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Hocktide Kiss
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Hocktide Kiss
Hocktide at Hungerford, Berkshire, England. A Tutti Man carrying a bouquet demands a kiss from every female, or a penny fine! Date: 1930s
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Media ID 7227189
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10176099
Berkshire Bouquet Demands Hungerford Kiss Kissing Nosegay Penny Tithe Hocktide Snog
EDITORS COMMENTS
Hocktide Kiss: A Traditional Rite of Passage in Hungerford, Berkshire, England, 1930s This photograph captures the essence of a time-honored tradition in the quaint English town of Hungerford, Berkshire, during the 1930s. The scene unfolds as a Tutti Man, dressed in colorful attire and carrying a nosegay or bouquet, demands a kiss from every female he encounters. This custom, known as Hocktide, dates back to medieval times and was believed to ensure good fortune and fertility for the coming year. The Tutti Man, a figure representing the tithe or tax collector, would make his rounds during Hocktide, a time when the community came together to celebrate the end of the agricultural year. In exchange for a kiss, the women would be granted exemption from paying their dues. However, for those who refused, a small penalty in the form of a penny fine would be imposed. This photograph beautifully encapsulates the playful spirit of the Hocktide tradition. The Tutti Man's determined expression and the women's varied reactions – some laughing, some reluctant, and others embracing the moment – create a vibrant and engaging tableau. The backdrop of the town's charming architecture and the lush greenery further highlight the idyllic setting. As we gaze upon this image, we are transported back in time, allowing us to witness a unique and enduring piece of British folklore. The Hocktide Kiss remains a testament to the rich history and traditions that continue to shape the character of communities in England and beyond.
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