RUGBY’S PEACE REJOICINGS.
SPLENDID PROGRAMME MARRED BY A STEADY DOWNPOUR.
Grand Spectacular Procession WATCHED BY HUGE CROWDS.
UNION JACK UNFURLED BY CRIMEAN VETERAN
Rugby’s Peace Day preparations generally were of a character peculiarly in keeping with the spirit of the occasion. That there was no lack of enthusiastic interest on the part of all classes of townspeople was well evidenced by the spontaneous endeavours of practically all householders and occupiers of large premises to interpret their sense of the national feeling by a display of bunting on a more or less lavish scale. The town has been as acutely affected by the four years of travail as most districts in the kingdom, and there can be very few families locally who have not been directly represented among the ranks of Britain’s manhood who won a glorious peace. What one might term the “ peace feeling ” may be said to have asserted itself upon the consciousness on Friday last when the decorative work commenced.
Simultaneously it seemed the customary sombre greyness of the streets and thoroughfares gave way to a transformation of scarlet, blue and orange, and by Saturday morning the town presented an appearance of festive colouring for the celebrating of the Peace. Not that the decorations were in any way on an ultra-ambitious principle, and very few of us would have had it so. There was an absence of grand spectacular achievement in the way of gorgeous tableaux or grand theatrical effects which any less serious occasion might have merited. The general style of the preparations revealed a studied intelligence of striking the right note of thankfulness after the years of doubt. The result, therefore, inspired a full appreciation of the sense of genuine happiness that we were at last at peace, without that tendency toward reckless irresponsibility which might otherwise have been stimulated. The townspeople have every reason to be proud in the knowledge that their anticipations as to what was needed coincided with the real sentiment of the community.
THE DECORATIONS.
From the artistic point of view the decorations were well balanced. Sheep Street and the Market Place—as befitted these centrally situated thoroughfares—were a blaze of colour. The Union Jack and the Royal Standard were the predominating emblems, but appreciation of our gallant Allies was well remembered, and the French and Belgian flags, as well as the Stars and Stripes, were given places among the galaxy of bunting. It was particularly pleasing to note that the houses facing the route of the procession wore well adorned. The Parish Church tower was surmounted by the Union Jack, and Rugby School flew the national emblem, the French, Belgian, and American flags over the main entrance. On the other hand, the local authorities’ offices at Benn Buildings were bare, except for a solitary Union Jack. Various mottoes of loyal and patriotic significance were features in the decorative schemes and festoons, streamers and banners blended well with these. Several of the larger houses in Hillmorton Road presented a very festive appearance, one spacious front garden being tastefully adorned with Chinese lanterns. The practical effect of these was, of course, rendered impossible owing to the rain.
It was, however, in some of the less conspicuous thoroughfares, perhaps, that the most striking originality was displayed. Several of the roads leading from Newbold Road were gaily bedecked with streamers and festoons winding across the street. New Street and the corner adjacent to the Lawford Road are worthy of mention, also, in this direction. A bright touch of humour was afforded by some of the dwellers in Avon Street, who suspended an effigy of the Kaiser, complete with an imitation German helmet, across the street, with an inscription inviting him to take his departure to a certain destination popularly considered to possess a climate more tropical than the English summer. Clifton Road and the other roads leading out of the town took up the chain of decorations with bright effect. The handsome decorative effects at the Employment Exchange, Castle Street, were carried out by the staff, who also personally defrayed the expenditure incurred.
THE SPIRIT OF THE SIGHT-SEERS.
People were early astir on Saturday morning, and every thoroughfare was a scene of animation. Although the crowd were in a real holiday mood, it was satisfactory to observe that their whole interest was centred upon the events of the day, and, with the possible exception of the conduct later in the day of a few irresponsible youths, there was a marked absence of anything approximating to the “ mafficking ” spirit. The demeanour of the crowds throughout the day was one of thoughtful and appreciative keenness in the varied entertainments provided.
THE UNFURLING OF THE FLAG.
