About

Tracery Tales is a history blog which uncovers the fascinating history in everyday places.

Hi, I’m Rachel, a history blogger, church-crawler and stained-glass fanatic, living in Saffron Walden, Essex. Tracery Tales is my history blog which uncovers the fascinating history in everyday places. From churches to old railways, museums to postboxes, join me on my travels around England’s stunning historical sites.

When I’m not exploring the country, I’m an avid bell ringer, so can be found up a church tower. I also love a good period drama and relaxing at home with a glass of wine.

A visit to the 'Anglo-Saxon Kingdoms' exhibition - January 2019
Another love of mine is interactive museum interpretation. This selfie station was at the British Library for the ‘Anglo-Saxon Kingdoms’ exhibition – January 2019

My day job delves into the world of history. I am a preventive conservator with a specialism in churches and stained glass. I currently work for the Churches Conservation Trust, which is a wonderful organisation to be a part of. Conservation is a fascinating and rewarding sector. If you want to find out more about what I do, please visit my professional website RA Conservation.

Some of you may be familiar with my Instagram account. I am proud to say that bloggers ‘Hisdoryan’ and ‘Early Modern Women’ have featured my Instagram account for its interesting content!

“It’s one of those wonderful accounts where you always feel you are learning or discovering something new.”

Hisdoryan, ‘Historygram – The History Ladies Currently Killing It’

“Rachel cares for historical objects for a living, so you know her insta is packed full of interesting posts”

Early Modern Women, ’10 Historical Instagram accounts you should follow now.’
Rachel Arnold stained glass conservation in situ - RA Conservation

Like what you see? Follow me on Instagram and Twitter, sign up to this blog below or get in touch here. 

Interested in my conservation work? Check out RA Conservation.

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