The Woodmen of Arden, were founded in 1785 with the Earl of Aylesford as its Patron. The Earl of Aylesford was a key figure in the promotion of archery at this period and had connections with the Royal British Bowmen, Royal Kentish Bowmen and the Royal Toxophilites as well as his own Woodmen of Arden who met at their lodge at Meriden, near his family seat at Packington hall.Of all the archery societies the Woodmen of Arden have adhered most closely to the traditions of the archery of the restoration period.
Regulations of the Finsbury fields are perpetuated in its swathe of ground in the forest of Arden. During their 109 years of existence they have never failed to hold a meeting or compete for the annual prices.
The Woodmen target shoot at only one distance, 100 yards. Clout shoots take place at 9 and 12 score yards, using a clout of 30 inch diameter. The Woodmen use the services of a Marker, whose role is to indicate to the archers exactly where their arrows have landed in relation to the clout. This is accomplished through a unique system of semaphore using a baton and a white napkin. The position of the Marker is not without danger and he is therefore provided with a “Mantle” for shelter near the Marker’s station. Should and arrow be lost sight of than the Marker can seek refuge behind the Mantle. The annual festival of the Woodmen of Arden, their Wardmote lasts for about a week. Unlike other companies the Woodmen score in the Archers disfavour. Instead of counting into the next (higher) score where the circle has been cut, the points of the lower circle are used.
Forest Hall is a beautiful listed octagonal building dating back to the 18th Century and acts as the Society's headquarters. The names of winners are recorded on its walls. The Woodmen compete for a number of handsome prices. In 1787 the then Warden presented a silver bugle, to be completed for at a distance of no less than nine score yards.
In 1788 the Countess of Aylesford presented a silver arrow, to be completed for at nine score.
In 1880 Mr Digby presented a gold medal for the greatest number of hits at 100 yds.
In 1887 the Royal Scottish archers presented a silver bowl as a challenge price for clout shooting.
The Woodmen are a closed Society whose membership is by invitation. It does not advertise its shoots, but it does make its grounds available for BLBS competitions several times during the season.