The official programme was timed to commence at eight o’clock by the firing of a volley by a detachment of Rugby School O.T.C. from the Church Tower, but at the last minute this was varied, and the detachment, thirty in number and commanded by Capt. Whitworth, carried out their part of the programme at seven o’clock, much to the disappointment of some hundreds of persons who, unaware of any alteration in the arrangements, assembled near the church shortly before eight o’clock. At 8.15 the bells of the Parish and St. Marie’s Churches struck up merry peals, which, as one good lady expressed it, “ helped people to realise at last that Peace had really come.” Three-quarters of an hour afterwards the bands which had been engaged for the day—viz., Rugby Steam Shed (bandmaster, Mr. E. R. Stebbing), Rugby Town (bandmaster, Mr. H. R. Robinson), Salvation Army (bandmaster, Mr. J. H. Burton), and Bilton Brass Hand (bandmaster, Mr. H. W. Wheatley)—played selections in Wood Street (corner Newbold Road), Clifton Road (near St. Peter’s Church), Cambridge Street (near Mr. S. Robbins’s warehouse), and Lawford Road (corner Northcote Road), after which they proceeded to the Market Place, where a large crowd began to assemble shortly before ten o’clock. Here a temporary platform and flagstaff had been erected, and punctually at 10.15 Bombardier Joe Norman, Rugby’s Crimean veteran, mounted the platform and ran the Union Jack up. The gallant old soldier’s appearance was greeted with loud cheers by the crowd, which extended from the Clock Tower to the Advertiser Office in one direction, to Benn field in another, and to the junction of Sheep Street and High Street in the other, and must have numbered well over 10,000 persons. The cheers were renewed as the grand old flag broke at the top of the pole, and as it fluttered proudly in the breeze every head was bared, and the massed bands struck up the strains of the National Anthem.
Messrs. H. Birkett, A. J. Tiivett, and A. Woodhams then led the singing of “ Land of Hope and Glory ” to the accompaniment of the massed bands (conducted by Mr. E. H. Stebbing), after which the choirs of the town sang “ The Old Hundredth ” and “ O God, our help in ages past.” This was followed by a fine rendering of the “ Hallelujah Chorus ” by the bands, who also played the national airs of the Allies, not excepting Russia, in honour of the gallant services she rendered to the common cause before her defection through Bolshevik intrigues.
Many people watched the proceedings from the balconies and windows surrounding the Market Place, and one adventurous Boy Scout obtained a fine view from a precarious seat on the top of a lamp standard near the Royal George Hotel.
EVENTS IN THE RECREATION GROUND.
The spacious enclosure at the Recreation Ground made an ideal assembling point for most of the day’s attractions. The showery weather, which culminated in a steady downpour toward the evening, of course marred the general enjoyment. and a considerable part of the proceedings here had to be curtailed in consequence. Four concert parties performed in different parts of the grounds, as well as an individual ventriloquist turn, but they were working under difficulties the whole time. Despite the unpropitious weather, however, a surprisingly large concourse of people were present during the whole of the day.
Mr. W. J. Sutton opened the proceedings from the band stand. Mr. Sutton is a ventriloquist and marionette and Punch and Judy entertainer of real ability, and, unlike so many of his class, he knows the value of originality. His jokes and quiplets had a refreshing vigour, and in each of his varied roles he evoked the unbounded enthusiasm of the youthful element, which formed a large proportion of the crowd. Mr. Sutton was a particularly fortunate gentleman in having the use of the band stand, for he was thus able to perform in the dry while the concert parties often had to make a hurried return to their tents.
THE CONCERT PARTIES.
All the vaudeville parties were of an exceptional high standard, and such times as they were able to appear were all favoured with large and appreciative audiences. The “ Black and Ambers Patty,” under the direction of Mr. F. Gee, occupied the stage nearest the entrance. This was the first public appearance of the artistes working together as a party, and they speedily proved their popularity. They opened with the chorus, “ Laugh and the world laughs with you.” One of the most attractive of the artistes is Miss Phyllis Vann, a charming young soprano, of whom one may hold great expectations. Her sweet rendering of “ Peace on earth,” Darewski’s peace song, was a splendid effort. Miss N. Port’s singing of “ Angus McDonald ” gave much pleasure, while Miss I. Lucas sang “ Castellano ” with marked expression. Miss E. M. Kedge is also a vocalist of style and precision, and she was in excellent voice in her treatment of “ Bridesmaid.” Miss Woodbridge ably completed the lady representatives of the party. Mr. S. Mills and Mr. Gee are two comedians of a distinctly high order, and their turns together were greatly appreciated—in fact, the whole party were very strong in their concerted numbers. Mr. A. Mochrie’s humorous turns were delightful, his song, “ I cannot do my bally bottom button up,” being especially laughable. The more serious part of the programme was well sustained by Messrs. W. Henson, F. G. Ball, F. Walker, and Mochrie, all skilful vocalists. Mr. R. J. Littler was an efficient accompanist.
