I fiirrl 1 1 % i V\/s\ , it* *.-. -rtC\L* ^* 3-JC/I g ..-: MI liirt WLf^LLS t 1 1 I WKESTLIANA ; OE, THE of % Cimtkrhwi} $ fritdmoretanh WRESTLING SOCIETY IN LONDON SINCE THE YEAR 1824. BY WALTER ABMSTBONQ-, HON. SEC. Then at lowpin' he'll gang a full yard owre them aw, And at rustlin', whilk o' them dare try him a faw. EOBBBI AMDEBSOJf. Now, clear the ring ! for hand to hand The manly wrestlers take their stand. SIB WALIEE SCOTT. LONDON : SIMPKIN, MARSHALL, & CO., STATIONERS' HALL COURT. 1870. LONDON : GEORGE BEBKIDGE & Co., PKINTEBS, EASTCHEAP WOEKS, E.C. Stack Annex 5 032 ADVERTISEMENT. THIS volume contains a full account of all the trans- actions of the Cumberland and Westmoreland Wrestling Society in London since 1824, the annual gatherings at the Agricultural Hall and elsewhere, with remarks on most of the celebrated wrestlers who have figured therein ; together with detailed lists of the winners, first, second, and third, up to the present time ; the contributions to the charitable institutions of the two counties ; and amounts given in prizes during the last ten years ; the whole forming a complete history of the Cumberland and Westmoreland wrestling in the metropolis. . CONTENTS. PAGE. YEA.B PAGE. Introduction . T 1850 . 70 YEAB 1851 . 74 1824 . 1 1852 . 80 1825 . 4 1852 (second meeting) . 84 1826 . 5 1853 . 84 1827 . 6 1854 . 87 1828 . . 10 1855 . . 91 1829 12 1830 . . 14 1856 . . . . 1857 . 95 102 1831 . . 16 1858 . 105 1832 . . 19 1859 . 107 1833 . . 22 1860 . 110 1831 . . 25 1861 . 113 1835 . . 28 1862 . 121 1836 . . 32 1863 . 131 1837 . . 35 1864 . 141 1838 . . 38 1864 (second meeting) . 147 1839 . . 40 1865 . 148 1810 . . 43 1866 . 160 1841 . . 45 1867 . 169 1842 . . 48 1868 . 178 1843 . . 51 1869 . 190 1844 . . 54 List of Winners 209 1845 . 55 List of Donations . 212 1846 . . 56 List of Prizes during the 1847 . 57 last ten years 213 1848 . . 58 Existing Kules of the 1819 . . G2 Society 213 INTRODUCTION. THE Cumberland and Westmoreland Wrestling Society was the first, and, till a recent period, the only one existing in the metropolis that had for its object the practice and annual celebration of athletic sports ; and though in the present day the importance of athletic exercises in the promotion of health, and the due development of the physical powers, is be- coming more acknowledged and appreciated, as shown in the establishment of Gymnasiums and Athletic Societies, both in London and elsewhere ; yet, the above, as far as London itself is concerned, stands alone, both in point of influence, and the pre-eminent skill and science displayed in the performance of the particular exercises practised by its members. The origin of this Society, and the exact date of its establishment is somewhat uncertain ; the best living authorities, however very old members agree that it has existed more than a century, the earliest mention of its annual gatherings being, that the 02 VI IXTEODUCTIOX. natives of Cumberland and Westmoreland were in the habit of meeting on Kemiington Common on Good Friday to celebrate their favourite sports of wrestling and leaping. The prizes competed for in these days were insignificant in value, and few in number, a belt being awarded to the champion of the wrestling arena, to which all weights were ad- mitted, and a pair of buckskin gloves to the best leaper, in imitation of the prizes at that time given for competition in many parts of Cumberland and "Westmoreland. The local aifections and kindly feelings towards each other, so strongly characteristic of the natives of these counties, not only kept alive their ardour, but lent increased attraction to their meet- ings, drawing together a large number of old friends, many of them old playmates and school- fellows, who, since leaving their northern homes, and being occupied in various pursuits in different parts of London, seldom met, except on such occasions, and at no time to enjoy themselves so much. As years flew by, and its numbers increased, the Society gradually became more organized; better, and a greater number, of prizes were given for competi- tion, till, in the year 182 4, we find the first record of a code of rules, and a regular staff of officers ap- pointed to carry out the sports and conduct the business of the Society. Gradually, although at first INTRODUCTION. Vll confined to wrestling irrespective of weights and leaping, the competition has been extended, and prizes given for other sports, such as pole jumping, hurdle racing, etc. Competitors have also, under certain restrictions, and by permission of the Com- mittee, been allowed to come from the north to con- tend for certain classes of prizes, though debarred from others reserved for the London residents only. Since the commencement the annual meetings have been held in various places : viz., Kennington Common, Chelsea, St. John's Wood, Chalk Farm, Highbury Barn, Copenhagen House, Hornsey Wood House, Hackney Wick, and for the last six years at the Agricultural Hall, Islington, a place admirably adapted for so large an assemblage. In consequence of the unparalleled success which has attended the meetings held at the last-named place, the Society is now in a nourishing condition. Having passed through all the dangers which more than once. imperilled its very existence, its now firm basis may be said to rest in a measure on the valued permission of Sir Richard Mayne for the wrestling to take place on Grood Eriday. After a full explanation was given of the nature and objects of the Society com- bining charity with manly exercise the worthy Chief Commissioner never hesitated a moment to sanction the meeting on the day named above, and at .the same time gave instructions that as many men as INTHODTJCTIO:N T . might be required for the purpose of keeping order would be placed at the service of the Society. In the year 1845, at the suggestion of Mr. Mar- getson, the old practice of collecting the funds in subscriptions of two shillings and sixpence that amount, as now, creating a member was discon- tinued in favour of hiring the ground on Grood Friday and taking the entrance money. The success of the alteration has been of late years assisted by the growing taste for athletic sports ; the prizes offered for competition have been considerably increased in value, and the charitable institutions of the two counties have been proportionately benefited. Up to the present time the donations handed to these bene- volent associations have reached the amount of four hundred guineas. Great credit is due to Mr. Margetson for the persevering manner in which he lias stuck to the Society through all its vicissitudes during a period of over forty years. But for his wise counsels, the dangers which so frequently menaced the well-being of the Institution might have proved fatal. A wrestler himself in his younger days and one of the very best at his weight (11 stone) before he was twenty years of age he had thirty belts hanging up in his father's house in Westmoreland. Mr. Margetson had the honour -of winning a belt at the Ferry sports at "Win- dermerej when Professor "Wilson was present INTRODUCTION. amongst the spectators. The grand old Professor shook hands with him in the presence of the assembled multitude, and pronounced him the best wrestler in England, at the same time offering to back him to wrestle any man of his weight who could be produced. Professor Wilson was a great athlete, and in these days used to wrestle the champion at the conclusion of the sports held in the neighbourhood of the Lakes which he invariably attended. Of late years Mr. Margetson has left much of the management of the business of the Society to its younger members ; it may be mentioned that before relaxing his energies as an effective member, he was successful in securing the Agricultural Hall for the Grood Friday of 1864, and where the sports have been held ever since. It may not be amiss to state here that amongst the younger members, the most prominent is Mr. Thomas Mein, the Trea- surer. Mr. Mein is on the shelf now as a wrestler, but in promoting the sports, and augmenting the funds, thereby swelling the donations to the benevo- lent institutions, he is shedding a lustre round his name which will far eclipse his former celebrity. During the intervals of his other duties, no man has worked harder for the Society than. Mr. Mem. All honour to him for so doing, and long may he be spared to lend a helping hand to this deserving insti- X INTRODUCTION. tution, and to assist in dispelling the idea prevalent amongst that portion of the public which knows little of wrestling, and its associations viz., that the fa- vourite sport of the natives of Cumberland and West- moreland is brutal and debasing. This vague notion exists to some extent amongst a certain few, but it is a very grave mistake indeed ; that there are now a distinct race of professionals in the northern counties who live by the exercise of their thews and sinews is quite true, but at the same time it must be borne in mind, that this scientific exercise is participated in by all classes on the border, A great many of the athletes are the sons of the lauded proprietors, who have plenty of leisure to enjoy these popular amusements, which are of frequent occurrence in every valley, however re- mote. The champion's belt, which is the great trophy at these meetings, may be seen in almost every coun- try house, suspended from the ceiling, sometimes to the number of twenty or thirty, hanging in a row. These trophies are regarded as treasured heirlooms, and are worn as proudly, and won as honestly as the ribbons and garters of more prominent statesmen. "Not only in all the towns, but in the most hidden recesses of Cumberland and "Westmoreland, these belts are offered for competition ; the magnificence of the mountain scenery always lends a charm to the place of meeting, the swelling hills looking down on INTRODUCTION. XI the "beautiful spot cliosen for the foreground of the picture ; the smooth and grassy ring, filled with on- lookers, whose knowledge of and interest in^the sports- unite in making these beautiful exercises very differ- ent indeed from the scenes of the prize ring or the race course. Perfect good humour always prevails amongst the competitors, who are amongst the most splendid specimens of suppleness, strength, and form that Britain boasts of. Charles Dickens once paid a visit to the ring at "Windermere, and has thus described the wrestling in the pages of Household Words : " ' Nay, you're over weight, John, by two pounds,* says the clerk of the ring to some candidate seated in the weighing scale, who smiles good naturedly, and takes off nearly everything, but still is not quite qualified ; he puts, therefore, a couple of' great coats on, and takes a run in the road by the lake's side, whereby his too solid flesh being swelled and dissolved into a dew, he comes to scale a light weight after all. There are a great many ' lay-downs' in the first round, so that the wrestling gets select,. and very much improves as it proceeds. The third round comprehends, therefore (unless in the case of some accidental defeat) a score of the best men. They strip to their drawers and flannel waistcoats, ex- hibiting such studies for the painter and the sculptor as are rarely seen elsewhere. They shake hands before. Xll INTRODUCTION. commencing in token of amity ; nor indeed in the thick and strain of the struggle, while the face of each is over the shoulder of the other, and every muscle is exerted to the utmost, do these fine fellows exhibit any trace of savageness or personal ani- mosity. " Two umpires, nestors of the wrestling ring, walk round the combatants, and observe them narrowly nor is their decision ever impugned by the losing man. While the pair are taking hold, gratuitous advice is offered to them freely by their friends, who sit or stand around the ring, but when they grapple each other a perfect torrent of Bonnie Carels, or Bonnie Kendals, as the case may be, cleaves the air. Then they strive, then they strain shoulder to shoulder, neck to neck, and at last touch ground per- haps, so nearly at the same instant as to require the most practised eye to award the fall ; or, whirling cir- cularly as in Fakir-dance, are cast violently to earth apart, or one, across the victor's thigh, comes heels over head, and measures all his inches upon the green sward with a thud. This last fall is the only dan- gerous one, and that only in the case of very heavy weights, and of very indifferent performers. Good wrestlers very rarely hurt one another. "This quiet looking giant by our side, who has been champion often and often, and will be so again this day, although he is nearly forty, and more than twelve IXTRODUCTIOy. Xlll years past the wrestler's prime, has never, in his twenty years' experience ever been hurt. He won his first man's belt when a lad of sixteen years old, and in his house, across the lake yonder a clean, neat little inn, set in a wilderness of flowers has no less than one hundred and seventy-four of these wrestling zones ; of all colors they are, and of all descriptions, from the broad, plain, Manchester-looking belt, won at the matter of fact and unornamental town, to the splendid award of Newcastle, embossed with the silver towers. Besides the mere leather (although there is nothing like it), there is of course a very considerable prize in money, averaging, perhaps, twenty pounds. Lesser pecuniary rewards are propor- tionately distributed among the less successful com- batants, and besides these, -a subscription prize is commonly made up by the stewards or spectators jfor which the sixteen last standers wrestle over again. Between the light and heavy weight matches (which are generally on following days), there are all sorts of other amusements, running matches, for a mile or so, dog trails, jumping matches, for which not only the aborigines enter, but usually several visitors, University men, and the like, who reckoning upon the iron shod boots and rough appearance of the natives are surpised to find them, when stripped, as lithe and active as themselves, and indeed a trifle more so ! They are of course a lighter set of men, for the most b XIV INTEOUUCTIO*. part, than even the light weight wrestlers. There is jingling also, a sport which consists of blind-folding a number of men, and turning them out into the arena Avhich has previously been strewed with sacks full of sawdust, to pursue some fleet-footed athlete, who carries a, bell. It is great fun to watch these unfor- tunates taking accurate bearings of these sacks before they are blind-folded, and then to see the pitiless officials set these impediments totally afresh, besides turning each performer three times round at the commencement of the game. But the most graceful of all the treats at the ferry, is the pole leaping, when it is a candidate's last chance of three, his trial of course becomes proportionally exciting ; shouts of encouragement greet him on all sides, and the women, if he be a bonnie laddie, often shed tears in their enthusiasm. The heavy weight wrestlers generally close these amusements. If others were Apollos, each of these is surely a Hercules ; their grip is like the hug of a bear. The champion here, who was so good as to show iis how to ' take hold,' the other day, in his garden, has left his mark indelibly in our back, besides having compressed our ribs so that we cannot breathe right yet. It has come to the last round, and our giant friend has but one foe to deal with a true son of Anak, as tall if not so big as himself he has got his work cut out for him, say the old hands ; but success has made him somewhat over TXTRODTJCTrOX. XV bold. How quietly lie suffers these mighty arms to be placed around him, and those strong fingers to feel like one in the dark for a certain hold, ^fow they have gripped at an advantage, and the foe is only waiting for him to have hold likewise. He has hold! He has hold ! see how they grapple and strain. ' Bonnie Eobson,' ' Bonnie Longmire,' so interested this time in the individuals as to call them by their own names instead of the localities from which they come. Three to two on Longmire ; two to one, five to Longmire' s down ! Eobson's felled him ! Bonnie Eobson ! And indeed it was so ; very quiet, but very grim our giant looked. ' It is the best of three for the last round,' quoth he as he took up earth in his hands to prevent them slipping, remind- ing us of the preparatory horn practice which the bull indulges himself in on the turf before he charges. This time it is two to one on Eobson, who is indeed a very good man, but he is felled nevertheless, and the third time he is felled likewise, after a struggle such as the old Greek gods were wont to delight in sitting above the thunder on Olympus' top, or the Eoman Ca3sars, little less divine, in that great wrestler's ring by the Eternal City. So our giant friend has won his one hundred and seventy-fifth girdle, and is cham- pion after all." In the celebrated Olympian games, the only reward obtained by the conqueror was a crown of olive. The XVI INTRODUCTION. games were celebrated every fifth year, and were con- tinued for four successive days. These were the most ancient and most solemn of all the Greek festivals, and drew together not only the majority of the in- habitants of Greece, but also people from the neigh- bouring islands and countries. Indeed, so much importance was attached to them, that the period, of their celebration became an era amongst the Greeks, who computed their time by it. The conquerors re- turned home in a chariot drawn by four horses, and to render the ceremony of their entrance into their native city more imposing, instead of going through the gates, a breach was made in the wall. Ten months exercise at the public gymnasium was necessary before a competitor was allowed to enter the lists, and the wrestlers were in the habit of anointing themselves with oil, to brace their limbs, aud to ren- der their bodies slippery. Although running, leaping, boxing,, and throwing the quoit were engaged in by the athletes, wrestling appears to have been the principal amusement. The wrestlers were appointed by lot. Some little balls, superscribed by a letter, were thrown into a silver urn ; those throwing the same letter had to contend with ea.ch other. It is said, that not only were ladies present as spectators, but also frequently amongst the competitors, and were sometimes rewarded witli the crown. "We are not told whether the crown was rx'TBODUCTIOX. XV11 ever awarded to the fair ones for wrestling, indeed it is hardly likely, although in our day a parallel might be found. A good story is told of a lady who won the heavy weight prize at Haithwaite-yett, Nichol Forest ; as, however, the truth of the matter is perhaps open to doubt, it would not be advisable to particularize. Wrestling holds a high position amongst the bodily exercises of a great many countries, and in the encouragement of these sports, something more than mere pastime is kept in view. Like the ancient Greeks and Eomans, these exercises _ are ^ probably considered a fitting preparation for the exigences of war. It is much practised even in Japan. They hold their wrestling in the open air, in a ring surrounded by a railing about half the height r of the spectators, who are as much excited by the perform, ances as our own Cumberland and Westmoreland admirers of the sport. Their mode of wrestling is after the fashion of the Cornwall and Devon men. At the conclusion of the contests, each victor presents himself to the judge, who awards a prize of silver or gold plate, bearing the imperial arms. There is a wrestler in Switzerland by name Halpenau, he is called the wrestler-king of the Can- ton Berne, and has a grasp like an iron vice ; his mode of wrestling is to swing his opponents round his head, and but for their clinging to him, their fall would sometimes be no laughing matter. The canton at present, however, lias two wrestler-kings. The name of the other is Wohlreich, a huge mountain of a man, who might with truth be called the Swis* Jameson. Though not so scientific as Halpenau, he has more weight and strength, and can lift a man as easily as ordinary mortals can carry a baby. Their last contest was abandoned because neither could obtain the victory, so that Berne contains two wrestler-kings. In Switzerland the wrestlers are carefully watched by the committee, and fair felling is strictly enforced. In the matter of science they are far inferior to our own champions. Jameson or Wright would stand a good chance of winning the long-wooled sheep there, which is the prize in the Swiss wrestling ring. Jameson is, undoubtedly, the most difficult man to throw of all the champions of this generation ; his enormous bulk would have made him more than a match for Longmire, although the latter, in point of science, was his superior. Jackson, of Kennieside, the finest wrestler of his day, might probably have held his own with him, but no more. Wright is certainly Jameson's equal in some respects, but labours under the disadvantage of inferior weight. Xoble Ewbank, although a fine wrestler, was never equal to Jameson. Eichard Chapman, of Patterdale, figured in Jackson'* time. Chapman was a good wrestler, and won the heavy weight prize at Carlisle three years in succes- INTRODUCTION. XIX sion ; Ms last year was 1841, when Jackson took up the game, and won the four succeeding years. William Eoblaw, of Egremont ; E. Gordon, of Plump - ton ; William Donald, of Dereham, are all dis- tinguished names. E. Atkinson, the Sleagill giant, although no wrestler, had the credit (?) of crushing his opponents to the earth, and winning some prizes. About 1825 we have John Weightmau, of Haytoii. Weightman was a thorough athlete, and, as a wrestler, unsurpassed. He was seen walking through the streets of Carlisle some years ago (when he must have been quite sixty) with all the jauntiness of his youthful days. Weightman was soon recognized, and the people were heard saying to each other, "There goes Weightman, of Hay ton." His fame as a wrestler had lived forty years. Of late years, the two best light weight men have been John Palmer, of Bewcastle, and James Scott, of Carlisle. John Palmer's feat of winning the light and heavy weight prizes at Carlisle, in the same year, is without parallel. There was no getting him down. Scott, with the same tenacity of foothold, united all the graces of his art, and was the most scientific buttocker of modern times. WRESTLIANA, 1824. IT a numerous and respectable meeting of the natives of the counties of Cumberland and "Westmoreland residing in London, held at the Admiral Duncan Tavern, Charing Cross, March 25th, 1824, Mr. John G-oulding in the chair, It was resolved : 1st. That a subscription be entered into for the purpose of procuring a silver cup, two silver snuff- boxes, and two gold seals, to be wrestled for, and a pair of gloves to be leapt for,onG-ood Friday, April 16, 1824. 2nd. That each individual subscribe two shillings and sixpence or upwards, and that none but sub- scribers, natives of the two counties, be allowed to wrestle. 3rd. That a cup be given to the best wrestler, a snuff-box to the second, and a gold seal to the third. 4th. That the whole of the subscribers who have entered the ring for the first prizes be allowed to wrestle for the two last, viz., a silver snuff-box and a gold seal, except the winners of the three first prizes. 2 WBESTLIANA. 5th. That any individual who gains the silver cup be ever after excluded. 6th. That none be allowed to wrestle who have not resided in London, or within the Bills of Mor- tality, six months. 7th. That the gloves be given to the best leaper at four hops and a leap. 8th. That the whole of the subscribers' names, competitors, be put into a bag, and on the day of wrestling be drawn out one by one, that they wrestle first and second, third and fourth, and so on ; that the first name be entered in the minute-book, and placed No. 1 ; the second drawn be entered the last number, and in like-manner till the whole are drawn out; that the conqueror's name be always written in the same line opposite to the person thrown, that after the first round they then be called together, first and last, and in case there should be an odd number at last, that then they toss up, and the odd man stand out ; but if it appear one man has wrestled one round less than the other, then the two shall toss which wrestles him. 9th. That the Stewards for the present year be Messrs. "William Chambers, George Byers, Joseph Collins, John Sowerby, and Edward Lamb, and that the sole management of the wrestling be vested in them. That in case of a disputed fall, a majority of them shall decide, and any individual objecting to WEESTLIA3TA. 6 their decision shall have his name erased from the list. 10th. That the Stewards be requested to provide the prizes, and submit them for the inspection of the subscribers the evening before the wrestling. That the second prize be one-half the value of the first, the third one-fifth less than the second, the fourth one- fourth less than the third, and the fifth one-third less than the fourth ; and that the cup and snuff-boxes have suitable inscriptions. llth. That the Stewards be requested to order a supper at some convenient tavern, and that they name both the tavern and place of wrestling at least one week previous to Grood Friday. 12th. That the whole of the rules, together with the minutes of the proceedings, be entered in the book which shall hereafter be kept for that purpose. JOHN GOULDING, Chairman. The wrestling took place on Good Friday, April 14th. Nearly 200 competitors entered the ring, and, at the conclusion of the sports, the following gentle- men were declared the winners of the three prizes: First prize, a silver cup . . John Dobson Second ditto, a silver snuff-box . J. Kichardson Third ditto, a gold seal . . William Graham The gloves were won by James Johnson. The following prizes were also wrestled for on "Whit-Monday, June 7th, of the same year viz., a 4 WEESTLIAITA. silver snuff-box ; two gold seals ; and two pounds ten shillings. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. E. Fisher Jos. Brown G-. Byers William Brown Thomas Richardson William Harrison Jos. Eudd Jos. Sowerby Fifth Round. Gr. Byers J. Fisher Thomas Eichardson Jos. Eudd Final Fall. Q. Byers Thos. Eichardson The prizes were awarded as below : First prize, a silver snuff-box . Geo. Byers Second ditto, a gold seal . . Thos. Eichardson Third ditto, a gold seal . . Jos. Eudd Fourth ditto, two pounds . E. Fisher Fifth ditto, ten shillings . . J. Brown 1825. At a numerous meeting held on the 10th February, 1825, it was proposed and unanimously agreed that a subscription should be entered into for the purpose of carrying into effect the resolutions of the previous year. Amendment to the eleventh resolution, " That the Stewards name the place of wrestling and where the supper shall be held one month previous to the day appointed." The following gentlemen were elected stewards : WBESTLIANA. 5 Mr. Geo. Byers Jno. Martin Thos. Kicliardson Jos. Kudd Eichard Lamb The wrestling was held ou Good Friday, and, after a spirited aud manly competition, reflecting the greatest credit upon the competitors, the winners of the different prizes were declared as below : FIBST TIME OVEE. First prize, silver cup . . Jno. Beaty Second ditto, silver snuff-box . William Graham Third ditto, silver snuff-box . Jos. Lambert Fourth ditto, gold seal . . Jos. Eudd SECOND TIME OVEE. First prize, silver snuff-box . William Dent Second ditto, silver snuff-box . William Metcalf Third ditto, gold seal . . Jno. Cowing The gloves were won by Stephen Fawcett. 1826. A meeting was held on the 10th of February, 1826, for the purpose of making arrangements for carrying out the wrestling, and to take measures for raising subscriptions towards that object. STEWAEDS FOE THIS YEAE. Mr. Joseph Bow Henry Thompson Joseph Bird Mark Nicholson John Watson 6 WBESTLIASTA. The wrestling was held on Good Friday. The winners of the prizes were First prize, silver cup . . . Robert Hall Second ditto, silver snuff-box . Jos. Dobson The final wrestle between Hall and Dobson was a very unsatisfactory one, the referee ruled that Dobson had allowed himself to be unfairly thrown, therefore, the prize which he would otherwise have received was withheld. 1827. The subscribers to the Society met in great force at the "Admiral Duncan" Tavern, on Thursday, the 8th of February, 1827, to elect Stewards, and to take into consideration other matters connected with the wrestling, Great disapprobation was expressed at the conduct of Joseph Dobson in making a sham wrestle with Eobert Hall the previous year. It was therefore proposed, seconded, and carried by a large majority, that Joseph Dobson be excluded from again entering the ring. The following gentlemen were then elected as Stewards : Mr. Jno. Groulding Atkinson Brunskill Joseph Eudd John Westmoreland , Isaac Hinde WEESTLIANA. 7 At a subsequent meeting held at the "Admiral Duncan " Tavern, Joseph Dobson, who was present, complained that the forgoing resolution had been passed in his absence. He requested that the sense of the meeting should be again taken on the subject. The question was fully discussed by those present, and the resolution confirmed by a large majority. At a meeting held at the "Admiral Duncan" Tavern, on Thursday, the 15th of March, the follow- ing resolutions were agreed to : " That a Treasurer be appointed to receive from the Stewards every Thursday evening, all monies collected for the wrestling, and that the amounts and names of subscribers be entered in a book kept for that purpose." It was then proposed, "That Mr. Jackson Staintou be appointed Treasurer," and carried unanimously. The annual wrestling took place at Mr. Hintons' the " Eyre Arms " Tavern, St. John's Wood, on Good Friday, the 6th of April. The day was unusually fine, and about 1,000 persons assembled to witness the sports. Upwards of 170 competitors entered the ring. The wrestling commenced between one and two o'clock, and was kept up, with great spirit, till half-past seven in the evening. At the conclusion of the sports upwards of 200 gentlemen sat down to an excellent dinner, in the large room of the tavern, and, at the request of Mr. Graham, the champion of the 8 WEESTLIANA. day, Mr. Groulding, was called to the chair. Shortly after the cloth was removed the Chairman presented the prizes to the winners, FIBST TIME OVEE. First prize, silver cup . . Win. Graham Second ditto, gold snuff box . John Ellwood. Third ditto, silver snuff box . Kobert Winter SECOND TIME OVEE. First prize, silver snuff boXj . . Wm. Mars Second ditto, gold seal . . . Wm. Fawcett Third ditto, gold seal . . . Joseph Stamper Fourth ditto, gold seal . . . Wm. Harrison FIBST TIME OVEE. Sixth Round. Stood. FeU. E. Winter Tim Dobson J. Ellwood J. Atkinson William Graham William Fawcett Seventh Sound. William Graham E. Winter J. Ellwood, odd man. Final Fall. William Graham J. Ellwood SECOND TIME OVEE. Fifth Sound. Stood. Fell. J. Stamper J. Watson William Fawcett Jos. Steele William Mars William Harrison Sixth Sound. William Fawcett J. Stamper William Mars, odd man. Final Fall. William Mars William Fawcett WEESTLIAJSTA. 