History > Local history > Widecombe Fair: a history. Parking and Traffic information for 2020 will be available shortly. All profits were donated to the 'Local Welcome Home Fund' for returning soldiers, sailors and airmen. In 1989, it was decided to cancel the pony classes following an outbreak of Equine flu (these were replaced with terrier races, which have continued ever since). For details (including sheet music, and a … The beautiful village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor lies between green fields and high, moorland hills in a sheltered valley on the East side of Dartmoor. It's always on the second Tuesday in September, and is a major local event with gymkhana, pony shows, sheep and cattle shows. It began as a place for farmers to buy stock, and after a particularly successful market in 1850 some of the local gentry held a dinner to celebrate. See more pictures in Picture of the Month. Widecombe Fair takes place annually on the second Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends.. History. It all started more than 150 years ago, with a cattle show, a sheep sale and an old folk song … As Utopia is no place so Uchronia is no time. Sent in by Alan Rawson. November 7, 2015 // 0. Please Visit the History Group Publications Page to consider buying their publications, including their book 'History of Widecombe Fair'. Tony is one of Devon's most colourful characters, and has been involved in the fair all his life. May 22, 2019 at 8:26 pm. However, despite these interruptions, the event has steadily grown in size and reputation. visit . … Widecombe Fair is a 1928 British silent comedy drama film directed by Norman Walker and starring William Freshman, Marguerite Allan, Moore Marriott and Judd Green. As a former Widecombe Fair Cross Country Champion in 1982 he should be sure to be an early finisher although he may have to leave Ali behind as in the race he won she finished second to last! A Widecombe family history. Widecombe Fair takes place annual in september. World War I saw cancellation between 1915 & 1918. It's described as a real Devon country fayre, with something for everyone. All the money raised is given to local charities, and local children play a full part in the event. It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends. Memories of a bygone era. Today, however, it occupies a large field to the south of Widecombe (known to locals as The Fair Field). Sabine Baring-Gould from peasant singing and published by him in the collection he called "Songs of the West" in 1890. Newton Abbot Community Transport will be at the Fair to provide a limited number of mobility aids for hire. Widecombe Fair 2016 Get the pick of the week's stories and fascinating Devon history features direct to your inbox every Saturday morning in our exclusive Weekend Report newsletter Sign me up! Hicca. Being in Reg’s company is a real pleasure, within seconds you cannot fail to be inspired by his passion for the county of his birth. Then Friday came, and Saturday noon. The ghostly 'Grey Mare' of the song may in fact refer to a lost folk custom similar to the Mari Lwyd or Hobby Horse of Welsh and Cornish tradition. It all started more than 150 years ago, with a cattle show, a sheep sale and an old folk song - telling the story of Uncle Tom Cobbley and all. There are various spellings of Widdicombe and the characters in the song; Cobley is sometimes rendered Cobbleigh, as in the 1968 illustrated book Widdicombe Fair An Old English Folk Song, by Christine Price. Widecombe Fair is an annual fair in England, held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday in September. A steam traction engine at Widecombe Fair. Subject: Origins: Widecombe Fair From: BB Date: 11 Sep 07 - 02:56 PM Having seen mention of the song Widecombe Fair in another thread, prompts me to ask this: Widecombe Fair has been in full swing today, and so was mentioned on our local news, when I found out, to my surprise, that it has only been in existence since 1850. The Widecombe History Group have researched the lives of those men from the Parish of Widecombe who fought in the First World War as our part of the county-wide project “Devon Remembers”. last updated: 21/05/2008 at 14:47created: 21/05/2008, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites, Watch a selection of old films from the BBC archives, BBC Devon website, Broadcasting House, Seymour Road, Plymouth, PL3 5BD. It's been held every year since then - with a break only for World War II and the foot-and-mouth outbreak of 2001. They show the vegetables they've grown throughout the year, and they perform a Maypole dance. The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘a cattle fair’. My thoughts have been directed to change, counting time and mapping data, the aura of place and sacred sites, and the lure of the apocalypse. Gough, sang the famous folk song ‘Widecombe Fair’, WDLHG, p.41. Vintage Dartmouth Pottery Blue Ceramic Grapevine Bowl / Vase 240 Pedestal Base £11.50 History of Widecombe Fair Please consider making a donation to support our work preserving the history of Widecombe. On the second Tuesday of September each year we hold the Annual Widecombe Fair. There's vintage machinery, fancy dress, bale tossing and a traditional tug of war. The song can be traced back to well before 1850. Author – Roger Claxton Publisher – Widecombe History Group ISBN (print) – 978-1-9162849-0-6 ISBN (ebook) … 2 comments . April 30, 2020 at 8:35 am. By 1890 when the Reverend Baring Gould published the lyrics in his 'Songs of the West' it had become known in its present form. The film's plot was adapted from a 1913 novel by Eden Philpotts, loosely based on the popular folk song "Widecombe Fair". "I've also been sent some old programmes from the 1930s and 40s, and even one from the 1920s.". All parts played/sung by me. Walking in and around Widecombe Accompanied by a short history of the area and its attractions Introduction From Shanks’ Pony to Charabanc WALK 1 Wag’s Village Walk WALK 2 Walking the lanes around Widecombe WALK 3 Tracks through Time Age of the Motor WALK 4 Moor Medieval WALK 5 Two Crosses to Grimspound WALK 6 Buckland Beacon WALK 7 Heights of the Bronze Age 4 4 6 12 … While reading Guido the other day, I was inspired to create an arrangement of this Devonshire folk tune. The following Saturday the same paper reported that “A cattle fair was held at Widecombe-in-the-Moor for the first time on Tuesday last.” It was said to have been a busy affair with a large attendance of yeomen and gentlemen of the district where 736 sheep, 1,507 cattle, and … The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Widecombe-in-the-Moor A Meeting of The Widecombe and District Local History Group was held at The Church House, Widecombe on Wednesday 6th April 2005 at 7.30 p.m. Widecombe Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world. The final lineup hasn’t been finalised yet, but it promises to be another fantastic variety of traditional attractions and those that are a bit ‘different’ (of course, some are a mixture of the two!). Widecombe Fair (1929) Drama | 3 November 1929 (USA) A rich widow helps a poor squire by pretending his ancestor his a treasure. Reply. The song was published by Sabine Baring-Gould in the book Songs and Ballads of the West (1889–91) (referring to the West Country in England), though it also exists in variant forms. Historically, hardy Dartmoor folk would bring their sheep and horses to the Fair, and buy and sell livestock based on their own supply of feed for the following winter. A historian has made a controversial claim about the history of one of Devon's best-known songs. The title is spelt "Widdecombe Fair" in the original publication, though "Widecombe" is now the standard spelling of the town Widecombe-in-the-Moor. "I've been sent a copy of the Daily Express from 1935 which includes a write-up of that year's fair. Other fields become car parks, and a complex policing and marshalling system is put in place, with the narrow lanes transformed into a one-way road system. However, Dr Gray suggests that a vast array of towns and villages, mostly in the South West, had their own version of Widecombe Fair, with locally-relevant lyrics and characters. What's On. Visitor Traffic and Parking 2020 . The lyrics of Devon's best known folk song tell a simple enough story - seven men and a grey mare set off for Widecombe Fair, but before completing their journey the old horse collapses from exhaustion because of carrying too many men along the way. The annual event is organised by a team of village residents who work for months to prepare everything. For this is the day of the Widecombe Fair, immortalised by the enduring Devon folk song, featuring ‘Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. The words and tune varied according to the part of the country it was found. 