Pancakes and Pandemonium: Derby Shrovetide 180 Years ago with Ian Collis

Description

Today, Shrove Tuesday is mainly associated with pancakes, but in Georgian and early Victorian times, it was an important holiday. Mills shut down and people felt free to eat, drink and get warm by playing all sorts of outdoor games. 

Derby had a particular Shrovetide tradition, which embraced rich and poor, men and women, young and old, prizefighter and politician. It was a custom and a culture that had persisted for centuries, and which contemporary writers said, “ran in the veins of every Derbian”.

But, in 1846 the Council tried to put a stop to this time-honoured tradition, having failed several times before. The Mayor recruited hundreds of volunteer constables and the Secretary of State provided two troops of dragoon guards to enforce the Council’s will. The events of that day would make news across the country and leave a lasting legacy. This talk, in the week of the 180th anniversary of that momentous day, explains the story behind the Shrovetide Ball still kept by Derby Museum. Using eyewitness accounts, author Ian Collis explains the fascinating history behind a tradition which split Derby folk into two competing factions, and lent its name to local football rivalries across the world.

About Ian Collis:

Trained as a town planner and ecologist, Ian Collis has a keen interest in writing, particularly on issues to do with heritage and geography. He has written many publications for local authorities, charities and environmental organisations. Recent articles have appeared in magazines such as Best of British, Derbyshire Life, This England, and When Saturday Comes. He is also the author of The Derby Game: A History of Local Rivalries and his talk draws on the research he carried out for this book.

Suitable for adults. Booking essential.

Images courtesy of Ian Collis.

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