9 William Graham, the champion of the meeting, wrestled well throughout, and threw his men in a most scientific and graceful style. At the conclusion he was loudly and deservedly applauded. It may be remarked that his success here has followed him to another branch of sport ; of late years, Mr. Graham has figured prominently in the racing world, and is now distinguished as the fortunate owner of the cele- brated Formosa, the winner of the St. Leger and Oaks of 1868. The following remarks are copied from Sett's Life, dated April 8th, 1827 : " The first prize was won by "William Graham, of Duffcon "Wood, near Appleby ; he is only nineteen years of age, but possesses a most athletic frame and wonderful strength. In vain did his opponents try every art, by twisting their limbs round his, and bearing their whole weight upon his body, to throw him off his balance ; he stood as if rooted to the earth, holding his antagonist in his arms until, watching his opportunity, he shook him off and dashed him to the ground. It may carry some notion of Mr. Graham's prowess to state that he never once came to the ground with his opponent, although, it seldom happens that any good wrestler can throw his man without falling on him." 10 AVEESTLIAXA. 1828. The following gentlemen were elected as Stewards for the Cumberland and "Westmoreland Wrestling Society, at a meeting held at the " Admiral Duncan" Tavern, on Thursday, the 24th January, 1828. Mr. William Graham George Byers John Atkinson "William Fawcett John Harrison Treasurer, Mr. Jackson Stainton At a meeting held at the same place on the 13th March, it was agreed that Joseph Dobson should again be allowed to contend for the prizes offered by the Society ; having been debarred one year, being considered sufficient punishment for the offence alleged against him. The annual wrestling took place at Mr. Hinton's, the " Eyre Arms" Tavern, St. John's "Wood, on Good Friday, April the 4th. Nearly 3000 persons were pre- sent, and upwards of 200 competitors entered the ring. After the wrestling, over 250 gentlemen sat down to dinner, which was served up in the best style of the worthy host. Mr. Groulding took the chair, at the request of the champion of the day (Mr. Percival). After the substantial repast had received a due share of attention, the prizes were presented to the various winners by the Chairman, as follows : VTBESTLIAKA. 11 FIEST TIME OVER. First prize, silver cup . . . William Percival Second ditto, silver snuff box . Thomas Fawcett Third ditto, silver snuff box . Joseph Dobson Fourth ditto, gold seal . . Christopher Halliday SECOND TIME OTEE. First prize, silver snuff box . Philip Thompson Second prize silver snuff box . John Atkinson Third ditto, silver snuff box . William Robinson Fourth ditto, gold seal . . James Richardson Fifth ditto, gold seal . . . William Fawcett The gloves were won by William Mossop. FIEST TIME OTEE. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. C. Halliday J. Ellwood T. Fawcett E. Dawson ^ J. Stamper R. Sewell William Percival Tim. Dobson Jos. Dobson William Robinson Sixth Round. T. Fawcetfc J. Stamper William Percival C. Holhday Seventh Round. William Percival Jos. Dobson T. Fawcett, odd man Final Fall. William Percival T. Fawcett SECOND TIME OTEE. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. P. Thompson C. Gaddes W. Fawcett J. Rudd J. Richardson M. Dodd William Robinson J. Ellwood Fifth Round. P. Thompson J. Richardson John Atkinson William Fawcett William Robinson, odd man 12 WEESTLIA3TA. Sixth Round. Stood. Fell. P. Thompson William Kobinson J. Atkinson, odd man Final Fall. P. Thompson J. Atkinson 1829. The election of Stewards for this year took place at the " Admiral Duncan " Tavern, on Thursday, the 5th of February. Messrs. Joseph Eudd, Thomas Teasdale, William Harrison, Jacob Craig, and Robert Beck, were elected to carry out the sports ; Mr. Jackson Stainton was appointed Treasurer. The sports took place on Good Friday. Subjoined is a return of the wrestling, commencing with the Fourth Bound. FIBST TIME OVEB. Fourth Round. Joseph Wills Jacob Craig William Robinson T. Fawcett William Fenton Joseph Stockdale Joseph Stamper James Johnson E. Dawson John Atkinson W. Dennison George Kobinson Joseph Dobson M. Smith J. Sewell John Ellwood Fifth Round. Joseph Stamper E. Dawson J. Wills W. Dennison W. Robinson Joseph Sewell Joseph Dobson William Fenton WEESTUAITA. 13 Sixth Round, Stood. Fell. Joseph Stamper W. Robinson Joseph Dobson Joseph Wills Seventh Round. Joseph Dobson Joseph Stamper SECOND TIME OVEE. Third Round. James Johnson Thomas Temple Joseph Slack John Beckett Miles Dodd J. Pattison G-eorge Eushton M. Smith John Ellwood E. Dawson Tim. Dobson C. Gaddes Jos. Rudd William Harrison Thomas Fawcett Thomas Ellwood Fourth Sound. Jos. Slack George Rushton Thomas Fawcett Jos. Rudd Tim. Dobson James Johnson John Ellwood M. Dodd Fifth Round. John Ellwood J. Fawcett Tim. Dobson Jos. Slack Sixth Round. Tim. Dobson John Ellwood Winners of the Prizes. FIEST TIME OVEE. First prize, .... Jos. Dobson Second ditto .... Jos. Stamper Third ditto .... Jos. Wills Fourth ditto . . . . W. Robinson SECOND TIME OTEE. First prize, .... Tim. Dobson Second ditto .... John Ellwood Third ditto .... Jos. Slack Fourth ditto- . . . J. Fawcett 14 WKESTLIAjSTA. 1830. A meeting of the Subscribers to the Society was held at the " Admiral Duncan " Tavern, on Thursday, the 4th of February, and also on the following Thursday, to elect Stewards for the year. The fol- lowing gentlemen were appointed : Mr. Thomas Gordon "William Eichardson Timothy Dobson Edward Lancaster John Graddes Mr. Jackson Stainton was re-elected Treasurer. The wrestling took place at Messrs. Hinton and Bayley's, the " Eyre Arms " Tavern, St. John's Wood, on G-ood-Friday, the 9th of April. Nearly 4,000 persons, among whom was a fair sprinkling of ladies, assembled to witness the sports. The weather was all that could be desired, and everything passed off in the most satisfactory manner. Over 200 competitors entered the lists, the sports concluding at half-past six o'clock. After the wrestling a dinner was provided, at which Mr. G-oulding presided, supported by Mr. "William Eichardson, as Vice-Chairman. The cloth having been removed, the Chairman presented the Prizes to the winners, as follows : WBESTLIANA. 15 PRIZES, FIRST TIME OVEB. First Prize, silver cup . . John Dixon Second ditto, silver snuff-box . Timothy Dobson Third ditto, ditto . . Thomas Thwaites Fourth ditto, ditto . . Henry Mossop PRIZES, SECOND TIME OVEB. First Prize, silver snuff-box . William Fawcett Second ditto, ditto . John Atkinson Third ditto, ditto . Thomas Bird Fourth ditto, ditto . Joseph Stamper Fifth ditto, gold seal . . John Ellwood A silver pencil-case, for boys under 15 years of age, was won by Master John Beckwith. A handsome gold key, for leaping, was won by Mr. James Johnson. FIRST TIME OVEB. Fourth Sound. Stood. Fell. P. Thompson B. Stables H. Mossop J. Pearson C. G-addes Jos. Bullman J. Dixon Thomas Ellwood Thomas Thwaites Thomas Bird Timothy Dobson S. Fawcett E. Hill J. Gordon J. Ellwood- M.Nicholson Fifth Sound. J. Dixon C. Gaddes Timothy Dobson E. Hill H. Mossop J. Ellwood Thomas Thwaites P. Thompson Sixth Sound. Timothy Dobson H. Mossop John Dixon Thomas Thwaites 16 WBESTLIA>-A. Seventh Sound. Stood. Fell. John Dixon Timothy Dobson SECO:NT> TIME OTEE. Fourth Bound. Stood Fell. Joseph Stamper M. Potter William Fawcett Joseph Teasdale John Atkinson C. Holliday Thomas Bird James Atkinson John Ell wood Thomas Fawcett Fifth Round. John Atkinson J. Ellwood William Fawcett Joseph Stamper Thomas Bird, odd man Sixth Sound. William Fawcett Thomas Bird J. Atkinson, odd man Seventh Sound. William Fawcett John Atkinson 1831. The first meeting of the season was held at the "Admiral Duncan" Tavern, on the 3rd of February. The following gentlemen were chosen to act as Stewards : Mr. Thomas Ellwood Christopher Holliday Philip Thompson Henry Mossop Treasurer, Mr. Jackson Stainton. The sports took place at the "Eyre Arms," St. John's, "Wood, on Good Friday, April 1st. Although the day was cold and uninviting, about 3,000 people assem- WRESTLIAIS'A. 17 bled to witness the wrestling, which gave unusual satisfaction to all present. Subjoined is a return of the wrestling, commencing with the Third Sound. John Carruthers C. Gaddes Thomas Thwaites A. Brown Henry Mossop Thomas Ellwood W. Fenton E. Ewin J. Teasdale J. Stamper Tim. Dobson S. Fawcett Fell. M. Potter John Pattinson William Wannop E. Bailey Joseph Wills J. Capstick J. Slack J. Hewett J. Cartmell Thomas Bird William Mitchell J. Irving Fourth Rounc S. Fawcett Thomas Thwaites Thos. Ellwood J. Stamper E. Ewin W. Fenton G. Bobinson C. Gaddes J. Carruthers A. Brown Tim. Dobson J. Teasdale Fifth Hound. S. Fawcett E. Ewin Joseph Stamper Henry Mossop Thomas Thwaites W. Fenton Sixth Round. J. Stamper S. Fawcett T. Ellwood E. Ewin Seventh Round. Joseph Stamper S. Fawcett 18 WBESTLIASTA. SECOND TIME OVER. Third Round. Stood Fell. H. Mossop E. Hill James Dixon J. Lademan T. Thwaites C. Gaddes J. Beckwith J. Atkinson T. Irving P. Thompson P. Armstrong E. Sewell J. Carruthers Jos. Wills Fourth Sound. H. Mossop J. Beckwith J. Dixon M. Thomas P. Thompson T. Thwaites John Carruthers W. Wannop Fifth Sound. T. Irving H. Mossop John Carruthers J. Dixon John Carruthers P. Thompson Sixth Sound J. Carruthers T. Irving WlNNEBS, FlEST TlME OVEE. First prize . . . Jos. Stamper Second ditto . . . S. Fawcett Third ditto . . . Edward Ewin Fourth ditto . . . Thomas Ellwood WINNEBS, SECOND TIME OTEE. First prize . . . John Carruthers Second ditto . . . T. Irving Third ditto . . .P. Thompson Fourth ditto . . . J. Dixon Fifth ditto . . . H. Mossop The jumping was won by C. Holliday, clearing 17 yards 7 inches ; T. Eailton was beaten by 7 inches. Some of the most muscular and best proportioned men of the two counties were amongst the competi- WBESTLIANA. 19 tors. John Carruthers, J. Stamper, S. Fawcett, and Edward Ewin made some capital work. E. Ewin distinguished himself greatly by throwing Tim. Dob- son, but was compelled to succumb to Fawcett in the sixth round. 1832. At the " Ship " Tavern, Little Bridge Street, Black- friars, on Thursday, the 2nd day of February, a meeting was held by a numerous body of the sub- scribers to the Society, for the purpose of choosing the Stewards for the year. The following gentlemen were unanimously elected : Mr. G-eorge Byers John Pearson John Dixon Joseph Lightfoot Thomas Thwaites Treasurer, Mr. Jackson Stainton The wrestling, which took place on Grood Friday, the 20th of April, at the " Eyre Arms," St. John's Wood, commenced at 2 o'clock, and was carried out with great spirit to a satisfactory conclusion. The following is a return, commencing with the Fourth Sound. Stood. Pell. J. Lamb E. Lamb T. Ellwood Campbell C. Gaddes E. Fawcett H. Mossop T. Abrahams WEESTLLLSA. Stood. J. Gaddes C. HoUiday Martindale P. Thompson C. Gaddes C. Holliday H. Mossop T. Ellwood Fell. Jos. Dixon Gateside T. Robinson J. Carruthers Fifth Sound. Thomas Thwaites P. Thompson Martindale J. Gaddes Sixth Sound. John Lamb C. Holliday C. Gaddes T. Ellwood John Lamb H. Mossop Seventh. Round. C. Gaddes John Lamb SECOND TIME OVEE. Third Round. E. Margetson Thwaites Carruthers Blackett Campbell Gateside Abrahams Bailey Martindale Fawcett J. Wills Taylor E. Ewin Coates Thompson Peters Dawson, odd man Fourth Round. Camithers Dawson E. Margetson E. Ewin T. Thwaites T. Abrahams J. Wills Martindale Fifth Round. Can-nth era J. Wills Thompson K. Margetson WEESTLIANA. 21 Sixth Round. Stood. Fell. Carruthers Thwaites WiUs Carrutliers Jos. "Wills, Champion THE PRIZE FOE BOYS. First Round. Jarnes Pearson James Lowden E Fawcett M. Johnson J. Ewin J. Bowring Second Round. E. Fawcett James Pearson J. Ewin E. Fawcett J. Ewin, Winner Winners oftlie Prizes. FIEST TIME OVEE. First prize . . C. G-addes Second ditto . . . John Lamb Third ditto H. Mossop Fourth ditto . . . Thos. Ell wood SECOXD TIME OVEE. First prize J. Wills Second ditto J. Carruthers Third ditto . . . T. Thwaites Fourth ditto E. Margetson At the conclusion of the sports the Stewards adjourned to the dinner table. The chair was taken by Mr. ~W. Carrick, who, after the removal of the cloth, distributed the prizes to the successful com- petitors. The champion of the day, Mr. Graddes, was much applauded for winning amongst so many scien- tific men. 22 WRESTLIA>~A. 1833. The subscribers to the Society met at the " Ship " Tavern, Little Bridge Street, Blackfriars, on Thurs- day, the 1st day of February, and elected the follow- ing gentlemen as Stewards. Mr. Joseph Stamper Christopher Gaddes Walter Graham Philip Thompson Richard Lamb Treasurer, Mr. Jackson Stainton At this meeting it was resolved, " That no person be allowed to propose or second more than one Steward, and that any person having proposed or seconded one, shall not be at liberty either to propose or second another ; the proposer and seconder of each Steward to be answerable for his conduct, and debts due to the Society, and that the proposer and seconder shall pay, or see that the Steward, whom they have proposed and seconded pays every just debt, including the dinner tickets, due to the Society before the expiration of two months after the wrest- ling, otherwise all three shall be expelled the Cum- berland and Westmoreland "Wrestling Society." The sports were held at the " Eyre Arms," on Good Friday, April 5th. The Stewards were Messrs. "Wni. Graham, C. Gaddes, P. Thompson, J. Stamper, and E. Lamb. WBESTLIANJL. 23 Return of the wrestling from the Third Sound, Stood. Fell. Jos. Robinson James Atkinson Jos. Teasdale L. G. Dawson J. Armstrong John Beckwith John Lamb Thomas Abrahams J. Carruthers J. Richardson John Thwaites Thomas Beck Thomas Thwaites D. Dinglinsou C. Taylor Thomas Irving John Blackett Thomas Gordon Thomas Dixon E, Ewin Fourth Sound. Jos. Robinson Thomas Teasdale James Armstrong John Blackett Thomas Dixon John Lamb John CaiTuthers John Thwaites Jos. Thwaites C. Tajlor Fifth Sound. Jos. Robinson Thomas Thwaites James Armstrong Thomas Dixon J. Carruthers, odd man Jos. Robinson Sixth, Sound. J. Carruthers James Armstrong SECOND TIME OVEE. Third Sound. Stood. Fell. Thomas Abrahams Metcalf J. Teasdale C. Taylor J. Brocklebank R. Wilson Jos. Wills J. Richardson D. Dinglinson E. Ewin Fourth Sound. Thomas Brocklebank J. Blackett T. Abrahams Jos. Teasdale Jos. Wills D. Dinglinson 24 -nTBESTLIAITA. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. Jos. Wills J. Brocklebank T. Abrahams, odd man Jos. Wills T. Abrahams, Winner PRIZE POE BOYS. First Mound. Thomas Holliday J. Pearson K. Fawcett M. Bird J. Butterworth J. Bowering J. Parker E. Fawcett Second Round. T. Holliday E. Fawcett J. Parker J. Butterworth Third Round. T. Holliday J. Parker Winners of the Prizes. FIEST TIME OrEB- First Prize John Carruthers Second ditto .... James Armstrong Third ditto .... Jos. Robinson SBCOXD TIME OVEB. First Prize Thos. Abrahams Second ditto .... Jos. Wills Third ditto .... Thomas Brocklebank BOYS. First Prize T. Holliday Second ditto J. Parker WRESTLIA3TA. 25 1834. The election of Stewards for the year 1834 took place at the "Ship" Tavern, Little Bridge Street, Blackfriars, on Thursday, the 31st day of January, when the following gentlemen were appointed : Mr. Stephen Fawcett Joseph Peel Joseph Robinson John Compton Isaac Tomlinsou Treasurer, Mr; Jackson Stainton A resolution, that Mr. Philip Thompson's, "Peacock" Tavern, Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, should be the Society's place of meeting at the "West-end, was adopted. On the following Thursday Mr. Joseph Atkinson was elected a Steward, in the room of Mr. Isaac Tomlinson, resigned. At a subsequent meeting, Mr. James Simpson proposed that the Society should offer prizes to two classes of wrestlers, viz. : one for men of all weights, and one for men not exceeding 10J stones ; but it was considered that to deviate from what had been done in former years would be prejudicial to the in- terests of the Society. The wrestling took place at Mr. Bowden's grounds, 26 WEESTLIANA. " Chalk Farm " Tavern, on G-ood-Friday, the 28th of March. The rain fell in torrents during the greater part of the day, but, in spite of which, the sports proceeded with great vigour. Towards evening the weather assumed a more cheering aspect, at which time nearly 3,000 spectators were assembled. After the wrestling a large company sat down to dinner, Mr. M. Potter in the chair. On the removal of the cloth, the Chairman presented the Prizes to the various winners, accompanied by a few appropriate remarks to each. Mr. Eobinson was loudly cheered when called upon to receive the champion's cup. He was a splendid wrestler, standing 6 feet 4 inches, and one of the finest men in the Guards. " They were giants in those days." WlXNEBS OF THE FlRST CLASS OF PRIZES. First prize, silver cup . . . John Eobinson Second ditto, silver snuffbox . Joseph WilJs Jun. Third ditto, silver snuff box . Stephen Fawcett Fourth ditto, silver snuff box . Nathan Bobson WrSTTEBS OF THE SECOND CLASS OF PRIZES. First prize, gilt silver snuff box . Thomas Abrahams Second ditto, silver snuff box . George Brunskill Third ditto, silver snuff box . William Brunskill Fourth ditto, silver snuffbox . R. Wharton The gold seal for Leaping was won by Thomas Railton, Cockermouth. The prize for boys a silver pencil case was won by Master Dawson. WHESTLIANA. 27 COMPETITOBS FOE THE SlLTEE CUP, &C. Third Round. Stood. Fell. Ed. Ewin James Armstrong Josiah Eaisbeck George Kobinson Joseph Wills, Sen. John Cumpston John Robinson E. Carlton Jos. Wills, Jun. Thomas Abrams N. Eobson E. Barton William Dent John Pearson Thomas Bateman E. Carruthers S. Fawcett E. Pearson George Brunskill Thomas Brocklebank E. Dawson E. Stainton William Brunskill A. Brown Fourth Sound. N. Eobson George Brunskill John Eobinson William Brunskill E. Dawson J. Eichardson Thomas Bateman William Dent Jos. Wills, Jun. Jos. Wills, Sen. J. Eaisbeck E. Ewin S. Fawcett, odd man J. Eaisbeck Fifth Sound. S. Fawcett T. Bateman J. Wills Jun. E. Dawson J. Eobinson N. Eobson Sixth Sound. J. Eobinson S. Fawcett Seventh Sound. John Eobinson Jos. Wills, Jun. COMPETITOBS FOE THE SECOND CLASS OF PEIZES. Third Sound. Thos. Thwaites E. Bailey William Dent Thomas Irving W. Brunskill E. Dawson T. Bateman T. Irving T. Abrams E. Ewin G. BrunskiU J. Eaisbeck 28 WKESTLIAIfA. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. E. Wharton, odd man William Dent William Brunskill Thomas Bateman Gr. BrunskUl Thos. Thwaites T. Abrams G. Brunskill Fifth Round. E. Wharton William Brunskill Sixth Hound. Thomas Abrams G-. Brunskill 1835. The election of Stewards for this year took place at the "Peacock" Tavern, Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, on the 5th day of February. The following were chosen : STEWARDS. PEOPOSED. SECONDED BT Mr. N. Eobson Mr. James Mr. Dixon J. Eichardson Tomlinson Eobson J. Peel John Holmes Compson J. Pearson Thomas Dixon E. Lamb Brocklebank S. Fawcett Stooks SEC. & TBEASUBBB. Mr. Jackson Stainton Mr. E. Lamb Mr. George Byers At the same meeting, it was resolved : 1st. That no person be allowed to propose more than one member, nor second more than another to become Treasurer, Secretary, or Steward. The pro- poser and seconder of each to become answerable for his conduct and debts due to the Society, and that the proposer and seconder pay or see that each WBESTLIANA. 29 Steward whom they have proposed and seconded, pays to the Treasurer every debt due to the Society, including the dinner tickets, before the expiration of two months after G-ood Friday, otherwise all three shall have their names entered in red as having been expelled the Cumberland and "Westmoreland "Wrestling Society. 2nd. That a subscription be entered into for the purpose of purchasing sundry prizes the entire management of which to be left to the Stewards. 3rd. That each person subscribe 2s. 6d. or upwards and that none but subscribers natives of the counties of Cumberland and Westmoreland, who have resided in London, or within the Bills of Mortality, six months be allowed to wrestle. 4th. That there be two sets of prizes to contend for ; one by men not exceeding 11 stones in weight and the other by the whole of the subscribers except the champions from this date. 5th. That a cup and other prizes the value of one third of the subscriptions be given to be wrestled for by men not exceeding 11 stones in weight. The winner of the cup to be ever after excluded from wrestling among the light weights. 6th. That no member shall, under any pretext whatever, be weighed for the light weight wrestling after two names have been called to contend for the light weight prizes. 30 WHESTLIAXA. 7th. Tliat the light weight wrestlers contend with the heavy weights for the remainder of the prizes, and the winner of the grand prize to be ever after ex- cluded. 8th. That, after the above wrestling, no prizes shall be given for thrown men, as formerly. 9th. That a moderate prize be given to the best leaper at four hops and a leap. 10th. That in case of doubt concerning the eligi- bility of any wrestler who might (if eligible) win a prize, the Stewards withhold the same until they by his assistance prove the fact. Should he refuse this assistance, or not prove entitled to the prize, it be given to the next best wrestler, all minor prizes des- cending in the same manner. llth. That the Stewards pay into the hands of the Treasurer, every Thursday night, all monies col- lected by them during the week, and that the names of the subscribers, with the amount of their respective subscriptions, be entered in a book kept for that purpose. 12th. That the Stewards select suitable ground for the wrestling, and make the place and the time of commencement known to the Society at least three weeks before Good Friday ; and that they provide a dinner at some convenient tavern for the members to retire to after the wrestling. 13th. That the members request the Treasurer to WBESTLIANA. 31 provide for himself and Stewards a suitable dinner after G-ood Friday, at the expense of the Society. That the above rules be entered in the books of the Society and be, from this date, the only standing rules. Particulars of the wrestling: 11 STONE MEN. Third Round. Stood. Fell. E. Dawson J. Woof Thomas Irving R. Cooper I. Westgarth C. Taylor Thomas Hall J. Campbell Fourth Bound. I. Westgarth Thomas Irving Thomas Hall E. Dawson Final Fall. I. Westgarth Thomas Hall ALL WEIGHTS. Fourth Sound. Thomas Dixon Thos. Bateman G-eorge Brunskell William Brunskell T. Abrams J. Eobinson Jos. Wills, sen. Metcalf William Wren Charles Taylor Jos. Wills, jun. C. G-addes Fifth Sound. Jos. Wills, jun. Thomas Abrams George Brunskell Thomas Dixon Jos. Wills, sen. William Wren Sixth Eov.nd. Jos. Wills, jun. Jos. Wills, sen. G-eorge Brunskell, odd man. 32 WRESTLIAXA. Ulnal Fall. Stood. Fell. George Brunskell Jos. Wills, jiin. WlNNEES OF THE PHIZES. 11 Stone Men. First prize . . . . J. Westgarth Second ditto . . . Thomas Hall Third ditto . . . E. Dawson Fourth ditto . . . Thomas Irving ALL WEIGHTS. First prize .... George Brunskell Second ditto . . . Jos. Wills, jun. Third ditto . . . Jos. Wills, sen. The prize for leaping was won by Thomas Bailton of Cockerniouth. 1836. Mr. Jackson Stainton presided at a meeting of the Cumberland aud "Westmoreland "Wrestling Society, held at the " Ship" Tavern, Bridge Street, Black- friars, on the 31st of January, 1836. The principal business of the evening was the election of Stewards, which resulted as below : STEWARDS. PROPOSED BT SECONDED BY Mr. John James Jno. Snowdon E. James J. Harrison Westgarth SBC. & TBEASURER. Mr. J. Stainton Mr. Peel Pearson Holmes Snotvdon Graham Mr Holmes Mr. Snowdon Gordon ,, Tomlinson Hay ton Dixon Mr. John Jaraes 33 At a subsequent meeting, presided over by Mr. E. James, it was proposed by Mr. J. Holmes, and seconded by Mr. J. Snowdon, " That the sum of twenty guineas be paid out of the funds of the Society, i.e., ten guineas to the Cumberland Benevo- lent Institution, and ten guineas to the "Westmore- land Schools, as soon after Grood- Friday as might be convenient to the Treasurer." The following resolution was adopted at this meet- ing : " That any member of this Society who shall publish, or cause to be published, a challenge to wrestle in the public papers, and any person accepting, or causing to be accepted, such challenge, shall be expelled the Society. The wrestling took place on Grood-Friday, the 1st of April, at " Chalk Farm." In consequence of the unfavourable state of the weather, the attendance was limited. Eain fell heavily during the morning, varied by snow and hail in the afternoon, which ren- dered the ground extremely slippery. The wrestlers, however, stuck to their work under these discouraging circumstances, although they did not much relish' their tumbles amongst the pools of muddy water which studded the ring. The following is the result : FIEST TIME OVER. Fourth Bound. Stood. Fell. Joseph Wills, jun. John Temple 34 WBESTLIANA. Stood. Fell. T. Broklebank 1ST. Eobson Jolm Harvey E. Dawson Jos. "Wills, sen. Jos. Dobson John EoTve, odd man. Fifth Round. John Harvey John Eowe Jos. Wills, sen. T. Broklebank Jos. Wills, jun., odd man. Sixth Eomid. Jos. Wills, jun. J. Harvey Jos. Wells, sen., odd man. Final Falls. Jos. Wills, jun. Jos. Wills, sen. Jos. Wills, jun. Jos. Wills, sen. SECOND TIME OVEE. Third Sound. J. Harvey Campbell Bobinson Eidley J. Dixon G-. Blackett Graham T. Hall Joseph Eobinson Fifth Sound. Eobinson Eidley G-. Blackett J. Harvey T. Hall Final Falls. J. Harvey Eobinson Eidlev J. Harvey Eobinson Eidley WlNNEBS. FlBST TlME OVEB. First prize . . . Jos. Wills, jun. Second ditto . . . Jos. 1 Wills, sen. Third ditto . -- . John Harvev Fourth prize .. . . T. Broklebank Fifth ditto , - John Eowe WBESTLIAtfA. 35 WINNERS. SECOND TIME OVER. First prize . . . John Harrey Second ditto . . . Kobinson Ridley Third ditto T. Hall Fourth ditto . . . George Blackett Despite the depressing effects of the weather, the sports were very interesting, from the fact that some of the best wrestlers of the day were amongst the competitors. The champion of the meeting, Joseph "Wills, jun., exceeded all his previous performances, and threw his men right and left, as they came before him. Robinson Eidley, although not successful in gaining the first prize, made some splendid falls, and when he stood up with JohnHarvey for the final round, he was warmly received. The fine wrestling he had made during the afternoon, his well-built frame, and handsome appearance, rendered him a general fa- vourite. However, although he stuck gamely to his man, he was compelled to succumb, after a well-con- tested struggle, and Harvey was declared the winner. 1837. The election of Stewards, for this year, took place at a meeting of the subscribers, held at the " Ship " Tavern, Little Bridge Street, Blackfriars, on the 13tt of January, Mr. Jackson Staiuton in the chair. 36 WBESTLIAIfA. The following gentlemen were chosen : STEWABDS. PROPOSED BY. SECONDED BY. Mr. J. Peel Mr. Halliburton Mr. Stocks G. Blackett J. James Westgarth Gr. Byers Stocks Gordon John Pearson J. Peel Gr. Lamb C. Gaddes E. James T. Irwin SEC. & TREASURES J. Stainton Gordon Pearson The sports took place at " Chalk Farm," on Good Friday, March 24th. The weather being fine, the road leading to the " Farm," for a long time previous to the commencement of the wrestling, was thronged with people hurrying to the scene of action. The bridge over the London and Birmingham Railway was for some time blocked up with vehicles contain- ing the more respectable portion of the spectators, amongst whom were noticed many officers of the Guards, who took a lively interest in the proceedings, in consequence of some of the " Blues " and " Reds " having entered their names as competitors. Between G,000 and 7,000 people assembled round the spacious ring. A great number of ladies were present, who apparently took a lively interest in the sports. The celebrated Primrose Hill, which rears its head on the right, and every other eminence in the vicinity, bore their full quantum of spectators, who had not the needful to enable them to enter the enclosure. The wrestling throughout was contested with the most determined vigour, the soldiers seemed to be WEESTLIANA. 37 pitted against the civilians, every fall was watched with eager interest, and the spectators were under one continued spell of excitement the whole after- noon. The most noticeable feature in the day's sport was the debut of Eichard Margotson, he had recently arrived in London, fresh from numerous victories in Westmoreland, and brimming full of chips and elas- ticitv. He threw his men well and gracefully, until he was drawn against "William Earl, of Cumwhinton, a splendid wrestler, and much heavier than Margetson. Earl was sometimes called the " great Earl," from his strength and prowess as a wrestler. They were loudly cheered on taking hold. The superiority of Earl's weight, however, told in his favour, and after one of the most exciting struggles ever witnessed, he succeeded in buttocking his opponent very cleverly. The result was a great disappointment to Mr. Mar- getson's friends on the ground, who were in hopes that he would win the head prize. For the final falls Corporal Wills, of the Guards (Eed's), andE. Metcalf, oftheG-uards (Blues), came together. The shades of evening had been gradually closing over the scene, and the contest could not be proceeded with, it was therefore deferred till a future day. There was a dinner provided by the proprietors of the tavern, to which about 300 sat down. In the course of the evening the prizes were awarded to the successful men as follows : 38 WBESTLIANA. MEN TTNDEE 11 STONE. First prize, a silver tankard . E. Dawson, Brampton Second ditto, a silver snuiF box K. James, do. Third ditto, a silver snuff box . J. Pearson, Longtown Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box J. Butterwith, Kendal ALL WEIGHTS. First and second prize, cup ^ and watch (undecided) ) Third prize, a silver snuff box Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box Fifth ditto, a silver snuff box Sixth ditto, a silver snuff box Jos. Wills, senr., and E. Metcalf J. Armstrong, Longtown Thos. Abrams, Westmoreland Wm. Earl, Cumwhinton J. Wren, Penrith Leaping 5 springs. First prize E. Margetson, beating J. Pearson and Gr. Blackett. Thomas Eailton was excluded, because he had covered 17| yards on a former occasion. 1838. In consequence of the interference of the magis- trates, the annual wrestlingwas held at " ChalkParm," on Saturday, April 14th, instead of Good Friday. A large number of spectators assembled to witness the sports, which were managed in a very satisfactory manner, some of the contests were very interesting, R. Margetson distinguished himself by winning the light-weight prize, throwing J. Armstrong easily by the back_ heel. In the final wrestle, between "William Earl and Thomas Abrams, an unfortunate dispute occurred : on taking hold Earl slipped, but recovering himself, threw his man and fell on him. He was im- WEESTLIANA. 39 mediately hailed the victor and carried round the ring, but the umpire ruled that in slipping he touche'd the ground, consequently Abrams was adjudged the winner. J. Allison, though unsuccessful, made some of the best falls ever witnessed. T. Hall was the favourite in the light weights, but, to the astonish- ment of every one, Murray, a youth, threw him by the cross-buttock in splendid style. MEN UNDER 12 STONE. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. E. Foster J. Armstrong E. Gill W. Percival H. Thompson J. Watters Fifth Sound. E. Gill E. Foster H. Thompson, odd man. Final Falls. H. Thompson E. Gill H. Thompson E. Gill ALL WEIGHTS. Fourth Sound. Jos. Wills, jun. E. Dawson J. Wren J. Eobinson William Earl J. Wills, sen. T. Abrams, odd man. Fifth Sound. T. Abrams J. Wills, fun. William Earl J. Wren ' Final Falls. T. Abrams William Earl T, Abrams William Earl 40 WBESTLIAITA. The prizes were awarded as follows : ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, 12 guineas . . . T. Abrams, Westmoreland. Second ditto, a silver watch . William Earl, Cum whinton. Thir d ditto, a silver snuff box . John Wren, Keswick. MEN UNDEB 12 STONE. First prize, a silver cup, 15 gs. . II. Thompson, Shap Second ditto,asilver watch, 8 gs. E. Gill, Walton. Third ditto, a silver watch, 8 gs. E. Foster, Carlisle. Fourth ditto, a silver snuff-box . William Waiters, Carlisle. MEN UNDEE 11 STONE. First prize, a silver watch, 12 gs. R.Margetson,Kirbjstephen. Second ditto, a silver watch 8 gs. J. Armstrong, Longtown. Third ditto, silver snuff box 5 gs. E. Farriday, Westmoreland. Fourth do. silver snuffbox, 3 gs. Thomas Hall, Brampton The prize for leaping was won by Thomas Kailtou, five competitors, 16i yards cleared, 5 springs. 