A must on the KnuckleBonz travel list is a pilgrimage to the Mapledurham Mill and Estate in Oxfordshire, England. Black Sabbath SuperFans will know this is the site of the original album cover photo shoot by photographer Keith “Keef” Macmillan for the debut album released in February of 1970. The young model, Louisa Livingstone, had no idea her image was about to become the corner stone of heavy metal as she posed in various shots in the black robe and green face makeup for Black Sabbath. The haunting image of the Mapledurham Mill, which dates back to the to the 12th century, still brings chills and memories of the initial thunder clap of the album title track Black Sabbath. Even crazier is this record went to catholic grade school with us in the early 70s and was played as part of recreation time. We were allowed to bring our own music and play on the library record player. Not a single Nun or teacher at the Holy Spirit Elementary ever raised an eyebrow…classic. Very progressive for the church of Rome to be sure.
Take a second and visit the official website of the Mapledurham Estate here. The mill is still operational, the last commercially working watermill on the River Thames, and the property is wonderfully maintained. Maybe put on Ozzy, Iommi, Geezer and Bill Ward’s Sleeping Village from the debut album to set the mood. You will be transported to another place…
Rock Hard!
