A Hero Slumbers, Waiting for the Call… The Legend of Drake’s Drum

Now to say that Sir Francis Drake was a big deal during his day, would be a gross understatement. The English-born explorer, sea captain, privateer, slave trader, naval officer, and politician, most certainly made a name for himself. His exploits can fill volumes and have more than earned his place in history.

Drake’s Accomplishments and His Famous Drum

But he is most well-known for being the first Englishman to circumnavigate the world, doing so between 1577 to 1580. During his voyage, Sir Drake actually had a drum with him and for some reason, he was quite fond of it. So much so that before he died, Drake ordered the drum to be taken to Buckland Abbey and vowed that if England were ever in danger, someone was to beat the drum and he would return to defend the Empire.

Following his death in 1596, the drum was indeed carried to Buckland Abbey, where it currently resides. But even though no one has used it to call on Drake, legend states that Drake’s Drum had been heard beating when the British Empire was indeed in trouble. It was said that the drum was heard beating during the Napoleonic Wars and again when war was declared on the Central Powers in 1914.

Drake’s drum in Times of Conflict

During WW2, Drake’s Drum was said to have been heard yet again when the British were forced to evacuate France at Dunkirk. At present, the actual drum is kept in a secure location in Buckland Abbey and a replica is on display to the public.

It’s more than likely the Legend of Drake’s Drum is just a fun story to tell. But who knows, maybe Sir Drake is still defending Britain 400+ years after his death?

~NC