A well-balanced and intelligently selected programme was offered by the party of Mr. G. A. Maley, which included some artistes of real talent. The tenor songs of Mr. T. C. Thompson were received with eclat, while Mr. D. D. Currie’s voice was rich and tuneful. Mr. H. Birkett and Mr. G. A. Maley were popular favourites, with a very attractive repertoire. A splendid ovation was accorded the single lady member of this party, Miss Violet Miller, a delightful mezzo-soprano, whose selections were well suited to her voice. Her enunciation was pleasingly correct. The humourists, Mr. T. A. Pool and Mr. W. Bland, kept the spectators in a merry mood, their eccentric acrobatic turn being a very capable execution. It is interesting to note that the previous occasion upon which they performed this act together was with the British troops in France. Mr. A. J. Trivett ably presided at the piano.
A feature of Mr. C. T. Mewis’s party was the versatile character of the performance of Mr. J. Tackley, a humorous entertainer of many parts. His songs at the piano were well up-to-date, while his mimicry of various animals and birds evoked much appreciation. Mr. Bert Vallence also afforded much amusement with his topical choruses. Mr. Mewis found general favour with similar efforts, while Mr. H. Phillips and Mr. W. Jackson appeared in duets and solos, and acquitted themselves with credit. Miss Grace Mewis was an adept exponent of the banjo, and the accompaniments to the various numbers were carried out by Miss Elsie Jackson and Miss Madge Mewis.
The fates were particularly unkind to Mr. F. Giggs, inasmuch as the stage accommodating his party was in too close proximity to the daylight firework display to enable them to make an early start. However, Mr. Giggs had the services of some excellent ladies and gentlemen, and they lost no opportunity between the fireworks and the showers to demonstrate their abilities. The principal himself was as live an entertainer as ever, his refrain, “ Father’s got the wind up ” and “ The railway porter,” causing much mirth. Mr. Harry Lee, of Coventry, was a first-rate ventriloquist. with an apparently never-ending reserve of jokes and humorisms of the right sort. The audience would have liked to have seen more of him. Mr. A. Woodhams’ bass songs, which included “ The Company Sergeant-Major ” and “ Bashful Tom,” were loudly cheered ; while Mr. R. Bayliss, a baritone with a well-modulated voice, was heard to advantage in “ The wagoner ” and other songs. The duets and solo numbers of the Misses F. & E. Shillitoe were cleverly rendered, “ There’s a land ” being a noteworthy effort by these two ladies. A further variety to the programme was afforded by the pretty Scottish and other dances of the Misses C. & M. Rushall and Master Rushall. The three children interpreted these very prettily, and warmly deserved the spontaneous applause their services evoked. Mr. J. Betts and Mr. P. C. Longney shared the honours as accompanists.
THE DAYLIGHT FIREWORKS.
One of the few events which was carried out in its entirety was the display of daylight fireworks during the morning. The exhibition caused unbounded delight to the youngsters. The fire balloons and coloured smokes caused much shouting, and the festoons and flags which burst forth from the rockets were eagerly seized by the juveniles as they came gently floating to earth. But the most popular feature of all was, without question, the firing of the Japanese shells. Each explosion cast upon the wind a grotesque and weird figure—sometimes a jockey on horseback, and at others inflated representations of various animals.
A band performance by the Salvationists at six o’clock concluded the proceedings at the Recreation Ground. The band, under the direction of Bandmaster J. Burton, gave a splendid series of selections, opening with the National Anthem. “ Land of Hope and Glory ’’ was capably rendered as a euphonium solo by Mr. R. Martin, and the items by the band included Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus and “ ‘Neath the flag.”
In consequence of the rain, it was decided to postpone the carnival, firework display, and other attractions arranged.
The side-shows inseparable from such proceedings were well patronised during the day, including cocoanut shies and skittles. An attractively coloured table for the receipt of contributions for providing a dinner to the dependents of fallen soldiers was placed near the entrance to the grounds, and the appeal met with a generous response.
THE PROCESSION.
