This year’s Colchester Oyster Feast takes place on 23rd October, and we thought it would be a great opportunity to showcase some of the programmes that have been created to accompany the event in the past.
Colchester Oyster Feast programme, 1895 (LIB/E/COL 341.5)
These programmes were all designed and illustrated by W. Gurney Benham. Benham was a prominent local figure, being mayor of Colchester three times (1892/93, 1908/09, 1933/34), as well as editor of the Essex County Standard newspaper from 1884 to 1944. He also served as part of Essex County Council between 1925 and 1940, and was knighted in 1935. He was responsible for a variety of publications during his career, including his books of quotations and transcriptions of documents. He clearly was also a keen cartoonist and illustrator.
Colchester Oyster Feast programme, 1896 (LIB/E/COL 341.6)
Colchester shares a long history with oysters. The first Royal Charter was granted to the people of Colchester for a fishery in the River Colne by Richard I in 1189 and a fishery still exists there to this day.
Colchester Oyster Feast programme, 1897 (LIB/E/COL 341.7)
The Oyster Feast originally coincided with the St. Dennis Fair, which was held every year on 9th October. The St. Dennis Fair dates back at least to a Charter of 1318 which declared that the fair should begin on 8th October, the day before St. Dennis’ Day. In addition, the annual oyster dredging licences were issued in October of each year, and by the 1790s it had become tradition for a gift of oysters to be given to the Corporation lunch of the Mayor and councillors which was held after the proclamation of the St. Dennis Fair. Thus, the connection between oysters and the fair at the beginning of October was firmly established. Following the calendar adjustment in 1752 the date of the fair moved to 20th October.
Colchester Oyster Feast programme, 1900 (LIB/E/COL 341.10) – one of the more sinister examples!
In 1845 Colchester’s new mayor, Henry Wolton, made the Oyster Feast a large affair for the first time – inviting 200 people – to dine at the town hall, covering the cost himself. Previously the Feasts were for members of the council, but in 1845 the Feast was extended to the public more generally for the first time, albeit by invitation only.
Colchester Oyster Feast programme, 1907 (LIB/E/COL 341.16)
The Feast grew in popularity throughout the late 19th century and early 20th century and over the years has been attended by royalty, dignitaries and celebrities.
The St Dennis fair has not taken place since 1938, but the Oyster Feast is still held on one of the last Fridays of October.
Colchester Oyster Feast programme, 1930 (LIB/E/COL 341.33)