Appointment of Committees

A meeting of the committee appointed at the recent town’s meeting for the purpose of arranging the Rushden celebration of the Coronation took place on Tuesday evening, under the presidency of Mr. Geo. Denton, the greater part of the committee being present. The secretaries (Messrs. G. S. Mason and John Claridge) reported that satisfactory arrangements had been made with Mr. Sartoris and Mr. Skinner for the use of the Latter’s “Home Field,” for the purpose of the holiday. They further reported that the services of the Mission Band had been secured. – The Chairman reported that he had also received communication from the Temperance Band stating that they had made arrangements whereby they should leave Coventry early on the evening of the 26th June, so as to arrive in Rushden about 9.30. From that time they offered their services to the committee free of expenses. – This offer was accepted with thanks. – The secretaries reported that Mr. Whitney was unable to act on the committee, and that the Rev. T. Edwards Thompson would be away at the time, so would be unable to act. Mr. Arthur Cave also wrote saying that he would be unable to act, but if the services of the St. John Ambulance Brigade were required he should be pleased to arrange for them to be at the disposal of the committee. The following committees were then appointed for the different parts of the scheme:-

Finance Committee: Messrs. Ebenezer Claridge, J. Wykes Ashdowne, J. Christian, F. Cave, John Claridge, G. Miller, and G. S. Mason.

Old Peoples Tea: Revs. W. R. Morse, W. F. Harris, M. E. Parkin, R. Shorten, Messrs. F. Knight, H. J. Jacobs, G. Tailby, J. S. Clipson, and W. H. Wilkins.

Children’s Tea: Messrs. John Claridge, J. T. Colson, A. Mantle, C. L. Bradfield, W. J. Wescombe, J. Noble, W. Chettle, B. Vorley, F. Corby, E. Jenkins, W. H. Brown, W. Wood, Norman, T. Swindall, W. R. Sanders, Geo. Bayes, H. Lack, A. Lawson, H. Whittington, and C. G. Crick, Mrs. A. G. C. Vann, Misses Taylor, Souter, Scott, Strickland, Nash, and Parker.

Sports Committee: Messrs. Fred Knight, H. Chester, H. Meller, J. S. Mason, C. Claridge, W. Webb, H. Brawn, J. T. Colson, R. Smith, C. G. Ward, and C. R. Claridge.

Entertainments Committee: Messrs. W. H. Moody, A. Ashby, C. Smith, W. B. Sanders, O. Claridge, G. H. Parkin, R. Locksey, E. Cunnington, S. Powell, and C. L. Bradfield.

Bonfire Committee: Messrs. G. H. Skinner, G. R. Turner, Hensman, W. Goodwin, G. H. Claridge, W. B. Sanders, John Sargent, W. G. Wilmott, Amos Cave, C. E. Bayes, R. Marriott, Geo. Burgess, H. Staniland, and W. H. Wilkins.

It was understood that each committee would appoint its own chairman and secretary, and make all the necessary arrangements for carrying out the part of the programme entrusted to its charge, and report at the next meeting of the general committee.

Postponement of The Coronation

A meeting of the Rushden committee was held at eleven o’clock on the Wednesday morning in the Alfred-street Board School. Mr. George Denton, C.C., presided, and there was a large attendance of the committee. At the outset the Chairman proposed a resolution of deep regret at the illness of the King, and sympathy with his Majesty and the Royal Family. This was carried by the rising of all present. It was reported that most of the provisions for the children’s tea were already in readiness, and a proposal was made that the children’s tea and old people’s treat take place on Thursday as arranged, but that all the rest of the programme be abandoned. Some discussion followed, and a short adjournment was taken to allow the traders and manufacturers to confer separately. On the resumption, the proposition was withdrawn, and Mr. George Miller proposed that the festivities be entirely abandoned. This was seconded by Mr. E. Claridge, and carried unanimously, the Chairman observed amid applause that this appeared to be the only proper and dignified course. He further suggested that the various sub-committees should meet at once, and see what could be done in the matter of saving expense. The Free Church Council also decided to abandon the service arranged for Thursday morning, and the committee of the Conservative Club at once abandoned the projected dinner.

Considerable disappointment was expressed in the town at the postponement of the entire programme, and on the Thursday there was some unsettlement at the factories, though the greater part kept at work during the day. The dinners and sports arranged by the various clubs were postponed till Friday and Saturday, but a sort of holiday feeling prevailed. The carrying out of the programme at Wymington also drew away men from some of the shops. Decorations were taken down from a large number of buildings. No postponement of the Co-operative Wholesale Society’s trip to Matlock was possible, and the employees spent a most enjoyable day.