The great event of the day was undoubtedly the grand procession, which, however, was marred by a steady, and at times heavy, down-pour of rain, which commenced shortly after one o’clock and continued almost without intermission for the rest of the day. The sub-committee responsible for this part of the programme worked assiduously to make it a success, and the number and quality of the entries testified both to their energies and powers of organisation. Principal interest, of course, centred round the emblematical cars, the designs of which, on the whole, were unusually good. As the entries were drawn up waiting for the judging, one of the first to instinctively catch the eye was the ingenious display by the Rugby discharged and demobilised sailors, soldiers, and airmen. This consisted of five sections—the first (August 4, 1914), “ The Call to Arms,” depicted the recruiting sergeants and the “ butchers, the bakers, and candlestick-makers,” the men of all trades in fact, who, at the first beat of the drum, sprang into the ranks to accept the challenge insolently thrown down by the Teutonic powers. The next two scenes, “ A month later ” and “ Six months later,” showed the soldiers in the making, and afterwards “ doing their bit in the trenches,” with steel helmets, sheep skin tunics, trophies, &c. Then came the all-too-familiar group of “ Boys in Blue,” accompanied by members of the Warwick 40 and Warwick 60 Voluntary Aid Detachments, under the two commandants, Mrs. Simey and Miss Townsend. A herald, Mr. W. H. Taplin, preceded the car with the final tableau, “ For services rendered.” The figures in the tableau were : Britannia, Miss Winnie Tilley ; V.A.D., Miss Maud ; soldiers, R.S.M., E. J. Rose and Pte. A. Harvey ; and naval signaller, W. R. Warren. Several other discharged soldiers, attired as Yeomen of the Guard, acted as an escort to the car which was driven by Driver Murtagh, A.S.C.
THE “ BEATTY ” AND HER CREW.
In the tableau section the first prize was won by a very clever representation of a lifeboat (“ Beatty ”) and crew, entered by the Locomotive Department, L. & N.-W. Railway Station, the same department securing a special second prize in the same class for a very picturesque village smithy, in which the smith and his brawny assistants were seen busily working in a pretty rustic forge. Touches of realism were provided by a pony waiting to be shod and a blazing furnace. The B.T.H. tableau car, “ Peace and the Victorious Allies,” was very artistically arranged, and excited much favourable comment. Miss Brown, as Peace, was the central figure, and grouped around her in national costumes were representatives of the Allied nations, viz. : Britannia, Miss Haynes ; France, Miss Rolfe ; Italy, Miss Arnold ; Roumania, Miss Abercrombie ; Belgium, Miss Tromans ; Japan, Miss Westbury ; Serbia, Miss Smith ; Greece, Miss Rollins ; Portugal, Miss Bolton ; and America, Miss Smith. The designs on the young ladies’ dresses, all of which looked very charming, were hand-painted from patterns supplied by soldiers. The third prize went to what was considered by many to be the most effective display of all, “ The Arts of Peace ” by the B.T.H. Girls’ Club. This was intended to be a symbolic car, representing some of the recognised arts, both of work and play, all leading up to a beautiful, enthroned girl, typifying motherhood as the love triumphant above all the arts. The car itself was simply decorated in gold muslin and wreaths of laurels, preceded by a dancing child, Miss Mary Haselwood, and two heralds, Miss D. Hayward and Miss A. Merrick. Immediately behind was the art of work, the Mazda lamp, Miss Jessie Davison ; then following, encircling the car Play, consisting of cricket, Misses A. Clarke, S. Clarke, Anna Clarke, F. Farrar, L. Watts ; hockey, Misses M. Bastin and C. Francis ; gymnasium, Misses C. Kirby, M. Tuckey, E. Hirons, and M. Cannon ; tennis, Misses C. Avery, J. Cleton, A. Lusty, and R. Aland ; nursing, Misses G. Jones, E. Whittle, Elsie Whitehead, and A. Magic. On the car : Music, Misses L. Barby and E. Davison ; painting, Miss P. Butler ; sculpture, Miss E. Black ; needlework, Miss A. Kimberlin and Miss W. Renshaw ; basket work, Misses M. Sparkes, H. Grubb, V. Arnold, and Emily Whitehead ; cookery, Miss D. Bradshaw ; poetry, Miss M. Nightingale ; literature, Miss F. Archer ; astronomy, Miss E. Clarke. Miss Nellie Franklin was charming as a representation of motherhood. The subjects touched on in the representation are for the most part actually taught in the B.T.H. Girls’ Club, the senders of the car. Mrs. Robertshaw, who instructs the girls at the club in painting, undertook the designing and arranging the car.
