Published in Windlesora 22 (2006)
© WLHG
The Ancient Order of Foresters organised an annual fete on the anniversary of the birthday of the late Prince Albert, which was 6th August. In 1867 this was a Tuesday. The fete was held at the home of the local MP Sir Daniel Gooch, Clewer Park. At 12 o’clock a procession with bands paraded the town, starting from the Bull Inn, Peascod Street. The mayor declared a half day for the shops which meant they could shut at 2 o’clock. Admission to Clewer Park was 6d if the tickets were purchase by Saturday and 1 shilling on the day. ‘There was a programme for 1d. Food was on sale and the whole event finished at 8 o’clock.
Sir Daniel exhibited portions of the Atlantic Telegraph Cable which he had been responsible for laying. There was dancing, archery, an Aunt Sally and five bands to listen to, including the Band of the Second Life Guards. There was also a String Band to accompany the singers.
However, the list of acts advertised to entertain the public makes very interesting reading:
MESSRS. DIAMOND AND BRYANT, The inimitable delineators of Ethiopian Life and Character, will introduce their friend DON TRIPONDINI, THE THREE LEGGED DANCER.
DUGWAR, THE CELEBRATED JUGGLER will perform the most marvellous feats of Japanese Juggling and Balancing, including the wonderful Top Feats.
The eminent Serio-Comic Vocalist MISS EMMA KERRIDGE will appear in a selection of her most popular Protean Impersonations
LITTLE LEVITE AND JESSIE NENA in their laughable Caricatures & Terpsichorean Sketches
MR. FRED EVANS AND MISS AMY ROSALIND The inimitable grotesque Duettists and Dancers
There were twelve such acts and a New Comic Ballad Sketch: “THE VILLAGE TORMENT”
performed by artistes from the Royal Alhambra and Crystal Palace.
Windsor Local History Group 