Intercession Service

On Thursday evening a special service of intercession was held in the Rushden Parish Church, in view of the serious illness of the King. A good congregation assembled, and the organist and choir were also in attendance. The service opened with the Litany, intoned by the Rev. J. K. Forrest, after which the 23rd Psalm was chanted. The Rector, Rev. W. R. Morse, then read the lesson from Isaiah xxxviii., 10-20. The “Nunc Dimittis” was then sung, followed by the recital of the Apostles’ Creed, further prayers and the collect being read by the Rev. W. R. Morse. The hymn “Thou to Whom the sick and dying” having been sung, special prayers for the King were offered by the Rector, and the service concluded with the Blessing. As the congregation left the church the organist (Mr. J. E. Smith) played Handel’s “Comfort ye.”

Lighting The Bonfire

On Monday evening one part of the postponed Coronation programme was carried through, though not in the complete manner intended. Early in the day the rumour gained currency, doubtless as the result of Viscount Cranbourn’s message in the morning papers, that the bonfire would be lit at night. The crier’s circuit of the town at noon, though connected really with lost property, gave strength to the rumour, and, as “the shades of evening” fell, the part of Mr. Skinner’s land, where the huge and well-built bonfire stood, became the centre of attention. The committee had met earlier in the day and decided not to light the bonfire, but Dame Rumour took no heed to this, and the bustle and excitement, especially amongst the younger portion of the community, grew apace. By half-past nine troops of youngsters had gathered, and these began to march backwards and forwards shouting and singing. For a time the gates through which the procession was to have entered the field, and near which a triumphal arch still stood, was kept closed, though a continually increasing crowd gathered round. Soon after ten o’clock, however, the gate was opened by someone, and a steady stream of people, young and old, poured up the hill. A few minutes later a bright glare announced that someone had fired the pile so carefully prepared and the bustle and excitement grew apace. The flames leapt rapidly up the dry timber, and in a very few minutes a huge volume of flame lit up the whole surrounding district. A dense black cloud gave an appropriate background, while the thousands of faces in all directions, lit by the lurid glow, presented a striking spectacle. At the same time the glare from other bonfires could be seen in the distance. As the fire slowly burnt down the crowds gradually melted away, and by twelve o’clock all was over, a smart shower of rain helped to cool the dying embers.

A meeting of the General Committee elected for the purpose of celebrating the Coronation of the King in Rushden was held in the Alfred-street Board School on Monday. Mr. George Denton, chairman of the Urban Council, presided, and there was a good attendance of the committee.

The Chairman remarked that it was matter for congratulation that they had been called together again at so early a date. No one was so sanguine when the Coronation was postponed as to think that the date would so soon be fixed again. It was, however, a source of satisfaction that the King had recovered so rapidly as to be ready to undertake what must be a severe strain, however much the service might be shortened. The question before them was what course should now be followed. A more unsatisfactory day for them could scarcely have been chosen, but as their arrangements were postponed in view of a fresh date being fixed, it was scarcely possible to get away from it. Whether the programme should be carried through as originally arranged was for the meeting to decide. As to the children’s tea, there would be great difficulty in carrying that out, as so many of the teachers would be away on their holidays, and their help was almost indispensable. Then, as so many Sunday school teachers would also be away, it was a question whether it would be wise to undertake the control of so large a number of children. As Mr. Claridge had taken so prominent part in connection with the Children’s Committee, he would first ask for his views on the matter. (Applause.)

Mr. John Claridge said that, as the chairman had pointed out, they were placed in an awkward position, as in addition to the difficulties mentioned by the chairman, he was afraid that numbers of the committee would also be away. At the same time, he agreed that it would be desirable to have the tea on the day fixed, though a more inconvenient day could not have been fixed, and, personally, he should stay at home and try to carry out as far as he was able the arrangements that might be made. He did not like the idea of having two holidays, though he should be very sorry to have the treat if not successful. – In reply to a question, the speaker said that about 200 helpers were needed.

Mr. Brawn said that in regard to the sports most of the committee would be away, and Mr. Fred Knight added that there seemed no chance of carrying out the sports with the teachers away, as these knew the children, and had taken their names.

Mr. Claridge pointed out that if the celebration were postponed till the return of the teachers, that would be till September 6th.

The Chairman said that it appeared impossible for the arrangements as at first designed to be carried through. It would have been a splendid success – (hear, hear) – but now the conditions were altered, and they ought to make the best of their disappointment, and of a bad arrangement. If postponed till September, it would fall very flat, and if the tea could not be carried out perhaps it would be best to give the children a present of some kind, and let them go to the field for games, sports, fireworks, etc., thus making a holiday for them. Those of them who were at home – and it was a pity that those who had arranged to go away should be debarred from their holiday – would do the best they could.

Mr. J. S. Mason asked if it would be possible to give the old folks their tea, and the Chairman replied in the affirmative. Mr. Mason also suggested that if the Entertainments Committee could get their men it would help considerably.