“ VICTORY ” AND “ PEACE.”
Another striking tableau car was that of the Lodge Sparking Plug, entitled “ Victory and Peace.” The two central characters were taken by Miss Lancaster (“ Victory ”) and Miss Amy Shaw (“ Peace ”), and they were surrounded by representatives of various war activities, viz. : Red Cross nurse, Miss Davis ; soldier, Miss Dyer ; sailor, Miss Owen ; munition girl, Miss Waddours ; and land girl, Miss Ray.
A STRIKING DEVICE.
Much favourable comment was excited by a car driven by Mr. Davison, and containing a single figure, Miss Leeson, representing Peace, with a dove perched by her side. This car was entirely draped in white, and the effect by reason of its studied simplicity was very pleasing.
In the tradesmen’s car section the first prize went to two cars, “ Pre-War Work ” and “ War Work,” entered by Messrs. J. Parnell & Son. The first car contained specimens of the work of the firm before the war, viz., carved oak door linings and models of Roehampton House, now used as a depot for artificial limbs for disabled sailors and soldiers, and St. Jude’s Church, Golder’s Green. The firm’s war activities were set out by the second car, which showed that, among other things, the firm made l,000 bed rests, 4,700 bed-trays, 300 roll splints, 1,125 filing cabinets, 5,000 deck chairs, 250 oak carrying chairs, 4,000 washstands, 11,000 field telegraph poles, 550 cupboards, 2,000 folding tables, 5,000 tent poles, 360 card index cupboards, 230 lockers, 160 chests drawers, 120 splint presses, 130 oak wardrobes, 350 tables, 1,700 fire-screens, 213,000 splints, 4,000 pairs crutches, 1,150 bandage winders, 4,500 Liston’s splints, 890,000 tongue spatulas,
&c., &c.
An amusing entry was that of Messrs. J. Maynard and J. Wren, who represented a family in search of a home, Mr. Wren trundling a perambulator loaded with odds and ends of household requisites, and labelled, “ Rooms or shelter required,” and “ Wanted, a house—£50 reward ” ; while his partner, attired as the good housewife, bravely carried a “ baby ” through the mud and rain.
In the class for sets of characters on foot the first prize was secured by the girls of St. Marie’s School, who looked very charming in the dresses of village maidens, Marie Malpass making a very pretty queen ; second place was won by the Tysall family, of New Bilton, who represented a pierrot humming band.
Considerable ingenuity had been exercised by the equestrian and pedestrian competitors. Of the former the most popular was undoubtedly little Audrey Tallis, a pretty child of three summers, who dressed as a Peace bride, was mounted on a diminutive pony. Miss K. Keble, picturesquely attired in the crinolines so dear to the hearts of our grand-parents, won the first prize in the ladies’ fancy dress action, the second honours going to Miss F. Bond, who struck an original note with a costume made entirely of Rugby Advertisers printed on linen.
Several members of the Urban District Council—Messrs. W. Flint (chairman), L. Loverock (vice-chairman), T. Ringrose, J. J. McKinnell, and F. E. Hands—joined in the procession ; Lieut. C. J. Newman was with the discharged soldiers, and Mr. W. A. Stevenson with the N.U.R. Banner. Messrs. Hudson and Linnell, members of the ground committee, were too busy to join. Mr. R. H. Myers (chairman), Mr. A. E. Treen, and Mr. R. Fenley (librarian) represented the Library Committee.
The approximate order of the procession was as under :—
Band of the Rugby School Contingent, O.T.C.
Rugby School Contingent of the O.T.C. (under command of Major H. H. Hardy, M.B.E.).
Detachment of the 4/8 Midland Brigade Howitzer Battery.
Demobilised Sailors.
Rugby Steam Shed Band.
Rugby and District Discharged and Demobilized Sailors’, Soldiers’, and Airmen’s Association.
Vehicle kindly lent by Mr. T. Dodson for incapacitated men.
Voluntary Aid Detachments of British Red Cross Society (Warwickshire, Nos. 40 & 66).
Detachment of Land Girls.
Bilton Band.
Urban District Council.
Display by the Rugby and District Demobilised Sailors’; Soldiers’, and Airmen’s Association.
(1.) August 4, 1914 : “ The Call to Arms.”
(2.) A month later : “ Soldiers in the making.”
(3.) Six months later : “ Doing their bit.”