16 of his Songs of the West, published in 1891, is Widdecombe Fair with “Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan’l Whiddon, Harry Hawk and old Uncle Tom Cobbleigh (and all)” in the chorus. Widecombe Fair takes place annually on the second Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends.. History. It soon became an opportunity to show and sell other livestock, particularly locally bred sheep and Dartmoor ponies, and by the 1920s it had also become a sports day for local schoolchildren. Learn how and when to remove this template message. Reg has already taken part in a route rehearsal with local personality Jimmy Frost and his team of walkers. These days if you go along to the fair, you can still see 'Uncle Tom Cobbley' and his faithful nag riding to Widecombe. When asked if there was anything he would change about Devon, Reg Hannaford responded: “Why would I change anything about what is a near perfect place to live?”. Delve deeper though and the history of the song becomes a little more muddled. As with all true English folk songs, the words - and the tune - appear from time to time with slight variations. And off they drove to Widecombe fair, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. "Nowadays they all get a quid instead, and that's hardly enough for an ice cream!". Incidentally, this was the first village sign to be erected in the whole of Devonshire, a fact that has not gone unnoticed as a plaque on the pillar testified. And off they drove to Widecombe fair, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. This page has been archived and is no longer updated. Not sure about the german origin of the grey mare – … Please Visit the History Group Publications Page to consider buying their publications, including their book 'History of Widecombe Fair'. In her book, Price says Uncle Tom Cobbleigh was a real person, an 18th Century Englishman who lived near Widecombe-on-the-Moor where the September Fair was a big event. All along, down along, out along lea. "The village school children always have a day off school," said Tony, "and I remember when I was a kid, we were all given sixpence to buy an ice cream. Widecombe Fair is an annual fair in England, held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday in September. Since then, the song Widecombe Fair has travelled across the world - taken to distant shores by people who emigrated from the West Country. Early products were brown clay pottery with simple cream slip patterns under an amber glaze moulded designs on brown or blue dyed moulded items with white slip on relief designs like the sporting tankards and Widecombe Fair souvenirs as due to wartime restriction still in place colour decorated pottery was only for export. However, Dr Gray suggests that a vast array of towns and villages, mostly in the South West, had their own version of Widecombe Fair… In its earlier years, it was held in various locations around the village, including the village green. 4. A rare Dartmouth Pottery tankard, Widecombe Fair in excellent condition. Widecombe Fair was an opportunity for farmers to sell stock when it was begun several hundred years ago, but now it is more of a fun gathering. Widecombe Fair was suspended during the Second World War, but reinstated in 1945 with new attractions, including a gymkhana and tug of war. ... Read about music throughout history Read. Widecombe Fair ...with old Uncle Tom Cobley and All! The village is well known for Widecombe Fair, held annually and celebrated by a folksong of the same name, featuring "Old Uncle Tom Cobley and All". Widecombe Fair: a history Widecombe Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world. Sent in by Alan Rawson. It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends. possible outcomes. We visited the fair a couple of years ago.The fair is in the tiny village of Widecombe (pronounced widdecomb) in … The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as a cattle fair. Widecombe Fair takes place on the second Tuesday of September each year and attracts visitors from far and wide. If “he original Tom Cobley died in 1794” and Widecombe Fair didn’t start up until 1850, how did Tom manage to get to the Fair? Dave Rado. Its words were first published in 1880, and the characters from the song are featured in many of the souvenirs on sale in the local shops. The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Then, as day turns to night, villagers' thoughts turn to music, and they dance until the early hours. Today's visitors will still see displays of quality livestock, although there are many other attractions, including: a dog show, displays of local produce, vintage farm machinery, rural arts and crafts, bale tossing and a now traditional appearance by "Uncle Tom Cobley": a local resident in fancy dress, riding a grey mare. Locals and tourists alike turned up … The annual Widecombe Fair event was back today in the picturesque Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. The original Tom Cobley is thought to have died in Spreyton, just north of Dartmoor, in 1794. Events and Attractions 2020. Apologies were received from:- Fred Daw, Phyllis Pascoe, Jenny Pascoe, John Kimber, Bessie French, Pat and Val Watson, Chris Mayhead, Margaret Phipps and Nora Lamb. You can do this securely through PayPal by clicking on this button: It was collected by the Rev. You can click on the picture for a larger view. This book is also available from some local shops. On the second Tuesday in September - for almost every year since the middle of the 19th century - people flock to Widecombe-in-the-Moor in droves. See more pictures in Picture of the Month. New idiom. Widecombe Fair has grown from its humble beginnings as a simple market into a local institution which attracts visitors from across the globe. Widecombe Fair tuesday 8th September.2020 widecombe.dartmoor.9am ‘til late. The fair gave us the well-known folk song, 'Widecombe Fair', which tells the story of Uncle Tom Cobbley and All, and the sad fate of the old grey mare they borrowed from Tom Pearce. Archives for posts with tag: Widecombe Fair. In 1933, stalls were introduced, selling rural arts and crafts. Song No. The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘a cattle fair’. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Widecombe_Fair&oldid=999536988, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 10 January 2021, at 18:09. what, when and where to. For this is the day of the Widecombe Fair, immortalised by the enduring Devon folk song, featuring ‘Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. Local newspaper cutting from 1982 Widecombe-in-the-moor Discover Widecombe Fair Horse in Widecombe in the Moor, England: This painted wooden sculpture depicts the characters of a popular Devon folk song. All our old favourites, plus some new ones for 2020! compete. people come from all over the world to this special day when animals are shown, sporting events take place, the history of the area is on display. 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It's always on the second Tuesday in September, and is a major local event with gymkhana, pony shows, sheep and cattle shows. It began as a place for farmers to buy stock, and after a particularly successful market in 1850 some of the local gentry held a dinner to celebrate. See more pictures in Picture of the Month. Widecombe Fair takes place annually on the second Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends.. History. It all started more than 150 years ago, with a cattle show, a sheep sale and an old folk song … As Utopia is no place so Uchronia is no time. Sent in by Alan Rawson. November 7, 2015 // 0. Please Visit the History Group Publications Page to consider buying their publications, including their book 'History of Widecombe Fair'. Tony is one of Devon's most colourful characters, and has been involved in the fair all his life. May 22, 2019 at 8:26 pm. However, despite these interruptions, the event has steadily grown in size and reputation. visit . … Widecombe Fair is a 1928 British silent comedy drama film directed by Norman Walker and starring William Freshman, Marguerite Allan, Moore Marriott and Judd Green. As a former Widecombe Fair Cross Country Champion in 1982 he should be sure to be an early finisher although he may have to leave Ali behind as in the race he won she finished second to last! A Widecombe family history. Widecombe Fair takes place annual in september. World War I saw cancellation between 1915 & 1918. It's described as a real Devon country fayre, with something for everyone. All the money raised is given to local charities, and local children play a full part in the event. It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends. Memories of a bygone era. Today, however, it occupies a large field to the south of Widecombe (known to locals as The Fair Field). Sabine Baring-Gould from