2-982-305 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Cremorne Gardens - the Maypole Dance, 1858. Pleasure gardens in Chelsea, London. 'This delightful place of public resort was...the centre of great attraction, and was crowded by a brilliant company, who were brought together to testify their admiration of the manner in which the spirited proprietor - Mr. T. Simpson - has managed these gardens. As early as three o'clock the gardens were open to the public, when maypole and and morris dancing, such as delighted our ancestors, took place in the gardens, which were exquisitely decorated with flags and banners...It would be in vain to attempt to enumerate all the attractions which Cremorne presented. Bands were perambulating the gardens; and dancers were plying their nimble feet with more zest than usual...The spot chosen for Illustration is the Lawn, one of the prettiest portions of the grounds, and one on which great attention is bestowed to preserve the beauty of its appearance during summer. The Italian building at the back is a very artistic elevation, and is used for the performance of the Marionettes, which were introduced into England by Mr. Simpson in 1852, and is of sufficient dimensions to contain 1000 persons'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858.