Hawkedon Sports Day 1911

"The past is a foreign country: they do things differently there"

Here is a copy of the list of sports and events that was organised in Hawkedon to celebrate the coronation of George V in 1911.  The sports day was held on 22nd June.  If you click on the photo, you will be able to zoom in on it, and hopefully read it all.  It makes for fascinating reading.

Apart from the regular running races, tug-of-war, high and long jump, a cycle race (via Hilly Field, "Thurstanton" and Stansfield Pump), and the usual favourites of egg and spoon, three legged, wheelbarrow and sack races, there were also a few more unusual items. Among these were:  

‘Pillow fight on a pole’ 

‘Nail driving competition for women over 17’ 

‘Washing competition (dirty dusters in 5 minutes) for men over 17'. 

But the highlight must have been: 

‘Climbing the Greasy Pole – and singing the National Anthem at the top’!

The village population numbered something over 200 at this time, but evidently there were enough men and women over 65 to warrant a running race for each category as well as a walking race for all of them. Married women could pin the tail on the donkey, and girls under 14 skipped for 3 minutes. Strict rules applied, with no competitor able to take more than two 1st, two 2nd and two 3rd prizes, and the Judges decision was final and binding.

The list of very practical prizes throws light on the circumstances and agricultural nature of the village community at the time – a digging fork, hedge rip, bill hook, a doormat, pair of curtains, work box, needle case, braces, cycle lamps (gas and oil), a pocket knife, gloves, a blouse, pinafore, an umbrella but also a doll, and scent and tobacco. Care seems to have been taken to match the prizes to the particular race and age group, and George V sixpenny pieces (no doubt newly minted) were awarded to the winning tug-of-war team members.

These much needed prizes were, one assumes, new rather than ‘pre-used’ and provided by Col and Mrs Oakes of “the Big House” (Thurston End Hall) and/or Rev and Mrs Oakes of Hawkedon House (the Rectory at that time).

The List will be on display at the Harvest Supper on 21st September.

With thanks to Miles Lloyd, whose Grandmother lived at Hungriff Hall.

Judy Wilson