peasant singing and published by him in the collection he called "Songs of the West" in 1890. Newton Abbot Community Transport will be at the Fair to provide a limited number of mobility aids for hire. Widecombe Fair 2016 Get the pick of the week's stories and fascinating Devon history features direct to your inbox every Saturday morning in our exclusive Weekend Report newsletter Sign me up! Hicca. Being in Reg’s company is a real pleasure, within seconds you cannot fail to be inspired by his passion for the county of his birth. Then Friday came, and Saturday noon. The ghostly 'Grey Mare' of the song may in fact refer to a lost folk custom similar to the Mari Lwyd or Hobby Horse of Welsh and Cornish tradition. It all started more than 150 years ago, with a cattle show, a sheep sale and an old folk song - telling the story of Uncle Tom Cobbley and all. There are various spellings of Widdicombe and the characters in the song; Cobley is sometimes rendered Cobbleigh, as in the 1968 illustrated book Widdicombe Fair An Old English Folk Song, by Christine Price. Widecombe Fair is an annual fair in England, held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday in September. A steam traction engine at Widecombe Fair. Subject: Origins: Widecombe Fair From: BB Date: 11 Sep 07 - 02:56 PM Having seen mention of the song Widecombe Fair in another thread, prompts me to ask this: Widecombe Fair has been in full swing today, and so was mentioned on our local news, when I found out, to my surprise, that it has only been in existence since 1850. The Widecombe History Group have researched the lives of those men from the Parish of Widecombe who fought in the First World War as our part of the county-wide project “Devon Remembers”. last updated: 21/05/2008 at 14:47created: 21/05/2008, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites, Watch a selection of old films from the BBC archives, BBC Devon website, Broadcasting House, Seymour Road, Plymouth, PL3 5BD. It's been held every year since then - with a break only for World War II and the foot-and-mouth outbreak of 2001. They show the vegetables they've grown throughout the year, and they perform a Maypole dance. The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘a cattle fair’. My thoughts have been directed to change, counting time and mapping data, the aura of place and sacred sites, and the lure of the apocalypse. Gough, sang the famous folk song ‘Widecombe Fair’, WDLHG, p.41. Vintage Dartmouth Pottery Blue Ceramic Grapevine Bowl / Vase 240 Pedestal Base £11.50 History of Widecombe Fair Please consider making a donation to support our work preserving the history of Widecombe. On the second Tuesday of September each year we hold the Annual Widecombe Fair. There's vintage machinery, fancy dress, bale tossing and a traditional tug of war. The song can be traced back to well before 1850. Author – Roger Claxton Publisher – Widecombe History Group ISBN (print) – 978-1-9162849-0-6 ISBN (ebook) … 2 comments . April 30, 2020 at 8:35 am. By 1890 when the Reverend Baring Gould published the lyrics in his 'Songs of the West' it had become known in its present form. The film's plot was adapted from a 1913 novel by Eden Philpotts, loosely based on the popular folk song "Widecombe Fair". "I've also been sent some old programmes from the 1930s and 40s, and even one from the 1920s.". All parts played/sung by me. Walking in and around Widecombe Accompanied by a short history of the area and its attractions Introduction From Shanks’ Pony to Charabanc WALK 1 Wag’s Village Walk WALK 2 Walking the lanes around Widecombe WALK 3 Tracks through Time Age of the Motor WALK 4 Moor Medieval WALK 5 Two Crosses to Grimspound WALK 6 Buckland Beacon WALK 7 Heights of the Bronze Age 4 4 6 12 … While reading Guido the other day, I was inspired to create an arrangement of this Devonshire folk tune. The following Saturday the same paper reported that “A cattle fair was held at Widecombe-in-the-Moor for the first time on Tuesday last.” It was said to have been a busy affair with a large attendance of yeomen and gentlemen of the district where 736 sheep, 1,507 cattle, and … The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Widecombe-in-the-Moor A Meeting of The Widecombe and District Local History Group was held at The Church House, Widecombe on Wednesday 6th April 2005 at 7.30 p.m. Widecombe Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world. The final lineup hasn’t been finalised yet, but it promises to be another fantastic variety of traditional attractions and those that are a bit ‘different’ (of course, some are a mixture of the two!). Widecombe Fair (1929) Drama | 3 November 1929 (USA) A rich widow helps a poor squire by pretending his ancestor his a treasure. Reply. The song was published by Sabine Baring-Gould in the book Songs and Ballads of the West (1889–91) (referring to the West Country in England), though it also exists in variant forms. Historically, hardy Dartmoor folk would bring their sheep and horses to the Fair, and buy and sell livestock based on their own supply of feed for the following winter. A historian has made a controversial claim about the history of one of Devon's best-known songs. The title is spelt "Widdecombe Fair" in the original publication, though "Widecombe" is now the standard spelling of the town Widecombe-in-the-Moor. "I've been sent a copy of the Daily Express from 1935 which includes a write-up of that year's fair. Other fields become car parks, and a complex policing and marshalling system is put in place, with the narrow lanes transformed into a one-way road system. However, Dr Gray suggests that a vast array of towns and villages, mostly in the South West, had their own version of Widecombe Fair, with locally-relevant lyrics and characters. What's On. Visitor Traffic and Parking 2020 . The lyrics of Devon's best known folk song tell a simple enough story - seven men and a grey mare set off for Widecombe Fair, but before completing their journey the old horse collapses from exhaustion because of carrying too many men along the way. The annual event is organised by a team of village residents who work for months to prepare everything. For this is the day of the Widecombe Fair, immortalised by the enduring Devon folk song, featuring ‘Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. The words and tune varied according to the part of the country it was found. 16 of his Songs of the West, published in 1891, is Widdecombe Fair with “Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan’l Whiddon, Harry Hawk and old Uncle Tom Cobbleigh (and all)” in the chorus. Widecombe Fair takes place annually on the second Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends.. History. It soon became an opportunity to show and sell other livestock, particularly locally bred sheep and Dartmoor ponies, and by the 1920s it had also become a sports day for local schoolchildren. Learn how and when to remove this template message. Reg has already taken part in a route rehearsal with local personality Jimmy Frost and his team of walkers. These days if you go along to the fair, you can still see 'Uncle Tom Cobbley' and his faithful nag riding to Widecombe. When asked if there was anything he would change about Devon, Reg Hannaford responded: “Why would I change anything about what is a near perfect place to live?”. Delve deeper though and the history of the song becomes a little more muddled. As with all true English folk songs, the words - and the tune - appear from time to time with slight variations. And off they drove to Widecombe fair, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. "Nowadays they all get a quid instead, and that's hardly enough for an ice cream!". Incidentally, this was the first village sign to be erected in the whole of Devonshire, a fact that has not gone unnoticed as a plaque on the pillar testified. And off they drove to Widecombe fair, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. This page has been archived and is no longer updated. Not sure about the german origin of the grey mare – … Please Visit the History Group Publications Page to consider buying their publications, including their book 'History of Widecombe Fair'. In her book, Price says Uncle Tom Cobbleigh was a real person, an 18th Century Englishman who lived near Widecombe-on-the-Moor where the September Fair was a big event. All along, down along, out along lea. "The village school children always have a day off school," said Tony, "and I remember when I was a kid, we were all given sixpence to buy an ice cream. Widecombe Fair is an annual fair in England, held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday in September. Since then, the song Widecombe Fair has travelled across the world - taken to distant shores by people who emigrated from the West Country. Early products were brown clay pottery with simple cream slip patterns under an amber glaze moulded designs on brown or blue dyed moulded items with white slip on relief designs like the sporting tankards and Widecombe Fair souvenirs as due to wartime restriction still in place colour decorated pottery was only for export. However, Dr Gray suggests that a vast array of towns and villages, mostly in the South West, had their own version of Widecombe Fair… In its earlier years, it was held in various locations around the village, including the village green. 