In October 1970, the tranquil hills and valleys of Exmoor, particularly the picturesque Dulverton area, became the stage for one of England’s oldest rural traditions: the stag hunt. Hunt enthusiasts and locals alike eagerly gathered as the Devon & Somerset Stag Hounds (DSSH) prepared for the pursuit of the majestic red deer. This event, steeped in history, not only reflected a long-standing cultural practice but also embodied the complex relationship between humans, animals, and the natural landscape of Exmoor.
The Devon & Somerset Stag Hounds: A Legacy of Tradition
The Devon & Somerset Stag Hounds, with roots tracing back to the 17th century, represent one of the most enduring hunting organizations in
the United Kingdom. Unlike foxhunting, stag hunting was often regarded as a noble pursuit, focusing on the red deer—a symbol of strength and wild beauty. By 1970, the DSSH had already become synonymous with Exmoor, drawing not only seasoned huntsmen but also visitors curious to witness a living tradition passed through centuries.
Exmoor: The Land of Red Deer
Exmoor, straddling Devon and Somerset, has always been famed for its rugged landscapes, dramatic moorlands, and ancient woodlands. But its true crown jewel is the population of red deer, Britain’s largest native land mammal. By autumn, when the rutting season filled the hills with the roar of stags, the Dulverton area became a natural gathering place. The October 1970 hunt thus unfolded against a backdrop of golden leaves, mist-covered valleys, and an atmosphere both festive and tense.
The Gathering in Dulverton
On that crisp October day, villagers, hunters, horsemen, and hounds converged on Dulverton. Horses stamped impatiently, hounds barked eagerly, and conversations buzzed with excitement. The anticipation was not only about the chase but also about the community—friends reuniting, generations sharing stories, and locals passing down customs to younger onlookers. For many, this was as much a social event as it was a hunt.
The Pursuit of the Stag
When the hounds were released, a ripple of energy coursed through the crowd. The pursuit itself, often lasting hours, was a test of stamina and skill for both horsemen and hounds. The red deer, powerful and elusive, would weave through valleys and woodlands, turning the hunt into a dramatic display of man versus nature. In 1970, this spectacle was not merely a sport but an echo of centuries-old rituals where respect for the stag and the land was paramount.
Controversy and Change
Even in 1970, the practice of stag hunting was not without controversy. Animal welfare advocates questioned the ethics of pursuing and killing wild animals for sport. These debates would only intensify in the decades to follow, ultimately leading to the Hunting Act of 2004, which banned hunting wild mammals with dogs in England and Wales. Looking back, the 1970 Dulverton hunt can be seen as one of the last great gatherings before public sentiment began to shift irreversibly.
Cultural Memory
Today, the memory of such hunts is preserved in photographs, local accounts, and historical archives. For those who stood on Exmoor in October 1970, the sight of hounds streaming across the hills, riders silhouetted against the horizon, and the proud red deer at the heart of it all remains unforgettable. It was a moment where tradition, nature, and community converged in dramatic harmony.
Conclusion
The Devon & Somerset Stag Hounds’ pursuit in Exmoor in October 1970 was not just a hunt—it was a cultural event that showcased the enduring bond between people and the wild landscapes they inhabit. While times have changed and hunting practices have been redefined, the legacy of that day continues to echo through the valleys of Exmoor, reminding us of a time when tradition, controversy, and natural beauty were inseparably entwined.
