2-888-767 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Scottish Fete, in Lord Holland's Park, [Notting Hill, London], 1850. 'The object of this undertaking was to afford encouragement to those who desire to uphold the sports and pastimes of the people of Scotland, and at the same time to carry out the principle that a wholesome entertainment may be derived from the exercise of those pleasures which, whilst they offer an agreeable relaxation to the spectators, are calculated to display the goodwill of the performers in an honourable competition of strength and skill'. Activities included: 'archery, running, leaping, throwing the hammer, putting the stone, tossing the caber, broadsword exercise, sword and target opposed to the bayonet, sword-dance, reels, strathspeys, and performance on the great Highland bagpipe...the prizes...were restricted to those who should appear in the old Caledonian costume, "in kilts or trews".' From "Illustrated London News", 1850.