Here’s a story, which I hope you haven’t heard of before. On the evening of Tuesday 21st April 1896, a strange sight was observed by householders which certainly got people talking.
A man, in an iron helmet, with his arms in chains was paraded around Blantyre’s primary streets. However, it transpires, this wasn’t something to involve police. No, this was an early PR stunt, as a theatre was in town and the spectacle served as fantastic advertising ahead of the entertainment.
Mr James McKenzie of the Prince of Wales Theatre was giving a benefit concert, the proceeds of which were to go to Blantyre Brass Band. The band assembled at the Livingstone Hall (then at the corner of Forrest Street and Glasgow Road) and proceeded through the streets. At the front of the band was a man, wearing an iron helmet and his arms wrapped in chains. The advert was for the coming popular play to be performed later than evening …….”The Man in the Iron Mask”.
People came from their doorways standing on the pavements to watch the bizarre and unusual proceedings. Some followed, adding to the procession itself.
By the time the curiosity had made its way through Blantyre and back in a circle to the starting point, it had attracted a large audience who were quite keen on seeing the play! Indeed, the theatre was well packed out. At the end of the play, the band were brought on stage and played a few numbers. The financial affairs of the band had been in trouble for some time, so the sum handed over that night was greatly appreciated.
A clever tactic in the days before radio and TV which I’m sure would have got everybody talking.