1839. The annual sports took place at " Highbury Barn," on Good-Friday, March 29th. The assemblage was very numerous, and the wrestling the best ever known. ALL WEIGHTS. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Wills, jun. J. Wren J. Haig T. Abrams Final Falls. J. Haig J. Wills, jun. J. Haig J. Wills, jun. WKESTLIAXA. 41 Some very exciting wrestles took place for this prize. That between "Wiliarn Earl and Jos. Wills, juu., was a splendid struggle. The " Great Earl " stuck to his opponent well, but was thrown by the hipe, amidst loud applause. T. Abrams hiped Ed. Stainton cleverly. The greatest sensation was caused when J. Haig and J. Carruthers were drawn together. Carruthers was a fine wrestler, and considered by many the champion of the London ring. Haig was fresh from the country, where he was well known as one of the best wrestlers of the day. "When his name was called out, it got wind that he was the celebrated Jemmy Haig, of Scuggerhouse. The ex- citement was, therefore, tremendous when the men got hold ; but it was soon all over, for Haig threw his man with the greatest ease. MEN TTNDER 12 STONE. Fifth Sound. Stood. Fell. J. Carruthers J. Dawson R. Margetson J. Dixon Final Falls. R. Margetson J. Carruthers E. Margetson J. Carruthers E. Margetson and Dixon had a dog-fall. On coming together a second time, Margetson threw his man a splendid hipe. Margetson and Carruthers had now to wrestle for the head prize. The first hold terminated in a dog-fall. Carruthers hiped his man in the second 42 WBESTLIANA. trial, but lost his hold, consequently, the decision of the umpire was in favour of Margetson. In the third bout Carruthers again tried the hipe, which Margetson cleverly stopped, throwing him a clean cross-buttock. Margetson was loudly cheered for the splendid struggle he had made against such discouraging odds, Carruthers being a couple of stones the heavier man. MEN TJNDEB 11 STONE. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Armstrong J. Sandford W. Nicholson W. Faulder J. Gregson, odd man. Fifth Round. J". Gregson W. Nicholson J. Armstrong, odd man. Final Falls. J. Armstrong J. Gregson J. Armstrong J. Gregson At the conclusion of the sports about 200 sat down to dinner in the large assembly room of the tavern. Mr. Joseph Peel presided. After the removal of the cloth, the prizes were handed to the successful com- petitors as below : AIL WEIGHTS. First prize, silver -watch, 12 gs. . . James Haig, Scuggerhouse Second ditto, silver watch, 8 gs. . . J. Wills, jun., Flatt Third ditto, silver snuff box, 5 gs. . T. Abrams, Westmrlnd. Fourth ditto, silver snuff box, 4 gs. J. Wren, Keswick WEESTLIAJTA. 43 MEN UNDER 12* STONE. First prize, silver watch, 12 gs. . . R. Margetson, Kirbystpn. Second ditto, silver watch, 8 gs. . . John Carruthers, Carlisle Third ditto, silver snuff box, 5 gs. . J. Dixon, Life Guards Fourth ditto, silver snuffbox, 4 gs. J. Dawson, Life Guards LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize, silver watch, 12 gs. . . J. Armstrong, Longtown Second ditto, silver watch, 8 gs. . . J. Gregson, Corby Third ditto, silver snuff box, 5 gs. . W. Nicholson, Westmrld. Fourth ditto, silver snuff box, 4 gs. . W. Faulder, Cockermouth Leaping. First prize, silver snuff box . . Win. Nicholson Beating four others. 1840. The Ste wards for this year were : Mr. R. Margetson T. Eailton Peter Clemetson J. Beck The sports were again held at the " Barn," on Good Friday, April 17th, and were witnessed by an immense concourse of spectators. The handsome prizes offered by the committee attracted nearly all the best men of the two counties. The celebrated Jas. Haig, of Scuggerhouse, was amongst the heavy weights. His name seemed to be quite enough for a good many of them, and it was not till the fifth round that he appeared in the arena. The contest between Plaskett and J. Eobinson was the best of the day. 44 WKESTLIANA. Plaskett was a light weight, and Eobinson 6 feet 4 inches, (winner of the all weight prize in 1834), and over 16 stones. Eobinson lifted him up like a cat lifting a mouse, when, Plaskett immediately put in the hank. Eobinson tried to throw him several times, but Plaskett changed legs each time, and there they stood lor some minutes, the little-un, watching his opportunity, while held up aloft in the arms of his powerful apponent, re- leased him from the bank, made a sudden leap to the ground, crossed the giant, both legs, and laid him sprawling on the green sward before he could say " Jack Eobinson." It was a most exciting struggle, and the victor was cheered over and over again. The enthusiasm of the spectators was now thoroughly awakened, and when Gr. Brunskill and Jas. Haig came together for the final falls in the heavy weights, the ex- citement was at fever height. The men were a very even match, as regards weight, but in height Brunskill overtopped his opponent by 3 inches, his height being 6 feet 1 inch, while Haig stood about 5 feet 10 inches, When they took hold, caution was the order of the day. Haig, however, with his dangerous swinging hipe, floored the soldier with ease, the next bout was ditto repeated, and James Haig was declared the winner amidst loud cheering. The prizes were awarded as below : ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, silver watch, 14 gs. . James Hay, Scuggerhouse. Second ditto, silver snuff box, 6 gs. G. Brunskill, Patterdale. Third ditto, siver snuff box, 4 gs. W. Faulder, Cockermouth. Fourth ditto, silver snuff box, 3 gs. T. Plaskett, Cockermouth. WBESTLIANA. 45 MEN UNDEB 12 STONE. First prize, silver watch, 12 gs. . . T. Abrams, Sowerby. Second ditto, silver snuffbox, 6 gs. . T. Donow, Penrith. Third ditto, silver snuff box, 4 gs. . . J. Gregson, Corby. Fourth ditto, silver snuffbox, 3 gs. . E. Stainton, Troutbeck. LIGHT WEIGHTS. Fh-st prize, silver watch, 12 gs. . . T. Sandford, Crook Second ditto, silver snuff box, 6 gs. . P. Clemitson, Stainton. Third ditto, silver snuffbox, 4 gs. . W. Brown, Carlisle. Fourth ditto, silver snuffbox, 3 gs. . E. Gill, Walton. Leaping 5 springs. First prize, silver snuff-box, 3 gs. . . George Lee, Longtown. Distance cleared 18 yards. None of the other com- petitors had the slightest chance. 1841. Mr. Robert Beck presided at a meeting of the members of the Cumberland and "Westmoreland Wrestling Society, held at the " Old Drury" Tavern, Bridges Street, Covent Garden, on the 29th of Jan., 1841. The election of Stewards resulted as below : SECRETARIES. PROPOSED BY SECONDED BY STEWARDS. Mr. Clemitson Mr. J. James Mr. Lamb Jos. W. P. Gill Knilton E. Gill J. Eichardson Stocks Nicholson Moat McCleave J. James T. H. Halliburton McCleave F. Nichol TREASURER. Mr. E. Beck Mr. Halliburton Mr. McCleave The wrestling, which was of a very scientific cha- racter, took place at " Highbury Barn " Tavern on Good Friday, April 9th. The attendance was very 46 WEESTLIAXA. numerous, and the proceedings gave universal satis- faction. The entries included nearly all the best wrestlers of the time. Mr. George Lamb, Cheapside, supplied the prizes, which were handed to the suc- cessful competitors as below : MEX UXDER 11J STOXE. First prize, silver watch, 12 gs. . J. Armstrong, Crosby, Cum- [berland Second ditto, silver watch, 10 gs. T. Plaskctt, Workington, [Cumberland Third ditto, silver snuffbox, 7 gs. E.Margetson, Kirbystephen, [Westmoreland Fourth ditto, silver snuff box, 5s. J. Irwin, Bolton-gate, Cum- [berland Fifth prize, silver snuffbox, 3 gs. J. Eeed, Scotby Grill, Cum- [berland MEX OF AIX WEIGHTS. First prize, silver \vatch, 12 gs. . Gr. Brunskill, Patterdale, Westmoreland Second ditto, silver snuff box, 10 gs. . E. Lamb, Swathburn, [Westmoreland Third ditto, silver snuff box, 6 gs. . E.Margetson, Kirbyste- [phen, Westmoreland Fourth ditto, silver snuff box, 4 gs. . J. Carruthers, Carlisle, [Cumberland Leaping. First prize, silver snuff-box, 3 gs. . J. Dixon, Welton, Cum- [berland Details of the wrestling. lit STOXE MEX. Second Sound. Stood. Fell. G. Chambers W. Watters W. Brown G. Brown WBESTLIANA. 47 Stood. Fell. E. Lamb P. Clemitson T. Plaskett Bertrand J. Eeed E. Beck Sandford Lawson J. Vaust Hope J. Armstrong Donohoe E. Margetson James Boustead J. Irving E. Kendall Third Round. T. Plaskett W. Brown James Irwin G. Chambers J. Yaust Sandford E. Margetson J. Armstrong John Eeed E. Lamb Fourth Round. John Armstrong T. Plaskett James Irwin E. Margetson Final Falls. J. Armstrong T. Plaskett J. Armstrong T. Plaskett At the end of the third round it was discovered that Vaust was not a natire of either Cumberland or "Westmoreland, consequently he was not allowed to wrestle any longer. A fifth prize was offered to the five losing men in the third round. The competition resulted thus : First Round, Stood. Fell. John Eeed Sandford G. Chambers E. Lamb W. Brown, odd man. Second Round. J. Keed W. Brown G. Chambers, odd man. 48 WBESTLIAXA. Third Round. Stood. Fell. John Reed G. Chambers John Reed G. Chambers HEAVY WEIGHTS. Third Sound. James Irwin R. Fence Thornboro R. Lowden Joseph Dixon Sandford J. Wills, sen. E. Stainton J. Carruthers J. Dobinson G. Brimskill E. Kendal E. Lamb N. Farrer R. Margetson M. Morley Fourth Round, J. Carruthers Thornboro R. Margetson Joseph Dixon E. Lamb James Irwin G. Brunskill J. Wills, sen. Fifth Round. E. Lamb J. Carruthers G. Brunskill R. Margetson Final Falls. George Brunskill E. Lamb George Brunskill E. Lamb The prize for Leaping was won by Joseph Dixon beating four others. 1842. The Members of the Society held their first meet- ing this year at the " Old Drury " Tavern, Bridges Street, Covent Garden, Mr. Eichardson in the chair. The Stewards were elected as follows : WEESTLIANA. 49 SECRETARIES. Mr. John James George Lamb STEWARDS. Mr. Jno. Eichardson Isaac Hopes E. Brown E. Miles A. Nelson TREASURER Mr. E. Beck PROPOSED BY Mr. J. Holmes Mr. W. Fawcett E. Beck J. James E. Beck J. Eichardson Mr. W. McCleave SECONDED BY Mr. D. Eichardson Mr. J. Holmes E.Gill Geo. Lamb M. Morley Moorhousc Mr. Jno. James The sports were held at the " Highbury Barn " Tavern on G-ood Friday, March 25th, and resulted as follows. MEN UNDER 11 STONE. T. Hudson, Keswick, [Cumberland D. Harrison, Keswick, [Cumberland J. Swain, Cockermouth, [Cumberland E. Armstrong, Longtown [Cumberland MEN OF ALL WEIQHTS. First prize, a silver watch, 12 gs. Second do. a silver watch, 10 gs. First prize, a silver watch, 12 gs. Second do. a silver watch, 10 gs. Third do. a silver snuff box, 8 gs. Fourth do. a silver snuffbox, 6gs. Jos. Wills, jun., Flatt, [Cumberland G. Brunskill, Patterdale, [Westmoreland J. Dixon, Welton, [Cumberland M. Morley, Keswick, [Cumberland Third do. a silver snuffbox, 8 gs. Fourth do. a silver snuff box, 6 gs. Leaping. First prize, a silver snuff box, 3 gs. . Mark Morley, Keswick. At this meeting it will be seen that Jos. "Wills, jun., carried off the all weight prize, throwing G-eo. 50 Bnmskill and several other famous wrestlers. Mr. Wills, now Corpl. Major "Wills, is at present (1869) Vice-chairman of the Society, and one of its oldest members, his connexion with the Association dating as far a,s forty years back. The following is a return of the wrestling, com- mencing with MEX TNDEB 11 STONE. Sec oi id Round. Stood. FelL E. Lowden T. Huchinson D. Harrison J. Capstick B. Armstrong W. Stainton J. Swain Smallwood E. Graham G. Lancaster T. Hudson G. Armstrong Bowstead (Guards) J. Bowstead J. Elliott W. Thompson Third Sound. D. Harrison E. Graham J. Hudson Bowstead (Guards) E. Armstrong E. Lowden J. Swain J. Elliott Fourth Sound. ~D. Harrison E. Armstrong T. Hudson J. Swain Final Falls. T. Hudson D. Harrison T. Hudson D. Harrison HEAVY WEIGHTS. Third Hound. G. Brunskill G. Warwick J. Wren Bowstead (Guards) E. Lamb Miller Jos. Wills, jun. W. Carruthers WBESTLIANA. Stood. FeD. G. Chambers Norval M. Morley J. Bowstead J. Dixon W. Stainton Milburn, odd man. Fourth Sound. G. Brunskill Milburn M. Morley J. "Wren J. Dixon E. Lamb J. Wills, jun. G. Chambers Fifth, Sound. M. Morley G-. Brunskill J. Wells, jun. J. Dixon Final Falls. J. Wills, jun. J. Wills, jun. George Brunskill George Brunskill Leaping won by Mark Morley. 1843. The following gentlemen were elected as Stewards for the Cumberland and Westmoreland Wrestling Society, at a meeting Held at the " Angel and Crown," Wood Street. Mr. Eobert Beck in the chair. SECEETAEIES Mr. George Lamb j, John James PROPOSED BY Mr. McLeave STEWABDS. Mr. Nelson Moorhouse Stocks Margetson Gregson , Harrison SECONDED BY Mr. H. Moat. TEEASUBEB : Mr. Robert Beck, 52 WRESTLIAtfA. The sports took place at the " Highbury Barn " Tavern, on Good Eriday, April 5th. The entries were not quite so numerous as on some previous occa- sions, but the wrestling was particularly good. The first prize for 11 stone men, was won by George Donaldson, of Patterdale, one of the best light weight wrestlers in England. In the heavy weights, Don- aldson met his match in Jos. "Wills, jun., who threw him cleverly. E. Margetson was very unfortunate, going down in the first round in both prizes. George Brunskill was again well up, taking the third prize for all weights. Mr. Moorhouse presided at the dinner and distributed the prizes to the various winners as follows : MEN TJNDEB 11 STOKE. First prize, a silver -watch . G. Donaldson, Patterdale, Wcstd. Second ditto, a siver watch, . F. Bowman, Carlisle, Cumberld. Third ditto, a silver snuff box J. Bell, do. do. Fourth ditto, a silver snuffbox James Irving, do. do. MEN OF ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, a silver watch . Mark Morley, Keswick, Cumbld. Second ditto, a silver watch . J. Norman, do. do. Third ditto, a silver snuff box G-. Brunskill, Patterdale, Westd. Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box W. Smith, Cumberland First prize, a silver box . . W. Eice, Westmoreland. 11 STONE MEN. Result of the various falls from the Second Round. Stood. Fell. T. Dyer D. Harrison T. Thompson Or. Postlethwaite J. Bell T. Kirkbride Gr. Chambers J. Hetherington WEESTLIANA. 53 Stood. Fell. J. Bowstead W. Jackson W. Philipson John Scott W. Smalhvoocl John Wright James Irving John Beck F. Bowman W. Mars G. Donaldson John Elliott Third Hound. James Irving G. Chambers F. Bowman T. Dyer James Bowstead W. Philipson John Bell W. Smallwood G. Donaldson Thomas Thompson Fourth Round. F, Bowman Jas. Bowstead John Bell James Irving George Donaldson, odd man Fifth Round. G.Donaldson John Bell F. Bowman, odd man. Final Falls. George Donaldson F. Bowman George Donaldson F. Bowman HEAVY WEIGHTS. Third Round. E. Gregson J. Robinson (Blue's) W. Smith John Scott W. Thompson E. Nelson M. Morley D. Harrison James Turner J. Wren (Guards) George Brunskill T. Taylor A. Nelson Millburn (Guards) J. Wills, jun. Henry Mossop Norman, odd man. Fourth Round. Norman E. Gregson W. Smith W. Thompson M. Morley A. Nelson J. Wills, jun. James Turner 54 Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. George Brunskill J. Wills, jun. Norman W. Smith M. Morley, odd man Sixth Sound. M. Morley G-eorge Brunskill Norman, odd man Final Falls. M. Morley Norman M. Morley Norman Leaping won by "W. Bice, beating four others. 1844. The following gentlemen composed the Committee for this year : Mr. E. Margetson Mr. E. Addison Mr. A. Nelson W. Fawcett E. Farraday Gr. Eilbeck B.Beck Treasurer, Mr. M. Moorhouse. The wrestling was held at " Highbury Barn," on Good- Friday, April 5th, when the prizes were awarded as follows : ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, 8 . . . W. Millar Second ditto, 4, . A. Nelson Third ditto, 2 . . . E. Margetson Fourth ditto, 1 . J. Haig LIGHT WIIGHTS. First prize, 8 . . . W. Morton Second ditto, 4 . . J. Simmons Third ditto, 2 . . . J. Sill Fourth ditto, 1 . . J. Irving Leaping. First prize, 2 . . . J. Dixon. WBESTLIAKA. 55 1845. The Stewards for the year were : Mr. E. Margetson Mr. W. Fawcett Mr. A. Nelson R. Beck G-. Eilbeck The sports took place at "Highbury Barn," on Good-Friday, March 21st. The prizes were awarded as below : ALL WEIGHTS, First prize, 8 . . Gr. Brunskill Second prize, 4 . . Thomas Millar Third prize, 2 E. G-regson Fourth, prize, 1 . . Mark Morley LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize, 8 . . . Jeremiah Pearson Second prize, 4 . . William Harrison Third prize, 2 . . Thomas Earl Fourth prize, 1 . . Joseph Pape Leaping. First prize, 2 . . W. Mark Second prize, 10s. . . Mark Morley A handsome belt, with an appropriate inscription, was presented to the winner in each weight. The sum of Ten Guineas was presented to each of the Charitable Institutions of Cumberland and West- moreland. 56 WKESTLIAJTA. 1846. The following gentlemen were unanimously ap- pointed to conduct the business of the Society for this year. CHAIRMAN. VICE-CHAIRMAX. Mr. W. Fawcett. Mr. Or. Eilbeck. SECRETARY. TREASURER. Mr. E. Margetson Mr. M. Moorhouse. STEWARDS. Mr. E. Beck A. Nelson 3. Scott ,, J. James J. Pearson ,, J. Nicholson E. Lowden The sports took place at " Highbury Barn," on Good- Friday, April 10th, and were very numerously attended. After all expenses were paid, the Com- mittee presented the handsome sum of 40 Guineas, in equal proportions, to the two Benevolent Institu- tions of the two counties. The prizes were awarded as below : ALL WEIGHTS. First Prize, 8 C. Dobsoii Second ditto, 4, . . Jos. Wills, jun. Third ditto, 2 . . James Haig Fourth ditto, 1 . . Jer. Pearson LIGHT WEIGHTS. First Prize, 8 . . Jonathan Whiteliead Second ditto, 4 . . Samuel Pearson Third ditto, 2 . . John Thompson Fourth ditto, 1 . . John Hawksdale WEESTLIANA. 57 Leaping. First Prize, 1 10s. . Joseph Dixon Second ditto, 10s. . . William Duckworth In addition to the above amount, a handsome belt, with a suitable inscription, was presented to the cham- pion in each weight. 1847. The following gentlemen were unanimously ap- pointed to carry out the sports for this year : Mr. E/. Margetson Mr. M. Moorhouse Mr. John James W. Fawcett A. Nelson G. Eilbeck The wrestling took place on Grood Friday, April 2nd, at "Highbury Barn" Tavern. The attendance was very large, although not quite so numerous as on the previous year, and the sports gave great satisfaction. The wrestling of Longmire, who was in fine fettle, was much admired, Eobert Atkinson, the Sleagill giant, was thrown by A. Daw- son, an amateur. The spectators were much delighted at Mr. Dawson's feat, and cheered him to the echo. The prizes were awarded as below : ALL WEIGHTS. First prize 8 and belt . . T. Longmire. Second ditto, 4, . . .A. Dawson. Third ditto, 2 ... Joseph Halliwell. Fourth ditto, 1 . . . E. Atkinson. 58 WBESTLIAISA. LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize, 8 and belt . . Joseph Hallwell. Second ditto, 4 . . Jeremiah Pearson. Third ditto, 2 . . J. Chicken. Leaping. First prize 1 105. . . . Joseph Dixon. Second ditto, 10s. . . . Thomas Eoper. The sum of 20 guineas was handed to the two charitable institutions in equal proportions. 1848. The Stewards for the year were elected as be- low : TBEASUBEB : Mr. Moorhouse. CHAIBMAN. SECBETABT. Mr. William Fawcett. Mr. E. Margetson. STEWABDS. Mr. A. Nelson, Q-eorge Lamb Joseph Wills John James It was resolved, this year, to discontinue the money prizes in favour of jewellery, cups, &c., and the following articles were selected for competition : FOB THE ALL WEIGHTS. First prize . . . silver cup. Second ditto . . silver snuff box. Third ditto . . . silver snuff box. Fourth ditto . silver snuff box. WBESTLIANA. 59 FOE THE LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize . . . gold watch. Second ditto . . . silver snuff box. Third ditto . . . silver snuff box. Fourth ditto . . silver snuff box. Prize for leaping . . silver snuff box. The wrestling took place at " Highbury Barn," on Good Friday, April 21st. It was a splendid day, and a great number of spectators were attracted to the spot, among them a number of the officers of the first and second regiments of Life Guards. The meeting was a most note-worthy one, from the fact that the best men from the north had been induced to put in an appearance with the expectation of win- ning all the prizes, but in the heavy weights they were sadly disappointed, and the London residents remained masters of the field. The spectators were much delighted at the success of their metropolitan friends. Such a display of science, temper, and cou- rage has seldom been surpassed and rarely equalled in athletic sports. The " man mountain " R. Atkin- son, T. Longmire, Jonathan "Whitehead, and Jos. Halliwell were all overthrown by amateurs. Ail WEIGHTS. Fourth Sound. Stood. Fell. J. Eobinson C. Dobson J. Dixon G. Wilson J. Banks J. Whitehead E. Gash, odd man. 60 WRESTLIANA. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Robinson E. Gash J. Banks J. Dixon Final Falls. J: B ) Life ** J: 5 To the surprise of all, "Whitehead threw Long- mire, and the giant, E. Atkinson, was thrown by C. Dobson, Atkinson swung Dobson round four times, intending to lay him quietly on his back, however, no sooner had Dobson reached the ground when he made a dexterous stroke at Atkinson on the outside, and down went the giant. Never was such a scene of excitement, handkerchiefs were waved, and hats were thrown up in the air, the cheering lasting several minutes. MEN TJNDEE 11 STONE. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Halliwell J. Dyson E. Gash T. Loy J. Whitehead M. Wills Fifth Round. J. Halliwell E. Gash J. Whitehead, odd man Final Falls. J. Whitehead J. HalliweU J. Whitehead J. Halliwell The final falls between Whitehead and Halliwell were long and tiresome bouts, and wearied the spec- tators. WEESTLIAKA. 01 MEN UNDER 9 STONE. Third Sound. Stood. Fell. T. Walker S. Gill W. Walker J. Hunter J. Rose, odd man Fourth Round. W. Walker J. Eose T. Walker, odd man Final Falls. W. Walker T. Walker W. Walker T. Walker Mr. "W. Fawcett presided at the dinner after the conclusion of the sports, and distributed the prizes as follows : ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, a silver tankard, 21 gs. J. Banks, Life Guards Second prize, a silver snuff box, 8 gs. J.Robinson, Foot Q-uards Third prize, a silver snuffbox, 5 gs. Corp.Dixon,Life Guards Fourth prize, a silver snuff box, 4 gs. R. Gash MEN UNDER 11 STONE. First prize, a gold watch, 15 gs. . . . J. Wliitehead Second prize, a silver snuff box, 8 gs. . J. Halliwell Third prize, a silver snuffbox, 5 gs. . . R. Gash Fourth prize, a silver snuff box, 4 gs. . . Mark Wills MEN UNDER 9 STONE. First prize, silver snuff box, 5 gs. . . . Wm. Walker Second prize, a gold pencil case . . . T. Walker Leaping. 5 springs. First prize, a silver snuff box, 3 gs. R. Slierwiu 17 yards 1 inch cleared 62 WEESTLIANA. 1849. The members of the Society met at Mr. Clayton's " Sutton Arms," Caledonian-road, on March 20th, when the following officers were appointed : CHAIRMAN. SECRETARY. Mr. E. Thwaites Mr. E. Margetson TREASURER, Mr. M. Moorhouse STEWARDS Mr. J. James J, Stamper Eawling J. Pearson E. Margetson Wharton J. Chicken The following revised rules were also unanimously adopted and ordered to be printed : 1st. That this Society shall be designated the CUMBERLAND AND "WESTMORLAND WRESTLING SOCIETY. 2nd.- That the benefits conferred by this Society shall be confined to Natives of Cumberland and "West- moreland, to whom suitable Prizes shall be given'to be "Wrestled for on GOOD FEIDAY, in each year ; the amount and number of such Prizes to be regulated by the Committee ; and should any surplus money arise, that power shall be given to the Committee to decide the amount of Gift which shall be WRESTLIA3TA. (56 handed over to the Benevolent Institutions of Cum- berland and Westmoreland; all such Gifts from this Society, be it understood, shall be equally divided betwixt the two. 3rd. The Secretary shall read a Report of the Transactions of the Committee whenever the same shall be required. 4th. Any Member of the Society having a Com- plaint to make, shall make it to the Secretary, in writing, who shall have power, at all times, to call a Private Meeting of the Committee for the dispatch of such business, and their decision upon it shall be final. 5th. That the government of this Society shall be vested in a Committee of Seven Members, to be elected annually ; and that the Committee shall have full power, and that all its transactions shall be binding until the election of the new Committee, at the Annual General Meeting; and that Four of the Committee shall be a Quorum. 6th. That no person shall be eligible to be elected on the Committee, or become a Member of this Society, or be allowed to propose any Eesolution, or Vote at any Meeting, who has not subscribed Two Shillings and Sixpence or upwards ; or be allowed to "Wrestle, unless his Subscription has been duly paid up before the time of Wrestling. 7th. That the Annual General Meeting of the 64 WEESTLIAKA. Society shall be convened by public advertisement, at least one Month before Good Friday, stating the Time and Place where the Meeting will be held, to elect Officers, and to receive the Annual Report of the Committee, which shall contain a general State- ment of Accounts, duly audited ; the Rules and Progress of the Society, and an accurate List of Subscribers. 8th. That Five Stewards shall be elected annually to collect subscriptions ; and that out of the Stewards and the Committee, two Umpires and a Referee shall be chosen to decide the Falls in the Ring ; and that the Stewards shall become Honorary Members of the Committee by virtue of their office. 9th. Should any dispute arise in the Ring be- twixt the Umpires, the decision of the Referee shall be final ; and any individual refusing to conform to the usual Rules of "Wrestling, either by refusing to take fair hold to wrestle over again, or otherwise the Umpires shall have full power to strike out his or their names. 10th. That should any Member or Members do any act to the dishonour or prejudice of the Society, either in the Ring or out of it, the Committee shall have full power to expel him or them from the So- ciety ; but that it shall not be considered a disgrace for any Member of the Society to challenge another to wrestle, provided it is done privately ; and not by WRESTLTA^A. 65 public advertisement (with Bis knowledge and con- sent) ; but if any Member shall challenge, or cause another to be challenged by public advertisement, the Committee shall expel him from the Society. llth. That should any Member buy or sell, or offer to buy or sell, a Fall ; or by neglecting to do his best, and thereby suffer himself to be unfairly thrown, shall be expelled from the Society ; and any Prize that he may have been entitled to shall be for- feited by him, and given to the next in rotation. 12th. That the number and amount of Prizes, and the different classes of Weights, shall be regu- lated by the Committee. 13th. That all sums of money arising from Sub- scriptions, or otherwise, shall be paid into the hands of the Treasurer, every Thursday or other night when the Meetings take place, for the necessary ex- penses of the Society. llth. That proper Books shall be provided for the use of the Society, and all Eeceipts and Disburse- ments be entered therein, in such manner as the Committee shall direct. 15th. That at the General Meetings of the Com- mittee (at which subscribers shall be allowed to at- tend) the Treasurer shall produce his accounts of receipts and payments, and cash in hand, the parti- culars of which shall be entered as part of the Minutes. 6G WBESTLIA3TA. 16th. That the Anniversary shall take place im- mediately after the "Wrestling, when the Chairman shall deliver the Prizes to each successful Com- petitor. 17th. That a Secretary be appointed, who shall attend the Meetings of the Society to take Minutes of the proceedings, and to produce the same at the sundry Meetings of the Society, to be confirmed ; and that he be an Honorary Member of the Com- mittee by virtue of his office. 18th. That a Private Meeting of the Committee and Stewards be convened a fortnight after Good- Friday for the settlement of Accounts, and to pre- pare a proper Balance Sheet, to be laid before a General Meeting of the Society, which shall take place a fortnight after, when a dinner will be pro- vided, at Two Shillings and Sixpence each Member. Tickets to be printed and circulated by the Stewards and Committee. That Tour Tickets shall be allowed to each of the Stewards and Members of the Com- mittee, at the expense of the Society ; and that the Tickets shall express the Time and Place of Meeting- 19th. That none of the Eules herein contained ^hall be rescinded, or altered, or new ones made, ex- cept at the Annual General Meeting of the Society ; and that any Member or Members wishing to intro- duce any new Rules or Regulations, he or they must give notice of the same, in writing, to the Secretary, WBESTLIAKA. 67 at least one week previous to the Annual General Meeting ; and that none of the Rules or Alterations shall be binding until confirmed at the General Meeting of the Society. 20th. That all the Rules and Regulations affecting the Cumberland and "Westmoreland Wrestling So- ciety, heretofore existing, shall be null and void ; and that the present Rules and Regulations shall be the governing Rules of the Society. The wrestling took place at " Copenhagen House," on Xrood Friday, April 6th 1849. The handsome prizes offered by the Committee again induced a number of the professional wrestlers from the North to take a trip to the metropolis. Foremost amongst whom was the famous Sleagill giant, Robert Atkinson taking the chief prize, Thomas Longmire of Trout- beck, " Bonny Longmire," the champion of England for many years, Jonathan Whitehead, once the most popular light weight in England, Jos. Harrington, and Jos. Halliwell, all invincibles. That they should take nearly all the prizes from their less experienced and less muscular metropolitan opponents is not to be wondered at. The committee, however, saw their mistake, and the following year passed a resolution that no wrestlerwould be allowed to compete who had not been in London from the 1st of January of the 68 WBESTLIAHA. same year, thereby very properly confining the com- petion to residents iii London. The Umpires were Messrs. E. Margetson, and J. James. Eeferee, Mr. Stamper. Result of ilie Wrestling. MEN NOT EXCEEDING 9 STONE. Second Round. Stood. Fell. J. Dixon J. Kobinson T. Bradbury T. Louis J. Irving M. Hodgson T. Walker G. Kaws Third Hound. J. Dixon T. Bradbury J. Irvine T. Walker Final Falls. J. Dixon J. Irvine J. Dixon J. Irvine MEN NOT EXCEEDING 11 STONE. Third Sound. J. Wilson T. Matthews T. Walker E. Ellwood J. Whitehead J. Pattison E. Cox John Thompson Joseph Halliwell and Jos. Harrington were an hour 11 the ring without getting hold, and were both blown out. Fourth Sound. Stood. TelL Jonathan Whitehead E. Cox James Wilson Thomas Walker WEESTLIANA. 