Mr. Fred Knight pointed out that there were a number of tradesmen on the committee. Would they close and render assistance? – The Chairman took it that they would observe the Bank Holiday.

After further discussion, on the suggestion of Mr. Claridge, the Chairman announced that the meeting would be adjourned for ten minutes to allow the various committees to consult together.

On re-assembling, Mr. Claridge said the Children’s Tea Committee were practically unanimous with regard to having the tea on August 9th. (Applause.) They knew the difficulties of carrying it through, but thought that sufficient helpers would be present, and whilst they might not be able to carryout the arrangements as fully as they wished, a satisfactory result could be obtained. (Applause.)

Mr. Fred Knight said the Sports Committee did not think it was practicable to carry through the sports without the help of the teachers, so that part of the programme would have to be dropped.

It was suggested by Mr. C. Claridge that the Sports Committee be united with the Children’s Tea Committee, with a view to the provision of amusements. – This was seconded by Mr. J. T. Colson, and carried. – It was also agreed to carry out the tea.

With regard to the decorations and illuminations, Mr. F. Knight said that of the £15 allotted to the committee about £9 had already been spent, leaving sufficient to re-decorate the arches still standing near the railway station and at the entrance to the field. The Gas Company had left their fittings with a view to their use at the postponed festivities. – It was decided that the committee carry out this arrangement.

On the question of asking the tradesmen to decorate and illuminate their premises, the Chairman said he was in the hands of the meeting, but they must look at the matter from a practical point of view. They could scarcely expect that the tradesmen would do so much as before, and he did not like to be a party to asking and getting no response.

Mr. John Claridge said they might not get so much as in the first instance, but if the appeal was made it would make a difference to the result. He moved that the chairman be asked to invite the townspeople to decorate. – Mr. J. S. Mason seconded, and it was carried.

Mr. R. Lockey said the Entertainments Committee had about £5 10s in hand, and might perhaps get a couple of entertainers.

After further discussion, it was decided that three guineas from the fund voted to the Sports Committee be voted to the Entertainment Committee, three guineas to the Firework Committee, and the rest to the Children’s Treat Committee for prizes in the sports.

The Chairman remarked that this concluded the business, and it remained for them all to put their best energies to it, and make the day a success.

The following bulletins announcing the serious illness of the King and the performance of an important operation, necessitating the indefinite postponement of the Coronation, were issued from Buckingham Palace yesterday afternoon and evening.

The King and the Coronation Festivities

The following official communication was issued yesterday about midday:-

The Earl Marshall has received the King’s commands to express His Majesty’s deep sorrow that owing to his serious illness the Coronation ceremony must be postponed.

All Celebrations in London will in consequence be likewise postponed, but it is the King’s earnest hope that the celebrations in the country shall be held as already arranged.

Last Night’s Bulletin

The bulletin issued at 11 p.m. last night read as follows:-

The Wellingborough News, 15th August, 1902, transcribed by Jim Hollis

Whatever opinion may be held by different sections of the inhabitants with regard to abstract theories of government, it was abundantly evident on Saturday last that in Rushden and Higham Ferrers the feeling most prevalent was one of quiet joy and thankfulness that the ceremony at Westminster was successfully accomplished. At Rushden there was perhaps a little less elaboration of the arrangements, and less of boisterousness about the enthusiasm, owing in large measure to the fact that so many were away holiday-making; but in each case a determination was shown to make the holiday worthy of the occasion, and to have the town take its rightful place in the national movement. Wisely, too, the children of both towns were given the chief consideration in the plan of the proceedings, and as a consequence the right note of light-hearted joyousness was struck, and doubtless those derived most satisfaction from the day’s engagements who were hardest at work endeavouring to give the rising generation “a real good time.” One thing was conclusively proved - that it is possible for the whole community to rejoice together without the rough horse-play and buffoonery which have too often been regarded as the natural set-off to general merry-making. The proceedings were most orderly from beginning to end, and though large crowds gathered, everything was well ordered and seemly. The decorations and illuminations, depending so largely upon private enterprise, were most efficiently carried out and furnished a pleasing setting to the movements of the day, besides contributing to the general feeling that the event was a special one worthy of the fullest recognition. At Higham a consciousness of being in closer touch with the national event was roused by the hearty reception of the Mayor on his return direct from the pageant at Westminster, but in Rushden also everything was carried through so successfully as to leave behind the feeling that the town had worthily filled its place in the general festivities.

