mysterious figure known for giving (and whisking away!) gifts and cards from people’s doorsteps on Valentine’s Eve. But so far, no one has been lucky enough to spot him! He’s as elusive as Father Christmas.
Read on below for the City of Stories’ interesting tale of Jack Valentine.
Now, you may be wondering where the story of Jack Valentine comes from. But although we don’t know why he only appears in Norwich and Norfolk or what he looks like (not even the locals!), the mystery is all part of the fun!
Norfolk’s history has always been entwined with Valentine’s Day. Did you know the oldest-known valentine written in English was sent from this county in 1477?
And the tradition of celebrating Valentine’s Eve has always been popular, too. In the 1600s, family and friends were known to gather on the 13th of February, while even Shakespeare’s Hamlet mentions young people wooing each other on this date.
Here in Norwich, some say more money was spent on the occasion than Christmas in the 1800s and early 1900s! While children were known to sing for pennies and sweet treats, shops often employed more staff to cope with the demand, staying open late and decorating their windows with elaborate displays of cards and trinkets.
It was around this time that the popularity of Jack Valentine peaked, but this 200-year-old tradition is still celebrated in Norwich and Norfolk today. Also known as Mr. Valentine or Old Father Valentine, his gifts aren’t just for lovers. Present receivers are of all ages, and we can see why everyone likes to join in.
Jack Valentine can be quite generous. As well as intricately handmade cards, he’s been known to leave shawls (which Norwich was famous for during Victorian times), vases, jewellery boxes and even a writing desk or two!
Valentine’s was a popular and prosperous time for 1800s Norwich! Credit: Norfolk Museums Service
But, if you’re lucky enough to receive a gift, you have to be quick!
Under the cover of darkness, Jack Valentine will silently leave small trinkets on your doorstep before knocking and hiding unseen. Sometimes there might be no gift at all (or even a piece of coal or meaningless scribble). Other times, just as you go to pick it up, it’ll suddenly be whisked playfully away and out of reach by an invisible piece of string! Some say this is his counterpart Snatch Valentine at work.
We may not know who Jack Valentine is, but his mischievous ways are still passed down generation to generation for a fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Eve.
Learn more about Jack Valentine at the Museum of Norwich Credit: Norfolk Museums Service
So, next time you’re visiting Norwich, be sure to visit the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell to see their lovely collection of Victorian Valentine’s cards and for more cheeky tales of Jack Valentine’s antics.
And while you’re here, why not start celebrating Valentine’s Eve yourself? If you’ve young children, they will love it (and it’s easier than Elf on the Shelf). And if you’re feeling generous enough, a gift for friends or loved ones without being pink or heart shaped (!) can be picked up from one of our many independents, including jewellery, artworks and books crafted by local creators. Head to Jarrolds, Atwin, The Royal Arcade and Moosey Art for the best of the best!
Images: The Norwich Lanes