69 Final Falls. Jonathan Whitehead James Wilson Jonathan Whitehead James Wilson MEN OF AIL WEI&HTS. Third Sound. William Miller William Fawcett Jonathan Whitehead T. Hudsmith Thomas Longmire John Thompson Jos. Harrington James Brown Robert Atkinson John Dixon, sen. A. Dawson J. Pattison George Wilson John Dixon, jun. Jos. Halliwell John Thompson, Keswick Fourth Hound. Thomas Longmire George Wilson E. Atkinson Jos. Halliwell Jos. Harrington Jonathan Whitehead A. Dawson William Miller Fifth Round. Jos. Harrington Thomas Longmire E. Atkinson Anthony Dawson Final Falls. E. Atkinson Jos. Harrington E. Atkinson Jos. Harrington The prizes were awarded as follows : MEN NOT EXCEEDING 9 STONE. First prize, 5 . . John Dixon, jun. Second ditto, 3 . . James Irvine Third ditto, 1 . . Thomas Walker Fourth ditto, 1 . . Thomas Bradbury 70 WBESTLIAXA. MEN NOT EXCEEDING 11 STONE. First prize, 16 and belt . . . Jonathan Whit ehead Second ditto, 8 J. Wilson Third ditto, 2 10s Thomas Walker Fourth ditto, 2 10s Ed. Cox -P.-,, o - .1 C Jos. Halliwell ) Both blown out for Fifth & Sixth prizes - ( Jos Harrington ] refll8ing to take hold . Seventh ditto, 1 10s John Thompson Eighth ditto, 1 10s Isaac Pattison HEN OF ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, 24 and belt . Eobert Atkinson Second ditto, 10 . Joseph Harrington Third ditto, 4 Fourth ditto, 4 Fifth ditto, 2 Sixth ditto, 2 Seventh ditto, 2 Eighth ditto, 2 Anthony Dawson Thomas Longmire William Miller Jonathan Whitehead Joseph Halliwell George Wilson The total amount of the prizes awarded this year, including the three Belts, which cost 5, was 100. 1850. The following officers were elected at the Annual General Meeting of the Society, held at the " Guild- hall Shades," February 20th. CHAIEMAN. SECEETAET. Mr. E. Thwaites Mr. E, Margetson TEEASUEEE, Mr. M. Moorhouse WRESTLIANA. 71 STEWAEDS. Mr. E. Stainton J. Wilson J. Pearson J. Kawling J. Dixon J. Hartley J. James A resolution, proposed by Mr. Margetson, aud seconded by Mr. Kawlings, to the effect that no man shall be eligible to wrestle in the London ring on Good Friday, unless he has resided in London since the 1st of January of the same year, was unanimously adopted. The Avrestling took place at Copenhagen grounds on Good Eriday, March 29tL The day was cold, but, notwithstanding which, the ring was. en circled by a dense crowd of spectators, to whom the sports ap- peared to give the utmost satisfaction. The army was well represented Corporal Edgar, Corporal Dixon, and Corporal Eobinson each winning a prize. Edward Staintou, whose name is familiar to all who have been in the habit of frequenting the London ring, was also amongst the successful competitors. George Brunskill again carried off the all-weight prize, and was loudly cheered. Eesult of the wrestling : WBESTLIAKA.. MEN NOT EXCEEDING 9 STOXE. First Mound. Stood. Fell. T. Wharton Jos. Rudd Gerard Raws Thomas Smith Thomas Langhorn John Dodd Rob. Yare John Smith C. Fawcett Dockrell Thomas Shepherd John Andrews Second Round. C. Fawcett T. Wharton Gerard Raws R. Yare T. Shepherd T. Langhorn Third Round. C. Fawcett G. Raws T. Shepherd, odd man. Final Falls. Thomas Shepherd C. Fawcett C. Fawcett Thomas Shepherd C. Fawcett Thomas Shepherd MBS NOT EXCEEDING 11 SlOXE. Third Sound. J. White R. Coulthard P. Ward J. Richardson T. Bradbury T. Langhorn J. Dixon " J. Wilson J. Monkhouse G. Wilson G. Kershaw J. Harrison T. Matthews, odd man. FourtJi Sound. T. Matthews J. Monkhouse J. Dixon P. Ward G. Kershaw T. Bradbury J. White, odd man. WBESTLIAIS'A. 73 Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. T. Matthews J. White J. Dixon G. Kershaw Final Falls. J. Dixon T. Matthews J. Dixon T. Matthews MEN OF AIL WEIGHTS. Fourth Sound. Corpl. Eobinson J. Brown Corpl. Edgar E. Stainton Corpl. Dixon E. Lowden Geo. Brunskill W. Brunskill J. Kobinson, odd man. Fifth Round. J". Eobinson Corpl. Dixou G. Brunskill Corpl. Eobinson Corpl. Edgar, odd man. Sixth Round. Corpl. Edgar J. Eobinson George Brunskill, odd man. Final Falls. G. Brunskill Corpl. Edgar G. Brunskill Corpl. Edgar Foot Eace. First, P. Sherwin, Cumberland Second, W. Jenkins, do. The prizes were awarded as follows: i WBESTLIANA. MEN NOT EXCEEDING 9 STONE. First prize, 2 C. Fawcett, Kirby, Lonsdale, Second ditto 1 10 T. Shepherd, Crosby, Ravens worth Third ditto 15 Gerard Raws, ditto Fourth ditto 15 Thomas Langhorn, King's Meaburn MEN NOT EXCEEDING 11 STONE. First prize, 800 John Dixon, King's Meaburn Second ditto 400 Thomas Matthews, Longtowii Third ditto 200 Third ditto 200 Fourth ditto 100 Fourth ditto 100 Fourth ditto 100 Fourth ditto 100 G. Kershaw, Hackthorpe Jas. White, Eamont Bridge T. Bradbury, Kavenstondale Page Ward, Carlisle Jno. Monkhouse, Lorton J. Harrison, Westmoreland MEN OF ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, Second ditto, Third ditto, Third ditto, Fourth ditto, Fourth ditto, Fourth ditto, Fourth ditto, G. Brunskill, Patterdale Corpl. Edgar, Longtown R. Lowden, Broughsowerby Edward Stainton, Troutbeck J. Robinson, Wigton Corpl. Robinson, Warcup Corpl. Dixon, Cumberland W. Brunskill, Westmoreland In addition to the above, the champion of each weight was presented with a handsome belt. 1851. A meeting was convened by the Secretary at the " Guildhall Shades," on the 29th November, 1850, to decide about the removal of the wrestling to a more convenient place, at the grounds of Mr. Stones, WRESTLIAXA. I O at Hornsey "Wood House, when it was resolved that the annual sports on Good Friday, 1851, should be held there. The following officers were also appointed for the year : CHAIRMAN, SECBETAEY, Mr. E. Thwaites. Mr. K. Margetson, TEEASUBEB, Mr. M. Moorhouse. STEWAEDS. Mr. T. Westmoreland J. Richardson H. Muckalt Page Ward J.Wilson J. Dixon J. Rawlings J. James It was resolved that all entries be made on or before the IGtli of April, and any wrestler neglecting to enter his name and pay his subscription by that date, should not be allowed to wrestle on Good Friday. Five minutes to be allowed for the wrestlers to get hold ; the names to be crossed out if the hold be not got by that time, at the discretion of the Umpires ; and if either party refuses to stand chest to chest, with shoulders on a level with those of his opponent, and chin above, he shall be disqualified. Time allowed to slip hold, and after that the man that first puts down his head to be blown out. 76 WBESTLIJLN'A. The wrestling took place at Hornsey Wood House, on Good Friday, April 18th. The weather proved favourable, and an immense crowd of spectators assembled to witness the sports. The receipts were above the average of former years, and the assembly even more select than usual. Excellent accommoda- tion was afforded by the marquee (erected by Mr. Stones), both to the wrestlers and the public ;,and as the programme consisted of only two classes of prizes, the sports concluded at an early hour. The most exciting wrestle of the day occurred in the second round of the heavy weight prize, when Edward Stainton threw George Brunskill, after this it might have been reasonably expected that Ned would come a long way towards winning, but the glorious un- certainty of the third round demolished his chance,, as he was thrown at that stage by John Thompson. It will be seen that Matthew Palmer, of Peter's Crook. Bewcastle, gained a prize in the heavy weights. Matthew was never a clever wrestler, but his brothers. Walter Palmer and John Palmer, were thought the best men of their weight that Cumberland ever pro- duced. In 1851, John Palmer carried off the heavy and light weight prizes at Carlisle, a feat unparalleled in wrestling history. He was heard to remark to a friend, on the first day of the wrestling, that he felt a superhuman strength within him, and did not believe mortal man could " fell " him. This proved WBESTLIANA. 77 to be the case, for he threw all that came before him, big and little ; Walter was a much prettier wrestler than John. His hipe has never been equalled, and his outside chip was simply perfection. The Umpires were Mr. Jas. "Wilson and Mr. Thos. Westmoreland ; Eeferee, Mr. Eichard Margetson. Result of the wrestling : MEN UNDER 11 STONE. Third, Sound. Stood. Fell. Geo. Kershaw Tho. Williamson Or. Irving R. Nicholson Jno. Steel Wilford Stoker John Dixon Geo. Wilson Jos. Scott, odd man . Fourth Sound. John Steel Jos. Scott Geo. Irving G. Kershaw John Dixon John Todd Fifth Sound. G, Irving J. Steel John Dixon, odd man Final Falls. G. Irving J. Dixon J. Dixon G. Irving G. Irving Dixon 78 The heavy weight prize was carried off by John Dixon, of King's Meaburn, a light weight wrestler. He won the light weight prize the previous year, and only lost it by one on this occasion, and he now gained the laurels in this unequal contest with some of the best men of the heavy division ; Dixon was under 11 stone, and his success was rewarded with immense cheering. After the sports were ended a great number sat down to dinner. The Chairman, Mr. K.. Thwaites, eulogized the orderly and straightforward conduct of the competitors, and trusted that the contests they had been engaged in would be an example to all to persevere in uphold- ing the sport that to all and every one having a recollection of his boyhood's happy hour?, was the medium of whiling away many a tedious leisure, and a stimulant to perseverance which he trusted they had benefitted from in later years. An WEIGHTS. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. Scrgt. Chalmers Thomas Marrs Thomas Atkinson John Thompson Corpl. Dixon M. Palmer John Dixon John Robinson N. Cain B. Eichardson Fifth Sound. Corpl. Dixon T. Atkinson John Dixou N. Caiu Sergeant Chalmers, odd man. WEESTLI.VXA. 79 Sixth Roimd. Corpl. Dixon Sergt. Chalmers John Dixon, odd man. Final Falls. John Dixon Corpl. Dixon John Dixon Corpl. Dixon Foot Race. First prize, 1 5s. . . Corporal Gregson Second ditto, 10s. . . Peter Shcrwin Third ditto, 5s. . . F. Williamson The prizes were awarded as follows : LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize, 8 . . George Trying, Coldstream [Guards Second ditto, 4 . John Dixon, King's Meaburn Third ditto, 2 . . John Steel, Walby Fourth ditto, 2 . . John Todd, Brampton Fifth ditto, 1 . . George Kershaw, Hackthorp Sixth ditto, 1 . . Jos. Scott, Keswick Seventh ditto, 1 , George Wilson, Grejstock Eighth ditto, 1 . W. Stocker, Windermero AIL WEIGHTS. First prize, 8 . . John Dixon, King's Meaburn Second ditto, 4 . Corporal J. Dixon, Welton Third ditto, 2 . Sergeant Chalmers, Brampton Fourth ditto, 2 . Nelson Cain, Workington Fifth ditto, 1 . . Thomas Atkinson, Old Town SO WRESTLIA1TA. Sixth prize, 1 . E. Richardson, Warcop Seventh ditto, 1 . J. Robinson, Greystock Eighth ditto, 1 . Matthew Palmer, Bewcastle A handsome belt was presented to the champion of each weight. 1852. The following officers were appointed at the first general meeting of the Society, held at the " Guild- hall Shades," on the 25th of February. CHAIRMAN. SECRETARY. Mr. J. James Mr. R. Margetson TREASURER, Mr. Moorhouso STEWARDS. Mr. G-. Wharton J. Dixon J. Wills, senior J. Richardson J. Chicken J.Wilson J. Brown T. Westmoreland The wrestling took place on Good Friday, April 9th, at Hornsey "Wood House, and is thus described by Mr. Margetson in his report of the meeting : WRESTLIASA. 81 " Good Friday was a brilliant day, and with gleeful hearts and blithe countenances, the natives of the North welcomed the cheering rays of the morning sun, as they thronged in hundreds to witness and participate in the sports endeared to them from their earliest years, many a heart panting with the eager hope of obtaining distinction in the wrestling ring which their far off friends might be proud to hear." It is the highest ambition of the majority of the natives of Cumberland and "Westmoreland, when they arrive in the metropolis, to distinguigh themselves in the one grand pastime of the border ; military re- nown gained by the soldier, or university honours by the student, carries with it no more pride than does the acquisition of laurels by the northern wrestlers in the London ring. The entries were not very numerous, but the list included some good men, in the front rank of which stood John Dixon, King's Meaburn, who won the all- weights' prize, the third prize in the light weights also falling to his share. Alexander Scott, brother to the celebrated James Scott, of Carlisle, made his first appearance this year, and carried off the first prize for light-weight men, and the second prize for men of all weights. The Umpires were Messrs. J. Wilson and T. Westmoreland. Eeferee, Mr. Margetson. Eesult of the Wrestling : 82 WBESTLIASTA. MEST NOT EXCEEDS 11 STONE. Third Round. Stood. Fell. John Dixon John Harrison James Bishop G-eo. Irving T. Williamson Frank Moore E. Longstaff John Todd A. Scott, odd man. Fourth Round. A. Scotfc E. Longstaff J. Bishop T. Williamson Fifth Round. James Bishop John Dixon A. Scott, odd man Final Falls. James Bishop A. Scott A. Scott James Bishop A. Scott James Bishop MEN OF AIL WEIGHTS. Third Round. Thomas Whitfield William Hadden John Baxter Thomas Atkinson W. Stoker Peter Crawley James Johnson E. Greenhow John Dixon John Wilkinson A. Scott Henry Murray George Irving James Martin Corporal Dixon, odd man. Fourth Round. J. Dixon Corporal Dixon A. Scott George Irving James Johnson W. Stoker Thomas Whitfield ' J.Baxter WRESTLIAjSTA. 83 Fifth Sound. Stood. Fell. A. Scott James Johnson John Dixou Thomas Whitfield Final Falls. A. Scott John Dixon John Dixon A. Scott John Dixon A. Scott The Foot Eace was won by Sergeant Chalmers. The prizes were awarded as follows : LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize, 10 and Belt . Alexander Scott, Carlisle. Second ditto, 5 ... James Bishop, Bewcastle. Third ditto, 3 10 . . John Dixon, King's Meaburn. Fourth ditto, 3 10s . . T. Wilkinson, Lamonby. Fifth ditto, 1 . . . R. Longstaff, Boroughsowerby. Sixth ditto, 1 . . . J. Todd, Brampton. Seventh ditto, 1 . . . Frank Moore, Nichol Forest. Eighth ditto, 1 . . . G. Irving, Coldstreain Guards. ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, 10 and Belt . John Dixon, King's Meaburn. Second ditto, 5 . A. Scott, Carlisle. Third ditto, 3 10s. . . T. Whitfield, do. Fourth ditto, 3 10s. . . J. Johnson, Temple Sowerby. Fifth ditto, 1 . . John Baxter, Cumberland. Sixth ditto, 1 . W. Stoker, Windermere. Seventh ditto, 1 . . G. Irving, Coldstream Guards Eighth ditto, 1 . . Corporal Dixon, Life Guards. 84 WBESTLIAXA. 1852. A second meeting was held this year, and a prize of 10 was offered to be wrestled for on the 28th of June. It rained hard all day, and as the sports took place in the open ground, the attendance, both of wrestlers and spectators was very limited. The following is a result of the day's wrestling : First prize, 4 . . . J Greenhow Second ditto, 2 . J. Hindo Third ditto, 1 . . . T. Teasdale Fourth ditto, 1 . G. Irving, Coldstream [Guards EIGHT LAST STANDEES. First prize, 1 . . . J. Moss Second ditto, 10s. . . Alexander Scott Third ditto, 5s. . . . T. Teasdale 1853. The Annual General Meeting took place at the "Guildhall Shades," on the 9th of February. The Secretary read a report, showing the in- creasing prosperity of the Society. The following officers were appointed to carry out the sports : CHAIEMAX. SECRETARY. Mr. J. James E. Margetson TEEASUREE, M. Moorhouse WEESTLIANA. 85 STEWAEDS. Mr. T. Westmoreland ,, J. Brown J. Chicken G. Wharton J. Rawlings J. Richardson E. Stain ton J. Dixon At a meeting held at Mr. Whai-ton's, "Windmill Street, a letter was read from Mr. James Irwin , an old subscriber, enquiring whether, in the event of his coming to London previous to Good Friday, he would be allowed to wrestle. It was decided by the com- mittee that he should be allowed to compete for the prizes, as the rule excluding those who had not resided in London since the 1st of January, did not apply to old subscribers who had formerly a fixed residence in the metropolis, nor to the military, whose duties frequently caused their absence, but Avas intended solely to prevent men coming fresh from the North to take away the prizes. The sports took place at Hornsey Wood House, on Good Friday, March 25th. The day most anxiously looked forward to by the natives of Cumberland and Westmoreland, was ushered in by a heavy fall of snow ; this unfortunate circumstance, however, had no effect on the success of the meeting, the attendance of spectators being unusually large, and the wrest- ling, if anything, more interesting than ever. 8G WBESTLIAXA. The Umpires were Messrs. T. Westmoreland and J. Eichardson. Eeferee, Mr. E. Margetson. Eesult of the wrestling : Third Sound. Stood Fell. Matthew Palmer Sergeant Chalmers H. Howe J. Little T. Williamson W. Douglas E. Stanley E. Sargeson Fourth Round. H. Howe E. Stanley T. Williamson! Matthew 'Palmer final- Falls. T. Williamson H. Howe T. Williamson H. Howe ME>~ or ALL WEIGHTS. Third Round. J. Hind W. Robinson H. Todd Jos. Scott Thomas Todd Corporal Bowstead G. Brunskill Thomas Atkinson H. Howe Sergeant Chalmers J. Tiffin, odd man Fourth Round. H. Howe J. Tiffin G. Brunskill H. Todd T. Todd E. Grreenhow (blown ont for putting down his head) T. Hind, odd man Fifth Round. T. Todd J. Hind G. Brunskill H. Howe Final Falls. Gr. Brunskill Thomas Todd Thomas Todd G. Brunskill Thomas Todd G. Brunskill WEESTLIA.NA. 87 Foot Race. Sergeant Chalmers . . First P. Sherwiii . . . Second The prizes were awarded as follows : First prize, 8 . Second ditto, 4 Third ditto, 2 . Fourth ditto, 2 Filth ditto, 1 . Sixth ditto, 1 . Seventh ditto, 1 Eighth ditto, 1 LIGHT WEIGHTS. Thomas Williamson, Sowerby Harry Howe, Abbey Holme Matthew Palmer, Bewcastle E. Stanley, Workington E. Sargeson, Brampton Walter Douglas, Lorton J. Little, Aglionby Sergeant Chalmers, Longtown HEAVY WEIGHTS. First prize, 8 . . Thomas Todd, Gilsland Second ditto, 4 . G. Brunskill, Patterdale Third ditto, 2 . Harry Howe, Abbey Holme Fourth ditto, 2 . J. Hind, Scotby Fifth ditto, 1 . E. Greenhow, Staintoii Sixth ditto, 1 . H. Todd, Hayton Seventh ditto, 1 . Joseph Tiffin, Weltoii Eighth ditto, 1 . Sergeant Chalmers, Longtown The champion of each prize was presented [with a silver-mounted belt, appropriately inscribed. 1854. The General Annual Meeting was held at the " Guildhall Shades," on the 27th January. After the Secretary's report had been read, the following officers were appointed for the ensuing year : 88 WRESTLIA]*A. CHAIRMAN. SECRETARY. Mr. James Mr. Margctson TREASURER, Mr. Moorhousc STEWARDS. Mr. Thompson Westmoreland J. Chicken G. Wharton J. Brown E. Stainton Bateman ATI immense concourse of spectators assembled to witness the sports at Hornsey AVood House, 011 Good Friday, April llth. The wrestling, especially for the light weight prize, was very good, and the performances were watched with eager interest. The celebrated James Scott of Carlisle was amongst the competitors ; that prince of wrestlers carrying oif the light weight prize in splendid style. About this time, it was remarked that there was a great falling off in heavy weight wrestlers, the light weights winning nearly everything. This is to be accounted for by the fact that wrestling was becoming a science in itself, and not merely an exhibition of strength, and that the heavy weights had failed to keep pace with their lighter opponents. Scott was then just in his prime, and stood a good chance of winning the all- weight prize ; he was, however, com- pelled to succumb to Thomas Atkinson, of Old Town, Westmoreland, who threw the mighty cham- \VBESTLIAXA. 89 pion of the light weights very cleverly. In the fifth round, Atkinson was thrown by Scott's brother Alexander, who won the second prize, George Brun skill, of Patterdale, gaining the first prize. The Umpires were Messrs. Chicken and Westmore- land. Eeferee, Mr. Eichard Margetsou. Eesult of the wrestling : Second Round. Stood. Fell. Wm. Jackson Alex. Scott Andrew Mundell Andrew Fox Thomas Wood John Bulman Samuel Webster Thomas Williamson James Scott Henry Ivison William Smith James Irving Jos. Tiffin Thomas Preston Thomas Dickinson Edward Wilson Joseph Thompson, odd man Third Round. Joseph Thompson Samuel Wehster Jos. Tiffin William Smith Thomas Dickinson William Jackson James Scott Andrew Mundell Thomas Wood, odd man Fourth Round. James Scott Thomas Wood Jos. Tiffin Joseph Thompson Thomas Dickinson, odd man Fifth Round. Jos. Tiffin Thomas Dickinson James Scott, odd man Final Falls. James Scott Joseph Tiffin James Scott Joseph Tiffin 90 WEESTLIAKA. HEAVY WEIGHTS. Third Round. Stood. Fell. E. Greenhow Thomas Dickinson T. Atkinson J. McGowan James Scott William Smith George Brunskill Joseph Tiffin Joseph Thompson Jos. Pearce A. Scott, odd man Fourth Round. A. Scott Joseph Thompson T. Atkinson James Scott E. Greenhow James Gibson G. Brunskill E. Eudham Fifth Round. A. Scott T. Atkinson G. Brunskill E. Greenhow Final Falls. G. Brunskill Alexander Scott G. Brunskill Alexander Scott The Foot Eace was won by James Scott, Carlisle, The prizes were awardeed as follows : LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize, 8 ... James Scott, Carlisle Second ditto, 4 . . . Jos. Tiffin, Welton Third ditto, 2 . . . T. Dickinson, Brampton Fourth ditto, 2 . . . J. Thompson, Waverton Fifth ditto, 1 ... Thomas Wood Sixth ditto, 1 . . . A. Mundell, Carlisle Seventh ditto, 1 . . Win. Jackson Eighth ditto, 1 . . . Win. Smith HEAVY WEIGHTS. First prize, 8 . . . G. Brunskill, Patterdale Second ditto, 4 . . . Alexander Scott, Carlisle Third ditto, 2 . . . E, Greenhow, Stainton Fourth ditto, 2 . . . T. Atkinson, Old Town Fifth ditto, 1 . . . E. Eudham Sixth ditto, 1 ... James Gibson, Musgrove Seventh ditto, 1 . . . James Scott, Carlisle Eighth ditto, 1 . . . J. Thompson, Waverton WBESTLIANA. 91 A handsome silver-mounted belt, bearing an appro- priate inscription was presented to the champion of each weight. 1855. The Annual Dinner was held at the " Guildhall Shades," on the 23rd of June, 1854, when the follow- ing officers were appointed for the year. CHAIRMAN. TBEASTJREK. Mr. James Mr. Moorhouse SECEETABY, Mr. Margetson STEWARDS. Mr. G-. Wharton J. Brown J. Chicken T. Westmoreland P. Milburn J. Thompson E. Stainton W. Bateman F. Bell The sports took place at " Hornsey "Wood House," on "Whit Monday, May 27. The new Beer Act having come into operation this year, it was deemed advisable to postpone the Wrestling from Good Friday, to the above-named day. The weather was very unfavourable, and not a tenth of the number of 02 WRESTLIA^A. spectators were present, who usually assembled on a Good Friday. The war iu the Crimea operated most disastrously on the occasion, as at all the meetings hitherto, the stalwart forms of the Guards, and other fine regiments abroad at the time appeared con- spicuous in the ring, and were wont to carry off many a well-contested prize. In addition to these drawbacks, "Whit Monday not being a general holiday, is very unsuitable for holding a meeting of this kind. This instance affords a striking argument in favour of Good Friday. The umpires were Messrs. Chicken and Bell. Eeferee, Mr. Margetson. A pigeon shooting sweepstakes took place this year, 10s. each with 5 added ; 7 pigeons, 21 yards rise ; charge of shot not to exceed 1 V oz. E. JIargetson (1st) . killed 6 3. C. Dixon (2nd) . 5 E. Fawcett . . ,,5 .T. Just ... ,,4 J. Hodgson . . -4 Messrs. Chicken and Sayer withdrew without shooting at all their birds. The tie for the second prize was snot off and won by J. C. Dixon. Foot Race. Eight started for the race, which was won by S. Franklin . First J. Duckworth . Second E. Q-. Eudd . Third WRESTLIAXA. 93 The following is the result of the Wrestling MEX >'OT EXCEEDING 11 STONE. Second Bound. Stood. Fell. E. Stanley T. Winskill A. Scott Jos. Gaddes Jos. Tiffin Jos. Dobson J. Moorliouse J. Irving B. Jenkins T. Williamson T. Wood John Little George Gibson, odd man Third Bound. Jos. Tiffin George Gibson T. Wood E. Stanley A. Scott B. Jenkins J. Moorhouse, odd man Fourth Bound. J. Moorhouse T. Wood A. Scott Jos. Tiffin Final Falls. A. Scott J. Moorhouse A. Scott J. Moorhouse An, WEIGHTS. Third Bound. Stood. Fell. W. Shepherd T. Swain N. Faulkner T. Atkinson A. Scott J. Nanson H. Mossop G. Gibson G. Brunskill K. Morton 94) WBESTLIA2TA. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. W. Shepherd G-. Brunskill Jf. Faulkner Henry Mossop A. Scott, odd man. Fifth Sound. X. Faulkner A. Scott W. Shepherd, odd man. Final Falls. N. Faulkner W. Shepherd X. Faulkner W. Shepherd The prizes were awarded as follows : SHOOTIKG. First prize, 5 . . . E. Margetson, Kirby Stephen Second ditto, 2 10s. . 3. C. Dixon, Bournes Third ditto, 1 . . . E. Fawcett, Kirby Stephen FOOT EACE. First prize, 1 . . . S. Franklin, Kirby Stephen Second ditto, 10s. . . 3. Duckworth, Harkrigg Third ditto, 5s. . . E. Q-. Eudd, Appleby WEESTLHTG. First prize, 5 A. Scott, Carlisle Second ditto, 2 10s . J. Moorhouse, Hayton Third ditto, 1 10s. . Jos. Tiffin, Welton Fourth ditto, 1 10s. . J. Wood, Wigton Fifth ditto, 15s. . . B. Jenkins, Milnethorpe Sixth ditto, 15s. . . E. Stanley, Workington VTRESTLIAXA. 95 HEAVY WEIOHTS. First prize, 5 . . . N. Faulkner, Old Hutton Second ditto, 2 10s. . W. Shepherd, Waverton Third ditto, 1 10s. . . Alexander Scott, Carlisle Fourth ditto, 1 10s. . Henry Mossop, Appleby Fifth ditto, 15s. . . G. Brunskill, Patterdale Sixth ditto, 15s. . . E. Morton, Carlisle A handsome belt was also presented to the cham- pion of each weight. 1856. The annual dinner took place at the " Guildhall Shades " Tavern, on the 23rd of January. After the cloth was removed, the accounts Avere satisfactorily wound up, and the following gentlemen were elected to carry out the sports : CHAIRMAN. TREASURER. Mr. James Mr. Moorhouse SECRETARY. Mr. Margetson. STEWARDS. Mr. Bell Brown Westmoreland Stainton Thompson Milburn Wannop Eichardson Saul It was arranged that the wrestling should take place at Hornsey "Wood House on Good Friday, and duly announced in the public papers ; but on the 9th 96 WBESTLIA^A. of March, Mr. Stone, the proprietor of the grounds, received a notice from the police, forbidding him to allow the wrestling to he held on Good Friday at his place. It was therefore resolved that the authorities should be communicated with, and the following letter was despatched to Sir Eichard Mayne, the Chief Commissioner of Police : " Islington, March llth, 1856. " Sir, The natives of Cumberland and Westmore- land residing in London, have for the last century or more been in the habit of getting up a subscription among themselves for the purchase of prizes to be contended for in their favourite and national sports of wrestling, leaping, &c. ; and have (on account of this being the only general holiday in the year) been in the habit of holding their meetings on Good Fri- day a day on which alone the members of the Society (being composed principally of young men holding situations inwholesalehouses in the City) can be spared from their employment. These meetings were for several years held in the grounds of "Highbury Barn " Tavern ; but, on account of its greater convenience, have been held for the last five years at "Hornsey Wood" Tavern. From the highly -respectable class of young men comprising the Society which is strictly confined to the natives of those two counties no in- stance of the slightest disturbance or disagreemea WRESTLIA2TA. 97 lias ever been known, a fact which the writer of this can vouch for, having been a member since 1826, and a competitor and winner of several head prizes. By way of precaution, and to satisfy the police authorities of the strictly respectable character of the Society, and the pacific and manly nature of its sports, the Committee have always been in the habit of engaging and paying for the attendance of a few policemen. Having, however, received an intimation from Mr. Stone, the proprietor of "Hornsey "Wood House," that there is likely to be some objec- tion made, on the present Good Friday, to the celebration of their usual annual sports, and being most desirous to avoid anything that may bear even the semblance of opposition to the constituted authorities, I am desired by the Committee to make this appeal to you, and to request that we may not be prevented meeting together as usual to enjoy our sports, so anxiously looked forward to and eagerly joined in at our annual gathering by nearly every Cumberland and "Westmoreland man in London. To us this meeting is a festival ; an assemblage of men from the same villages ; of old school -fellows and friends who have known each other from childhood, and whose kindred tastes and early associations attract them to one spot, from the whole surface of this wide metropolis, to greet each other as such friends only can, and to view or join in sports which, 98 WRESTLIAIs-A. from their earliest years, they have delighted in. As a proof of the respectability and high standing of this Society, I may point to the fact of 'the Earl of Lonsdale, the Hon. Colonel Lowther, Mr. Marshall, M.P., as -well as several other noblemen and gentle- men being constant subscribers and frequent spectators, and that any surplus funds, arising from our meetings, have invariably been given to the charitable institutions of the tAvo counties, as much as forty guineas having on several occasions been handed over at a time ; I would also appeal to the police authorities in the neighbourhood, and state that the wrestling seldom commences before 3 o'clock, P.M., sometimes later, and that as the entrance to the grounds can be had quite unconnected with the house, it is not proposed in any way to interfere with the law of closing public houses ; that no member belong- ing to the Society has the slightest pecuniary interest in it, directly or indirectly, but that every shilling which is collected is accounted for and spent in prizes, for the use of the grounds, or given to the charities as before- mentioned. In apologising for troubling you at this length (which I should not have done if I could have given the necessary information in a smaller space), I beg to say that we will hold ourselves responsible that no breach of the peace shall occur, and that we will most willingly pay the expense of police on the WRESTLIAXA. 99 grounds. Most anxiously hoping that you will not put your veto on the harmless amusement we have so long enjoyed, there being no other day iu the year (as frequent trials have proved) on which we could possibly hold the meeting, your favourable and early reply will greatly oblige, Sir, yours most respectfully, RICHARD MAEGETSOX, For the Cumberland and Westmoreland Wrestling Society. To SIR BICHARD MAYXE, Chief Commissioner of Police, Scotland Yard. Sir Richard Mayne's reply was, that the wrestling should be allowed to take place without interruption on G-ood Friday, and in addition to which the Society was to be supplied with as many men from the police as might be desired for the purpose of keeping order. The annual meetings of the Society were thus placed on a firmer basis than ever they had been since its first existence. The wrestling took place at "Hornsey "Wood House," Tavern, on Grood Friday, March 21st. "When it be- came known that Sir Richard Mayne had sanctioned the meeting on that day, the sports were looked forward to with the greatest interest, consequently, an unusual number of spectators assembled on the grounds. The wrestling was very good and gave 100 WEESTLIAXA. great satisfactory The only hitch in the proceedings occurred in the final fall between John Smith and GTeo. Brunskill ; Smith's knee touched the ground, but recovering himself quickly, he continued the struggle, and finally threw Brunskill. It was thought by those who did not see Smith's position, and others who did not understand the laws of wrestling, that he was the victor. The Umpires, however, very properly awarded the first prize to Brunskill. In the first round, all weights, Joseph Gilchrist distin- guished himself by throwing Alex. Scott very cleverly. In the third round, however, George Brunskill finished his career by throwing him after a good tussle. The Umpires were Messrs. Richardson and Bell, Referee, Mr. Margetson. Result of the wrestling : LIGHT WEIGHTS, 11 STONE MEN. Second Sound. Stood. Fell. T. Williamson Watty Fisher Alex. Scott Wm. Leggett E. Atkinson, jun. Jno. Bulman J. Moorhouse Jno. Cooke H. Howe, Thomas Boustead Jno. Thompson Thomas Wood Jos. Tiffin Geo. Brown John Little Geo. Gibson Third Sound. H. Howe A. Scott Jno. Thompson E. Atkinson, jun. J. Moorhouse T. Williamson Jos. Tiffin Jno. Little WRESTLIANA. 