The first Annual Sabbath School soiree for the Primitive Methodist Church in Blantyre took place on Christmas Day, 1894. There’s a wonderful description of this festive party, which gave joy to so many Blantyre children 130 years ago.
It was Christmas Night, 25th December 1894, the venue being Dixon’s Hall, just off Stonefield Road, Blantyre. Children, teachers and friends numbering over 200 people met for tea and pastries, purveyed by Mr Gavin Kerr. The Rev. F.J Sainty pastor of the church occupied the chair with addresses given by Rev. Jackson Harding and Walter Wilson. The children and choir sang sacred hymns of the season. The children were presented with prizes for their attendance that year.
Two recitals named ‘Santa Claus’ and ‘The Last Hymn’ were given by Miss Edith Banks which were highly appreciated by the audiences. These were simpler times. Following party games, oranges were freely distributed to all. In these times before other kids of Christmas parties, TV or radio, this simple celebration was very enjoyable and a wonderful festive evening was had. AI imagines the scene.
On Social Media, the following comments were received on Facebook:
Carol King Love primitive ! As of course now they are not! And oranges were so rare.
Robert Daley GGranny or GGAunt in this story maybe?
William Morley How fashions have changed girls now hardly ware anything go to school
Margaret Bordon Wow love this