2-888-484 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Procession of the High Sheriff of Lancashire, at Rochdale, 1850. Clement Royds leaves for Liverpool: '...neighbouring gentry, tradesmen, yeomen, farmers, and persons of all grades, poured early into the town, to witness the display and take part in the procession...Flags were hoisted in all directions, bands of music paraded the streets, and the church bells rang merrily. The arch under which the procession passed did great credit to Messrs. Mills and Barnish, the builders. The wood-work was covered with calico to represent stone, and the whole decorated with flowers, evergreens, and a profusion of flags, banners, and appropriate devices, amongst which were the Royal arms, the arms of the High Sheriff, the county, and the borough. The words "Royds, Sheriff" were inscribed on both sides of the arch...the enthusiastic cheers of the multitude rent the air...'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.