101 Fourth Round. Stood. Jos. Tiffin Jno. Thompson H. Howe J. Moorhouse Final Falls. Jos. Tiffin H. Howe Jos. Tiffin H. Howe HEAVY WEIGHTS. Third Sound. George Brun skill Jos. Gilchrisfc Henry Howe J. Foster John Robinson Jos. Tiffin John Smith Thomas Atkinson John Haddecot J. Morton Thomas Wood C. Nanson John Thompson, odd man Fourth Hound. John Thompson Henry Howe Thomas Wood J. Eobinson G. Brunskill J. Hadicott John Smith, odd man Fifth Round. John Smith John Thompson George Brunskill Thos. Wood FINAL FALLS. George Brunskill John Smith John Smith G. Brunskill George Brunskill John Smith The prizes were awarded as follows : Foot Race. First prize, silver snuff box, Samuel Frankland, Kirbystephen. 102 WBESTLIAXA. LIGHT WEIGHT WRESTLING. First prize, silver watch . . . Joseph Tiffin, Welton Second ditto, silver snuffbox . . Henry Howe, Penrith Third ditto, silver snuff box . . J. Moorhouse, Hayton Fourth ditto, silver snuff box . . J. Thompson, Skelton ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, silver watch, . . . Gr. Brunskill, Patierdale Second ditto, silver snuff box . . John Smith, Old Hutton Third ditto, silver snuffbox . . ThomasWood, Blencogo Fourth ditto, silver snuff box . . J. Thompson, Skelton The increasing state of the funds enabled the com- mittee, this year, to present 20 guineas to the bene- volent institutions of the two counties, 10 guineas were handed to the Cumberland Benevolent Institution in the name of Mr. Brown, and 10 guineas to the West- moreland Schools in the name of Mr. Staintou. The annual settling dinner took place at the " Gruildhall Shades," on the 18th of April, when the officers were elected for the ensuing year. Messrs. James, Marget- son, and Moorhouse having declined to accept the offices of President, Secretary, and Treasurer which they had so long held, the following gentlemen were afterwards appointed for 1857. CHAIRMAN. SECRETARY. Mr. W. Thompson T. Westmoreland TREASURES. J. Stocks. WEESTLIAJS'A. 103 STEWARDS. Mr. L. D. Lund James Brown James Hodgson T. Charlton W. Leggett J. Tiffin E. Stainton T. Williamson The sports took place, for the first time, in the grounds of the " White Lion," Hackney Wick, on Good Friday, April 10th. The wrestling was of a very superior description, and reflected the greatest credit on all concerned ; and, after all expenses had been paid, the sum of 20 guineas was handed to the benevolent institutions connected with the two counties. The following is the result : LIGHT WEIGHTS 11 STONE MEN. Third Round. Stood. William Banks James Bowman John Lancaster Jos. Thompson John Smith John Thompson George Gibson Fell. T. Mein E. Stanley P. Barnes Alex. Scott James Brown E. Charlton John Little Fourth Hound. William Banks J. Bowman John Thompson John Smith Jos. Thompson George Gibson John Lancaster, odd man 104 Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. Jos. Thompson John Thompson William Banks, odd man Final Falls. Jos. Thompson William Banks Jos. Thompson William Banks HEATT WEIGHTS. Third Mound. John Scott John Wheatley J. Thompson James Brown J. Kuddham William Jenkinson W. Banks T. Atkinson John Smith George Brunskill J. Nanson, odd man Fourth Round. John Smith John Kanson John Scott William Banks J. Koutledge J. Ruddham J. Thompson, odd man Fifth Mound. Jos. Thompson John Scott John Smith J. Koutledge Final Falls. John Smith Jos. Thompson John Smith Jos. Thompson The prizes were awarded as follows : LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize, silver \vatch . . . Jos. Thompson Second ditto, silver snuff box . . William Banks Third ditto, silver snuff box . . John Thompson Fourth ditto, silver snuff box . . John Lancaster WBESTLIANA. 105 ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, silver watch . . . John Smith Second ditto, silver snuffbox . . Jos. Thompson Third ditto, silver snuff box . . J. Routledge Fourth ditto, silver snuff box . . John Scott 1858. The following gentlemen were elected as officers for this year. CHAIBMAN, Mr. W. Thompson. TBEASTTBEB, Mr. James Stocks. SECBETIBY, Mr. T. Westmoreland. STEWABDS. Mr. Lund Gibson Leggett Gilchrist Bulman Charlton Hodgson Ellison John Thompson The wrestling took place on G-ood Friday, April 4th, at the " "White Lion," Hackney "Wick, and was well attended, although the weather was cold, with occasional falls of snow. Mr. E. Margetson was Eeferee. ALL WEIGHTS. Fourth Hound. Stood. FeU. E. Calver J. Smith J. Wilkinson G-. Mason T. Hetherington E. Atkinson Jos. Thompson Jos. Scott 106 WBESTLIAjS'A. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Wilkinson E. Calver T. Hetherington Jos. Thompson Final Falls. T. Hetherington J. Wilkinson T. Hetherington J. Wilkinson LIGHT WEIGHTS 11 STOXE HEX. Fourth Round. G-eo. Gibson R. Atkinson J. Smith J. Tiffin J. Kirkbriclge J. Sanders Fifth Round. J. Smith J. Kirkbridge Geo. Gibson, odd man Final Falls. Geo. Gibson John Smith Geo. Gibson John Smith The prizes were awarded as follows : LIGHT WEIGHTS. First prize, silver watch . . George Gibson Second ditto, silver snuff box. . John Smith Third ditto, silver snuff box . . Thomas Sanders Fourth ditto, silver snuff box . J. Kirkbridge HEAVY WEIGHTS. First prize, silver watch . . T. Hetherington Second ditto, silver snuff box . Jos. Wilkinson Third ditto, silver snuff box. . Jos. Thompson Fourth ditto, silver snuffbox . E. Calver A donation of twenty guineas was handed to the two charitable institutions of Cumberland and "West- moreland, in equal proportions. WRESTLIANA. 107" 1859. At the aniversary dinner held at the " Guildhall Shades " the previous year, the following officers were appointed to carry out the sports : CHAIRMAN-. TEEASTTEEB. Mr. William Thompson Mr. James Stooks SECBETAEY. Mr. Thomas Westmoreland STEWARDS. Mr. L. D. Lund William Leggatt John Thompson Thomas Hetherington Thomas Mein James Ellison George Gibson Jos. Gilchrist The wrestling took place at the " White Lion,' r Hackney "Wick, on Good Friday, April 22nd. This was a very successful year. In addition to the sports being the best that ever had been witnessed, the list of competitors included some of the best light weight men we have had from the north viz., George- Sanderson, G. Mason, J. Mason, Jno. Smith, J. Tiffin, &c. Mr. Sanderson's wrestling was much admired, and this being his first year in London, he received a hearty reception. It will be seen that he succeeded in gaining the second 108 WEESTLIAtfA. prize in the heavy weights and the third in the light. In his wrestle with Gr. Mason in the fifth round, light weights, it was the general opinion of those present that Mason was thrown, although the umpires ruled otherwise. They were drawn together again in the third round, heavy weights ; on going out to his man, Sanderson held up his hand to the assembled multitude, and said, " See if I don't ' fell ' him this time ! " No sooner had they got into holds, when amidst the cheers of the spectators, Sanderson hiped him in the most brilliant manner possible. The following is the result of the wrestling : LIGHT WEIGHTS, 11 STONE MEN. Third Round. Stood. Fell. T. Kobinson J. Atkinson G-. Sanderson O. Kirkpatrick G. Mason Jos. Thompson J. Tiffin J. Smith (lost hold) J. Mason J. Scott Fourth Sound. J. Mason J Tiffin GK Sanderson T. Robinson Q-. Mason, odd man Fifth Sound. Or. Mason G-. Sanderson J. Mason, odd man Final Falls. J. Mason G-. Mason OK Mason J. Mason Gr. Mason J. Mason WBESTLIAXA. 109 HEAVY WEIGHTS. Third Round. Stood. Fell. H. Tyson G-. Newby W. Sewell E. Atkinson J. Mason M. Robinson Or. Sanderson GL Mason J. Wills W. Jackson J. Wilkinson J. Thompson Thos. Hetherington John Smith Fourth Sound. T. Hetherington J. Wilkinson G-. Sanderson J. Wills W. Sewell J. Mason H. Tyson, odd man Fifth Sound. G-. Sanderson H. Tyson T. Hetherington W. Sewell Final Falls. T. Hetherington G-. Sanderson T. Hetherington Q-. Sanderson The prizes were awarded as follows : LIGHT WEIGHTS. First Prize, a silver watch . . G. Mason Second ditto, a silver snuff box . J. Mason Third ditto, a silver snuff box . Geo. Sanderson Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box . T. Robinson. HEAVY WEIGHTS. First Prize, a silver watch . . Thos. Hetherington Second ditto,a silver snuff box . G-. Sanderson Third ditto, a silver snuff box . W. Sewell Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box . H. Tyson The sum of 40 guineas was presented to the two 110 WEESTLIAXA. benevolent institutions, in the names of the following gentlemen : Messrs. James Hodgsonand James Elli- son, for Cumberland ; and Messrs. John Thompson and George Gibson, for "Westmoreland. I860. The Annual General Meeting of the Society was held at the " Guildhall Shades," on the 7th of March. The principal business to be transacted was the elec- tion of officers, which produced some very smart com- petitions, especially that for the position of Chairman. After a very animated discussion, the following gentlemen were proposed, seconded, and declared duly elected : CHAIBMAX. HON. SECBETABY. Mr. William Thompson Mr. R. Margetson TBEASrBEB, Mr. James Hodgson STEWARDS. Mr. John Thompson William Armstrong L. D. Lund Geo. Gibson Jas. Ellison Wannop James Brown E. Bell T. Clemetson J. Eichardson The wrestling took place at "Hornsey "Wood WBESTLIA2s T A. Ill House," on Good Friday, April 6th. The attendance of spectators was very numerous, all parts of the grounds being crowded. It will be seen that the heavy weights showed, as of late years, great infe- riority, three of the prizes in that class were won by light-weight men, John Smith, the winner of the heavy-weight prize being under 11 stones, and always able to wrestle in that class. The Umpires were Messrs. Frank Bell, and John Eichardson ; Eeferee, Mr. E. Margetson. The following is the result : LIGHT WEIGHTS 11 STOXE MEN. Second Hound. Stood. Fell. M. Robinson John Illingworth G-. Mason E. Oliphant William Banks Jos. GHlchrist T. Eobinson T. Brunskill J. Mason C. Airey William Atkinson T. Smith G-. Sanderson John Magnay J. Kirkpatrick W. Walker Third Hound. Or. Sanderson William Banks G. Mason J. Kirkpatrick M. Robinson T. Robinson John Mason W. Atkinson Fjurth Sound. G-. Mason GL Sanderson John Mason M. Robinson 112 WEESTLIANA. Final Falls. Stood. . Fell. G. Mason John Mason John Mason Geo. Mason John Mason Geo. Mason HEAVY WEIGHTS. Third Sound. J. Logan J. McGowan T. Eobinson E. Atkinson J. Hewitson G. Sanderson John Smith John Mason M. Eobinson T. Smith W. Banks T. Brunskill Fourth Hound. T. Eobinson W. Banks M. Eobinson J. Hewitson Jno. Smith J. Logan Fifth Sound. John Smith Mat. Eobinson Thos. Eobinson, odd man. Final Falls. John Smith T. Eobinson John Smith T. Eobinson The prizes were awarded as below : Foot Race. First . . John Thompson, Penrith Second . . T. Eobinson, Carlisle Third . . J. Duckworth, Harkrigg LIGHT WEIGHTS. First Prize, a gold watch . John Mason, Glencogo Second ditto, a silver watch . Geo. Mason, Killington Third ditto, a silver snuff box . M. Eobinson, Kerbystephea Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box . Geo. Sanderson, Unthank WRESTLIA3TA. 113 HEAVY WEIGHTS. First Prize, a gold watch . . John Smith Hutfcou Second ditto, a silver watch . T. Robinson, Carlisle Third ditto, a silver snuff box . M. Robinson, Kirbystephen Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box . J. Lagan, St. Bees A donation of 40 guineas was presented to the two benevolent institutions of Cumberland and "Westmoreland, in the names of the following gentle- men : Messrs. T. Clemitson and P. Bell, for Cum- berland; and Messrs. E. Margetson and John Richardson, for "Westmoreland. 1861. The annual dinner was held at the " Guildhall Shades," on the 19th February, and was well at- tended. The Secretary read a report showing a handsome balance in the hands of the Treasurer. The usual loyal toasts were then given, and duly responded to, after which the election of officers was proceeded with, which resulted as below : CHAIRMAN. TBEASUEEE. Mr. T. Clemitson Mr. James Hodgson HON. SECBETAEY, Mr. Margetson Ill WBESTLIA>*A. STEWAEDS. Mr. "William Armstrong -F. Bell J. Brown G. Gibson C. Little T. James J. Scott E. Shiinton W. Thompson J. Thompson W. Eaclford , The wrestling took place at " Hornsey "Wood House," on Good Friday, March 29th. The list of competitors included the very best men in England, consequently the sports "were of more than ordinary interest. An immense crowd of spectators assembled to witness the wrestling, which was a very scientific display; such an array of talent had never before been witnessed in the London ring. Noble Ewbank, the best built wrestler of the day, was there ; the gigantic "William Jameson, the scientific Richard "Wright, James Scott, the light weight champion, Ben Coope^ " Old Ben," the hero of a hundred rings, T. Rawlin- son, Gr. Glaister, &c., were amongst the number. There were four classes of prizes this year, viz., the London prize for men under 11 stone, confined to residents in the metropolis. The all-comers' prize for men under 11 stone. The heavy Aveighfc prize for all-comers, and a prize for 16 picked men. In addi- tion to which prizes were offered for running, high leaping, and pole-leaping. In consequence of such WRESTLIAXA. 115 an elaborate programme, the sports occupied two days, commencing on Good Friday with, the London 11 stone prize. The following is the result : London Prize. FOB MEN FNDEK 11 STONE. Second Hound. Stood. Fell. T. Nicholson P. Leech Alexander Scott James Smith William Gilchnst Robert Atkinson Walter Armstrong George Sanderson William Wilkinson James Brunskill J. Tiffin John Rohinson Thomas Mein James Taylor J. Dixon D. Dover John Smith R. Wilson E. Atkinson was drawn against new blood in the shape of William Gilchrist, who made very short work of the old 'un. William Wilkinson and J. Brunskill made a good wrestle, resulting in favour of the former. It will be noticed also that George Sanderson fell to a new comer in this round. Third Sound. Stood. Fell. John Dixon T. Nicholson John Smith Alexander Scott Jos. Tiffin William Wilkinson William Gilchrist Walter Armstrong Thomas Mein, odd man Jos. Tiffin knew too much for W. Wilkinson, the latter tried the buttock, but Tiffin slipped his head and threw him adroitly. 116 WBESTLIA3TA. FourtJi, Round. Stood. Fell. Thomas Mein Jolin Smith John Dixon Jos. Tiffin William Gilchristj odd man The best wrestle in this round was that between Thomas Mein and John Smith ; it was confidently expected by the majority of the spectators that Smith would win the head prize ; however, no sooner had they got hold when Mr. Mein upset all the calculations of the House of "Westmoreland by throwing Smith, in less than a twinkling, by the inside click. The cheer- ing all round the ring was immense. Smith being quite a couple of stones heavier than his lithe little antagonist. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. William Grilchrist Thomas Mein John Dixon, odd man Final Falls. William Grilchrist John Dixon John Dixon William G-ilchrisfc John Dixon William Grilchrist In the final round Grilchrist gained the first fall, but Dixon proved too much for him, and afterwards threw him twice in succession. Grilchrist wrestled well, and had he been half-a-stone heavier, would un- doubtedly have won the first prize. HEAVY WEIGHT PBIZE. Second Round. Stood. Fell. William Jameson M. Kobinson Tom Rawlinson T. Nicholson Richard Wright D. Johnston WEESTLIA^A. 117 Stood. Fell. Noble Ewbank T. Sharpe J. Nattras John Smith T. Blackett G. Glaister Walter Armstrong A. Wilson J. Thompson J. Dixon A. Scott W. Newman T. Taylor T. Whiteford James Scott, odd man The three champions, Jameson, Wright and Ewbank, were greeted with hearty cheers as each threw his man with the greatest ease. Third Sound. Stood. Fell. James Scott James Taylor Benjamin Cooper J. Nattra's Noble Ewbauk A. Scott William Jameson T. Blackett J. Thompson Walter Armstrong Eichard Wright T. Eawlinson Fourth Hound. Noble Ewbank Ben Cooper Eichard Wright J. Thompson William Jameson James Scott Fifth Hound. William Jameson Eichard Wright Noble Ewbank, odd man Final Falls. Noble Ewbank William Jameson William Jameson Noble Ewbank William Jameson Noble Ewbank In the final struggle, Noble gained the first fall, Jameson the last two. It was a fine display of strength and science, but Ewbank had to succumb to the superior weight of his opponent. 118 WEESTLIAXA. Running HigJi Leap. First . . T). Johnston, Loughstead Tie for "^ Thomas Robinson, Carlisle Second and Third ) J. Thompson, Penrith Lirjlit-WeicjU Prize. ALL COJIEBS 11 STOXE ME>*. Second Hound. Stood. Fell. J. Smith D. Johnston Ben Cooper Thos. Mein M. Robinson Jas. Scott T. Nicholson Jos. Gilchrist Geo. Sanderson Jno. Dixon James Scott was thrown in this round very unex- pectedly by Matthew Robinson. The neatest of outside chips brought the Champion light-weight on his knees, much to his chagrin. G. Sanderson lifted J. Dixon, and threw him with the hipe. Third Round. Stood. Fell. G. Sanderson T. Nicholson Ben Cooper if. Robinson Jno. Smith, odd man Fifth Round. J. Smith G. Sanderson B. Cooper, odd man Sanderson wrestled Smith all over the ring, but weight told against him, and Smith gained the fall. Final Falls. Stood. Fell.1 Ben Cooper Jno. Smith Ben Cooper Jno. Smith WKESTLIAXA. 119 In the final falls " Old Ben" got into his favourite position (slack holds) each time, with his head over Smith's shoulder, grinning that peculiar grin, which always foretold the downfall of his antagonist. Smith stood no chance, for Ben literally mowed him down, and was proclaimed the winner. 16 PICKED MEX. First Round. Stood. Fell. Ben Cooper D. Johnston J. Milner J. Thompson Thos. Blackett T. Robinson N. Ewbank R. Wright T. Rawlinson J. Smith J. Scott ,T. Nattras G-. Glaister M. Robinson W. Mathers T. Sharp The contest between "Wright and Ewbank was very interesting, each wrestled desperately ; their size and weight being about equal, made the struggle a splendid one, which ended in a dog fall. On coming together again Noble had the best of the tussle throwing Wright cleverly. Second Sound. Stood. Fell. Ben Cooper J. Milner T. Kawlinson W. Mather Noble Ewbank G-. Glaister J. Scott T. Blackett Third Sound. T. Rawlinson Ben Cooper Xoble Ewbank Jas. Scott 120 WRESTLIAXA. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. Tom Eawlinson Noble Ewbaiik Noble Ewbank Tom Eawlinson Noble Ewbank Tom Eawlinson The victory of N"oble Ewbank was received with great cheering. His handsome appearance and gen- tlemanly behaviour rendered him a general favourite wherever he went. POLE-LEAPING. Wm. Jameson, Penrith ") m. , , , , D. Johnston, Loughhead j Tie, 1st and 2nd J. Eobinson, Carlisle \ . , , . . Ben Cooper, Carlisle j Tie ' 3r( The pole-leaping was keenly contested. Jameson, in spite of his great weight, would not be denied, and succeeded in making a tie for first place with one of the best leapers of the day. The prizes were awarded as follows : LONDON PEIZE. First prize, a gold watch . . John Dixon, Kirbystephen Second ditto, a silver watch . ~Wm. Gilchrist," Carlisle Third ditto, a silver snuff-box . Thos. Mein, Burgh Fourth ditto, a silver snuff-box Joseph Tiffin, Welton HEAVY WEIGHTS. First prize 12 12 William Jameson, Penrith Second ditto 660 Noble Ewbank, Bampton Third ditto 330 Eichard Wright, Longtown Fourth ditto 330 James Scott, Carlisle Fifth ditto 1 11 6 Walter Armstrong, Carlisle Sixth ditto 1 11 6 J. Thompson, Penrith Seventh ditto 1 11 6 Ben Cooper, Carlisle Eighth ditto 1 11 6 T. Eawlinson, Wharton WKESTLIAXA. 121 11 STOKE PEIZE, ALL COMERS. First prize Second ditto Third ditto Fourth ditto Fifth ditto Sixth ditto Seventh ditto Eighth ditto 80 Ben Cooper, Carlisle 40 John Smith, Old Hutton 20 G-eorge Sanderson, Unthank 2 M. Robinson, Kirbystephen 1 T. Nicholson, Carlisle 1 J. Dixon, Kirby Lonsdalo 1 W. Gilchrist, Carlisle 10 James Scott, Carlisle 16 PICKED MEN. First prize, 500 Noble Ewbank, Bampton Second ditto 2 10 T. Rawlinson, Wharton Third ditto 150 James Scott, Carlisle Fourth ditto 150 Ben Cooper, Carlisle 1862. The Annual Dinner took place at the " Gruildhall Shades," when the following officers were elected: CHAIRMAN, TREASURES, Mr. T. Clemistson Mr. James Hodgson HON. SECRETARY, Mr. B>. Margetson STEWARDS : M . F. Bell Wm. Armstrong Win. Thompson J. Thompson Wm. Leggett Nelson C. Little G-eorge Gibson J. Brown T. Charlton John Smith ,, J. James The wrestling came off at " Hornsey "Wood House," 122 WRESTLIA2TA. on Good Friday, April 18th, 1862. There was a large attendance of spectators, notwithstanding the counter attractions in and around London. The pole- leaping a new feature in the sports elicited great applause. The champion, Eobert Musgrave, made his first appearance in the London Eing this year, and took the first prize ; William Jameson, unwilling to be shaken off, making a tie Avith Baines for second place. The Umpires were Messrs. Bell and Brown. Eeferee, Mr. E. Margetson. The following is the result of the sports : The London Prize, FOE MEN UNDER 11 STONE. Second Round. Stood. Fell. R. Brunskill J. Dixon, Wigton John Smith Jos. Grilchrist J. Robinson R. Wilson J. Dixon, Kirby Lonsdale J. Baines G. Hunton W. Pearce J. Tiffin J. Foster T. Rowe W. Armstrong G-. Reed J. Armstrong Or. Sanderson J. Pugmire Wm. Gilchrist J. Walker Tom Robinson, odd man John Smith and Jos. Gilchrist had a tough wrestle. Smith missed his first stroke, intended for a finisher, Avhen Gilchrist seized the opportunity, but the great reach of his tall adversary enabled him to WHESTLIAXA. 123 avail himself of that very old-fashioned chip, the back heel, by which he threw Gilchrist heavily. Third Round. Stood. Fell. E. Brunskill T. Eobinson Wm. Gilchrist G. Hunton G-. Sanderson J. Robinson John Pixon J. Tiffin John Smith T. Eowe G-. Eeed, odd man. A good wrestle between Tiffin and Dixon, weight prevailing. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. G. Sanderson G. Eeed John Smith E. Brunskill John Dixon Wm. Gilchrist G. Sanderson threw his man in his usual scientific style ; Smith screwed Brunskill down. When J. Dixon and W. Gilchrist stepped into the ring they were loudly cheered. They soon succeeded in getting hold, when Dixon won the fall by the half-buttock. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. John Smith George Sanderson John Pixon, odd man. The excitement was very great when Smith and Sanderson came together, and a splendid wrestle was anticipated. There was a great disparity in the size of the men, Smith being the taller by nearly a head. They got hold without much trouble. Smith imme- diately led off with the swing, but Sanderson stuck 124 WRESTLIANA. to him like a leech, with difficulty keeping on his feet ; now he is nearly down, and the spectators think it is all over ; now he saves himself by a quick movement, but Smith is off with him again, with the swing, this time like lightning; again Sanderson, follows him, stops him with the inside click for an instant, when round goes Smith again with another swing, mortal man could stand up no longer, and the wiry Sanderson goes down, after making by far the best wrestle of the day. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. John Smith John Dixon John Smith John Dixon John Dixon had no chance against the superior weight of Smith, who threw him twice in succession, and was declared the winner of the gold watch. Poor Smith died of consumption on the 27th of June, 1867. His gentlemanly and unassuming conduct won the respect of all who knew him. He was a great favourite in the London Eing, and a good wrestler. His first appearance in the metropolis was at the anniversary at Hornsey "Wood House, on G-ood Friday, March 21st, 1856, when he succeeded in winning the second prize for men of all weights, a silver snuff-box. On Gfood Friday, 1857, he carried off the heavy weight prize, a silver watch, throwing the celebrated Brunskill and several other famous WKESTLIA5TA. 125 wrestlers. In 1858 lie was second to Or. Gibson at Hackney Wick, and obtained a silver snuff-box. At the summer fete at the Crystal Palace, shortly after- wards, he won the all weight prize, a silver medal and purse. On the 18th of September, in the same year, at the Crystal Palace, he was invited by the Early Closing Association, and at their fete he won the champion's belt and purse. In the year 1860, at Hornsey Wood House, he added another to his bead- role of victories. The prize was a gold watch, value eighteen guineas. Last year he was compelled to succumb to the celebrated Ben Cooper, of Carlisle, who won the first prize, Smith taking second honours. ll-SioxE PEIZE ALL COMEES. Second Mound. Stood. Fell. J. Eobinson William Wilkinson Walter Armstrong J. Lindsay George Scott J. Walker J. Tiffin R. Coulthard William Armstrong William Gilclirist Gr. Sanderson J. Baines James Scott J. Dixon R. Brunskill W. Snowdon John Smith R. Tyson T. Eobinson T. Mein H. Steel, odd man George Scott obtained an easy victory over Walker ; Tiffin surprized everybody by throwing Coulthard, who was supposed to be the coming light weight. 126 WRESTLIANA. Third Round. Stood. Fell. George Scott H. Steel J. Smith T. Kobinson James Scott George Sanderson Walter Armstrong J. Robinson Willliani Armstrong J. Tiffin E. Brimskill odd man George Scott again threw his man cleverly ; Tiffin made a good stand against "William Armstrong, but was compelled to succumb. Fourth Hound. Stood. Fell. Walter Armstrong E. Brimskill James Scott J. Smith George Scott William Armstrong Smith laid down to James Scott, William Arm- strong fell to an outside stroke, and Brunskill to a fatal inside click. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. George Scott Walter Armstrong James Scott, odd man The Scotts were too many for the Armstrongs ; George Scott throwing the last of the clan by a good hipe, after a deal of trouble with the little 'un, who was very unwilling to be defeated. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. George Scott James Scott James Scott George Scott James Scott George Scott Immense excitement prevailed when the two Scotts came together for the final falls. George Scott WKESTLIANA. 127 was the stouter looking of the two, but it was thought he lacked experience to cope with the scientific wrestler who was the acknowledged champion of the light weights. James Scott was the best wrestler of his day at 11-stones ; with a perfect knowledge of the art, he united a well-built frame, a sound judgment, and good temper. N"o man was more popular in his profession, and no wrestler gained more prizes. His unassuming manner, and the ex- treme neatness of his appearance in. the ring, always drew forth applause from the spectators, and when- ever a prize was given for neatest costume, " Bonny Jim" generally carried it off. In the final struggle for this prize his opponent gained the first fall, but in the next two wrestles the champion threw George Scott twice in succession, and was hailed the winner amidst tremendous cheering. HEAVY WEIGHTS. Third Sound. Stood. Tell. J. Blair G. Scott E. Wright J. Brunskill James Scott C. Hutchiiison T. Rawlinson George Sanderson J. Brunskill E. Tyson William Jameson J. Thompson Ben Cooper John Dixon Eawlinson had a hard struggle to throw G. San- derson in this round ; he attempted the hipe unsuc- cessfully, when Sanderson clicked in the inside, and 128 WEESTLIANA. held Mm for the space of nearly half-a-minute ; it looked anybody's fall, but Kawlinson, making a des- perate effort, shook off his opponent and threw him cleverly. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Brunskill J. Blair William Jameson James Scott E. Wright T. Kawlinson Ben Cooper, odd man Fifth Round. E. Wright Ben Cooper W. Jameson J. Brunskill Final Falls. W. Jameson E. Wright E. Wright W. Jameson W. Jameson E. Wright The two ehampions were a long time in getting their first hold ; no sooner, however, was this accom- plished, when Jameson lifted his man and hiped him rather easily. The next ^wrestle was a short one ; Jameson attempted to lift "Wright again, when Dick made a sudden movement, and the gigantic Jameson was on his back in a second. A better throw from the breast has seldom been seen, and Jameson seemed astonished. The last fall fairly wearied out the spec- tators; finally, when it was getting dark, Jameson bored Wright down, and won the chief prize and the Champion's Belt. WEESTLIANA. 129 The pole leaping claimed a large share of attention amongst the spectators, the fine and graceful style of Musgrove being much admired. He bids fair to rival the fame of his brother, who was the most celebrated leaper of his time, and will be well re- membered by all lovers of the art in which he excelled. Prize winners on Grood Friday, April 18th, 1862. THE LONDON PEIZE. First prize, gold watch. . John Smith, Old Hutton Second ditto, silver watch . John Dixon, Kirby Lonsdale Third ditto, silver snuff-box . George Sanderson, Unthank Fourth ditto, silver snuff-box William Gilchrist, Carlisle 11 STONE PEIZE ALL COMERS. First prize, 8 8s. . Second ditto, 4 4s. . Third ditto, 2 2s. . Fourth ditto, 2 2s. Fifth ditto, 1 Is. . Sixth ditto, 1 Is. . Seventh ditto, 1 Is. Eighth ditto, 1 Is. James Scott, Carlisle George Scott, Cumwhitton Walter Armstrong, Carlisle William Armstrong, Carlisle John Smith, Old Hutton E. Brunskill, Penrith J. Tiffin, Welton John Eobinson, Cotehill ALL WEIGHTS ALL COMEES. First prize, 12 12s. . William Jameson, Penrith Second ditto, 6 6s. . Eichard Wright, Longtown Third ditto, 3 3s. . . J. Brunskill, Penrith Fourth ditto, 3 3s. . . Benjamin Cooper, Carlisle Fifth ditto, 1 11s. 6d. . T. Kawlinson, Wharton Sixth ditto, 1 11s. 6d. . James Scott, Carlisle Seventh ditto, 1 11s. 6d. J. Blair, Allendalc Eighth ditto, 1 Us. Gd. John Dixon, Kirby Lonsdale K 130 WBESTLIA^ T A. Pole Leaping. First prize, 3 . . . E. Musgrove, Cockermouth Tie for ^ , , C William Jameson, Penriih Second and Third prize, j ' }. James Baines, Penrith This year a prize of one guinea was offered for the neatest costume, with the object of doing away with the rough uniform of " breeks," " grey stockings," &c., so commonly associated with rustic athletics. The prize offered, though small, had the desired effect, several of the competitors being very taste- fully attired ; none of them, however, came up to James Scott, of Carlisle, whose handsome figure set off his magenta shirt and white drawers to striking advantage, consequently he was adjudged the winner. In addition to the money prizes, handsome belts, with suitable inscriptions, were presented to "William Jameson and James Scott, the champions of the heavy and light weights. Through the success of this meeting the Com- mittee were enabled to subscribe the sum of forty guineas to the two benevolent institutions, in equal proportions of twenty guineas each. The following gentlemen were appointed to represent the same as Life Governors, viz. : for Cumberland, Messrs. C. Little and Wm. Armstrong ; for "Westmoreland, Messrs. John Smith and Thomas Charltou. This WEESTLIAXA. 131 wound up the proceedings of the year, which were in all respects highly creditable to the Committee of management. 