3-017-140 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Pair of donkeys in harness exhibited by Miss Burdett Coutts at the Mule and Donkey Show in the Agricultural Hall, Islington, 1865. '..."blue-ribbon winners" and 500-guinea hunters have departed, and mules and "mokes" (as the costermongers term their donkeys), with all their strange attendant sprites, have been in full possession...the most remarkable saddle and chariot races have been held in the ring, the riders or drivers being dressed in calico jockey attire. No whips were allowed, and two officers from the Society for the Suppression of Cruelty to Animals were present to support Mr. Douglas, and to impound all whips and spurs. There was very little need for them, as most of the donkeys were in beautiful condition, and stepped out wonderfully to the well-known rattle of the rein and shake of the feet. Miss Burdett's donkey pair, Polly and Tommy - a five and six year old - took a prize. They were driven round the ring in a small four-wheeler, and made a very pretty turnout with their neat harness and blue-and-black rosettes. One of them was, we believe, purchased at this exhibition last year. The munificent patron of the show was received very cordially by the crowd'. From "Illustrated London News", 1865.