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The Stratford-on-Avon Mops
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The Stratford-on-Avon Mops
The two Statute of Mop Fairs in Stratford-on-Avon are held on the day after Michaelmas Day and the second Friday in October - their institution dates back to the days of Richard I, and there is no doubt that Shakespeare attended them, took part in the games and tasted the ox-roasts turned on spits in temporary brick fire places in the streets. A " mop" is a statute fair for the hiring of domestic servants and farm labourers, and contracts made were binding for one year: the word " mop" derives from the old custom of maid-servants bringing their badge of office with them to the fairs. The men and women hired at these fairs were called Johnnies and Mollies. The old " fairings", that is large sticks of sweets, generally cinnamon or peppermint flavouring, appear on the brightly-lighted stalls
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Media ID 4400311
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10271613
Avon Carousel Crowds Fairs Merry Mops Stall Stalls Statute Stratford
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the lively atmosphere of the Stratford-on-Avon Mops, a pair of historic statute fairs held in the picturesque English town on the day after Michaelmas Day and the second Friday in October. The origins of these fairs can be traced back to the days of Richard I, with strong evidence suggesting that Shakespeare himself attended them, reveling in the games and partaking in the traditional ox-roasts prepared on temporary brick fireplaces in the streets. The term "mop" refers to a hiring fair for domestic servants and farm laborers, with contracts binding for one year. The men and women hired at these fairs were affectionately known as "Johnnies" and "Mollies." The old "fairings," large sticks of sweets, are a tantalizing sight on the brightly lit stalls, adding to the merry and round atmosphere of the fair. The crowd in this photograph reflects the rich history and tradition of these fairs, with people of all ages and backgrounds coming together to celebrate a piece of Stratford-on-Avon's past. The carousel, with its colorful horses and whimsical designs, adds an air of excitement and joy to the scene. The Avon River, meandering through the town, serves as a serene backdrop to the bustling activity of the fair. The Stratford-on-Avon Mops offer a unique glimpse into the past, providing a connection to the history and traditions that have shaped this historic town. This photograph is a testament to the enduring appeal of these fairs, which continue to draw visitors from near and far each year.
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