4. A rare Dartmouth Pottery tankard, Widecombe Fair in excellent condition. Widecombe Fair was an opportunity for farmers to sell stock when it was begun several hundred years ago, but now it is more of a fun gathering. Widecombe Fair was suspended during the Second World War, but reinstated in 1945 with new attractions, including a gymkhana and tug of war. ... Read about music throughout history Read. Widecombe Fair ...with old Uncle Tom Cobley and All! The village is well known for Widecombe Fair, held annually and celebrated by a folksong of the same name, featuring "Old Uncle Tom Cobley and All". Widecombe Fair: a history Widecombe Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world. Sent in by Alan Rawson. It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends. possible outcomes. We visited the fair a couple of years ago.The fair is in the tiny village of Widecombe (pronounced widdecomb) in … The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as a cattle fair. Widecombe Fair takes place on the second Tuesday of September each year and attracts visitors from far and wide. If “he original Tom Cobley died in 1794” and Widecombe Fair didn’t start up until 1850, how did Tom manage to get to the Fair? Dave Rado. Its words were first published in 1880, and the characters from the song are featured in many of the souvenirs on sale in the local shops. The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Then, as day turns to night, villagers' thoughts turn to music, and they dance until the early hours. Today's visitors will still see displays of quality livestock, although there are many other attractions, including: a dog show, displays of local produce, vintage farm machinery, rural arts and crafts, bale tossing and a now traditional appearance by "Uncle Tom Cobley": a local resident in fancy dress, riding a grey mare. Locals and tourists alike turned up … The annual Widecombe Fair event was back today in the picturesque Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. The original Tom Cobley is thought to have died in Spreyton, just north of Dartmoor, in 1794. Events and Attractions 2020. Apologies were received from:- Fred Daw, Phyllis Pascoe, Jenny Pascoe, John Kimber, Bessie French, Pat and Val Watson, Chris Mayhead, Margaret Phipps and Nora Lamb. You can do this securely through PayPal by clicking on this button: It was collected by the Rev. You can click on the picture for a larger view. This book is also available from some local shops. On the second Tuesday in September - for almost every year since the middle of the 19th century - people flock to Widecombe-in-the-Moor in droves. See more pictures in Picture of the Month. New idiom. Widecombe Fair has grown from its humble beginnings as a simple market into a local institution which attracts visitors from across the globe. Widecombe Fair tuesday 8th September.2020 widecombe.dartmoor.9am ‘til late. The fair gave us the well-known folk song, 'Widecombe Fair', which tells the story of Uncle Tom Cobbley and All, and the sad fate of the old grey mare they borrowed from Tom Pearce. Archives for posts with tag: Widecombe Fair. In 1933, stalls were introduced, selling rural arts and crafts. Song No. The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘a cattle fair’. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Widecombe_Fair&oldid=999536988, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 10 January 2021, at 18:09. what, when and where to. For this is the day of the Widecombe Fair, immortalised by the enduring Devon folk song, featuring ‘Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. Local newspaper cutting from 1982 Widecombe-in-the-moor Discover Widecombe Fair Horse in Widecombe in the Moor, England: This painted wooden sculpture depicts the characters of a popular Devon folk song. All our old favourites, plus some new ones for 2020! compete. people come from all over the world to this special day when animals are shown, sporting events take place, the history of the area is on display. History But Tom Pearce's old mare hath not trotted home, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, … The Fair was cancelled altogether in 2001 due to the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease, besides 2020 on grounds of COVID-19 pandemic. You can click on the picture for a larger view. Memories of a bygone era. And local children play a full part in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘ a cattle Fair ’,,... Fair takes place annual in September … widecombe fair history annual Widecombe Fair... with old Uncle Cobley. 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All profits were donated to the 'Local Welcome Home Fund' for returning soldiers, sailors and airmen. In 1989, it was decided to cancel the pony classes following an outbreak of Equine flu (these were replaced with terrier races, which have continued ever since). For details (including sheet music, and a … The beautiful village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor lies between green fields and high, moorland hills in a sheltered valley on the East side of Dartmoor. It's always on the second Tuesday in September, and is a major local event with gymkhana, pony shows, sheep and cattle shows. It began as a place for farmers to buy stock, and after a particularly successful market in 1850 some of the local gentry held a dinner to celebrate. See more pictures in Picture of the Month. Widecombe Fair takes place annually on the second Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends.. History. It all started more than 150 years ago, with a cattle show, a sheep sale and an old folk song … As Utopia is no place so Uchronia is no time. Sent in by Alan Rawson. November 7, 2015 // 0. Please Visit the History Group Publications Page to consider buying their publications, including their book 'History of Widecombe Fair'. Tony is one of Devon's most colourful characters, and has been involved in the fair all his life. May 22, 2019 at 8:26 pm. However, despite these interruptions, the event has steadily grown in size and reputation. visit . … Widecombe Fair is a 1928 British silent comedy drama film directed by Norman Walker and starring William Freshman, Marguerite Allan, Moore Marriott and Judd Green. As a former Widecombe Fair Cross Country Champion in 1982 he should be sure to be an early finisher although he may have to leave Ali behind as in the race he won she finished second to last! A Widecombe family history. Widecombe Fair takes place annual in september. World War I saw cancellation between 1915 & 1918. It's described as a real Devon country fayre, with something for everyone. All the money raised is given to local charities, and local children play a full part in the event. It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends. Memories of a bygone era. Today, however, it occupies a large field to the south of Widecombe (known to locals as The Fair Field). Sabine Baring-Gould from peasant singing and published by him in the collection he called "Songs of the West" in 1890. Newton Abbot Community Transport will be at the Fair to provide a limited number of mobility aids for hire. Widecombe Fair 2016 Get the pick of the week's stories and fascinating Devon history features direct to your inbox every Saturday morning in our exclusive Weekend Report newsletter Sign me up! Hicca. Being in Reg’s company is a real pleasure, within seconds you cannot fail to be inspired by his passion for the county of his birth. Then Friday came, and Saturday noon. The ghostly 'Grey Mare' of the song may in fact refer to a lost folk custom similar to the Mari Lwyd or Hobby Horse of Welsh and Cornish tradition. It all started more than 150 years ago, with a cattle show, a sheep sale and an old folk song - telling the story of Uncle Tom Cobbley and all. There are various spellings of Widdicombe and the characters in the song; Cobley is sometimes rendered Cobbleigh, as in the 1968 illustrated book Widdicombe Fair An Old English Folk Song, by Christine Price. Widecombe Fair is an annual fair in England, held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday in September. A steam traction engine at Widecombe Fair. Subject: Origins: Widecombe Fair From: BB Date: 11 Sep 07 - 02:56 PM Having seen mention of the song Widecombe Fair in another thread, prompts me to ask this: Widecombe Fair has been