'Cock-fighting, prize-fighting, and women runners in Huntingdonshire'
A talk exploring the fascinating history of early sporting achievement in the area!
The Restoration in 1660 England meant not just the return of the Stuart monarchy, but also a more permissive, pleasure-oriented sporting culture. This talk by Nigel Fenner (local sports historian) explores the impact of Oliver Cromwell, and Samuel Pepys and examples of the resulting sporting culture in Huntingdonshire across the 18th-century, such as how:
an addicted, yet broke gambler travels 170 miles ‘for free’ to attend a horse meeting,
a famous wrestler ‘arises’ to heaven,
a local football match causes tensions between the Town Crier and local Church, and
extraordinary feats by local women athletes.
The talk will be given by Nigel Fenner.
This talk takes place at St Mary's Parish Hall, just opposite Huntingdon Bus Station. Tickets cost £3, book online by following the link.
The Restoration in 1660 England meant not just the return of the Stuart monarchy, but also a more permissive, pleasure-oriented sporting culture. This talk by Nigel Fenner (local sports historian) explores the impact of Oliver Cromwell, and Samuel Pepys and examples of the resulting sporting culture in Huntingdonshire across the 18th-century, such as how:
an addicted, yet broke gambler travels 170 miles ‘for free’ to attend a horse meeting,
a famous wrestler ‘arises’ to heaven,
a local football match causes tensions between the Town Crier and local Church, and
extraordinary feats by local women athletes.
The talk will be given by Nigel Fenner.
This talk takes place at St Mary's Parish Hall, just opposite Huntingdon Bus Station. Tickets cost £3, book online by following the link.
Where is it happening?
St Mary's Parish Hall, 1 The Walks E, Huntingdon PE29 3AP, 3 St Marys Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3PE, United Kingdom
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
Host or PublisherHuntingdonshire History Festival
