lasted from 1830 to 1901, the reign of Queen Victoria of England. Anytime during the two weekends of this Christmas period celebration, with the smallest effort, you could imagine you were among the citizens of the time. All in period costume, men and woman strolled and wished Merry Christmas to passers-by, a man walked and juggled at the same time, a chimney sweep was spotted, a soldier played his drum, chestnuts were sold, a kids' zone with movies and crafts was available, bobbies trolled for bad guys and a beef-eater, in full costume, appeared now and again. I was a participant, singing Christmas carols along with my husband, Bruce. We strolled down our historic Centre Street and ended on the stage, invited there by the musicians playing. I don't know if we were singing with them or they were accompanying us. Whichever it was, it was fun.
James T. Hurley, our actual Chief of Police of Fernandina
with Gil Langley, tourist development, as a colorful beefeater
Vendors'
tents were set up on several blocks of Centre. Food and fancies were
offered and it was a great place to pick up Christmas gifts. I was
there, signing my novels. For an author whose stories are set in Dickens period, the late 1800s, telling folks how the stories take
place along the very street on which they are walking and with me
wearing Victorian garb... Well, was a real hoot for this writer.
A
doily pinned at the neck with a brooch, a long-sleeved blouse, a long skirt,
a decorated beach hat, a velvet jacket and I found my instant Victorian
costume! -jmm
Robert Severance- chimney sweep and Keith Klawinski-
drummer
Tiny Tim joined the carolers
Jane Marie book signing on Centre Street
Santa added to the fun!
Might Mr. Keith become a GOODBYE LIEr?
If they decide to make this an annual event, make plans now to attend. You'll have a fine time. We all did!
The origin of the name bobbies (taken from http://www.history.com/news/ask-history/why-are-british-police-officers-called-bobbies-) In London, the policemen were so identified with the politician [Robert Peel] who created them, that they were referred to as “Peelers” or—more memorably—“Bobbies,” after the popular nickname for Robert .
Something about Beefeaters:
( taken from http://resources.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/customs/questions/beefeaters.htm)
The guards at the Tower of London are called Yeoman Warders.
In principle, they are responsible for looking after any prisoners at
the Tower and safeguarding the British crown jewels, but in practice
they act as tour guides and are a tourist attraction in their own right.
There are twelve Yeomen Warders. While their role is usually confined
to the Tower of London, the Yeomen Warders do take part in one State
ceremony. At Coronations, they form a guard of honour inside the annexe
at Westminster Abbey.Their nickname is Beefeater.
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