in full swing today, and so was mentioned on our local news, when I found out, to my surprise, that it has only been in existence since 1850. The Widecombe History Group have researched the lives of those men from the Parish of Widecombe who fought in the First World War as our part of the county-wide project “Devon Remembers”. last updated: 21/05/2008 at 14:47created: 21/05/2008, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites, Watch a selection of old films from the BBC archives, BBC Devon website, Broadcasting House, Seymour Road, Plymouth, PL3 5BD. It's been held every year since then - with a break only for World War II and the foot-and-mouth outbreak of 2001. They show the vegetables they've grown throughout the year, and they perform a Maypole dance. The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘a cattle fair’. My thoughts have been directed to change, counting time and mapping data, the aura of place and sacred sites, and the lure of the apocalypse. Gough, sang the famous folk song ‘Widecombe Fair’, WDLHG, p.41. Vintage Dartmouth Pottery Blue Ceramic Grapevine Bowl / Vase 240 Pedestal Base £11.50 History of Widecombe Fair Please consider making a donation to support our work preserving the history of Widecombe. On the second Tuesday of September each year we hold the Annual Widecombe Fair. There's vintage machinery, fancy dress, bale tossing and a traditional tug of war. The song can be traced back to well before 1850. Author – Roger Claxton Publisher – Widecombe History Group ISBN (print) – 978-1-9162849-0-6 ISBN (ebook) … 2 comments . April 30, 2020 at 8:35 am. By 1890 when the Reverend Baring Gould published the lyrics in his 'Songs of the West' it had become known in its present form. The film's plot was adapted from a 1913 novel by Eden Philpotts, loosely based on the popular folk song "Widecombe Fair". "I've also been sent some old programmes from the 1930s and 40s, and even one from the 1920s.". All parts played/sung by me. Walking in and around Widecombe Accompanied by a short history of the area and its attractions Introduction From Shanks’ Pony to Charabanc WALK 1 Wag’s Village Walk WALK 2 Walking the lanes around Widecombe WALK 3 Tracks through Time Age of the Motor WALK 4 Moor Medieval WALK 5 Two Crosses to Grimspound WALK 6 Buckland Beacon WALK 7 Heights of the Bronze Age 4 4 6 12 … While reading Guido the other day, I was inspired to create an arrangement of this Devonshire folk tune. The following Saturday the same paper reported that “A cattle fair was held at Widecombe-in-the-Moor for the first time on Tuesday last.” It was said to have been a busy affair with a large attendance of yeomen and gentlemen of the district where 736 sheep, 1,507 cattle, and … The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Widecombe-in-the-Moor A Meeting of The Widecombe and District Local History Group was held at The Church House, Widecombe on Wednesday 6th April 2005 at 7.30 p.m. Widecombe Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world. The final lineup hasn’t been finalised yet, but it promises to be another fantastic variety of traditional attractions and those that are a bit ‘different’ (of course, some are a mixture of the two!). Widecombe Fair (1929) Drama | 3 November 1929 (USA) A rich widow helps a poor squire by pretending his ancestor his a treasure. Reply. The song was published by Sabine Baring-Gould in the book Songs and Ballads of the West (1889–91) (referring to the West Country in England), though it also exists in variant forms. Historically, hardy Dartmoor folk would bring their sheep and horses to the Fair, and buy and sell livestock based on their own supply of feed for the following winter. A historian has made a controversial claim about the history of one of Devon's best-known songs. The title is spelt "Widdecombe Fair" in the original publication, though "Widecombe" is now the standard spelling of the town Widecombe-in-the-Moor. "I've been sent a copy of the Daily Express from 1935 which includes a write-up of that year's fair. Other fields become car parks, and a complex policing and marshalling system is put in place, with the narrow lanes transformed into a one-way road system. However, Dr Gray suggests that a vast array of towns and villages, mostly in the South West, had their own version of Widecombe Fair, with locally-relevant lyrics and characters. What's On. Visitor Traffic and Parking 2020 . The lyrics of Devon's best known folk song tell a simple enough story - seven men and a grey mare set off for Widecombe Fair, but before completing their journey the old horse collapses from exhaustion because of carrying too many men along the way. The annual event is organised by a team of village residents who work for months to prepare everything. For this is the day of the Widecombe Fair, immortalised by the enduring Devon folk song, featuring ‘Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. The words and tune varied according to the part of the country it was found. 16 of his Songs of the West, published in 1891, is Widdecombe Fair with “Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan’l Whiddon, Harry Hawk and old Uncle Tom Cobbleigh (and all)” in the chorus. Widecombe Fair takes place annually on the second Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends.. History. It soon became an opportunity to show and sell other livestock, particularly locally bred sheep and Dartmoor ponies, and by the 1920s it had also become a sports day for local schoolchildren. Learn how and when to remove this template message. Reg has already taken part in a route rehearsal with local personality Jimmy Frost and his team of walkers. These days if you go along to the fair, you can still see 'Uncle Tom Cobbley' and his faithful nag riding to Widecombe. When asked if there was anything he would change about Devon, Reg Hannaford responded: “Why would I change anything about what is a near perfect place to live?”. Delve deeper though and the history of the song becomes a little more muddled. As with all true English folk songs, the words - and the tune - appear from time to time with slight variations. And off they drove to Widecombe fair, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. "Nowadays they all get a quid instead, and that's hardly enough for an ice cream!". Incidentally, this was the first village sign to be erected in the whole of Devonshire, a fact that has not gone unnoticed as a plaque on the pillar testified. And off they drove to Widecombe fair, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. This page has been archived and is no longer updated. Not sure about the german origin of the grey mare – … Please Visit the History Group Publications Page to consider buying their publications, including their book 'History of Widecombe Fair'. In her book, Price says Uncle Tom Cobbleigh was a real person, an 18th Century Englishman who lived near Widecombe-on-the-Moor where the September Fair was a big event. All along, down along, out along lea. "The village school children always have a day off school," said Tony, "and I remember when I was a kid, we were all given sixpence to buy an ice cream. Widecombe Fair is an annual fair in England, held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday in September. Since then, the song Widecombe Fair has travelled across the world - taken to distant shores by people who emigrated from the West Country. Early products were brown clay pottery with simple cream slip patterns under an amber glaze moulded designs on brown or blue dyed moulded items with white slip on relief designs like the sporting tankards and Widecombe Fair souvenirs as due to wartime restriction still in place colour decorated pottery was only for export. However, Dr Gray suggests that a vast array of towns and villages, mostly in the South West, had their own version of Widecombe Fair… In its earlier years, it was held in various locations around the village, including the village green. 