Also known as a "garden hermit"; a person hired by wealthy landowners in the 18th century to live in solitude in a specially built hermitage, folly, or grotto on their estate, acting as a living decoration. They were expected to embody the qualities of a druid and live a secluded life, often with specific rules like growing their hair and beard long and not washing. In return for their service, they received lodging, food, and a stipend. Landowners and their guests might occasionally consult their garden hermits for advice, stories, or entertainment.
Landowners placed advertisements in local newspapers seeking ornamental hermits to live on their property for long spans of time (7 years, in one instance).One legend goes that someone's ornamental hermit was found drinking at a local pub 3 weeks into their tenure, thus breaching their contract.
by A. Patmos November 27, 2025
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