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The Ravenmaster: My Life with the Ravens at the Tower of London

Celebrate the publication of Christopher Skaife’s new memoir, The Ravenmaster: My Life with the Ravens at the Tower of London, with a special author event at Caveat in NYC, with discounted beers provided by Raven Beer.

Skaife is a Yeoman Warder, or as they are more popularly known, a Beefeater. The Beefeaters are former soldiers with at least 22 years of unblemished military service who are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London. In days past, they were charged with looking after prisoners and safeguarding the Crown Jewels. Today, they act as the custodians of the Tower’s rich history and traditions.

Being a Yeoman Warder in 2018 requires an unusual skill set. As Skaife puts it, it’s a “cross between being a security guard, a ceremonial guard, an amateur historian, and a stand-up comedian.” As a veteran of the British Army, a lover of history, and a gregarious, charismatic storyteller, Skaife took naturally to his new position. Six months into the job something unexpected happened—Derrick Coyle, the existing Ravenmaster, noticed the ravens taking a liking to Skaife.

The Tower of London is home to seven ravens that have a special place in British folklore. Legend has it, going back to the time of Charles II, that if a raven should ever leave the Tower of London, the kingdom will fall. In time, Skaife would inherit Coyle’s duties as the Tower’s official Ravenmaster. It is the duty of the Ravenmaster to make sure these brilliant and frequently misunderstood corvids are healthy, happy, and ready to captivate the four million tourists who flock annually to the world’s eeriest monument. For Skaife, it would also be the beginning of a transformative partnership.

Join Mr. Skaife as he regales us with stories and adventures connected to his unique profession. He’ll show video and slides of his work, introducing the group to the seven ravens with which he closely works. Following the talk, we’ll have a Q & A and Mr. Skaife will also sign copies of his memoir.











When: Tue., Oct. 23, 2018 at 9:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Where: Caveat
21 Clinton St.
212-228-2100
Price: $15
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Celebrate the publication of Christopher Skaife’s new memoir, The Ravenmaster: My Life with the Ravens at the Tower of London, with a special author event at Caveat in NYC, with discounted beers provided by Raven Beer.

Skaife is a Yeoman Warder, or as they are more popularly known, a Beefeater. The Beefeaters are former soldiers with at least 22 years of unblemished military service who are the ceremonial guards of the Tower of London. In days past, they were charged with looking after prisoners and safeguarding the Crown Jewels. Today, they act as the custodians of the Tower’s rich history and traditions.

Being a Yeoman Warder in 2018 requires an unusual skill set. As Skaife puts it, it’s a “cross between being a security guard, a ceremonial guard, an amateur historian, and a stand-up comedian.” As a veteran of the British Army, a lover of history, and a gregarious, charismatic storyteller, Skaife took naturally to his new position. Six months into the job something unexpected happened—Derrick Coyle, the existing Ravenmaster, noticed the ravens taking a liking to Skaife.

The Tower of London is home to seven ravens that have a special place in British folklore. Legend has it, going back to the time of Charles II, that if a raven should ever leave the Tower of London, the kingdom will fall. In time, Skaife would inherit Coyle’s duties as the Tower’s official Ravenmaster. It is the duty of the Ravenmaster to make sure these brilliant and frequently misunderstood corvids are healthy, happy, and ready to captivate the four million tourists who flock annually to the world’s eeriest monument. For Skaife, it would also be the beginning of a transformative partnership.

Join Mr. Skaife as he regales us with stories and adventures connected to his unique profession. He’ll show video and slides of his work, introducing the group to the seven ravens with which he closely works. Following the talk, we’ll have a Q & A and Mr. Skaife will also sign copies of his memoir.

Buy tickets/get more info now