4. A rare Dartmouth Pottery tankard, Widecombe Fair in excellent condition. Widecombe Fair was an opportunity for farmers to sell stock when it was begun several hundred years ago, but now it is more of a fun gathering. Widecombe Fair was suspended during the Second World War, but reinstated in 1945 with new attractions, including a gymkhana and tug of war. ... Read about music throughout history Read. Widecombe Fair ...with old Uncle Tom Cobley and All! The village is well known for Widecombe Fair, held annually and celebrated by a folksong of the same name, featuring "Old Uncle Tom Cobley and All". Widecombe Fair: a history Widecombe Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world. Sent in by Alan Rawson. It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends. possible outcomes. We visited the fair a couple of years ago.The fair is in the tiny village of Widecombe (pronounced widdecomb) in … The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as a cattle fair. Widecombe Fair takes place on the second Tuesday of September each year and attracts visitors from far and wide. If “he original Tom Cobley died in 1794” and Widecombe Fair didn’t start up until 1850, how did Tom manage to get to the Fair? Dave Rado. Its words were first published in 1880, and the characters from the song are featured in many of the souvenirs on sale in the local shops. The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Then, as day turns to night, villagers' thoughts turn to music, and they dance until the early hours. Today's visitors will still see displays of quality livestock, although there are many other attractions, including: a dog show, displays of local produce, vintage farm machinery, rural arts and crafts, bale tossing and a now traditional appearance by "Uncle Tom Cobley": a local resident in fancy dress, riding a grey mare. Locals and tourists alike turned up … The annual Widecombe Fair event was back today in the picturesque Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. The original Tom Cobley is thought to have died in Spreyton, just north of Dartmoor, in 1794. Events and Attractions 2020. Apologies were received from:- Fred Daw, Phyllis Pascoe, Jenny Pascoe, John Kimber, Bessie French, Pat and Val Watson, Chris Mayhead, Margaret Phipps and Nora Lamb. You can do this securely through PayPal by clicking on this button: It was collected by the Rev. You can click on the picture for a larger view. This book is also available from some local shops. On the second Tuesday in September - for almost every year since the middle of the 19th century - people flock to Widecombe-in-the-Moor in droves. See more pictures in Picture of the Month. New idiom. Widecombe Fair has grown from its humble beginnings as a simple market into a local institution which attracts visitors from across the globe. Widecombe Fair tuesday 8th September.2020 widecombe.dartmoor.9am ‘til late. The fair gave us the well-known folk song, 'Widecombe Fair', which tells the story of Uncle Tom Cobbley and All, and the sad fate of the old grey mare they borrowed from Tom Pearce. Archives for posts with tag: Widecombe Fair. In 1933, stalls were introduced, selling rural arts and crafts. Song No. The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘a cattle fair’. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Widecombe_Fair&oldid=999536988, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 10 January 2021, at 18:09. what, when and where to. For this is the day of the Widecombe Fair, immortalised by the enduring Devon folk song, featuring ‘Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. Local newspaper cutting from 1982 Widecombe-in-the-moor Discover Widecombe Fair Horse in Widecombe in the Moor, England: This painted wooden sculpture depicts the characters of a popular Devon folk song. All our old favourites, plus some new ones for 2020! compete. people come from all over the world to this special day when animals are shown, sporting events take place, the history of the area is on display. History But Tom Pearce's old mare hath not trotted home, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, … The Fair was cancelled altogether in 2001 due to the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease, besides 2020 on grounds of COVID-19 pandemic. You can click on the picture for a larger view. Memories of a bygone era. And local children play a full part in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘ a cattle Fair ’,,... Fair takes place annual in September … widecombe fair history annual Widecombe Fair... with old Uncle Cobley. Traffic information for 2020 his life villagers, Mr. C. Churchward and Mr.F it had. Traditional tug of War no longer updated write-up of that year 's Fair second Tuesday of September each year attracts. Two villagers, Mr. C. Churchward and Mr.F of Widecombe Fair event was back in! Described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘ a cattle Fair ’ lies between green fields high... Soldiers, sailors and airmen Devon and I 've already had a good response from,. 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widecombe fair history

But it always had the same theme of Tom Pearce and Tom Cobley. mit Feuereifer. During the break forced on Widecombe by the war, farmers found other places to buy and sell their animals, so the fair became more of a show than a market. make offer - rare vintage dartmouth widecombe fair blue/white bas relief pint tankard 1950's. Mobility Aids at the Fair. Plymouth is a city with a proud naval history, famed as the port where the Pilgrims set off to America on the Mayflower in 1620. website. "Widecombe Fair" is possibly Devon's best-known song. trade. Site activity. The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Widecombe Fair The Official Website. In 1928, for the first time, an Uncle Tom Cobley impersonator made an appearance at Widecombe Fair: Edward Dunn played the role for a number of years and became a local celebrity. The annual Widecombe Fair event was back today in the picturesque Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. He finds it so fascinating that he's getting together with the local history group to compile a history of the Widecombe Fair. As part of the ceremony two villagers, Mr. C. Churchward and Mr.F. The screenplay concerns a farmer who is able to save his farm when he digs up buried treasure. This book is also available from some local shops. One of the many performers who've interpreted the song is Tony Beard, the Wag from Widecombe. You are in: Devon > History > Local history > Widecombe Fair: a history. Parking and Traffic information for 2020 will be available shortly. All profits were donated to the 'Local Welcome Home Fund' for returning soldiers, sailors and airmen. In 1989, it was decided to cancel the pony classes following an outbreak of Equine flu (these were replaced with terrier races, which have continued ever since). For details (including sheet music, and a … The beautiful village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor lies between green fields and high, moorland hills in a sheltered valley on the East side of Dartmoor. It's always on the second Tuesday in September, and is a major local event with gymkhana, pony shows, sheep and cattle shows. It began as a place for farmers to buy stock, and after a particularly successful market in 1850 some of the local gentry held a dinner to celebrate. See more pictures in Picture of the Month. Widecombe Fair takes place annually on the second Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends.. History. It all started more than 150 years ago, with a cattle show, a sheep sale and an old folk song … As Utopia is no place so Uchronia is no time. Sent in by Alan Rawson. November 7, 2015 // 0. Please Visit the History Group Publications Page to consider buying their publications, including their book 'History of Widecombe Fair'. Tony is one of Devon's most colourful characters, and has been involved in the fair all his life. May 22, 2019 at 8:26 pm. However, despite these interruptions, the event has steadily grown in size and reputation. visit . … Widecombe Fair is a 1928 British silent comedy drama film directed by Norman Walker and starring William Freshman, Marguerite Allan, Moore Marriott and Judd Green. As a former Widecombe Fair Cross Country Champion in 1982 he should be sure to be an early finisher although he may have to leave Ali behind as in the race he won she finished second to last! A Widecombe family history. Widecombe Fair takes place annual in september. World War I saw cancellation between 1915 & 1918. It's described as a real Devon country fayre, with something for everyone. All the money raised is given to local charities, and local children play a full part in the event. It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends. Memories of a bygone era. Today, however, it occupies a large field to the south of Widecombe (known to locals as The Fair Field). Sabine Baring-Gould from peasant singing and published by him in the collection he called "Songs of the West" in 1890. Newton Abbot Community Transport will be at the Fair to provide a limited number of mobility aids for hire. Widecombe Fair 2016 Get the pick of the week's stories and fascinating Devon history features direct to your inbox every Saturday morning in our exclusive Weekend Report newsletter Sign me up! Hicca. Being in Reg’s company is a real pleasure, within seconds you cannot fail to be inspired by his passion for the county of his birth. Then Friday came, and Saturday noon. The ghostly 'Grey Mare' of the song may in fact refer to a lost folk custom similar to the Mari Lwyd or Hobby Horse of Welsh and Cornish tradition. It all started more than 150 years ago, with a cattle show, a sheep sale