Tillingham Gala Day 1872

Gala days were one of the highlights in rural life.

Led by the Schoolmaster, Mr. North, a group of villagers donated £25 to allow a day of festivities aimed at young and old.

The day chosen was Wednesday 24 July 1872.

That day was obviously hot as three water carts were required to water the road from the Cap and Feathers to the Gala Ground.

The village was decorated with banners crossing the street in several places and most houses flew flags or displayed bunting..

Local shops and businesses closed at 2pm in readiness for the event.

A procession of children followed Mr. Pulleys Band , who had travelled from Latchingdon, through High Street onto Mr. Coombes field.

Free refreshments were provided to 450 children and 70 senior citizens.

Entertainment, games, stalls and Mr. Pulleys band conducted by Mr. Allen provided fine entertainment for the estimated crowd of 1200 people who were drawn from Tillingham, Bradwell, Dengie, Asheldham and Southminster.

The event was recorded by the Essex Chronicle who reported in their issue of 26 July 1872.

People mentioned as helping

Name	Role
James Jackson	Committee Member - lived at Leggets
Marshall Turner	Committee Member
T Jackson	Committe Member
J Jackson	Committe Member
C Collins	Committe Member
J Rhoda	Committe Member
A G Rayner	Water Cart operator  and refreshment provider
G Coombe	Treasurer
Mr North	Schoolmaster and Secretary
Mr Hart	High Street resident with best decorated house
Mr Allen	Bandmaster
Mr Peacock	Baker
Mr Rodd	Baker
Mrs Pond	Baker