15th August, 1902

Rushden

When it was known that the coronation was fixed to take place on August 9th, the general committee arranging the celebrations at Rushden at once recognised that from their point of view the date was about the worst that could possibly have been chosen. Owing to the extent to which the Bank Holiday week is observed as the general holiday of the townspeople, it was felt that so many would be away as to necessitate the abandonment of part of the projected programme. It was resolved, however, that as much as possible should be carried through, but that most stress should be laid upon the part which most concerned the children, in order that they at least might have a memorable holiday. At the same time it was decided to ask the inhabitants at large to adopt measures for giving the town a bright and joyous appearance. Early on Saturday it was seen that this request had been freely responded to. The whole town was alive with flags, and along the whole stretch of the High-street bunting, mottoes, and various kinds of decorations were lavishly displayed, whilst there were indications on every hand that the streets in the evening would be ablaze with light and colour. Through-out the morning throngs of people manifested eager interest in the preparations that were being made, and a readiness to make the most of the holiday. A special service was held in the forenoon at the Parish Church, conducted by the Rector (Rev. W. R. Morse). The National Anthem was sung, and the organist (Mr. J. E. Smith) played Godfrey’s Coronation March. Most of the places of business closed at noon.

At 2.30 in the afternoon troops of eager children assembled at the three appointed meeting places. Scholars attending the Newton-road Schools met at the bottom of that road; those connected with Alfred-street, Moor-road and North-street collected in Alfred-street; whilst the scholars of the National School were drawn up near the Green. A busy scene was presented, large numbers of parents and friends being present as spectators, but, by the aid of a goodly number of voluntary helpers, all were quickly formed into procession, and headed by the Mission Band, marched to Mr. Skinner’s Home Field, where preparations had been made for tea. Here boards had been placed on the grass beneath the trees, and in a very short time some 3,000 children were ranged in an orderly manner, presenting an animated and pleasing picture. The large band of helpers were not long in ministering to their wants, an abundance of provisions having been made, and to the strains of the band the children, to all appearance, had a most enjoyable meal.

Meanwhile a company of a different character was assembling in the Public Hall, the adjacent hall of the B.W.T.A., and the schoolroom near. A capital meat tea had been provided for the oldest inhabitants of the town, and some four hundred persons over sixty years of age were admirably catered for by the Rushden Coffee Tavern Company. The Town String Band enlivened the proceedings by selections of music during the progress of the meal. The Rector gave a short address in each building, and called for cheers for the King and Queen, which were heartily given.

Crowds now wended their way to the field where the children had been dispersed in connection with games of various kinds. A large number of impromptu sports were carried out, the children eagerly competing for the prizes offered, which were made as numerous as possible. But the chief centre of attraction proved to be a temporary stage which had been erected at the top of the field in such a position as to be easily viewed by a very large crowd. Here the Brothers De Voras, Continental gymnasts, gave exhibitions of skill and daring on the double trapeze and Mr. W. H. Moody, of Rushden, several times released himself from handcuffs securely fastened around his wrists and ankles, and performed striking tricks of legerdemain. Each performer gave three exhibitions, hearty applause from the spectators greeting their efforts. Music was supplied by the Mission Band, who gave numerous selections, and by the town String Band, who played for dancing. A number of “Maypole girls,” under the direction of Mr. J. E. Smith, also gave a Maypole dance. Buns were distributed to the children during the evening. The local ambulance corps had provided an ambulance tent, and several members were in readiness to render help if necessary, but fortunately their services were not called into requisition. As dusk came on a large and varied exhibition of fireworks was given, this part of the programme having been strengthened by the allotment of extra funds available through the abandonment of the general sports. The scene presented as the thousands poured out of the field was a striking one, the long and steady stream of old and young testifying to the widespread interest taken in the event.

The illumination of the town was carried out on an extensive scale, but it would be impossible to describe this in detail. Thousands of fairy lamps of different hues were employed, worked up into various devices, the letters “E.R.” being, however, the most common, whilst Chinese lanterns and gas jets were also used. One of the brightest spots was at the entrance to the field, where a large number of jets illuminated the motto on the arch, “Here’s a health unto his Majesty,” the profuse illumination of Mr. Claridge’s factory, house, and grounds close by adding greatly to the brightness of the scene. The crowds pouring from the field wandered along the High-street, which presented a bright and animated scene the whole length from the Conservative club in High-street South to beyond the Midland Railway. The street was specially bright where the front of the Union Bank on the one side of the street and the length of Messrs. Denton’s factory on the other were lit up by countless gas jets. Lower down the street crowds blocked the roadway listening to selections from a gramophone fixed over Mr. Ashby’s well-illumined shop. The illuminated arch against the railway bridge, bearing the words “Progress” and “Civilization,” with a winged fiery wheel, all formed of gas jets, was much admired. In other parts of the town numbers of fairy lamps were also used. The lights remained lit, and the crowds passed and repassed till a late hour, and doubtless large numbers in Rushden will retain for a long time vivid memories of Coronation day of King Edward VII.