2-913-991 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Ball at Guildhall, in aid of the Patriotic Fund, 1854. Fundraising event in London during the Crimean War, '...for the relief of the widows and orphans of those who may fall in the present mighty war with Russia...Two thousand persons were present...Jullien's quadrille band had been engaged...For such of the company as did not dance, the committee had arranged a select concert in the Council Chamber...Madame Anna Thillon sang an English ballad with her usual grace and finish...At the termination of the concert the audience poured into the ball-room, which soon became almost too crowded for the dancers; when M. Jullien struck up one of his most admired polkas, and the scene - what with the dancing, the crowding, the lights, the banners, and music - became very brilliant and exciting. Refreshments were provided in abundance, and the festivities were kept up to a late hour'. From "Illustrated London News", 1854.