Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival

Subject: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: Fidjit
Date: 18 Oct 07 - 04:05 PM

Whilst reading through the book of days
Notably on my birthday. I came over this old festival of Bacon and Beans. Anyone know if it's still going on?

First Friday of July somewhere around Hainought Forrest.

Chas

Subject: RE: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: severed-head
Date: 19 Oct 07 - 06:25 AM

It seems the festival died out (sadly) early in the 20th century. Small parts of Hainault Forest remain and it's a lovely place for walks. There's very little happening in the way of traditional music, song, dancing, etc. in the general area.
A young oak tree was planted to commemorate the great Fairlop Oak at Fullwell Cross.More information if you're interested:
http://www.hainaultforest.co.uk/3Fairlop%20Fair.htm
http://www.british-history.ac.uk/report.aspx?compid=42724
Garry

Subject: RE: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: Fidjit
Date: 19 Oct 07 - 06:31 AM

Oh thanks.
I lived for many years - throughout WW2 and the 50's at Woodford Green. - I know Hainaught. Shouldn't think there are many trees left in that area. Nice to know they have a park. Pity about the cowboys breakfast feast. Should be revived.

Chas

Subject: RE: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: Fidjit
Date: 19 Oct 07 - 06:39 AM

In 1839 The Religious Tract Society counted 108 drinking booths and 72 gaming tables. Over 200,000 were attending, and Pea and Thimble riggers operated together with pickpockets and horse stealers.

Revival required?

Chas

Subject: RE: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: severed-head
Date: 19 Oct 07 - 07:01 AM

I have Pea and Thimbles ready for action.
Garry

Subject: RE: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: Fidjit
Date: 19 Oct 07 - 07:28 AM

Fagin is turning in his grave.

Ya gotta pick a pocket or two.

Chas

Subject: RE: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 19 Oct 07 - 03:07 PM

i also lived in Woodford Green from late 50s until late 70s. Seem to remember a pub called the Fairlop Oak.

Subject: RE: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: Fidjit
Date: 20 Oct 07 - 09:55 AM

Oh Mrs Duck you weren't the poor lady in the wedding dress that used to sit at the bus stop every day were you?

We lived in a prefab in Navestock Rd. (Now all removed) near to Highams Park lake

Don't know about the pub called the Fairlop Oak.
My dad used to drink at the Castle.

Small world.

Chas

Subject: RE: Folklore: Fairlope Oak Festival
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 21 Oct 07 - 05:56 PM

Know the Castle well. Went to school just a little along the road from there.