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Men Preparing the hobby horse. The origin of the Minehead Hobby Horse Festival has been
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Men Preparing the hobby horse. The origin of the Minehead Hobby Horse Festival has been
Men Preparing the hobby horse. The origin of the Minehead Hobby Horse Festival has been lost in history although its thought to have started as warding off evil Vikings or is a commemoration of the wreck of a vessel at Minehead, The tradition continues to today and can be traced back to at least 1792 when it was recorded in Dunster Castles ledger. On 1 May Minehead is woken by the beating of a drum. The Hobby Horse dances its way around Minehead and on up to Dunster Castle. As it makes its way back to Minehead it collects donations. The culmination of the festival is the " booty" on 3 May where tight fisted spectators can expect to be laid down in front of the horse and has to escape before the horse turns his tail on them! May 1940 P029156
Staff
Daily Mirror
Mirrorpix
Minehead
Somerset
England
Media ID 21672608
© Mirrorpix
Church Customs Drummer May Day Medium Group Of People Musicians Rural Somerset Mixed Age Range
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This print captures a moment in time during the Men Preparing the hobby horse ritual. The origins of the renowned Minehead Hobby Horse Festival have been shrouded in mystery, lost to history. It is believed that this ancient tradition may have emerged as a means to ward off evil Vikings or perhaps as a commemoration of a shipwreck at Minehead. Dating back to at least 1792, when it was documented in Dunster Castle's ledger, this festival has stood the test of time. On the first day of May, Minehead awakens to the rhythmic beating of drums. The iconic Hobby Horse gracefully dances its way through the streets, eventually making its way up to Dunster Castle. Along its journey back to Minehead, generous onlookers offer donations which are collected by those accompanying this majestic creature. The pinnacle event takes place on May 3rd - known as "booty" day - where daring spectators can expect an exhilarating challenge. They must lie down before the horse and attempt to escape before it turns its tail upon them! This thrilling spectacle attracts people from far and wide who eagerly participate or watch with bated breath. In this snapshot from May 1940, we witness a vibrant scene filled with musicians playing traditional tunes while children and adults alike gather around in anticipation. This image encapsulates not only rural life but also showcases Somerset's rich cultural heritage steeped in age-old customs and traditions that continue to be cherished today.
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