Further to my piece about the Green Dragon in the Spring issue, it's worth mentioning that the celebrated hostelry was featured in a book "Among English Inns", which was first published in 1904.

Written by American travel writer Josephine Tozier, it describes "A Pilgrimage to Characteristic Spots of Rural England" by Josephine and three friends in Edwardian times. The many rural counties were covered with several pubs highlighted in each with "cosy fireplaces" and "hearty meals" capturing "the unique atmosphere and hospitality of these historic establishments."

Seven she was particularly impressed with in Norfolk were the Maid's Head in Norwich, the Bell Inn at Thetford and, of course, the Green Dragon in "curious old Wymondham." With features such as its low ceiling, heavy oak beams, carvings and quaint windows, "never did there exist a more perfect little hostelry than this", she observed.

Before departing for Thetford, the four tourists from across the pond spent time admiring the Abbey, noting it was originally a Priory.

The postcard showing the Green Dragon was posted in 1904, the year of publication of Josephine's book, and appropriately carries the message "I think this is in your line, especially this hot weather." Josephine made a great choice in selecting the Green Dragon and presumably her book encouraged other tourists from the States to visit Wymondham.