(4.) Boys in blue ; “ Lest we forget.”
(5.) The final : For services rendered.
Rugby Town Fire Brigade.
Engine and Escape.
Motor Lorry conveying B.T.H. Firemen’s children.
B.T.H. Fire Brigade and Engine.
B.T.H. Decorated Fire Engine.
HORSES.
Mr. R. Kitson (Cowboy).
Mr. D. S. Facer (Red Indian).
Mr. E. Martindale (Chestnut Mare).
Tableau Car. B.T.H. Estimating Department, “ Peace and the Victorious Allies.”
Rugby Salvation Army Band.
Rugby Division of the Boy Scouts’ Association (under command of Scoutmaster H. W. C. Knowles).
Troop 6th (Church), with Trek Cart.
Troop 2nd (Lower School), Cyclist Section.
Troop 3rd (St. George’s).
Troop 4th (Murray School), Collection of Waste Paper.
Troop 5th (B.T.H.), Signalling and Ambulance.
Troop 10th (St. Matthew’s).
Troop 15th (Willans), Hose Cart.
RUGBY GIRL GUIDES.
1st Rugby B.T.H. Co (Capt. B. F. M. Clipper).
2nd Rugby Company.
2ml Rugby Co. (Brownies in waggonette).
Tableau Car by the L. & N.-W. Railway Loco. Department : “ Lifeboat and Crew.”
PONIES.
Audrey Tallis,. aged three years (Peace Bride).
John Day (Red Indian).
Horace Burnett (Flags of the Allies).
Wilfred Cleaver (Tommy Atkins).
E. Martindale (Betty).
L. Martindale (Edna).
Banner of the Rugby Branch of the National Union of Railwaymen.
Decorated Cycles : Miss L. Barnett, Miss E. A. Boyce, Miss A. E. Fletcher.
Decorated Car with characters, by the Lodge Sparking Plug Co., Ltd
Ladies in character or fancy dress :
Mrs. Cox, Misses F. Swingler and K. Ingram (Red. White and Blue).
Miss M. N. Smith (Allied Victory).
Miss D. J. Ewington (Peace).
Miss D. Picksbant (England).
Miss E. Smith (Scotland).
Miss E. Fawdrey (Ireland).
Miss G. L. Colledge (Australia).
Misses E. Jennings and E. Houghton (India).
Misses N. Read, L. E. Ward, and E. Challis (Hindoos).
Misses M. Newman and W. Abbott (America).
Misses D. Franklin and I. Knight (Italy).
Miss R. Keeble (Japan).
Miss R. Head (Kaffir).
Miss I. Lobley (Red Cross Nurse).
Miss B. Cluett (Quaker Girl).
Miss F. Bond (“ Rugby Advertiser ”).
Miss K. Daniels (Nurse).
Miss J. Davison (Mazda Lamp).
Miss H. Rogers (B.D.V. Cigarettes).
Miss E. Whitehead (Ozo).
Miss P. Cluett (Bovril).
Miss B. Lobley (Gipsy).
Miss F. M. Mewis (Butterfly).
Miss D. E. Smith (Good Luck).
Tableau Cars by J. Parnell & Sons :
(1.) “ Pre-War Work.”
(2.) “ War Work, 1914 18.”
Rugby Town Band.
Gentlemen in character :
Mr. F. Lovell (Zulu).
Mr. A. Richardson (West African Chief).
Mr. A. L. Wetherington (Long Service).
Mr. G. Wakelin (Dutch Fisherman).
“ The Village Maids,” by St. Marie’s School.
Tableau Car by the B.T.H. Girls’ Club : “ Arts of Peace.”
Landau and Pair of Cobs, by Mr. G. Kilborn.
Tableau Car, by L. & N.-W. Railway Loco. Department : “ The Village Smithy.”
Decorated Motor Van, by Burton & Co.
Tableau Car, Miss L. Leeson : “ Peace.”
LADIES IN CHARACTER OR FANCY DRESS.
Miss C. Townsend (Flower Girl).
Miss H. Nown (Cornflower).
Miss C. Challis (Fairy Bluebell).
Miss E. Challis (Fairy Butterfly).
Miss F. Colledge (Fairy Elf).
Misses G. Wright and D. Green (Fairies).
Miss C. Billingham (Flower Girl).
Miss R. Ward (Fairy Butterfly).
Miss B. Seymour (Red, White and Blue).
