The Sandwich Giant

John Drury was a medieval mayor of the Kentish Cinque Port town of Sandwich. A soldier who was kidnapped by the French while defending his hometown, he is said to have been murdered and returned in pieces—a legend that adds a mysterious and dramatic flair to his story.

Strange Cargo collaborated with local residents to uncover and revive the character of this historic giant. The project aimed to reintroduce John Drury to the ancient streets of Sandwich, where he once roamed. His giant's attire reflects the tradition of local mayors wearing black robes in commemoration of John Drury’s murder in the 14th century—a tradition that endures to this day.

John Drury enjoys a dedicated following and, in 2008, celebrated his marriage to his sweetheart, Lady Elizabeth, with a ceremony at Leeds Castle.