1863. The following gentlemen were elected as officers on the llth of February at the " Guildhall Shades." CHAIRMAN. Hoy. SECRETARY. Mr. Frank Bell Mr. E. Margetson TREASURER, Mr. James Hodgson STEWARDS. Mr. James Brown William Thompson C. Little John Smith William Armstrong J. Thompson John Brown William Leggetfc T. Charlton J. Richardson ,, GK Gibson The sports took place at " Hornsey~Wood House," on Good Friday, April 3rd. A great concourse of spec- tators assembled, and the wrestling entries were larger than usual, so much so, that it was found impossible, with the utmost exertions of the Com- 132 WKESTLIANA. inittee, to finish the programme on Good Friday. Consequently the wrestling for the London prize was held over till the following day (Saturday). Eesult of the sports on Good Friday : 11 STONE PEIZE ALL COMEKS. Third Round. Stood. Fell. E. Eitson W. Atkinson Greorge Scott E. Musgrove James Scott T. Phillips W. Irving J. Thompson J. Little J. Smith M. Blair W. Snowdon E. Tyson W. Cooper William Thornthwaite Henry Ivison Fourth Round. W. Thornthwaite E. Eitson M. Blair E. Tyson James Scott James Little George Scott W. Irving Fifth Round. W. Thornthwaite] J. Scott GK Scott M. Blair Final Falls. G-. Scott W. Thornthwaite G-. Scott W. Thornthwaite G. Scott threw Thornthwaite twice in success-ion, and won the first prize and champion's belt. WBESTLIANA. 133 ALL WEIGHTS ALL COMEBS. Third Round. Stood. Pell. William Jameson H. Ivison M. Blair E. Cummings E. Wright W. Cooper T. Blackett A. Southward W. Irving W. Gilchrist James Scott G-. Sanderson J. Brunskill W. G-raham J. Little T. Phillips W. Jameson E. Wright T. Blackett James Scott Fourth Hound. M. Blair J. Little W. Irving J. Brunskill Fifth Round. W. Jameson E. Wright W. Jameson E. Wright E. Wright James Scott T. Blackett Final Falls. E. Wright W. Jameson W. Jameson "Wright and Jameson had about a dozen breaks away before they could get into a wrestle. At last they succeeded in getting a good hold. Jameson's must have been a very good one, for he picked Wright up and hiped him quickly. A good deal of time was wasted in the last two falls, which were gained by Wright, amidst general acclamation. Saturday, April 4th. There was again a large 134 WBESTLIA:XA. muster of spectators to -witness the wrestling for the London prize, which, in consequence of darkness set- ting in, could not be decided on Good Friday. There was also some shooting for a gold watch, presented by Mrs. Stones, the proprietress of the Grounds. The sports commenced with the shooting for the watch. Considerable speculation took place on the result, Messrs. Margetson and Dixon being made the favourites, while Messrs. Hodgson, Bell, Martin, and Somerville were freely supported. Mr. Dixon was the first to take the gun in hand, bringing his bird (a slow one) to book ; his example was followed by Messrs. Martin and Bell, the others missing. In the second round five of them missed, and in the third round four, viz., Messrs. Milner, Atkinson, Airey, and Armstrong, who retired from the contest. The re- maining gentlemen shot up their birds, and at the commencement of the seventh and last round, Mr. Dixon had to kill to "win (the others having missed two each). This he accomplished amidst loud cheers. Messrs. Margetson, Somerville, Martin, and Bell tied for the money prizes, killing five each, and agreed to shoot it off, at three birds, when Mr. Margetson and Mr. Somerville killed all and divided. The shooting being over, the traps were removed and the ring quickly formed for the more athletic sport, and the wrestling began for the London prize. WBESTLIANA. 135 Second Sound. Stood. Fell. W. Stirling E. Wilson E. Tyson T. Thompson E. Eitson J. Newton J. Thompson H. Cass William Gilchrist John Dixon G. Lancaster E. Bowman E. Wetherall Hugh Brown G. Sanderson J. Baines John Smith J. Newton W. Irving E. Atkinson Walter Armstrong J. Wilson William Grilchrist threw his old opponent, J. with ease by the hipe. Third Sound. Stood. Fell. W. Irving E. Tyson E. Eitson G. Lancaster J. Thompson W. Gilchrist E. Wetherall W. Stirling J ohn Smith E. Atkinson G. Sanderson, odd man "Wetherall threw Stirling by getting behind him and throwing him up in the air ; Smith threw E. Atkin- son easily. Fourth Hound. Stood. Fell. W. Irving E. Eitson E. Wetherall John Smith G. Sanderson J. Thompson Wetherall again threw his man in the same way, much to the astonishment of everybody. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. G. Sanderson E. Wetherall W. Irving, odd man 136 WBESTLIA^A. Sanderson, though a much lighter man than "\Yetherall, lifted him up and hiped him without a moment's delay. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. G. Sanderson W. Irving Gr. Sanderson W. Irving Irving, from his superior size and weight, was the favourite, though Sanderson's well-known scientific qualities as a wrestler rendered him a very formidable opponent. The first fall was gained by Sanderson, who hiped his man in a splendid fashion. In the second round Irving was again thrown easily. In consequence of some suspicious whispering having taken place amongst the partisans of Irving, the Umpires decided that he had allowed himself to be thrown, for the purpose of making bets on the result. It would be unfair to say that Mr. Sanderson was a party to this, as Irving was apparently thrown on his merits the first time, and if he did not do his best in the last round it was his own affair. The Committee, however, cannot be blamed for the view they took of the matter, and in withholding the first and second prizes, they adopted the only course open to them. After the wrestling a meeting was held, when it was decided that the prizes should go to the next in rotation. WEESTLIA1TA. 137 Prize \vinners on Good Friday and Saturday, April 3rd and 4th, 1863 : 11 STONE PEIZE ALL COMERS. First prize, 10 and the Champion's belt. George Scott, Cum- [whitton Second ditto, 5 William Thornth- , [waite, Brampton Third ditto, 2 10s. . . . James Scott, Carlisle Fourth ditto, 2 10s. ... M. Blair, Allendale Fifth ditto, 1 5a. ... E. Tyson, Broughton Sixth ditto, 1 5s. . . . J. Little, Cumwhitton Seventh ditto, 1 5s. . . . W. Irving, Clifton Eighth ditto, 1 5s. . . . Eobert Eitson, [B rough ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, 14 and the Champion's belt. Richard Wright, [Longtown Second ditto, 7 ..... William Jameson, [Penrith Third ditto, 3 10s T. Blaskett, Orton Fourth ditto, 3 10s James Scott, Carlisle Fiftli ditto, 1 15s W. Irving, Clifton Sixth ditto, 1 15s J. Brunskill, [Melmerby Seventh ditto, 1 15s M. Blair, Allendale Eighth ditto, 1 15s J. Little, [Cumwhitton LONDON PBIZE. First prize, a gold watch . . E. WetheraU, Carlisle Second ditto, a silver watch . John Smith, Old Hutton Third ditto, a silver snuff box . Eobert Kitson, Brough Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box. J. Thompson, Penrith The prize of one guinea for the neatest costume was awarded to Walter Armstrong, of Carlisle. After the accounts for the year were wound up, 138 WEESTLIAXA.. the sum of 40 guineas was awarded to the two charitable institutions, in the names of Messrs. T. Charlton and W. Thompson, for Cumberland ; and Messrs. E. Margetson and Greo. Gibson, for West- moreland. Messrs. E. Margetson and "William Thompson were this year appointed Vice-presidents of the Society, and perpetual honorary members of the Committee, with power to vote at all Committee and other meetings for life. 1863. On Whit-Monday, May 25th, two watches were offered to be wrestled for at " Hornsey Wood House," and a great number of amateurs resident in London intended competing for the prizes, but, to the surprise of all, the gigantic Jameson made his appearance, and cast a damper on the whole affair. Several of the wrestlers refused to enter their names, knowing they had no chance against an opponent of . Jameson's build. A few adventurous spirits, however, entered the lists, and at the conclusion the result stood thus : First prize, a gold watch . . William Jameson Second ditto, a silver "watch . John Dixon Third ditto . . Walter Armstrong Fourth ditto . Robert Eitson WEESTLIANA. 139 Jameson also took the first prize for the pole leaping. A gold and silver watch were also given for pigeon shooting, which resulted as below : First prize, gold watch . . Mr. Fowler Second ditto, silver watch . Moore Messrs. E. Margetson, Davis, and others, also com- peted. At the Annual Dinner, held at the " Guildhall Shades." on the 14th of May, the following report of the proceedings and position of the Society was read by the Hon. Secretary, Mr. E. Margetson : " t ln presenting their annual report, your Committee feel great pleasure in congratulating the Society on its increasing prosperity, inasmuch as after giving a larger amount in prizes than was ever given on any former occasion, and, in addition, the handsome sum of forty guineas to the charitable institutions of the two counties, a balance of 100 remains atthebanker'sto the credit of the Society, being the largest surplus ever held since its first existence. As it is a fact not generally known to the Society at large, it may be mentioned that since the alteration in the mode of collecting their funds was first established, the large amount of THEEE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-SEVEN POUNDS has been presented to the charitable institu- tions of Cumberland and "Westmoreland ; and when 140 WEESTLIAXA. the great benefits derived by the old and helpless of one county, and the children of indigent parents belonging to the other, is considered, your Committee feel assured that this mode of disposing of the sur- plus, will not only meet your approbation, but that every member of the Society will feel pleasure in the reflection of adding his mite to the assistance of his less fortunate fellow-countrymen. " Whilst on this subject, your Committee deem it not superfluous to call the attention of all natives of the two counties to the existence of these excellent insti- tutions, the objects of which, and the benefits they have been the means of extending to many neces- sitous and deserving individuals, cannot be too highly spoken of, or too generally made known, and in making a strong appeal on their behalf, would point out to all young men from the two counties the pro- priety of becoming active members as soon as they are in a position to do so, and thus recruit the vacan- cies that may arise in the ranks of existing members from death or other causes, for whilst much good has already been effected, it is to be deplored that their means are all too limited to provide for the numbers of cases presenting themselves, as is evidenced by the fact that this year there are several candidates over and above the number of vacancies at the disposal of each society. In concluding this report your corn- Committee would remark that they have, as your representatives, not only important duties to perform WBESTLIA^A. 141 in the way of procuring means to carry out their promises for Good Friday, but that, independent of loss of time, it is to them an unavoidable expense, with no return or remuneration beyond the hope of giving satisfaction to the public. It must be evident, however, that anything short of this is thankless and discouraging, and equally so, that in the good- will and desire of the members themselves to do their utmost in seconding the efforts of the committee to make everything go smooth, and carry out the sports of the Society, lies the secret of their success." 1864. The Annual General Meeting was held at the " Guildhall Shades," when the following gentlemen were elected to 'jarry out the business of the Society : CHAIEMAX. TBEASFREE. Mr. Frank Bell Mr. James Hodgson HON. SECBBTABY, Mr. "William Armstrong STEWARDS. Mr. William Thompson James Brown Greorge Gibson William Leggett R. Atkinson C. Little J. S. Brown Thomas Charlton Jos. Grilchrist J. Richardson 142 WBESTLIAXA. The wrestling took place for the first time at the Agricultural Hall, Islington, on Good Friday, March 25th. The sports had hitherto generally been held on the green sward, the ring belted with spectators, re- sembling that seen on Carlisle swifts, or any other wrestling arena in the North of England. It therefore, at first sight, seemed somewhat preposterous that the large Hall at Islington which serves so many purposes throughout the year, should be selected as the place for holding a meeting of this kind. Success, however, waited upon the new " idea," for by one o'clock, the doors of the Hall were quite besieged, and upon their being opened a rush was speedily made to obtain the best positions, but so ample was the accommodation, that no difficulty whatever was experienced ia obtain- ing seats. Soon after the commencement of the sports, the vast building was comfortably filled, and by four o'clock, the whole of the galleries surround- ing the ring were closely packed by eager and excited spectators. This was the year preceding the un- happy disagreement amongst the members composing the Committee of management, who not only squan- dered away the whole of the surplus money (over 120), but, by their ill-advised and indiscreet bicker- ings, degraded the Society in the eyes of the public to such an extent, that had some improvement not taken place recently in the management of its affairs, no man of respectability would have allowed his name to be associated with it. WEES Til ANA. 143 A donation of 40 guineas was handed to the two benevolent institutions. The sum of 20 guineas was also presented to the Warehousemen and Clerk's and Commercial Traveller's Schools, which being contrary to the rules of the Society, was the principal cause of the division amongst its members. THE LONDON PEIZE. Third Round. Stood. Fell. James Baines H. Atkinson Archibald Bell T. Jenkinson E. Tyson E. Atkinson T. Holmes G-. Lancaster E. Coulthard T. Fawcett E. Wetherall W. Jackson W. Gilchrist T. Newton W. Pearson John Dixon Fourth Round. W. Pearson E. Wetherall E. Coulthard T. Holmes J. Baines A. Bell E. Tyson W. Gilchrist Fifth Sound. E. Coulthard J. Baines W. Pearson E. Tjson Final Falls. E. Coulthard W. Pearson E. Coulthard W.Pearson Richard Coulthard wrestled well throughout, and decidedly proved himself the champion of the London men by winning the gold watch. 144 WEESTLIANA. 11 STOKE PEIZE ALL COMEES. Stood. Jos. Allison W. Watson E. Blair C. Graham James Scott J. Dixon E. Coulthard T. Davidson J. Craig A. Bell Third Round. Fell. M. Mein E. Musgrove J. Milburn G-. Lancaster J. Tiffin W. Dixon E. Tyson W. Pearson Clem. Kennedy W. Gilchrist Fourth Sound. W. Watson A. Bell T. Davidson J. Allison E. Blair J. Craig J. Dixon C. Graham E. Coulthard James Scott Fifth Sound. W. Watson J. Allison A Bell T. Davidson E. Blair, odd man Sixth Hound. W. Watson E. Blair J. Allison, odd man Final Falls. W. Watson J. Allison W. Watson J. Allison W. Watson J. Allison ALL WEIGHTS ALL COMEES. Fourth Round. Matthew Lee T. Eohinson A. Slack W. Wilson G. Maxwell H. Ivison M. Blair J. Milburn J. Whitburn W". Glaister J. Moses E. Blair J. Emmerson L. Wilson TTRESTLLAJTA. 145 Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. A. Slack M. Blair M. Lee J. Moses J. Emmerson J. Whitburn G-eorge Maxwell, odd man Sixth Round. G. Maxwell A. Slack M. Lee J. Emmerson Final Falls. Or. Maxwell M. Lee Of. Maxwell M. Lee The celebrated champions, Wright and Jameson, were debarred by the Committee this year, in order to give the other wrestlers a better chance of gaining prizes. To debar a man because he is a good wrestler seems rather unfair, and can scarcely be considered good policy, for reasons which will be patent to all who understand and take an interest in this popular exercise. Prize winners on Good Friday, March 25th, 1863 : THE LONDON PEIZE. First prize, gold watch . . Richard Coulthard, Cockermouth Second ditto, silver watch . W. Pearson, Carlisle Third ditto, silver snuff box . E. Tyson, Carlisle Fourth ditto, silver snuff box James Baines, Penrith Fifth ditto, gold pencil case . William Gilchrist, Carlisle Sixth ditto, gold pencil case . Archibald Bell, Dereham Seventh ditto, gold pencil case T. Holmes, Carlisle Eighth ditto, gold pencil case R. Wetherall, Carlisle 146 WKESTLIAIO.. 11-SioNE PRIZE ALL COMERS. First prize 12 W. Watson, Weardalo Second ditto 600 Jos. Allison, Weardale Third ditto 3 E. Blair, Allendale Fourth ditto 3 J. Davidson, Castleside Fifth ditto 1 10 A. Bell, Dereham Sixth ditto 1 10 James Scott, Carlisle Seventh ditto 1 10 E. Coulthard, Cockermoutli Eighth ditto 1 10 J. Dixon, Kirby Lonsdale HEAVY WEIGHTS ALL COMERS. First prize, 15 Second ditto 8 Third ditto 4 Fourth ditto 4 Fifth ditto 2 Sixth ditto 2 Seventh ditto 2 Eighth ditto 2 George Maxwell, Eockliffe Matthew Lee, Leaprigg J. Emmerson, Weardale A. Slack, Skirwith J. Whitburn, Barrow J. Moses, Cockermouth M. Blair, Allendale L. Wilson, Egremont POLE-LEAPING. First prize 5 E Husgrove, Keswick Second ditto 2 10 James Baines, Penrith Third ditto 1 10 W. Pearson, Carlisle Fourth ditto 1 Gr. Maxwell, Eockliffe STEEPLECHASE. First prize 2 10 E. Musgrove^JKeswick Second ditto 1 10 Third ditto 1 Gr. Maxwell, Eockliffe T. Eobinson, Carlisle The prize for the neatest costume was divided between "Walter Armstrong, Carlisle, and Archibald Bell, Dereham. WBESTLIAKA. 147 1864 On the 6th of August, prizes were offered for 9 1 stone men, and men of all weights, at Cremorne Gardens. The meeting was well attended, and the wrestlers mustered in great force, more espe- cially the lighter division, a number of whom (11 stone men) brought themselves down to mere shadows so as to compete for the feather weight prize. The wrestling was keenly contested, and resulted as below : MEN TTNDEE 9J STONE. ' First Prize, a gold watch . George Sanderson Second ditto, a silver watch . Walter Armstrong Third, no prize . . Kichard Tyson ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, gold watch . Richard Coulthard Second ditto, a silver watch . John Thompson Third, no prize . . Thos. Robinson The pole leaping was won by James Baines In the heavy weights, Thompson threw Eobinson cleverly, and when he stood up with E. Coulthard to contend for the head prize, he looked like winning, being much stronger than his opponent. Coulthard, however, threw him twice in succession, and was declared the winner. "Walter Armstrong threw Tyson (in the feathers) one of the 11 stone " shadows." Then came the final falls with Greo. Sanderson. W. Arm- strong gained the first fall, and Sanderson the last two, who was hailed the victor amidst loud applause. 148 WEESTLIAIfA. 1865. On the 7th of June, 1864, the Annual Dinner ot the Society took place at the " Guildhall Shades," when the officers for the ensuing year were elected as below : CHAIRMAN. TBEASTTBEB. Mr. Frank Bell Jas. Hodgson. HON. SECBETABY, Wm. Armstrong. STEW ADDS. Mr. Wm. Thompson J. Brown G-. Gibson C. Little E. Atkinson J. S. Brown Jos. Wills ,, W. Jameson ,, Jos. Richardson On the approach of the Annual General Meeting, a rumour gained currency that exception would be taken to the conduct of the officers who had the control of the affairs of the Society. The first meet- ing of the subscribers was held at the " Guildhall Shades," Gresharn-street, when there was a very full attendance. Mr. Frank Bell officiated as Chairman, supported by Messrs. James Hodgson (Treasurer), "William Armstrong (Hon. Sec.), Thompson, Leggett, Margetson, Brown, Little, Atkinson, &c. In opening the proceedings, Mr. Bell adverted to the rumour which he said was flying about, and remarked that he WEESTLIAKA. . 149 understood a "hole and corner meeting" had been held with the object of turning the present Committee out of office. Messrs. Margetson and Leggett both rose to order, but the Chairman interposed, by saying that he was now quite prepared to proceed with the more immediate business of the meeting. Mr. William Armstrong disclaimed any connection with clandes- tine meetings, he attended fearlessly in his capacity of Secretary, to lay before the members his accounts for 1864, which he felt confident would prove satisfac- tory. Mr. G-ilchrist opposed the adoption of the accounts, on the ground that the funds had not been carefully or properly expended, and that the rules had been violated by giving douceurs to the "Ware- housemen and Clerks' and Commercial Travellers Schools. Mr. "William Armstrong then informed the company that there was a balance of 123 13s. lid. in hand, and produced the voucher. Mr. Margetson said he did not wish to create any dissension, but any member of the Society had a perfect right to take ex- ception to any item of expenditure if he thought the same inconsistent and in violation of the rules of the Association. Mr. Margetson continued : it was essentially necessary to have a permanent Committee. Their experience in former years must convince every one that the business of the Society would never be successfully managed until this reform was brought about. It must be well known to those who were 150 WEESTLIASTA. acquainted with the rules, that they had been violated in granting 20 guineas to the above-named schools. They were deserving institutions, but not more so than others, children were well known to be increasing as applicants in the Westmoreland schools, and this year the candidates were far in excess of the vacancies at the disposal of that institution. This was the legitimate channel for the surplus funds. Mr. Charlton moved a vote of want of confidence in the Committee. Mr. "Westmoreland objected to the motion, a fortnight's notice must be given. Eventu- ally no motion was put, and the meeting broke up. A second meeting was held at the same place, on "Wednesday, March the 8th. Mr. Frank Bell oc- cupying the chair. After a stormy discussion Mr. Charlton again moved a vote of want of confidence in the Committee, which was seconded by Mr. Mein, and unanimously carried. The three chief officers, Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer were then sum- marily voted out, and finally Mr. Leggett was elected Chairman. At a subsequent meeting held under the presidency of the newly-elected Chairman, the follow- ing gentlemen formed themselves into a Committee. CHAIBHAIT. HON. SEC. Mr. Wm. Leggett E. Margetson TBEASUBER, Jos. Gilchrist. WRESTLIANA. 151 STEWARDS. Mr. Thos. Baty H. Brown Thos. Charlton E. Stainton Jos. Tomlinson P. Twentjrnan A. Scott Thos. Mein E. Wetherall Joseph Wriglit Each Committee continued to hold meetings up to Good Friday. The old Committee, headed by Mr. Frank Bell, advertising their wrestling to come off at Cremorne Gardens, while the other, under the presi- dency of Mr. Leggett, announced their sports to take place at the Agricultural Hall, consequently two meetings would be held on the same day. GOOD FRIDAY AT THE AGKICTJLTTJBAI, HALL. A very large company assembled at the Agricul- tural Hall, and, to judge from the number of spec- tators, it would scarcely have been thought that another display of the same kind was taking place in the metropolis. The sports commenced with a hurdle race between twelve competitors, in a series of heats, which was won by T. Sedgwick, T. Sanders second, J. Marshall third. The real business of the day then began, the hurdle race merely playing the prelude to the more exciting contests that were to follow. 152 WEESTLIANA. WBESTLING FOE THE LONDON PBIZE. Second Round. Stood. Fell. W. Marshall C. Donald "VV. Gilchrist J. Dimvoode E. Eitson H. Brown E. Brown James Murray Thomas Mein J. Pattinson J. Graham E. Brown E. Fawcett W. Thompson J. Thompson E. Wetherall E. Tyson G. Beatty James Edgar A. Eobinson Walter Armstrong J. Hilton Eobert Atkinson E. Wilson Thomas S. Sedgwick J. Graham G. Hunter J. Marshall Third Bound. J. Thompson E. Brown James Edgar E. Fawcett G. Hunton W. MarshaU J. Graham E. Atkinson William Gilchrist Thomas Mein Walter Armstrong E. Eitson T. Sedgwick E. Tyson Fourth Round. T. Sedgwick J. Graham Walter Armstrong J.Thompson G. Hunton W. Gilchrist J. Edgar, odd man Fifth Round. James Edgar T. Sedgwick Walter Armstrong G. Hunton Final Falls. James Edgar Walter Armstrong James Edgar Walter Armstrong The excitement as the last pair entered the arena WBESTLIANA. 153 was very great, and they were loudly cheered. The superior height and weight of Edgar gave him a great advantage, and he succeeded in backheeling his opponent each time. The first prize was there- fore taken by Jas. Edgar, the second by "Walter Armstrong, the third by Greo. Hunter, &c. The pole-leaping next commenced, which was won by R. Musgrove, having also taken the prize at the Cremorne meeting only a few hours previously. P. "Winder was second. WBESTLING FOB MEN TTNDEE 11 STONE ALL COMEES. Third Round. Stood. Fell. J. Graham E. Musgrove J. Allison E. Eitson James Scott William Gilclirist Henry Ivison W. Mofiatt Jos. Dixon S. Hewitson Clem. Kennedy G. Sanderson J. Nattras J. Thompson E. Tyson, odd man Fourth Sound. J. Nattras J. Dixon J. Allison Clem. Kennedy Henry Ivison E. Tyson James Scott J. Graham Fifth Sound. James Allison J. Nattras James Scott Harry Ivison Final Falls. James Scott Jos. Allison Jos. Allison James Scott Jos. Allison James Scott Some splendid wrestling took place in this 154 WBESTLIA^A. competition. The first two rounds weeded out the inferior men ; then followed a display of scientific skill that elicited the heartiest applause from the vast assembly. The final round brought together the celebrated James Scott, of Carlisle, and Jos. Alli- son, of "Wardale a wrestler who, to greater weight and strength, had also youth in his favour. Despite these advantages, he was thrown cleverly in the first bout. In the second Allison got the best hold, and threw Scott over his knee. Scott tried to lift his man in the last fall, and slipping, was bored down. Allison was, therefore, declared the winner amidst loud cheers ; Scott was also warmly applauded for the gallant struggle he had made. ALL WEIGHT WRESTLING ALL COMEBS. Third Sound. Stood. Fell. J. Thompson J. Pattinson George Maxwell G. Sanderson James Edgar J. Dixon Jos. Allison J. Graham Walter Armstrong Clem. Kennedy James Scott J. Little John Mitchell J. Emmerson J. Nattras, odd man Fourth Sound. James Scott James Edgar J. Mitchell Jos. Allison J. Thompson G. Maxwell J. Kattras Walter Armstrong WBESTLIA^A. 155 Fifth Mound. Stood. Fell. J. Nattras J. Thompson John Mitchell James Scott Final Falls. John Mitchell J. Isattras John Mitchell J. Nat-Iras iSTever in the recollection of the oldest frequenters of the wrestling were so many exciting contests witnessed as took place for this prize, and never were the professionals so utterly defeated by amateurs as on this dav. In the second round J. Thompson, an amateur, threw Matthew Lee, the Lyneside champion ; the spectators were amazed when they saw the giant's heels cleave the air to the tune of a cross-buttock. In the fourth round Thompson also threw George Maxwell, who won the heavy weight prize at the last annual meeting. The prowess of John Mitchell, however, principally interested the spectators ; he commenced by throw- ing Harry Ivison in the second round. The next man who fell to him was J. Emerson, of Weardale. Jos. Allison of "Weardale, came next, who made a splendid effort to throw Mitchell ; Allison's legs bent and quivered beneath him, but it seemed as if he might as well have tried to upset the monument, and when his strength was exhausted, Mitchell threw him like a child. As the struggle of the heavy weights drew to a close, it was watched with increased 156 interest; after the fourth round the contest lay between J. Mitchell, Thompson, James Scott, and J. Nattras. The struggle between Xattras and Thompson was a long one, but eventually Nattras gained the fall. Mitchell and Scott then came together, and a splendid wrestle ensued, but all the science of the brilliant light was as no- thing in the face of Mitchell's over-powering strength, and he too went down. Then came the final two out of three between Mitchell and ]S"attras. Both men were pretty well blown Mitchell apparently the most so his great bulk causing a difficulty in his breathing, whilst his tall, wiry, active antagonist seemed far freer from signs of over-exertion. After a brief rest they went at it amidst the cheers of the audience, which stood in breathless anxiety, awaiting the result. A good deal of finessing, and they closed ; a tremendous effort on each side followed, and in a second, a shout rent the air, " Nattras is felled ! " The excitement was now " piled up " by the next wrestle ending in a dog fall the decision of the referee being loudly applauded and the round was resumed, when Mitchell obtained the fall by a cross-buttock. The winner was loudly cheered, and was carried in triumph round the arena. The winners of the principal prizes during the day were London men ; this gave an eclat to the contests WBESTLIAJTA. 157 which has been seldom equalled, and could scarcely be surpassed. "Walter Armstrong took the prize for neatest costume. The prizes were awarded as below : THE LONDON PEIZE. First prize, gold watch, 15 6s. . James Edgar Second ditto, silver watch, 7. . Walter Armstrong Third ditto, silver snuff box, 5 15s. George Hunton Fourth ditto, silver snuffbox, 5 15s. T. Sedgwick Fifth ditto, silver snuff box, 3 5s. Wm. M. Gilchrist Sixth ditto, silver snuff box, 3 5s. John Thompson Seventh ditto, silver snuff box2 16s. John Graham Eighth diito, silver snuff box, 2 15s. E. Tyson 11 STONE COUNTET PEIZES ALL COMEBS. First prize, silver cup and 10 . Jos. Allison Second ditto, 8 . . . . James Scott Third ditto, 3 10s. . . . Harry Ivison Fourth ditto, 3 10s. . . . John Nattras Fifth ditto, 2 .... John Graham Sixth ditto, 2 . . . . R. Tyson Seventh ditto, 2 . . . . Clem. Kennedy Eighth ditto, 2 . . . . Jos. Dixon ALL WEIGHTS ALL COMEES. First prize, silver cup and 8 . John Mitchell Second ditto, 8 ... John Nattras Third ditto, 4 .... James Scott Fourth ditto, 4 . . . . John Thompson Fifth ditto, 2 10s. . . . Walter Armstrong Sixth ditto, 2 10s. . . . George Maxwell Seventh ditto, 2 10s. . . . Jos. Allison Eighth ditto, 2 10s. . . . James Edgar Ninth ditto, 1 10s. . . . J. Emmerson Tenth ditto, 1 10s. . . . J. Graham Eleventh ditto, 1 10s. . . Jos. Little Twelfth ditto, 1 10s. . . C. Kennedy Thirteenth ditto, 1 10s. . . J. Irving Fourteenth ditto, 1 10s. . . Jos. Dixon Fifteenth ditto, 1 10g. . . J. Pattinson 158 WEESTLIAJTA. Hurdle Race. First prize, 3 . . . . T. Sedgwick Second ditto, 1 10s. . . . T. Saunders Third ditto, 10s J.Marshall Pole Leaping. First prize, 5 . . . E. Musgrore Second ditto, 2 10s. ... P. Winder Third ditto, 1 10s. . T. Sedgwick Fourth ditto, 10s. . . . J. Jackson Neatest Costume. Walter Armstrong, 1 Is. THE WBESTLIITG AT CBEMOEITE. The wrestling held here was one of the conse- quences of the " split " in the Society. It was arranged that the sports should come off in the park adjoining Ashburnham Hall, which was certainly a very suitable place ; but an unhappy change in the weather on the morning of Good Eriday necessitated an alteration in this part of the programme. The rain pouring down in torrents all the morning, the attendance of spectators was limited, and the first part of the competition was, to some extent, spirit- less. There might be about two thousand persons present, some of them under the covering of um- brellas, while others were content to crouch under the very indifferent shelter of tavern tables. The proceedings were opened by a hurdle race twice round the circle, which was won by E. Musgrove ; Archibald Bell second. The prize for pole leaping WBESTLIANA. 