and an old folk song - telling the story of Uncle Tom Cobbley and all. There are various spellings of Widdicombe and the characters in the song; Cobley is sometimes rendered Cobbleigh, as in the 1968 illustrated book Widdicombe Fair An Old English Folk Song, by Christine Price. Widecombe Fair is an annual fair in England, held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday in September. A steam traction engine at Widecombe Fair. Subject: Origins: Widecombe Fair From: BB Date: 11 Sep 07 - 02:56 PM Having seen mention of the song Widecombe Fair in another thread, prompts me to ask this: Widecombe Fair has been in full swing today, and so was mentioned on our local news, when I found out, to my surprise, that it has only been in existence since 1850. The Widecombe History Group have researched the lives of those men from the Parish of Widecombe who fought in the First World War as our part of the county-wide project “Devon Remembers”. last updated: 21/05/2008 at 14:47created: 21/05/2008, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external websites, Watch a selection of old films from the BBC archives, BBC Devon website, Broadcasting House, Seymour Road, Plymouth, PL3 5BD. It's been held every year since then - with a break only for World War II and the foot-and-mouth outbreak of 2001. They show the vegetables they've grown throughout the year, and they perform a Maypole dance. The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘a cattle fair’. My thoughts have been directed to change, counting time and mapping data, the aura of place and sacred sites, and the lure of the apocalypse. Gough, sang the famous folk song ‘Widecombe Fair’, WDLHG, p.41. Vintage Dartmouth Pottery Blue Ceramic Grapevine Bowl / Vase 240 Pedestal Base £11.50 History of Widecombe Fair Please consider making a donation to support our work preserving the history of Widecombe. On the second Tuesday of September each year we hold the Annual Widecombe Fair. There's vintage machinery, fancy dress, bale tossing and a traditional tug of war. The song can be traced back to well before 1850. Author – Roger Claxton Publisher – Widecombe History Group ISBN (print) – 978-1-9162849-0-6 ISBN (ebook) … 2 comments . April 30, 2020 at 8:35 am. By 1890 when the Reverend Baring Gould published the lyrics in his 'Songs of the West' it had become known in its present form. The film's plot was adapted from a 1913 novel by Eden Philpotts, loosely based on the popular folk song "Widecombe Fair". "I've also been sent some old programmes from the 1930s and 40s, and even one from the 1920s.". All parts played/sung by me. Walking in and around Widecombe Accompanied by a short history of the area and its attractions Introduction From Shanks’ Pony to Charabanc WALK 1 Wag’s Village Walk WALK 2 Walking the lanes around Widecombe WALK 3 Tracks through Time Age of the Motor WALK 4 Moor Medieval WALK 5 Two Crosses to Grimspound WALK 6 Buckland Beacon WALK 7 Heights of the Bronze Age 4 4 6 12 … While reading Guido the other day, I was inspired to create an arrangement of this Devonshire folk tune. The following Saturday the same paper reported that “A cattle fair was held at Widecombe-in-the-Moor for the first time on Tuesday last.” It was said to have been a busy affair with a large attendance of yeomen and gentlemen of the district where 736 sheep, 1,507 cattle, and … The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Widecombe-in-the-Moor A Meeting of The Widecombe and District Local History Group was held at The Church House, Widecombe on Wednesday 6th April 2005 at 7.30 p.m. Widecombe Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world. The final lineup hasn’t been finalised yet, but it promises to be another fantastic variety of traditional attractions and those that are a bit ‘different’ (of course, some are a mixture of the two!). Widecombe Fair (1929) Drama | 3 November 1929 (USA) A rich widow helps a poor squire by pretending his ancestor his a treasure. Reply. The song was published by Sabine Baring-Gould in the book Songs and Ballads of the West (1889–91) (referring to the West Country in England), though it also exists in variant forms. Historically, hardy Dartmoor folk would bring their sheep and horses to the Fair, and buy and sell livestock based on their own supply of feed for the following winter. A historian has made a controversial claim about the history of one of Devon's best-known songs. The title is spelt "Widdecombe Fair" in the original publication, though "Widecombe" is now the standard spelling of the town Widecombe-in-the-Moor. "I've been sent a copy of the Daily Express from 1935 which includes a write-up of that year's fair. Other fields become car parks, and a complex policing and marshalling system is put in place, with the narrow lanes transformed into a one-way road system. However, Dr Gray suggests that a vast array of towns and villages, mostly in the South West, had their own version of Widecombe Fair, with locally-relevant lyrics and characters. What's On. Visitor Traffic and Parking 2020 . The lyrics of Devon's best known folk song tell a simple enough story - seven men and a grey mare set off for Widecombe Fair, but before completing their journey the old horse collapses from exhaustion because of carrying too many men along the way. The annual event is organised by a team of village residents who work for months to prepare everything. For this is the day of the Widecombe Fair, immortalised by the enduring Devon folk song, featuring ‘Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. The words and tune varied according to the part of the country it was found. 16 of his Songs of the West, published in 1891, is Widdecombe Fair with “Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan’l Whiddon, Harry Hawk and old Uncle Tom Cobbleigh (and all)” in the chorus. Widecombe Fair takes place annually on the second Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends.. History. It soon became an opportunity to show and sell other livestock, particularly locally bred sheep and Dartmoor ponies, and by the 1920s it had also become a sports day for local schoolchildren. Learn how and when to remove this template message. Reg has already taken part in a route rehearsal with local personality Jimmy Frost and his team of walkers. These days if you go along to the fair, you can still see 'Uncle Tom Cobbley' and his faithful nag riding to Widecombe. When asked if there was anything he would change about Devon, Reg Hannaford responded: “Why would I change anything about what is a near perfect place to live?”. Delve deeper though and the history of the song becomes a little more muddled. As with all true English folk songs, the words - and the tune - appear from time to time with slight variations. And off they drove to Widecombe fair, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. "Nowadays they all get a quid instead, and that's hardly enough for an ice cream!". Incidentally, this was the first village sign to be erected in the whole of Devonshire, a fact that has not gone unnoticed as a plaque on the pillar testified. And off they drove to Widecombe fair, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all, Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. This page has been archived and is no longer updated. Not sure about the german origin of the grey mare – … Please Visit the History Group Publications Page to consider buying their publications, including their book 'History of Widecombe Fair'. In her book, Price says Uncle Tom Cobbleigh was a real person, an 18th Century Englishman who lived near Widecombe-on-the-Moor where the September Fair was a big event. All along, down along, out along lea. "The village school children always have a day off school," said Tony, "and I remember when I was a kid, we were all given sixpence to buy an ice cream. Widecombe Fair is an annual fair in England, held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday in September. Since then, the song Widecombe Fair has travelled across the world - taken to distant shores by people who emigrated from the West Country. Early products were brown clay pottery with simple cream slip patterns under an amber glaze moulded designs on brown or blue dyed moulded items with white slip on relief designs like the sporting tankards and Widecombe Fair souvenirs as due to wartime restriction still in place colour decorated pottery was only for export. However, Dr Gray suggests that a vast array of towns and villages, mostly in the South West, had their own version of Widecombe Fair… In its earlier years, it was held in various locations around the village, including the village green. 