Tillingham Gala
Day 1872
Gala days were one of
the highlights in rural life.
Led by the
Schoolmaster, Mr. North, a group of villagers donated £25 to allow a day
of festivities aimed at young and old.
The day chosen
was Wednesday 24 July 1872.
That day was
obviously hot as three water carts were required to water the road from
the Cap and Feathers to the Gala Ground.
The village
was decorated with banners crossing the street in several places and
most houses flew flags or displayed bunting..
Local shops
and businesses closed at 2pm in readiness for the event.
A procession
of children followed Mr. Pulleys Band , who had travelled from
Latchingdon, through High Street onto Mr. Coombes field.
Free
refreshments were provided to 450 children and 70 senior citizens.
Entertainment,
games, stalls and Mr. Pulleys band conducted by Mr. Allen provided fine
entertainment for the estimated crowd of 1200 people who were drawn from
Tillingham, Bradwell, Dengie, Asheldham and Southminster.
The event was
recorded by the Essex Chronicle who reported in their issue of 26 July
1872.
People mentioned as
helping
| Name |
Role |
| James Jackson |
Committee Member - lived at Leggets |
| Marshall Turner |
Committee Member |
| T jackson |
Committe Member |
| J Jackson |
Committe Member |
| C Collins |
Committe Member |
| J Rhoda |
Committe Member |
| A G Rayner |
Water Cart operator and refreshment provider |
| G Coombe |
Treasurer |
| Mr North |
Schoolmaster and Secretary |
| Mr Hart |
High Street resident with best decorated house |
| Mr Allen |
Bandmaster |
| Mr Peacock |
Baker |
| Mr Rodd |
Baker |
| Mrs Pond |
Baker |