159 was also won by Musgrove ; James Baines second, "William Jameson third. Then came the wrestling by the London residents. Some of the contests were remarkably good, the wrestling of A. Bell being especially admired. The exceeding cool and business- like style of S. Hewetson also attracted general attention, and he was loudly cheered at the close, when the wrestlers stood thus : First Archibald Bell Second John Thompson Third S. Hewetson The next prize was for men of all weights, but Jameson was the only heavy weight present. The champion at each encounter threw his comparatively puny opponents like toys and set them on their legs again almost before they knew what had befallen them. In the final falls he threw Joseph Whitehead twice in succession, and was proclaimed the winner. The last event in the programme [was the competi- tion for the 11 stone prize, all comers. Nothing of any interest occurred until J. Milburn and E. Coult- hard stood up for the final falls ; the struggle was very exciting, resulting in favour of Coulthard, whose victory was hailed with much cheering. The final rounds were not concluded till after nightfall, yet, despite the depressing effects of the rain, the majority of the spectators stayed till the last. 160 WBESTLIA3TA. 1866. That portion of the members who were called the New Society, held their first meeting at the " Saluta- tion Hotel," Newgate-street, on the 31st of January, .when the statement of accounts was read by the Hon. Secretary, Mr. Margetson, shewing a balance of nearly 80 on the wrong side, to be paid by the Committee. The officers for the year were ap- pointed, and everything put in readiness for the coming anniversaary on Good Friday. The Cremorne party held their meeting on the following Monday, at St. James's Hall, Richard Thwaites, Esq., in the chair. After referring to the unhappy differences which existed between the divided Societies, and hoping that they would again become united, the Chairman called upon the Secretary, Mr. William Armstrong, to read the report, which stated that 105 had been given in prizes last year, and the total receipts were 225 17s. lid. ; the balance in hand after all expenses were paid was 29 3s. Mr. Margetson, the representative of the Agricultural Hall party, said, he came there with a friendly feeling towards the Society for^ which he had worked forty years, and nothing would please him better than to see the members united again on G-ood Friday. He must say, the division among them was not creditable. Nothing definite, however, was arranged till the 12th WEESTLIA^A. 161 of February, when the amalgamation took place under the presidency of Mr. Margetson. Mr. James Hodg- son retained his post as treasurer, and Mr. Jos. Gril- christ was elected Hon. Secretary. The Committee numbered twenty-nine. The sports took place under the united manage- ' ment, at the Agricultural Hall, on Grood Friday, March 30, in the presence of nearly 10,000 specta- tors. The sinews of war, which had suffered so severely from the split, were substantially renewed, and after paying all expenses, and clearing off the debt incurred the previous year, the Society retained a balance of 74 4s. 6d. to be carried on to the next year's account. The sports were highly appreciated, the wrestling being exceedingly good. The two northern counties sent their best men, "Wright, Jamsson, Scott, Allison, Lawson, Milburn, &c., for the wrestling, and the light and agile Musgrove for the pole leaping. The sports commenced shortly before two o'clock with the wrestling, by men cot exceeding 9| stones in weight. 9| STONE PEIZE ALL COMERS. Second Mound, Stood. Fell. P. Winder J. Walker John Graham J. Carruthers E. Carruthers J. Graham George Sanderson J. Harrison 11 162 \VEESTLIA^A. Stood. Fell. J. Briggs W. Parker J. Hope J. Fawcett E. Irving W. Allen H. Taylor T. Anderson J. Ward W. Armstrong Third Round. J. Briggs H. Taylor Gr. Sanderson P. Winder E. Carruthers John Ward John Graham E. Irving J. Hope, odd man The tussle between E. Carruthers and John Ward was fiercely contested ; Carruthers was nearly down two or three times, but, recovering himself each time, he at last managed to inside click his man, in a most dexterous manner, and laid him flat on his back. Fourth Sound. Stood. Fell. J. Grraham J. Hope J. Briggs E. Carruthers Q-. Sanderson, odd man Carruthers, in trying to mend his hold with Briggs, made a slip, when his opponent, taking advantage of the same, dashed in and back-heeled him, throwing the feather-weight champion cleverly. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. John Graham G-. Sanderson J. Briggs, odd man Final Falls. John Graham J. Briggs John Graham J. Briggs WBESTLIA3TA. 163 John Graham wrestled with great judgment, and displayed an amount of science somewhat extraordinary in so young a wrestler, Some of his falls were worthy of the best days of Scott. In the first round, he treated Briggs to a swinging hipe, throwing him easily. In the next hold, Briggs made an attempt to lift his man, but Graham clicked him down, without falling himself, and was hailed the winner. A hurdle race round the arena, over six nights of hurdles three feet high, was the next event, which was won easily by E. Musgrove, J. Williams, Keswick, being second. "Wrestling for the Agricultural Hall Cup, pre- sented to the Society by Thomas Eudkin, Esq., and other prizes, by the London residents under 11 stones. Third Round. Stood. Fell. J. Wright E. Atkinson William Gilchrist J. Hope William Armstrong T. Saunders G Graham J. Sanderson G. Sanderson J. Gartner G. Lancaster Geo. Hunton John Graham E. Coulthard J. Thompson James Edgar In this round the veteran Eobert Atkinson received his coup de grace, and fell, as old men will, before a younger and stronger man. John Graham, the win- 164 WRESTLIAXA. ner of the 9| stone prize, threw J. Thompson in a highly graceful manner. The winners at Cremorne and Agricultural Hall of last year, came together ; the wrestle ended very unsatisfactorily, both men claimed the fall, which looked very much like a "dog" one ; but, after a consultation, the award was given to Coulthard. Fourth Sound. Stood. Fell. E. Coulthard William Gilchrist William Armstrong J. Wright T. Saunders G. Lancaster John Graham G-. Sanderson W. Bowerbank, odd man Greorge Sanderson was suffering from a wounded finger, and lost his hold ; consequently, John Graham gained the fall without a struggle. Fifth Sound. Stood. Fell. William Armstrong William Bowerbank T. Saunders E. Coulthard John Graham, odd man Saunders, to the surprise of everyone, threw Coulthard very cleverly. Sixth Sound. Stood. Fell. John Graham T. Saunders William Armstrong, odd man The wrestling by John Graham against the van- quisher of Coulthard, was by far the cleverest of the WBESTLIANA. 165 day. Saunders was a good stone and a half the heavier man, and a very awkward customer for any one to cope with, more especially for a man of our little champion's size. No sooner had they got hold, when Saunders put in the hank ; Graham, however , knew how to meet this very formidable chip. Instead of allowing himself to be pulled back, he bent for- ward, jerked his leg out of the hank, and crossed Saunders in a twinkling, making a splendid fall. After this performance, Graham was hailed with repeated ovations. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. John Graham Wm. Armstrong Wm. Armstrong John Graham John Graham Wm. Armstrong A most exciting struggle between the two men. Graham gained the first fall, after being swung round twice, Armstrong gained the second by sheer strength. In the final fall, Graham brought Armstrong down by a beautiful outside stroke. The clever young champion was immediately surrounded by his friends, and carried high around the arena, the cheering of the spectators lasting several minutes. The wrestling of John Graham was the theme of general admira- tion, and cannot be too highly praised, and when it is taken into consideration that he only weighed 9 stones and a half, there can be no doubt that his perform- ance was the very first of the meeting, and has never been surpassed in the London Eing. 166 WBESTLIA>-A. A grand display of pole-leaping here took place, E. Musgrove was first, clearing 10ft. Gin. P. Winder and J. Baines tied at 10ft. Sin. ; "V?m. Jameson re- tired after clearing 9ft. WRESTLING BY MEN FNTDEB 11 STONE ALL COMEES. Third, Round. Stood. Fell. J. Scott G. Sanderson W. Lawson E. Richardson C. Kennedy E. Carruthers H. Irison John Ward J. Milburn J. Thompson J. Allison, odd man Fourth Round. J. Milburn W. Lawson H. Ivison G. Maxwell (over weight) Jos. Allison C. Kennedy Jas. Scott, odd man J. Milburn Jas. Scott J. Milburn Jas. Scott J. Milburn Fifth Round. H. Irison Jos. Allison Final Falls. Jas. Scott J. Milburn J. Scott John Milburn, accordingly, won the first prize and the belt. ATX WEIGHTS ALL COMEBS. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. Win. Jameson H. Ivison E. Wright Jas. Edgar Wm. Armstrong J. Ward J. Emmerson J. Wilson J. Allison J.Milburn WRESTLIANA. 167 Sixth Sound. Stood. Fell. J. Emmerson J. Allison Win. Jameson Wm. Armstrong E. Wriglit Jas. Scott Seventh Mound. Wm. Jameson . J. Emmerson E. Wriglit, odd man Final Falls. Wm. Jameson E. Wright E. Wright Wm. Jameson E. Wright Wm. Jameson A deal of time was expended in getting hold, the audience the while manifesting great impatience. At last they grappled each other, and, amid the hoarse murmurs of the spectators, many of whom crowded in upon the competitors, the struggle commenced. Jameson having the best of the hold, soon got his man into difficulties, and brought "Wright to the earth with a thud. In the second fall, Jameson succeeded in " gathering" "Wright, and it seemed all over with him, but Dick made a sudden leap to the ground, twisted his burly antagonist quickly round, and threw him in a most scientific manner by a stroke from the right leg. In the final fall Jameson again got the best hold but Wright declined being bored down, and with- out waiting for such a catastrophe, whirled Jameson cleverly upon his back by a half-buttock, thus winning the heavy weight prize. This terminated the sports, which were not concluded till a late hour. 168 WBESTLIAITA. The prizes were awarded as follows : 9 STONE MEN. First prize 500 John Graham, Carlisle Second ditto 3 J. Briggs, Ulverstone Third ditto 2 G. Sanderson, "Un thank Fourth ditto 1 E. Carruthers, Cumwhitton London Prize. 11 STONE MEN. First prize, silver cup and 3 . John Graham, Carlisle Second ditto, gold watch . . . Wm. Armstrong, Keswick Third ditto, silver snuff box . . Thos. Saunders, Penrith Fourth ditto, a silver snuff box . E. Coulthard, Cockermouth Fifth ditto, a silver snuff box . . W. Bowerbank, Penrith Sixth ditto, a silver snuff box . . G. Sanderson, Unthank Seventh ditto, a silver snuff box . J. Wright, Longtown Eighth ditto, a silver snuff box . G. Lancaster, Carlisle 11 STONE MEN ALL COMEBS. First prize, belt and 8 J. Milburn, Weardale Second ditto 500 James Scott, Carlisle Third ditto 3 H. Ivison, ditto Fourth ditto 300 Jos. Allison, Weardale Fifth ditto 2 C. Kennedy, Stapleton Sixth ditto 200 Wm. Lawson, Newburgh Seventh ditto 1 E. Carruthers, Cumwhitton Eighth ditto 1 J. Thompson Ninth ditto 1 E. Eichardson Tenth ditto 100 John Ward ALL WEIGHTS ALL COMERS. First prize, belt and 10 E. Wright, Longtown Second ditto 600 Wm. Jameson, Penrith Third ditto 4 J. Emmerson, Weardale Fourth ditto 2 10 Jos. Allison, ditto Fifth ditto 2 10 J. Scott, Carlisle Sixth ditto 2 10 Wm. Armstrong, Keswick Seventh ditto 1 10 J. Wilson Eighth ditto 1 10 J. Ward Ninth ditto 1 10 J. Edgar Tenth ditto 1 10 J. Milburn Eleventh ditto 1 10 H. Ivison WBESTLIANA. 1 Pole Leaping. First prize 500 . E. Musgrove, Keswick Second ditto 2 } T - (P. Winder, ditto Third ditto 200) i James Baines, Penrith Hurdle Race. First prize, 300. E. Musgrove Second ditto 1 . J. Williams Sell Race. First prize 1 10 . John Ward Second ditto 15 . GL Maxwell Third ditto 10 . E. Carruthers Fourth ditto 5 . E. Musgrove Neatest Costume. Eichard Wright . 10 6 Matthew Mein . 10 6 1867. The following gentlemen were elected as Stewards at the Annual General Meeting, which took place at the " Salutation Hotel," Newgate-street, on Wednes- day the 6th of March. CHAIRMAN. TBEASUBEB. Mr. E. Margetson. Mr. Thomas Mein. HON. SECEETAEY. Mr. Jos. G-ilchrist. 170 WRESTLIAIfA. STEWABDS. Mr. Thomas Baty A. Bell S. Hewitson J. Illingworth Ed. Stainton Gr. Tomlinson Jos. Wright James Hodgson William Little Joseph Dixon P. Twentyinan A. Scott Jos. Wills John Mitchell At a subsequent meeting, Mr. Margetson having resigned his position as Chairman. Mr. William Leggett was promoted to that position, and Major "Wills was appointed to the Yice-chair, in the room of Mr. Leggett. GOOD FRIDAY AT THE AGRICULTURAL HALL. The sports commenced between one and two o'clock. The first event on the programme was the " London Prize," by men under 11 stone. In the first round some very exciting struggles took place, which at once roused the enthusiasm of the specta- tors. The wrestle between John Mitchell, the champion of the heavy weights in 1865, and Thomas Graham, was well contested. The first hold ended WEESTLIAJS'A. 171 in a " dog fall," but on renewing the round, Graham threw his man very cleverly. The men who entered for the heavy weights were splendid samples of the bone and sinew of the North of England. All who looked on the proceedings and noted the good humour which prevailed, spent an afternoon of genuine pleasure. That this northern pastime is greatly on the increase, and promises to be still more fully developed, is evidenced by the increase in the number of spectators who flock to the Agricultural Hall each year. Great changes have taken place in the public mind of late years with respect to physical training, and it is to be hoped that this very desirable accomplishment will become more general ; no other athletic exercise so thoroughly brings every muscle into play, and in a rough encounter nothing will serve a man in such good stead as a knowledge of the inside click and the cross-buttock. A Londoner was once heard to remark that nothing frightened him so much as getting amongst the feet of a north- countryman. The best fall of the day was that between J. Tomlinson and John Graham, the latter treating the spectators to a cross-buttock of the real Jimmy Scott pattern. The veteran Eobert Atkinson again made his appearance, and was loudly cheered when he threw his first opponent by the " back-heel." 172 WBESTLIANA. LONDON PEIZE FOE MEN UNDEB 11 STONE. Second Round. Stood. Fell. Thomas Moffatt E. Eitson W. Dixon J. Williams Walter Armstrong Thomas Graham Matthew Mein Eobert Atkinson T. Bell C. Wills J. Thompson John Wilson E. Tomlinson Thomas Waugh James Edgar E. Moffatt J. Wright J. Pattinson Jos. Dixon George Sanderson John Graham E. Ooulthard (not present) Jos. Peel, odd man Old Robert Atkinson made a rush at Matthew Mein, apparently intending to bore the young 'un down, but Matthew very carefully steadied himself with the click for an instant, " gathered " his man well, and hiped him, making a very clean fall of the old 'un. Third Sound. Stood. Fell. T. Moffat J. Peel W. Dixon W. Armstrong Matthew Mein T. Bell J. Thompson E. Tomlinson James Edgar . J. Wright John Graham Jos. Dixon J. "Wright made a good wrestle with James Edgar, trying all he knew; the latter, however, had received a very liberal education in the art of wrestling, and succeeded in throwing his opponent by the 173 swinging hipe. John Graham, by a skilful manoeuvre, pulled Jos. Dixon on to his knees. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. Thomas Moffatt W. Dixon J. Thompson M. Mein John Graham J. Edgar Edgar's swinging hipe would not do for John Graham, who stopped it easily, and twisted Edgar down. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Thompson T. Moffatt John Graham, odd man. Thompson and Moffatt soon got hold, when Moffatt tried the hipe, and was throwing his man beautifully, but just before reaching the ground Thompson turned himself, making a dog fall. Loud cries were raised that Moffatt had won, the referee however ordered them to wrestle over again, when the result was another dog fall. Again they got hold, Thompson eventually gaining the fall. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. John Graham J. Thompson John Thompson J. Graham John Graham J. Thompson Graham gained the first fall by the half-buttock. In the second trial Thompson swung his man, 174 WBESTLIAtfA. throwing him well. Each having gained a fall, the excitement was very great, Graham's friends crowding round him to give him advice. The clever little champion, however, wanted none, for as soon as the pair got hold, he coolly cross- clicked his opponent, never allowing him to have a chance. John Graham thus won the London prize two years in succession. Next came the hurdle race, which was again won by Robert Musgrove, J. "Williams being second. ALL WEIGHTS ALL COMEES. Third Round. Stood. Fell. J. Collins T. Moffatt J. Snowden Jos. Dixon E. Wright E. Tomlinson W. Jameson W. Armstrong Jos. Allison J. Allison W. Timperton S. King William Armstrong J. Edgar Fourth Sound. J. Snowdon J. Collins William Jameson E. Wright Jos. Allison W. Timperton William Armstrong, odd man Jameson threw "Wright by the inside click, after a severe struggle, thus reducing the result to a cer- tainty. Fifth, Sound. Stood. Fell. William Jameson Jos. Allison William Armstrong J. Snowdon . WBESTLIANA. 175 The second wrestle was the best of the day, and the vast arena rang with the acclamations of the spectators as "William Armstrong, an amateur, threw Snowdon by a superb hipe. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. William Jameson William Armstrong William Armstrong William Jameson William Jameson William Armstrong Loud cheers greeted the men as they stood up for the final falls. They soon got into holds, and Jameson was about to lift his man when the latter attempted to buttock the champion, but Jameson threw his weight forward, and screwed him down The result of the second round was unlocked for ; as soon asthey got hold, Armstrong turned in the buttock, and, amid oft-renewed cheers, brought the giant down. The last fall was a foregone conclusion. It was evident to the spectators that the champion was on his mettle, and that Armstrong's chance was a very poor one. Jameson's favourite chip is the cross buttock, which his extraordinary size and strength enables him to use in a different manner from any other wrestler ; instead of turning " in," as a lighter man would have to do, he, by main strength, drags his opponent on to his own (Jameson's) back with such terrific force, that the rebound is generally enough to settle him. In this 176 WBESTLIANA. way lie threw Armstrong ; Jameson drew him up as if he had been a child, and buttocked him high in the air, and thus won the champion's prize. Jameson was very good humoured at being thrown, and appeared to think it was rather good fun, but in the final wrestle he certainly looked in earnest. Pole Leaping. John Allison, of Kendal, divided the first prize with Musgrove, who broke the cross bar at 10 ft. 3 in. ; James Baines was third. 11 STONE MEN ALL COMEES. Third Round. Stood. Fell. J. Edgar E. Moffatt J. Graham J. Wright J. Snowdon Walter Armstrong Jos. Allison J. Harrison James Scott George Sanderson J. Milburn J. Collins Fourth Hound. James Edgar John Graham, Jos. Allison J. Snowdon J. Milburn J. Scott Fifth Sound. J. Edgar Jos. Allison J. Milburn, odd man Final Falls. J. Milburn J. Edgar J. Milburn J. Edgar Milburn threw Edgar twice in succession, and won. WRESTLIANA. 177 On the following day the prizes were awarded as follows : THE LONDON PRIZE. First prize, silver cup and 5 Second ditto, gold watch. Third ditto, silver watch Fourth ditto, silver snuff box Fifth ditto, silver snuff box . Sixth ditto, gold chain Seventh ditto, gold chain Eighth ditto, gold chain John Graham J. Thompson Thomas Moffatt James Edgar Matthew Mein W. Dixon Jos. Dixon J Wright 11 STONE PEIZE ALL COMEES. First prize, silver cup and 10 Second ditto, 6 . Third ditto, 4 ... Fourth ditto, 2 . Fifth ditto, 2 ... Sixth ditto, 2 ... Seventh ditto, 1 Eighth ditto, 1 Ninth ditto, 1 ... Tenth ditto, 1 ... Eleventh ditto, 1 Twelfth ditto, 1 J. Milburn James Edgar Jos. Allison James Scott John Snowdon John Graham J. Collins G. Sanderson J. Harrison Walter Armstrong J. Wright E. Moffatt Hurdle Race. First prize, 3 10s. Second ditto, 1 10s. Third ditto, 10s. . E. Musgrove J. Williams Archibald Bell Pole Leaping. Tie for ] First and Second j Third ditto, 1 15s. Fourth ditto, 15s. E. Musgrove J. Allison James Baines William Eake 178 WBESTLIAJTA. ALL WEIGKHTS AIL COMERS. First prize, silver cup and 14 Second ditto, 8 . Third ditto, 4 . Fourth ditto, 4 . Fifth ditto, 2 10s. Sixth ditto, 2 10s. Seventh ditto, 2 10s. . Eighth ditto, 1 . Ninth ditto, 1 . Tenth ditto, 1 . Eleventh ditto, 1 Twelfth ditto, 1 Thirteenth ditto, 1 . Fourteenth ditto, 1 . William Jameson William Armstrong John Snowdon Jos. Allison W. Timperton Richard Wright J. Collins J. Edgar S. King J. Allison Walter Armstrong R. Tomlinson Jos. Dixon T. Moffatt Neatest Costume. Matthew Mein, } , 1n R , Richard Wright, j each 10s. 6d. 1868. The Annual General Meeting of the Society was held at the " Salutation Hotel," Newgate Street, on Feb. 19th, when the following officers were elected : CHAIRMAN. VICE-CHAIEMAN. Mr. William Leggett. Major Wills. TBEASTTBEB. HON. SEC. Mr. Alex. Scott. Mr. R. Margetson (resigned). Mr. "Walter Armstrong was elected Hon. Sec. on the llth of March. STEWAEDS. Mr. Jos. Dixon, Bow Joseph Dixon William Topping Gavin Irving. D. Wilson E. Stainton C. Atkins WBESTLIANA. 179 At a subsequent meeting, the Chairman having announced that Mr. Margetson had resigned the office of Secretary, Mr. Walter Armstrong was elected to fill the vacant position. Messrs. William Thomas Thwaites, J. C. Thwaites, and Mr. John Sawer, were also eleated as Stewards. GOOD FBIDAY AT THE AGRICULTURAL HALL. The great annual gathering took place at the Agricultural Hall on G-ood Friday, April 10th. The programme contained the names of the most cele- brated wrestlers from the North. There was also a large entry for the London Prize, which included the silver cup given by Mr. Charles Eudkin. A prize was this year offered for 9| stone men, who, by the way, generally show more science than their heavier brethren. This is a class of wrestlers which certainly ought to be encouraged. A great many young men coming from the North do not scale more than this weight, consequently they are deterred from wrestling, because they would have no chance in the 11 stone prize. Naturally they are discouraged, and soon lose all interest in the sport. The best amateurs we have had of late years have been 9J stone men, and although they have won prizes in the 11 stone class, it has been against fearful odds. If the 9| stone prize is a success in the country, where bone and sinew are more extensively de- 180 WBESTLIASTA. veloped, surely, here in London, amongst men whose sedentary habits tend to reduce their weight so con- siderably, a feather weight prize ought to produce the largest entry. The all weight prize was very interesting, but which, as a matter of course, resolved itself into a match between "Wright and Jameson. The specta- tors seemed much delighted with the pole-leaping, which was keenly contested. The very judicious prize, given for the neatest costume, produced a good effect, and the contrast between the elegant tights, and the " breeks and black stockings" of former days was very great. There was an immense attend- ance, almost the largest ever known. The telegraph boards, showing each competitors' number corre- sponding with his name ou the programme, was a well- conceived idea, and carried out to perfection, under the active superintendence of Mr. Samuel Cochrane. Altogether the meeting was a very successful one, the proceeds enabling the Committee to resume their very laudable practice of subscribing to the benevo- lent institutions of the two counties. Umpires, Messrs. Mein and "Wills. Eeferee, Mr. Leggett. The sports opened with the 9i STOJTE MEN AIL COMEES. Second Round, Stood. Fell. Jas. Furness John Carter John Tiffin H. Chapman WEESTLIAKA. 181 Stood. Fell. T. Waugh W. Armstrong G. Graham R. Eoutledge J. Tomlinson J. Gilliburn John Graham W. Park Jos. Scaifc W. Stevens G-. Sanderson, odd man Third Sound. Or. Sanderson T. Waugh. John Graham J. Tomlinson George Graham Jos. Scaife J. Tiffin J. Moncrief J. Furness J. Walsh Sanderson hiped Waugh, Graham cross-buttocked Tomliuson. The most exciting struggle of the round was between Tiffin and Moncrief ; they were an endless time in getting hold, each trying to gain an advantage. Tiffin, as a matter of course, got the better hold, and, working his man round, threw him with a cross- buttock. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. G. Sanderson J. Furness J. Tiffin George Graham John Graham, odd man Sanderson hiped Furness easily. Greorge Grahan was too young for Tiffin, who turned in and buttocked him. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Tiffin John Graham G. Sanderson, odd man Immense excitement prevailed when it transpired that Tiffin and John Graham were drawn together. 182 WBESTLIANA. Tiffin struggled hard for a superior hold but all in vain, and was, for once, obliged to be content with a fair grip. He immediately made tracks for a buttock. Graham, however, happened to be looking out for that particular chip, and stopped the manoeuvre, when the " old un," as quick as lightning, tried the outside stroke, which Graham resisted on the first attempt, but, failing the second, was thrown. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. G-eorge Sanderson J. Tiffin Greorge Sanderson J. Tiffin The great reputation of Tiffin, the acknowledged champion of the " feather weights," rendered him the favourite when the two men stood up for the final falls. The London men, however, had great confi- dence in their old friend, George Sanderson, and a hearty cheer greeted him as he shook hands with the " invincible" before taking the first hold. Tiffin was the first to show play with the outside stroke, which was completely thrown away upon his oppo- nent, for Sanderson gathered him up in his arms, and hiped him beautifully. The delight of the audience knew no bounds when Sanderson threw the little champion, and cries of " Bravo, Geordie," were heard all round the hall. After a pause, they came together again, but the struggle was of short dura- tion. Tiffin failed to click his man, his friends calling out " Buttock him, Tiffin." Sanderson immediately WBESTLIANA. 183 took the hint, and floored his man with a splendid cross-buttock. The spectators were much delighted at the victory of Sanderson, who almost more than any other wrestler, deserves the popularity he enjoys. After the excitement was a little allayed, his friends gatlered anxiously round him, and after many con- graiulations had been passed, some one said, " How did you fell him, Geordie ?" " Why, man," said Grtorge, " I crossed him baith legs, and fairly buried hin." The hurdle race was won by J. Williams ; J. Walsh second. AIL WEIGHTS ALL COMEES. Second Round. Fell. E. Wright J. Thompson J. Allison J. Sproat John Graham J. Williams E. Dobson W. Holliday C. Kennedy E. Bowman J. Tiffin J. Tomlinson T. Walker J. Hilton E. Tomlinson T. Stevens Wm. Park H. Chapman E. Coulthard J. Furness Jas. Edgar M. Mein G. Steadman T. Cowing W. Jameson W. Stevens J. Bell T. Moffatt W. Lawson James Scott Scott was not in anything like his usual trim, and was rather easily hiped by Lawson. 184 WRESTLIANA. Third Sound. Stood. Fell. J. Tiffin J. Thompson C. Kennedy E. Dobson J. Bell E. Tomlinson E. Wright J. Wright W. Lawson E. Coulthard Wm. Park G. Steadman W. Jameson J. Allison J. Edgar T. Walker John Graham, Longtown, odd man Tiffin buttocked Thompson cleverly, after a very exciting struggle. Dick "Wright playfully thre-ff J. Wright, throwing a semi-somersault over his remans. Lawson met a good match in E. Coulthard ; more than once the Jarrow champion was within an ace of "being thrown, but at length he improved his hod, and threw Coulthard with the hipe in a most superb manner. "W". Park electrified the spectators by throw- ing Greo. Steadman, a man nearly twice his own weight. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. C. Kennedy J. Graham, Longtown Wm. Jameson W. Park E. Wright J. Tiffin J. Edgar J. Bell W. Lawson, odd man. Jameson, the biggest man at present wrestling was drawn against the smallest man of the light weights, W. Park, of Cockermouth. The contrast between the two can be imagined : Jameson being about 16 stone, and Park under 9J stone. Tiffin, who was in the ring at the same time, being drawn against "Wright, suggested that he ought to be allowed to assist Park, when the champion playfully opened, WBESTLIAXA. 185 his arms to receive them both. In the actual wrestle, Jameson lifted Park and laid him down like a pound- weight. Wright threw Tiffin quite as easily. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. E. Wright C. Kennedy W. Jameson W. Lawson J. Edgar, odd man In this round, "Wright and Jameson threw their two opponents without an effort. Sixth Eound. Stood. Fell. William Jameson J. Edgar E. Wright, odd man Final Falls. E. Wright W. Jameson E. Wright W. Jameson The champions soon got hold, and after a little dodging, slipped. At once they got into grips again, both seeming anxious to make play. Jameson tried to lift Wright, but Dick preferred keeping on the ground, and watching his opportunity, threw his opponent with the outside stoke. The result was greeted with loud cheering. An interval of five minutes, and the rivals met for the second fall. This time Dick availed himself of his celebrated chip and twisted Jameson from off his breast. The cheering was tremendous, and Wright was carried round the ring in triumph. Pole Leaping. J. Allison, of Kendal, won the first prize for the 186 WRESTLIANA. pole leaping, clearing 10 feet 3 inches. James Baines was second. Allison was a troublesome customer to Musgrove last year, and divided the prize with him. The London Prize, MEN NOT EXCEEDING 11 STONE. Second Mound. Stood. Fell. Matthew Mem T. Stevens J. Donald J. Walsh J. Gilliburn E. Atkinson G-. Sanderson J. Williams John Graham H. Chapman Tom Cowing J. Graham, Longtown Jos. Dixon James Furness J. Edgar J. Thompson T. Waugh E. Bewley E. Coulthard W. Stevens Third Sound. J. Edgar J. Donald G. Sanderson J. Williams Tom Cowing T. Waugh E. Coulthard J. Tomlinson M. Mein J. Gilliburn John Graham Jos. Dixon A smart wrestle between John Graham and Jos. Dixon, resulting in what to some appeared to be a dog-fall, was given in by the Umpires in favour of Graham. The decision, though a just one, was much cavilled at, and gave rise to a very animated dis- cussion. Fourth Round. Stood. Tell. J. Edgar G. Sanderson Tom Cowing M. Mein E. Coulthard John Graham WEESTLIANA. 187 Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Edgar Tom Cowing E. Coulthard, odd man Final Falls. E. Coulthard J. Edgar J. Edgar E. Coulthard E. Coulthard J. Edgar Gr. Sanderson wrestled well for this prize consider- ing that he was suffering from a sprained instep. Old Eobert Atkinson too struggled gamely, but his old fashioned chip, viz., the back heel is not good enough for the young blood he has to meet every year. Very few prizes have fallen to the old man's share during the many years he has been a com- petitor on Good Friday; yet, notwithstanding the fact that he is not particularly celebrated for his skill in the art of wrestling, his appearance is always the signal for a round of cheering, and a Good Friday would scarcely be considered complete without his venerable head and " breeks and grey stockings." The final falls between Coulthard and Edgar were very interesting displays of science, and were well con- tested. Coulthard gained the first fall by the hank. In the second trial Edgar threw his opponent with the swinging hipe. They had now each gained a fall, and the last bout created much interest, Coulthard finally throwing Edgar by the inside click, thus winning the London prize. 