On this Day in 1804

Fairs and markets at Tynemouth and North Shields

April 27. - The fair for the sale of live stock opened at Tynemouth for the first time, as did that at North Shields for the sale of all other goods, and for the hiring of servants. The business of the day began at the Bull Ring, North Shields, by the assembling of a number of gentlemen, accompanied by his grace the duke of Northumberland's tenants all on horseback. The proclamation was first read by the bailiff of Tynemouthshire and clerk of the market, when the procession moved forward to the market - place ; the duchess of Northumberland's own bagpiper, in his proper habiliments, mounted upon a white pony, and playing the favourite air of "My Jockey stays lang at the fair," in the van; next to him the bailiff of the manor (Mr. Wetherby ), and his deputy : then the gentlemen and tenants, two and two. When they arrived at the post office, another proclamation was made, they then proceeded to Tynemouth castle gates, and proclaimed the fair there, and from thence to the place where the ancient cross of Tynemouth stood, in the days of the priory. After making another proclamation accompanied by three cheers, the piper performed some northern airs in a style that would have done honour to Courtney, Gow, or Allan. The Percy Tenantry Cavalry attended in uniform, and afterwards dined together at one of the inns, where a number of appropriate toasts were drank.

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Tynemouth Priory and Castle 1804 North Shields Tynemouth