Page 23 - Oundle Life July 2023

100 YEARS
YOUNG
Horticultural Society
As we prepare for our 100th Show it is interesting to look back at the Society’s history. There were keen gardeners and huge gardens in Oundle, which proved to be the perfect recipe for horticultural shows to provide some healthy competition!
During the Victorian era, a number of horticultural shows took place in Oundle exhibiting flowers, fruit, vegetables and even poultry! These were grand affairs involving marching bands, side shows, attractions and even dancing in the evening.
continued for many years. One year while President, Lady Lilford opened the annual show
The Oundle Floral and Horticultural Exhibition was held in July 1868 with the band of the Coldstream Guards engaged for the occasion. Bramston House hosted the Oundle Society
for the Exhibition of Flowers, Fruit, Vegetables and Poultry in July 1875 followed by a firework display.
The Oundle Horticultural Society held its first Show at the Victoria Hall in 1904
and was also one of the judges! How is that for multi-tasking?
The Sweet Pea Society held its first Show in 1922. It was a summer event in the Rectory grounds which was an ideal location. The Rectory at that time was owned by the Smith brewery family. In the previous year the show had to be cancelled due to drought, an issue even then! For the 1922 Show the committee
The Oundle Horticultural Society
held its first Show at the Victoria Hall in 1904 and this became an annual two-day event held on Wednesdays and Thursdays, which
wisely decided to add additional summer flowers, vegetables and fruits which resulted in a splendid show.
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