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Although there were Sunday School Treats as early as the mid-nineteenth century, it was not until the beginning of the 20th century that the United Treats were held annually on a Thursday in July. It was a local red-letter day with schools closing and factories allowing time off, but by the early thirties, "Children's Day" was going out of favour, and World War II brought it to an end. In 1910 it was estimated that 3,000 took part in the parade, headed by a 500-strong contingent of Park Road Baptist scholars, celebrating the centenary of their foundation.
| The Rushden Echo and Argus, 22nd July, 1932 |
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Rushden United Sunday Schools Treat and procession yesterday week
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From the Co-op
"Portion of Supplies - Sunday School Treat - July 1916"
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Rushden Echo, 23rd July 1909, transcribed by Kay Collins
Search Lights—To make a fitting finale to the united school treats at Rushden yesterday week, Mr. S. Powell, photographer, had some effective illuminations with the aid of a search-light at about 9.30p.m. From the balcony above his shop, Mr. Powell threw the search-light on to the Parish Church, the bank, and other buildings, making them stand out with conspicuous clearness in the dusk. When the passenger train passed over the railway bridge, Mr. Powell directed the light in that direction, considerably startling the engine driver and the passengers for the moment.
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The Rushden Echo, 19th June, 1914 [extract from council meeting]
Roman Catholic School Treat
An application was also received from Father O’Gorman for the use of the Ground for children’s sports on the general school treat day in July. It was resolved to accede to the application on the same terms as last year.
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Rushden Argus, 24th July 1914, transcribed by John Collins
Rushden Treats - High Day and Holiday for Sunday Scholars
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The Church Treat at Rushden
On Thursday week. The procession passing near St Mary’s Church from the Hall to the Rectory Field, with the Boy Scouts’ Band in the foreground. Photo C F Chapman
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The United Free Church Treat
Showing the procession in High-street, as seen from
the Church, with the Wesleyan Mission Band and their handsome banner in front. Photo C F Chapman
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