Misses E. Satchell and R. Smith (Pierrots).
Miss H. Whyman (Old English Lady).
Miss M. Colledge (Old Man).
Miss G. Dale (Old Lady).
Miss R. Satchell (Frenchman).
Misses M. Gudgeon and H. Barker (Ballet Dancers).
Miss K. Keeble (Cricketer).
Miss E. White (Cricketer).
Miss I. Aland (Doll).
Miss C. Mansfield (Nut).
Horse and Four-wheeled Bread Van, by Mr. F. M. Bates.
GENTLEMEN IN CHARACTER & FANCY DRESS.
Messrs. P. R. Wills, A. G. Shilvock, and C. T. Sylvester (Pierrots).
Mr. H. H. Bandy (French Lady).
Messrs. A. Dale and H. Wakelin (Niggers).
Mr. W. F. Webb (House Hunting).
Mr. F. Boult (Black Sam and his Aunt).
Mr. P. Shaw.
Mr. H. Aland (Policeman).
Mr. F. Horley (Soldier).
Mr. J. Floyer (Bing Boy).
Mr. W. Few (Flapper).
Mr. L. Hales (Golliwog).
Mr. C. Cooke (Nigger).
Mr. C. A. Head (Charlie Chaplin).
The Humming Band, by the Tysall Family.
Punctually at two o’clock the procession, led by the Chief Marshal, Mr. C. W. Walton, commenced the parade of the town. Despite the heavy rain, the whole route of the procession was lined with cheering spectators. The route followed by the procession was as under :—
Recreation Ground, Whitehall Road, Clifton Road,Cambridge Street, Craven Road, Manor Road, King Edward Road Extension, Albert Street, Regent Street, Market Place, Chapel Street, West Street, Pennington Street, Round Street, Bridget Street, Victoria Street, Lawford Road, Warwick Street, Sheep Street, Church Street, Clifton Road, Moultrie Road, Hillmorton Road, Recreation Ground.
THE PRIZES PRESENTED.
After the procession had dispersed, the prizes were presented by Mr. W. Flint (chairman of the Urban District Council) to the successful competitors . . . .
DINNER TO THE BEREAVED.
Amid the general joy-making a little gathering took place, which although of an unostentatious character, held perhaps the most human interest of the day. This was the dinner to the widows, orphans, and dependants of the fallen, which took place at noon at the Co-operative Hall. The affair seemed appropriately something apart from the ordinary proceedings of the programme; and it was felt that, could those departed heroes have been consulted, they would have desired nothing better than this practical expression of gratitude to those of their kindred remaining. About 100 women and children participated in a thoroughly enjoyable meal. The hall was tastefully adorned with bunting, and pleasing selections were discoursed during the dinner by Mrs. Bradby’s orchestra. Canon A. A. David, D.D. (headmaster of Rugby School), offered grace. The repast consisted of cold roast beef, mutton, boiled ham, salad, apple tart and custard, trifle, bakewell pudding, assorted cakes and pastries, buns, tea and coffee. The tables were waited upon by a party of ladies, including Mrs. A. A. David, Mrs. Hardy, Miss Flint, Mrs. Protheroe, Mrs. & Miss Loverock, Mrs. H. Lupton-Reddish, Mrs. Brooke, the Misses Dean, Mrs. Shorto, Miss Ferry, Mrs. Durrant, Mrs. Walton, Mrs. E. Walton, Mrs. Darby, Mrs. Facker, Mrs. Fazakerley, Miss Hudson, Miss Foxon, and Mrs. Wheatley. The guests were cordially welcomed upon entering the hall by Mr. Flint and the other members of the Committee. Lt. C Newman and Mr. R. C. Grace were present representing the Discharged Soldiers’ Association.
CELEBRATIONS AT THE HOSPITAL.
MESSAGE FROM THE KING.
The patients at the Hospital of St. Cross were afforded pleasant reminders in various directions of the general rejoicings of Peace Day—the disabled service men particularly being remembered.
The following message was received from the King :—
“ To-day we are celebrating a victorious Peace, and amidst the national rejoicings my thoughts and those of the Queen, go out to the men who in the gallant part they have taken to secure that victory, have suffered, and are yet suffering, from the cruel hand of war. To these, the sick and wounded who cannot take active part in the festival of victory, I send our greetings, and bid them good cheer, assuring them that the wounds and scars so honourable to themselves, inspire in the hearts of their fellow-countrymen the warmest feelings of gratitude and respect.”