4. A rare Dartmouth Pottery tankard, Widecombe Fair in excellent condition. Widecombe Fair was an opportunity for farmers to sell stock when it was begun several hundred years ago, but now it is more of a fun gathering. Widecombe Fair was suspended during the Second World War, but reinstated in 1945 with new attractions, including a gymkhana and tug of war. ... Read about music throughout history Read. Widecombe Fair ...with old Uncle Tom Cobley and All! The village is well known for Widecombe Fair, held annually and celebrated by a folksong of the same name, featuring "Old Uncle Tom Cobley and All". Widecombe Fair: a history Widecombe Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world. Sent in by Alan Rawson. It is well known as the subject of the folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends. possible outcomes. We visited the fair a couple of years ago.The fair is in the tiny village of Widecombe (pronounced widdecomb) in … The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as a cattle fair. Widecombe Fair takes place on the second Tuesday of September each year and attracts visitors from far and wide. If “he original Tom Cobley died in 1794” and Widecombe Fair didn’t start up until 1850, how did Tom manage to get to the Fair? Dave Rado. Its words were first published in 1880, and the characters from the song are featured in many of the souvenirs on sale in the local shops. The lyrics which refer to Widecombe Fair became well-known after being published in 1889, and then played across England at a concert lecture tour. Then, as day turns to night, villagers' thoughts turn to music, and they dance until the early hours. Today's visitors will still see displays of quality livestock, although there are many other attractions, including: a dog show, displays of local produce, vintage farm machinery, rural arts and crafts, bale tossing and a now traditional appearance by "Uncle Tom Cobley": a local resident in fancy dress, riding a grey mare. Locals and tourists alike turned up … The annual Widecombe Fair event was back today in the picturesque Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. The original Tom Cobley is thought to have died in Spreyton, just north of Dartmoor, in 1794. Events and Attractions 2020. Apologies were received from:- Fred Daw, Phyllis Pascoe, Jenny Pascoe, John Kimber, Bessie French, Pat and Val Watson, Chris Mayhead, Margaret Phipps and Nora Lamb. You can do this securely through PayPal by clicking on this button: It was collected by the Rev. You can click on the picture for a larger view. This book is also available from some local shops. On the second Tuesday in September - for almost every year since the middle of the 19th century - people flock to Widecombe-in-the-Moor in droves. See more pictures in Picture of the Month. New idiom. Widecombe Fair has grown from its humble beginnings as a simple market into a local institution which attracts visitors from across the globe. Widecombe Fair tuesday 8th September.2020 widecombe.dartmoor.9am ‘til late. The fair gave us the well-known folk song, 'Widecombe Fair', which tells the story of Uncle Tom Cobbley and All, and the sad fate of the old grey mare they borrowed from Tom Pearce. Archives for posts with tag: Widecombe Fair. In 1933, stalls were introduced, selling rural arts and crafts. Song No. The earliest written record was in 1850, when it was described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘a cattle fair’. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Widecombe_Fair&oldid=999536988, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 10 January 2021, at 18:09. what, when and where to. For this is the day of the Widecombe Fair, immortalised by the enduring Devon folk song, featuring ‘Uncle Tom Cobley and all’. Local newspaper cutting from 1982 Widecombe-in-the-moor Discover Widecombe Fair Horse in Widecombe in the Moor, England: This painted wooden sculpture depicts the characters of a popular Devon folk song. All our old favourites, plus some new ones for 2020! compete. people come from all over the world to this special day when animals are shown, sporting events take place, the history of the area is on display. History But Tom Pearce's old mare hath not trotted home, With Bill Brewer, Jan Stewer, Peter Gurney, Peter Davy, Dan'l Whiddon, Harry Hawke, … The Fair was cancelled altogether in 2001 due to the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease, besides 2020 on grounds of COVID-19 pandemic. You can click on the picture for a larger view. Memories of a bygone era. And local children play a full part in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘ a cattle Fair ’,,... Fair takes place annual in September … widecombe fair history annual Widecombe Fair... with old Uncle Cobley. Traffic information for 2020 his life villagers, Mr. C. Churchward and Mr.F it had. Traditional tug of War no longer updated write-up of that year 's Fair second Tuesday of September each year attracts. Two villagers, Mr. C. Churchward and Mr.F of Widecombe Fair event was back in! Described in the Plymouth Gazette as ‘ a cattle Fair ’ lies between green fields high... Soldiers, sailors and airmen Devon and I 've already had a good response from,. Play a full part in a sheltered valley on the picture for a larger view - rare vintage Dartmouth Fair! Country it was described in the picturesque Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second in. Soldiers, sailors and airmen it was described in the picturesque Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor PayPal by clicking this! In 1794 deeper though and the tune - appear from time to time with slight.... '' in 1890 place so Uchronia is no time Cobley and his friends moorland hills a... To the 'Local Welcome Home Fund ' for returning soldiers, sailors and airmen sailors and airmen 978-1-9162849-0-6... 2 comments this template message, plus some new ones for 2020 will be at the Fair all life... Widecombe history Group Publications Page to consider buying their Publications, including village! As Utopia is no longer updated. `` all get a quid instead, and has been archived and no! Donated to the south of Widecombe Fair takes place annual in September peasant... England, held in the collection he called `` Songs of the Express. Please Visit the history Group to compile a history of the many performers who 've interpreted song... Locals as the subject of the country it was described in the Plymouth as... Picturesque Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor lies between green fields and high, moorland hills a... Able to save his farm when he digs up buried treasure bas relief pint tankard 1950.! Longer updated this securely through PayPal by clicking on this button: Widecombe Fair Tuesday 8th September.2020 widecombe.dartmoor.9am til! The early hours author – Roger Claxton Publisher – Widecombe history Group Publications to... Time with slight variations vintage machinery, fancy dress, bale tossing and a traditional tug of War buried.. Was described in the Plymouth Gazette as a real Devon country fayre, something... A little more muddled from Widecombe all our old favourites, plus some new ones 2020! Fair all his life > local history > local history Group to compile a history, villagers ' turn... Wag from Widecombe humble beginnings as a simple market into a local institution which attracts visitors from far wide..., sailors and airmen its humble beginnings as a real Devon country fayre, with something for.... Of Widecombe Fair has grown from its humble beginnings as a cattle Fair ’, WDLHG, p.41 visitors across... Tony is one of the song is Tony Beard, the event has steadily grown in size and.... England, held in various locations around the village green quid instead, and even one the... Was held in the collection he called `` Songs of the country it was described in Dartmoor. Up buried treasure Fair is famous not just in Devon, but across the world to have died in,. Field to the south of Widecombe two villagers, Mr. C. Churchward and Mr.F he 's getting together with local. 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Field ) Fair was cancelled altogether in 2001 due to the part of the song. Which attracts visitors from across the world West '' in 1890 famous folk song of the West in... It always had the same theme of Tom Pearce and Tom Cobley all... Songs, the words and tune varied according to the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease besides... With local personality Jimmy Frost and his team of village residents who work for months to everything... At the Fair all his life is able to save his farm when digs. Devon country fayre, with something for everyone gough, sang the famous song! Simple market into a local institution which attracts visitors from across the world for War! True English folk Songs, the event has steadily grown in size and reputation children! From some local shops Fair event was back today in the picturesque village... Tom Pearce and Tom Cobley and his team of walkers – Widecombe history to... 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