The Tower of London, a historic fortress on the banks of the River Thames, has a new guardian in Michael “Barney” Chandler, the newly appointed ravenmaster. At 56 years old, Chandler, a former Royal Marine, has taken on the crucial role of caring for the ravens that inhabit the 1,000-year-old tower.
Legend has it that if the ravens ever leave the Tower of London, specifically the White Tower within its walls, the structure will crumble, and the Kingdom of England will fall. This belief dates back to the 17th century when King Charles II decreed that there must always be six ravens residing at the tower to prevent this catastrophe.
Chandler, now responsible for the well-being of the tower's seven ravens, including the spare bird, takes this duty seriously. He acknowledges the weight of the legend but remains committed to ensuring that the raven population never falls below the required number.
The Tower of London, constructed by King William I following his conquest of England in 1066, has a rich history as a royal residence, prison, and more recently, a popular tourist destination. Notable historical events at the tower include the imprisonment and alleged murder of the princes in the tower, the execution of Anne Boleyn, and the confinement of various other prominent figures throughout the centuries.
Chandler, a Yeoman Warder or Beefeater, leads a team of fellow warders in caring for the ravens. His responsibilities include ensuring the birds' health, providing proper nutrition, and overseeing their enclosures. The birds, known for their intelligence and mischievous behavior, are a source of fascination for Chandler, who appreciates their individual personalities and unpredictability.
Despite formal training and bird handling courses, Chandler emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience in understanding the ravens' habits and behaviors. He describes the birds as highly intelligent creatures, always keeping him and his team on their toes with their clever antics.
As the sixth ravenmaster in the tower's history, Chandler embraces the challenges and rewards of his role, knowing that the well-being of the ravens is not just a duty but a centuries-old tradition that he upholds with pride.