A telegram was also received as follows from the Minister of Pensions :—
“ Communicate following to pensions patients : I hope the disabled ex-soldiers will find that the arrangements authorised by me—viz., free travelling facilities, with an extra 10s. for maintenance, will enable them to join in the Peace celebrations, and that those in-patients unable to travel will find that the provision made for them will enable them to obtain in the hospitals some echo of the rejoicings. I wish you a happy participation in the celebrations of Peace, which you have done so much to secure, and a speedy recovery from your present sufferings.”
As many of the Service men as possible were allowed to go home in accordance with the arrangements mentioned above. The bed-patients at the hospital were each allowed a friend to tea, and during the meal selections were played by the Salvation Army Band, their discourses including the Allied National Anthems. A number of patients were taken out in brakes to view the afternoon’s procession, and they thoroughly enjoyed the proceedings. Special fare was provided for dinner, the men being served with roast lamb, green peas and new potatoes, and the women were provided with delicacies of their own selection.
AT THE INSTITUTION.
The inmates of the Institution were not neglected amid the general rejoicings. On Saturday special fare was provided at all the meals, and beer was served with the dinner. Mr. J. H. Walker kindly sent tobacco for the men, and sweets were distributed amongst the women. In the afternoon the inmates were taken for a drive into the country.
MONDAY NIGHT’S RESUMED PROGRAMME.
MAGNIFICENT DISPLAY OF FIREWORKS.
Fortunately the clouds which gathered ominously toward the evening of Monday did not bring the rain that was at one time feared, and the unfinished portion of the programme was resumed at the Recreation Ground amid much enthusiasm. There was a splendid attendance, the crowds numbering several thousands, and it was soon evident that enforced postponement of the carnival and firework display had in no way detracted from the public interest in the affair.
The fancy dress carnival was a remarkably pretty ceremony, and some striking originality was displayed in the choice of the dresses. The participants assembled at an enclosure in the centre of the field, and prizes were awarded for the best dresses. A lady, attired in a pretty white costume with wings and a trumpet, was an easy favourite for the premier award in her class as a representative of Peace, but the judges had considerable difficulty in deciding the other prizes. They eventually agreed that all the ladies’ costumes depicting the Allies were of such a high standard as to merit recognition, and consequently awarded two special prizes. The judging was performed by Mrs. A. K. Morgan, Mr. J. Sharples, Mr. Loverock, and Mr. R. Hosking.
The prizes were presented later in the evening by Mrs. A. K. Morgan.
During the first part of the evening the concert parties and the irrepressible Mr. Sutton, who had entertained the crowds on Saturday, again appeared, and had large and appreciative audiences. The carnival was followed by dancing in various parts of the ground to the accompaniment of the Rugby Town, Bilton, and Steam shed Bands until dusk, when the display of fireworks took place.
RUGBY’S ADMIRAL.
By 9.30, when the first rocket was discharged, the crowd had grown enormously, and must have numbered quite 10,000 persons, the younger generation being largely in evidence. We are all children at heart, however, especially where fireworks are concerned, and the signal for the display to begin was greeted with a volume of enthusiastic cheering, which broke out again and again as the various beautiful devices were displayed, the culminating point being reached when the portrait of Rugby’s most distinguished son, Admiral Sir David Beatty, was shown, with the words, “One of the best and from Rugby,” amid a salvo of rockets and shells. The devices included golden and silver waterfalls, a silver tree, a motto “ Lest we forget,” coloured Roman trees, a large radium shower of six spokes and an eight-spoke golden shower, a travelling aeroplane, and several maypoles. In addition, numbers of beautiful rockets, releasing miniature gold and silver parachutes and showers of many-coloured tongues of flame, were discharged and three large illuminated balloons were released. The grounds were illuminated at intervals with coloured fire, and the display, which lasted an hour and was one of the best ever seen locally, terminated with a large centre piece portrait of the King, with the motto, “ Long may he reign.”
The Rugby detachment of the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade was on duty on Saturday and Monday, and a number of minor accidents, &c., were efficiently dealt with.
THE ORDERLY CROWDS.
An entire absence of any Police Court cases arising out of the peace-making is a striking tribute to the general behaviour of the crowds throughout Saturday.
Report from the Rugby Advertiser 25th July 1919
Rugby Remembers 