Wessex Dragon
Wessex, England is an historic region in the southwest section of the country. It has played a prominent role in the evolution of the English society, dynasty kingdoms and the country itself. It is represented by the symbolic association to the dragon, which dates from the early first century AD. This is first mentioned in stories told by Mathew of Westminster, though he is now believed to by a mythological figure, and Henry of Huntingdon, an English historian from the mid 12th century. Mathew was originally believed to have been the writer of the Fores Historiarum, which contains the mention of the dragon, though this was discovered to be a mistake and although the account exists in the book, there is no indication that Mathew of Westminster ever existed. These early accounts refer to a golden dragon that was raised by the West Saxons in 752 AD at the Battle of Burford. Tourists who visit the region and stay in a Wessex hotel are more than likely to encounter a representation of the dragon during their vacation.
The dragon is seen in the Bayeux Tapestry and is depicted as a fallen golden dragon, although this may not refer directly to Wessex as the dragon imagery was in common use at the time. There is also a panel in the stained glass at Exeter Cathedral that displays the dragon in Wessex and indicates an association to it that predates the Victorian period. The association become extremely popularized in the 19th century, due largely to the writings of E. A. Freeman. The dragon is also found on the Wessex Society flag. The flag is a simple depiction of a golden dragon in front of a red backdrop. The flag was designed by William Crampton. Regardless of the origins or extent of its use, the dragon is a popular symbol of Wessex and the region today.