Swan pit
Water-filled enclosure historically used to house swans for meat
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A swan pit is a water-filled enclosure where swans were fattened and eventually killed for human consumption.[1]
History
From the medieval period swans were kept in ponds and were a source of income and made acceptable gifts.[2] Selected wild cygnets had their wings clipped and bills cut into a distinctive pattern bearing the owner's mark.
An example of a swan pit can be found within the grounds of the Great Hospital, Norwich. The Grade II listed[3] tidal pool was built in the 18th century and is fed with water from the adjacent River Wensum.