188 AVEESTLIA]N'A. The prizes were awarded as below : PRIZE AIL COMERS. First prize, a silver cup Second ditto, 4 Third ditto, Fourth ditto, Fifth ditto, Sixth ditto, Seventh ditto, Eighth ditto, Ninth ditto, Tenth ditto, 2 10 1 10 15 15 15 15 15 15 G. Sanderson Jos. Tiffin John Graham George Graham J. Furness J. Walsh J. Moncrief J. Scaife J. Tomlinson T. Waugh Pole Leaping. First prize, 300. . J. Allison Second ditto, 200. . J. Baines Third ditto, 100. . John Graham Neatest Costume. First prize, 1 10 Matthew Mein ALL WEIGHTS ALL COMERS. First prize, 10 Second ditto, 600 Third ditto, 400 Fourth ditto, 300 Fifth ditto, 300 Sixth ditto, 200 Seventh ditto, 200 Eighth ditto, Ninth ditto, E. Wright William Jameson James Edgar William Lawson C, Kennedy J. Bell J. Tiffin William Park John Graham, Longtown Hurdle Race. First prize, 3 Second ditto, 2 J.Williams J.Walsh The London Prize. First prize, silver cup . . B. Coulthard Second ditto, silver watch . James Edgar WBESTLIANA. 189 Third ditto, silver snuff box . Tom Cowing Fourth ditto, silver snuffbox John Graham Fifth ditto, gold Albert . Matthew Mein Sixth ditto, gold Albert . . G. Sanderson Seventh ditto, gold Albert . Jos. Dixon Eighth ditto, gold Albert . J. GiUiburn The annual dinner took place at the " Salutation Hotel," Newgate-street, on "Wednesday, the 13th of May. Mr. Leggett occupied the chair, supported by Messrs. Thomas Mein, "Walter Armstrong (Hon. Sec.), S. Cochrane, William Eoutledge, Matthew Mein, Gfeo. Sanderson, William Topping, William Thwaites, J. C. Thwaites, Gravin Irving, Jos. Dixon, &c. After the usual loyal and patriotic toasts had been duly honoured, the Chairman gave the toast of the evening, "Success to the Cumber- land and Westmoreland Wrestling Society." The healths of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman. Hon. Secretary, and Treasurer having been proposed and responded to, the Chairman, in a few well-chosen words, gave the ever popular toast of " The Bonnie Lassies of Cumberland and Westmoreland," calling upon Mr. William Topping to respond. Mr. Topping replied in a very graceful and humorous speech, dis- claiming, however, any pretensions to being the fittest person to do honour to such a toast. The remainder of the evening was enlivened by some excellent ringing, and a very satisfactory year was brought to a close. 190 WEESTLIANA. 1869. The Annual General Meeting was held at the " Salutation Hotel," Newgate-street, on "Wednesday the 26th January, when a large number of influential members of the Society were present. The balance sheet, showing a surplus of over 40, after giving a donation of twenty guineas to the benevolent insti- tutions connected with the two counties, having been read by the Secretary and unanimously adopted by the meeting, the following gentlemen were elected as Stewards for the year. CHAIBMAK. TBEASTJBEB. Mr. William Leggett Mr. Thomas Mem HON. SECEETAEY. Mr. Walter Armstrong STEWAEDS. Mr. C. Atkins William Atkinson Jos, Dixon G-. Irving J. C. Thwaites William Topping J. Illingworth S. Hewetson T. Moffatt E. Stainton William T. Thwaites P. Twentyman The proceedings were of a very satisfactory character, the members expressing themselves WRESTLIANA. 191 highly pleased with the exertions of the Committee during the previous year. Great efforts were made to render the anni- versary on G ood Friday a successful one. A pub- lic meeting was held every week up to the day, and frequently a private Committee meeting in ad- dition. A number of men carrying sandwich boards with large placards of the sports, were sent round the principal thoroughfares in the metropolis, who at the same time distributed 20,000 of the following handbills : " CUMBEBLAND AND WESTMORELAND "WRESTLING SOCIETY. " The great Annual Meeting of the above Society will take place at the Agricultural Hall, Islington, on Good Friday, March 26th 1869. " This will be the sixth successive year in which these popular sports have been held at the same place, and, to judge from the increase in the number of spectators each year, the public interest has not abated, neither has there been any falling off in the wrestling, nor in the manner of carrying out the attractive Programmes issued year after year. One of the objects of this Society is to assist in supporting two benevolent institutions, although the origin of the Association was to afford an opportunity for the natives of the two great wrestling counties of Cum- 192 WRESTLIANA. berland and "Westmoreland to meet once a year for the purpose of engaging in those exercises for which they hare obtained a world-wide celebrity. " The list of prizes this year is divided into three classes, viz. : London residents not exceeding eleven stones, all comers from the North not exceeding eleven stones, and the great champion prize for men of all weights. Prizes also for hurdle racing and pole leaping will be offered sufficient to induce the best men from the North to put in an appearance. " The celebrated wrestlers, Eichard "Wright of Longtown, and William Jameson, of Penrith, have both been specially invited on this occasion. It may be interesting to the public to say a few words respect- ing these two mighty exponents of the art of wrest- ling. Eichard "Wright, or as he is popularly styled, the " Border Champion," weighs about 14 stones, and is by far the most scientific wrestler the present generation has seen. The dexterity of his movements is something marvellous, and the clever manner in which he disposes of a burly antagonist, scarcely less formidable looking than himself, must be seen at the Agricultural Hall, on Good Friday, to be thoroughly appreciated. During the last fifteen years he has won over 500 prizes, and there is not a ring in England from which he has not taken either a cup or a belt. "William Jameson commenced his career as a pole leaper, being then a mere stripling ; his increas- 193 ing weight, however, soon reminded him that his at- tention must be turned to something different, and wrestling became his chief pursuit. He is now about 16 stones in weight, and, although he does not follow pole leaping as a profession, he occasionally competes for a prize, and can even yet clear the cross-bar at an altitude of ten feet, a feat unparalleled in athletic history, when his great size is taken into considera- tion. The burly form of the great athlete as he clears the cross-bar, his enormous bulk high in the air, making the pole quiver under his tremendous weight, is more like a fable than a reality. " The lithe Musgrove will also be there, the repre- sentative of a race of pole leapers ; younger brother of the late champion, who cleared 11 feet 6 inches. " A new feature will be introduced into the steeple- chase in the shape of a water jump, which is expected to create much amusement. " The pole leaping and steeplechase will come off last, to enable those visitors arriving late, to witness this interesting portion of the day's sports. <: The Committee have great pleasure in informing the public that no pains haw been spared to render the anniversary on Good Friday worthy the high position of the Society, and that arrangements have been made to secure every comfort to all classes of spectators. The Gates will open at One, p.m. Admis- sion, Is. ; Front seats, 2s. 6d. ; Eeserved seats, 5s. ABMSTBOXG, Hon. Sec." o 194 TTEESTLIAKA. The wrestling was again held at the Agricultural Hall. The great and increasing popularity of the sports attracted an immense gathering. Every part of the capacious building was crowded with well- dressed men, presenting a perfect sea of faces. As usual, the quiet decorum of the spectators was remarkable ; not the semblance of chaff was heard either at the officials or competitors, which must have surprised most strangers who have been accus- tomed to see mixed assemblages of a similar kind- The cockney appeared quite out of his element amidst the peculiar dialect which everywhere assailed him, and frequently displayed the utmost astonish- ment at the conversation going on around him, more especially at some of the technical terms used by the wrestlers. The uninitiated spectator would also be surprised sometimes to see a wrestler standing on hip head, and seemingly in a terrible plight, when he would be pulled up by the hand, give himself a shake together, and be ready for the fray again. The proceedings commenced a little before two o'clock with the prize for London men, which was won by John Thompson, Penrith ; the celebrated John Graham taking second honours. Graham wrestled very gamely, but was evidently not in his best " fettle." The spectators were much pleased at Thompson's victory, and cheered him to the echo. J. Beeby won the hurdle race very easily from Mus. WBESTLIAjN'A. 195 grove, whose " performance " gave anything but satisfaction, -a circumstance which is much to be re- gretted, and if allowed to be repeated will have a very unfavourable effect on the sports, which have always been carried out, on the part of the competi- tors, with the strictest integrity. The Society cannot be too severe in dealing with such unworthy attempts at imposition. Independent of this drawback, the amusement caused by the water jump in the race was of a most sensational kind ; several of the competi- tors jumped fairly iuto the pool, and as many as three were in at the same time, Tom Eobinson actually sitting down in it, convulsing the spectators with laughter. The display of pole-leaping was the best ever seen at the Hall, Musgrove exceeded all his previous efforts, closely followed, however, by a new aspirant, viz. : D. Anderson, of Alnwick. The greatest sensation, however, was caused in the heavy weight prize, by the celebrated Border champion, Hichard Wright, falling in the first round to an amateur of the name of Picton. It was a great fluke, and perfectly petrified the spectators, as it is well known that no two men in the world can throw the scientific Dick. Jameson made short work of the vanquisher of "Wright in the following round, but fell himself in the fourth round, when buttocking Law- son. The overthrow of Jameson and Wright was quite unexpected. 196 WEESTLIAifA. The arrangements gave universal satisfaction. The Daily Telegraph commenting upon the proceedings remarks : " The present celebration was marked by business-like activity on the part of the Committee and officers, and was in all essential respects highly creditable to the Society." The Umpires were Messrs. William Thos. Thwaites and Major Wills. Eeferee, Mr. R. Marge tson. THE Loyoox PEIZE MEX XOT EXCEEDING 11 STOXE. Second Round. Stood. Fell. T. Cowing B. Watson T. Moore T. Jackson H. Johnston J. G. Thompson J. Furness D. Johnstone B. Coulthard T. Price J. Thompson Gr. Sanderson John Graham (Carlisle) G. W. Wood T. Mo flat t J. Parkin J. Wilson E. Moffatt Matthew Mein B. Tomlinson J. Beed J. Baty J. Graham (Longtown) W. Armstrong J. Mitchell W. Little J. Donald J. G. Thompson H. Atkinson, odd man. This round was opened by Cowing and Watson } the latter of whom was easily thrown by the half- buttock. Coulthard threw Price with the swinging hipe. Sanderson and Thompson had a tough bout; Sanderson inserted the inside click but had not strength enough to bear his man down, and Thomp- son fairly wore him out. WBESTLIANA. 197 Third Round. Stood. Fell. J. Graham (Carlisle) T. Moore T. Cowing J. Graham (Longtown) J. Thompson J. Wilson K. Coulthard H. Johnstone T. Moffatt J. Reed M. Mein J. Donald J. Mitchell H. Atkinson J. Tomlinson J. Furness T. Walker, odd man. Graham of Longtown and Cowing had an exciting struggle, the latter finally throwing his man with the hipe. Thompson threw Wilson with the buttock, and Coulthard threw Johnston with the swinging hipe. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Thompson T. Moffatt J. Graha.n (Carlisle) J. Mitchell It. Coulthard T. Walker M. Mein J. Cowing J. Tomlinson, odd man. Thompson and Moffatt were a long time in the ring, the first hold resulting in a slip ; when they came together again, Thompson grassed his man in a very smart manner. Matthew Mein hanked Tom Cowing. Fifth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Graham (Carlisle) J. Tomlinson J. Thompson E. Coulthard M. Mein, odd man 198 WBESTLIANA. Graham threw Tomlinson with a good cross- buttock. Thompson swung Coulthard fairly on to his back. Fourth Round. Stood. Fell. J. Thompson AT. Mem J. Graham, odd man Final Falls. J. Thompson J. Graham J. Graham J. Thompson J. Thompson J. Graham No sooner had they got hold when Thompson threw Graham with the swing. In the second struggle Graham took hold quickly and threw his man with a scientific inside click for which he i s famous ; in the last hold Graham was compelled to succumb to superior weight and strength. Hurdle Race. J. Beeby .... First E. Musgrove . . . Second J. Williams . . . Third D. Anderson . . . Fourth 11 STONE PEIZE ALL COMEB.S. Third Round. Stood. Fell. J. Milburn R. Musgrove J. Donald M. Mein "W. Lawson J. Tomlinson J. Allison R. Coulthard T. Cowing R. Atkinson C. Kennedy W. Beattie D. Wills T. Moffatt Lawson threw Tomlinsou with a beautiful hipe. Coulthard " laid " down to Jos. Allison. The veteran, WBESTLIANA. 199 E. Atkinson, got the back heel in with Cowing, but he was unable to make use of it, as his antagonist by sheer strength bored him down, the old man making a good struggle of it to the last. Fourth Sound. Stood. Fell. J. Milburn D. Wills J. Allison J. Donald W. Lawson T. Cowing C. Kennedy T. Walker Fifth, Sound. W. Lawson J. Allison C. Kennedy J. Milburn ATI exciting contest took place betw r een Lawson and Allison. The latter is the stouter built man, but Lawson is the prettier wrestler. Each tried all he knew. Lawson eventually disposed of his man with the hipe. Kennedy threw Milburn very cleverly with the inside click. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. W. Lawson C. Kennedy C. Kennedy W. Lawson W. Lawson C. Kennedy The final falls were of very short duration. Kennedy fell to the buttock in the first trial, in the second he managed to throw Lawson by slipping his head; Lawson, however, finally buttocked Kennedy high in the air, and was proclaimed the winner. 200 WKESTLIAKA. The overthrow of Rich. "Wright in the first round, as before stated, was a surprise to every one. He was drawn against A. Pictou, an amateur, and quite unknown to fame. They were just about the same height, and not much difference in their weight ; perhaps Picton might be a little the heavier. Several times they essayed to get hold. "Wright's friends were very impatient at his Avasting so much time on a mere novice, calling out to him, " Dad him doon, Dick." Wright, per- haps, a little nettled, took hold at the wrong time, made a sudden move, missed his foot, and fell. There was no mistake about it, although difficult to realize at the time. The greatest excitement ensued, and the cheering was tremendous as Picton carried his ticket to the reporter's table. This unexpected incident altered the aspect of affairs, and, to all appearance, left Jameson master of the field. The result, however, proved otherwise, much to the delight of the spectators, who seemed to think that Jameson and Wright had won the first prize quite often enough. ALL WEIGHTS ALL COMBES. Third Round. Stood. Fell. E. Mason E. Briscoc J. Holmes E. Musgrove G-. Steadman J. Allison G. Sanderson T. Motfatt J. Graham T. Walker WKESTLIANA. 201 Stood. Fell. W. Jameson A. Picton C. Kennedy B. Coulthard W. Lawson, odd .man Jameson and Picton soon got hold. The champion lifted Picton at once, and hiped him very carefully, sticking to him till they reached the ground, which they did, with a thud that resounded all over the ring. Fourth Sound. Stood. Fell. W. Lawson W. Jameson E. Mason T. Cowing Q. Steadman J. Wright C. Kennedy J. Holmes G. Sanderson J. Graham. The issue between Lawson and Jameson was unlocked for. It looked almost ridiculous for Lawson to strike the huge leg of Jameson (which seemed immovable), from the ground. In at- tempting to buttock Lawson, Jameson slipped, and fell under him. The greatest excitement prevailed ; a great number of the spectators maintained it was a dog-fall. However, the referee decided that Jameson had been thrown, but it took some time to convince the people that the champion was really down. Fifth Hound. Stood. Fell. "W. Lawson C. Kennedy G. Steadman E. Mason George Sanderson, odd man 202 WEESTLTANA. Sixth Hound. Stood. Pell. W. Lawson Gr. Sanderson Gr. Steadman, odd man W. Lawson had a hard struggle to get rid of Sanderson. Lawson hiped his man, thinking he had nothing to do but drop him to ground, instead of which Sanderson landed on his feet, when his opponent again applied the hipe successfully. Final Falls. Stood. Fell. Gr. Steadman W. Lawson W. Lawson Gr. Steadman Gr. Steadman W. Lawson The men, as they stood up for the final falls, were loudly cheered. Both are splendid wrestlers. Lawson, the most scientific of the two, laboured under the disadvantage of being at least two stone lighter than his opponent, who is also a much younger man, and bids fair to be a formidable rival to Wright and Jameson. In the first bout Lawson tried the buttock, but failed, Steadman screwing him down over his knee. On getting hold again Lawson gained the fall by a smart buttock. The time occu- pied in wrestling the final falls was twenty minutes ; the men slipped hold no fewer than four times. Lawson by this time was gradually tiring, and, when they got into grips, Steadman, the fresher of the two, bored his man down. The men were well matched, and a finer struggle has seldom been witnessed. The cheers' WBESTLIANA. 203 which were loud and long, were equally and deservedly bestowed on both men. Pole Leaping. For this event there were a dozen entries, but only eight came to the scratch, namely, Mark Shearman, of Keswick ; J. Beeby, Little Orton ; John Graham, Carlisle ; E. Musgrove, Cockermouth ; D. Anderson, Alnwick ; William Jameson, Penrith ; James Baines, Penrith ; J. Tomlinson, Carlisle. The standard was first hoisted at 6 feet inches, but before the height became 8 feet 6 inches, Beeby, G-raham, Tomlinson, and William Jameson, retired the latter, considering that he scaled over 16 stone, jumped with remark- able agility. Shearman and Baines also retired at 9 feet 6 inches, at which height they tied. The issue was now left to Musgrove and Anderson. The latter made a gallant struggle against the now acknowledged champion with the pole. It was only when the bar was raised to 10 feet 7 inches that he retired, de- feated, it is true, but not disgraced, as was testified by the applause which he carried with him out of the arena. The sports were brought to a close at 8 o'clock, after which the prizes were awarded to the winners, as follows : 204 ALL WEIGHTS. First prize, 13 Second ditto, 6 10s. Third ditto, 4 Fourth ditto, 2 10s. Fifth ditto, 2 10s. Sixth ditto, 1 10s. Seventh ditto, 1 10s. Eighth ditto, 1 10s. ISiintli ditto, 1 10s. Tenth ditto, 1 10s. . G-. Stcadman W. Lawson George Sanderson E. Mason G. Kennedy John Graham J. Holmes J. Wright T. Cowing William Jameson 11 STONE MEN ALL COMERS. First prize, 10 Second ditto, 5 Third ditto, 3 10s. . Fourth ditto, 3 10s. Fifth ditto, 2 Sixth ditto, 2 Seventh ditto, 2 . Eighth ditto, 2 William Lawson C. Kennedy J. Milburn Jos. Allison T. Walker T. Cowing J. Donald D. Wills The London Prize. First prize, a silver cup, value 10 10 ) Cash Second ditto, silver watch Third ditto, gold guard Fourth ditto, gold guard Fifth ditto, gold guard Sixth ditto, gold guard Seventh ditto, gold guard Eighth ditto, gold guard 70 3 15 3 12 2 12 2 12 2 12 2 12 0) John Thompson John Graham Matthew Mein 6 E. Coulthard 6 J. Tomlinson 6 T. Cowing 6 T. Walker 6 J. Mitchell Pole Leaping. First prize . 3 10 E. Musgrove Second ditto . 2 D. Anderson Third ditto . 15 M. Sharinan and J. Baines WBESTLIANA. 205 Steeplechase. First prize . . 300 J. Beeby Second ditto . . 1 10 E. Musgrove Fourth ditto . . 10 J. Williams Neatest Costume. First prize . . 1 10 Matthew Mem Second ditto . . 10 Tom Moffatt ANNUAL DINNER The Annual Dinner of the Society was held at the "Salutation Hotel," Newgate-street, on Wednesday' the 5th of May, Mr. Wm. Leggett in the chair, Major "Wells occupied the Vice, supported by Messrs. Thos. Meiii (Treasurer), Walter Armstrong (Hon. Sec.), E. Margetson, James Hodgson, Wm. Armstrong, Saml. Cochrane, George Felton, Wm. Topping, M. Meiu, G. Irving, J. Dixon, Wm. Thos. Thwaites, Wm. Routledge, J. Illingworth, &c. After the usual loyal toasts had been duly honoured, the Chairman gave the Army, Navy, and Volunteers. Major Wills briefly responded for the former branch of the service, and Captain Margetson, of the (4th City E.V.C.) for the volunteers. He always felt great pleasure in responding on their behalf, and he could fully endorse the observation of the gallant Major, for in his younger days he (Captain Marget- son) had also served in the army. He felt certain 20G WEESTLIANA. that the volunteer movement had been the great means of preserving peace, for their enemies would not dare to show their teeth while Great Britain had such an army of citizens as they now possessed. In the north, more particularly in their native counties, the movement had increased, and the inspecting generals had held them up as a pattern to others. The Chairman next proposed the toast of the even- ing " Success to the Cumberland and Westmoreland Wrestling Society ;" and in doing so, remarked that the robust and healthy frames of those he saw before him, was a convincing proof, if any were wanting, that the art of wrestling was conducive to the well- being of its votaries, and rendered them better able to withstand the trials and anxieties to which men who are engaged in commercial pursuits are con- stantly exposed. Capt. Margetson proposed the health of the Chair- man. The Chairman, in reply, said he had always endea- voured to make himself an independent member of the Society ; he had sided with no party, 'and should always continue to act in that spirit of neutrality which became a man who was placed in the position he had been. Mr. Walter Armstrong, the Hon. Sec., then rose and said that " the Committee thought it would only be dealing: fairlv and courteouslv with the subscribers 207 and supporters of the institution, to take the earliest opportunity of stating our financial position. We commenced this year with a balance of 40 13s. Ten guineas we received from Messrs. Spiers and Pond, in the shape of a silver cup ; 323 was taken on Grood Friday, and the cash for tickets and donations amounted to about 80, making a total of 445. On the other side we paid the large sum of 100 for the Agricultural Hall. The prizes cost 122 12s. 6d., and sundry other expenses, say 100. 'Twenty guineas presented to the two benevolent institutions of Cum- berland and Westmoreland ; total, 343, leaving the handsome balance of 102 in hard cash, the largest surplus, with the exception of 1863 and 1864,for a num- ber of years. There can be no doubt, gentlemen, that our expenses have been heavy, but the end has jus- tified the means. In these advertising days it is necessary to keep pace with the times. The penny- wise system will never raise this Society to the position which it is destined to hold, namely, the first athletic society in the kingdom ; and I hope, gentlemen, the day is not far distant when this Association will, by having a benevolent fund of its own, meet in a more efficient manner the wants of those who have passed into the sere and yellow leaf. Mr. Jas. Hodgson proposed the health of the Treasurer, and the rest of the officers, to which Mr. Meinresponded. Someexcellent singing then followed, 208 WBESTLIAJS-A. Mr. Cochrane's " Digging for Gould," playing a con- spicuous part. The last song of the evening was "John Peel," from Mr. Matthew Mein, which found a response in the hearts of all the north countrymen present. WEESTLIAtfA. 209 WINNERS OF THE WRESTLING- SINCE 1821. 1824 1824 1825 1825 1826 1827 1827 1831 1831 1832 1832 1833 1833 1834 1834 1835 1835 1836 1836 1837 1837 First. John Dobson George Byers John Beaty William Dent Eobert HaU Wm. Graham William Mars Wm. Percival PhU. Thompson J Jos Dobson Tim. Dobson John Dixon Wm. Fawcett Jos. Stamper Third. J. Eichardson Wm. Graham Ths.Eichardson Joseph Eudd Wm. Graham Joseph Lambert First time over John Cowing Second Eobert Winter First time over Joseph Stamper Second Joseph Dobson First ,, Wm. Eobinson Second Joseph WiUs First Joseph Slack Second Thos. Thwaites First Thomas Bird Second Wm. Metcalf Joseph Dobson John Ellwood Wm. -Fawcett Thos. Fawcett Atkinson Jos. Stamper John EUwood Tim Dobson Jno. Atkinson Stphn. Fawcett Edward Ewin First Jno. Carruthers Thos. Irving Phil. Thompson Second Chris. Gaddes John Lamb H. Mossop First Joseph Wills Jno. Carruthers Thos. Thwaites Second Jno. Carruthers Jas. Armstrong J. Eobinson First Thos. Abrams Joseph WiUs Thos.BroklebaukSecond John Eobinson Jos. WiUs, jnr. Stephen Fawcett First Thos. Abrams Geo. BrunskiU Wm. BrunskiU Second J. Westgarth Thomas HaU Edwd. Dawson Lgt. wts.und.ll st. Geo. BrunskiU Jos. Wills, jnr. Jos. WiUs, snr. AU weights Jos. WiUs, jnr. Jos. WiUs, snr. John Harvey First time over J. Harvey Eobinson Eidley Thomas HaU Second Jos. WiUs, senr. Eichard Metcalf J. Armstrong Heavy weights E. Dawson E.James J.Pearson Lgt. wts. und. list. Thos. Abrams WiUiam Earl John Wren AU weights H. Thompson E. GiU E. Foster Hy. wts. un. 12J st. E. Margetson J. Armstrong E. Farriday Lgt. wts. un. 11 st. J. Haig J. WiUs, jnr. T. Abrams AU weights , E. Margetson J. Carruthers J. Dixon Hy. wts. un. 12J st. J. Armstrong J. Gregsoii W. Nicholson Lgt. wts. un. 11 st. Jas. Haig G. BrunskiU W. Faulder AU weights P 210 WRESTLIAXA. First. Second. IS 10 T. Abrains T. Donow 1810 T. Sandford P. Clemetson 1841 Jno. Armstrong Thos. Plaskett 1841 Geo. BrunskiU E. Lamb 1812 Jos. Wills, jnr. Geo. Brunskill 1812 Thos. Hudson D. Harrison 1843 Mark Morley J. Xorman 1813 Geo. Donaldson F. Bowman 1844 W. Miller A. Nelson 18-44 W. Morton J. Simmons 1845 G. Brunskill Thos. MiDar 1845 Jer. Pearson Wm. Harrison 1846 C. Dobson Jos. Wills, jnr. 184S Jthu.Whiteliead Sam. Pearson 1817 Thos. Longmire A. Dawson 1847 Jos. HaUiwell Jer. Pearson 1848 J. Banks J. Robinson 1848 J. Whitehead J. Knlliwell 3 SIS W. Walker T.Walker 1849 R.Atkinson Jos. Harrington 1849 Jthn.Whitehead James Wilson 1849 Jno. Dixon, jnr. Jas. Irvine 1850 G. BrunskUl Corporal Edgar 1850 John Dixon Thos. Matthews 1850 Chris. Fawcett J. Shepherd 1851 John Dixon Corpl. Jos. Dixon 1851 George Irving John Dixon [Coldstream Guards 1852 John Dixon Alex. Scott 1852 Alex. Scott James Bishop 1852 J. Greenhow J.Hind 1852 J. Moss Alex. Scott 1853 Thomas Todd Geo. BrunskiU 1853 Ths.WUliamson Harry Howe 1854 Geo. BrunskiU Alex. Scott 1854 James Scott Joseph Tiffin 1855 X. Faulkner W. Shepherd 1855 Alex. Scott J. Moorhouse 1856 Geo. BrunskiU John Smith 1856 Joseph Tiffin Harry Howe 1857 John Smith Jos. Thompson 1857 Jos. Thompson William Banks Third. J. Gregson Hy. wts. un. 12 \ st. Wm. Brown Lgt. wts. und. list. Rd. Margetson Lgt, wts. und 11 st. Rd. Margetson All weights John Dixon All weights J. Swain Lgt. wts. und. 11 st. Geo. Brunskill All weights J. Bell Lgt.jvts. und. 11 st. Rd. Margetgon All weights J. Sill Lgt. wts. und. 11 st. E. Gregson AU weights. Thos. Earl Lgt. wts. und. 11 st. Jas. Haigh Light weights Jno. Thompson Lgt. wta. uad. 11 st. Jos. Hallewell AU weights J. Chic-ken Lgt. wts. und. 11 st. Corpl. Dixon AU weights R. Gash Lgt. wts. uncl. 11 st. J. Ross Lgt. wts. unL 9 st. AnthonyDawson AU weights Thomas Walker Lgt wts.'und. list. Thomas Walker Lgt. wts. und. 9 st. Isaac Robinson All weights George Kershaw Lgt. wts. und. 11 st. Gerard Riws Lgt. wts. und. 9st. Sergt. Chalmars AU weights John Steel Lgt. wts. und 11 st. Thos. Whitfleld All weights John Dixon Lgt. wts. und. 11 st. T. Teasdalo All weights T. Teasdale Eight last standers Harry Howe All weights Matthew Palmer Lgt. wts. und. list. Robt. Greenhow All weights Thos. Dickinson Lgt. wts. und. list. Alex. Scott All weights Joseph Tiffin Lgt. wts. und. list. Thomas Wood AU weights J. Moorhouse Lgt. wts. und. list. J. Routledge AU weights John Thompson Lgt. wts. und. list. AVRE3TLIA1S*A. 211 1858 1858 1859 1859 1860 1860 1861 1861 1861 1861 1862 1862 1862 1863 1863 1863 1863 186-1 186-1 1864 1864 1881 1865 1865 1865 1865 1865 1865 1866 1866 1867 1867 1863 1868 First Second Third . T. Hetherington Jos. "Wilkinson Jos. Thompson All weights Geo. Gibson John Smith Thos. Sauuders Lgt. wts.und.llst. T. Hetherington Geo. Sanderson W. Sewell All weights Geo. Mason J. Mason Geo. Sanderson Lgt. wts. und. list Thos. Robinson Math. Robinson All weights John Smith John Mason AVm. Jameson Ben Cooper John Dixon Noble Ewbank T. Rawlinson Wm. Jameso James Scott John Smith G. Mason Math. Robinson Lgt. wts. uud. list. Noble Ewbank Richd. AVright All weights John Smith Geo. Sanderson Lgt. wts. und. list. AVm. Gilchrist Thomas Mein do. Lon. prize James Scott 16 picked men Richard AVright J. Brunskill All weights George Scott Wltr. Armstrong Lgt. wts. und. list John Dixon Geo. Sanderson do. Lon. prize AA r m. Jameson John Dixou Wltr. Armstrong All weights (AVhit-Monday) Richard AVright AVm. Jameson Thos. Blacltett All weights George Scott AV.Thornthwaite James Scott Lgt. wts. und. list. R. AVetherall John Smith R. Ritson Geo. Maxwell Matthew Lee J. Emmerson AV. AVatson Jos. Allison R. Blair Rchd. Coulthard AV. Pearson R. Tyson G. Sanderson AVltr. Armstrong R. Tyson do. Lon. prize All weights Lgt. wts. und. list. do. Lon. prize Lgt. wts. uud. 9st. (Cremorne) All wts (Cremorne) All weights Lgt. wts. und. list. do. Lon. prize All wts. (Cremorne) Lgt. wts. do Lgt. wts. do. All weights R. Coulthard J. Thompson T. Robinson John Mitchell John Natrass Jas. Scott Jos. AlKson James Scott Henry Prison James Edgar Wltr. Armstrong Geo. Hunton Wm. Jameson Jos. AVhitehead W.Graham Archibald Bell John Thompson S. Hewitsou R. Coulthard John Milburn R. Carruthers Richd. Wright AVm. Jameson J. Emmerson John Milburn James Scott Joseph Allison Lgt. wts. und. list. John Graham AVm. Armstrong Thos. Sanders do. Lon. prize John Graham J. Briggs G. Sanderson AVm. Jameson Wm. Armstrong J. Snowdon J.io. Milburn Jas. Edgar Jos. Allison John Graham John Thompson Thos. Moffatt Richd. AVright AVm. Jameson Jas. Edgar R. Coulthard Jas. Edgar G. Sanderson J. Tiffin Lgt. wts. und. OJst. All weights Lgt. wts. und. list. Lgt. wts. Lon. prize All weights Thomas Cowing Lgt. .wts. Lon. prize John Graham Lgt. wts. und. 9J at. G. Steadman AVm. Lawson G. Sanderson All weights AVm. Lawson Clem. Kennedy J. Milburn Lgt. wts. und. list. Jno. Thompson John Graham Matthew Mein Lgt. wts. Lon. prize 212 LIST OF DONATIONS TO THE Cumberland Benevolent Institution, and the Westmoreland Society's Schools. To THE CUMBERLAND BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION. 1836 10 10 1845 1846 Per E. Beck, Esq. ... Geo. Eilbeck, Esq., John James, Esq. 10 21 10 1847 M Geo. Eilbeck, Esq. 10 10 1856 1857 James Brown, Esq. Thomas Charlton, Esq. 10 10 10 10 1858 J} Wm. Leggett, Esq. 10 10 1859 , } Jas. Ellison, Esq., Jas. Hodgson, I Csq." 21 1860 5J F. Bell, Esq., Thos. Clemitson, Es iq.... 21 1862 J} Wm. Armstrong, Esq., C. Little, Esq. 21 1863 B T. Charlton, Esq., J. Thompson 21 1864 J. Scott Brown, Esq., Jos. Eichardson, Esq 21 1868 " Jos. Wells, Esq. 10 10 1869 Wm. Topping, Esq. 10 10 210 To THE WESTMORELAND SOCIETY 's SCHOOLS. 1836 10 10 1845 ... 10 10 1846 21 1847 Per William Thompson, Esq. . . . 10 10 1856 E. Stainton, Esq.... 10 10 1857 G. Wharton, Esq. 10 10 1858 t G. D. Lund, Esq. 10 10 1859 M J. Thompson, Esq., Geo. Gibson, Esq. 21 1860 }J E. Margetson, Esq., John Eicbardi son, Esq. 21 1862 John Smith, Esq., Thos. Charlton , Esq. 21 1863 J} E. Margetson, Esq., Geo. Gibson, Esq. 21 1864 J. Hodgson, Esq., E. Atkinson, Esq... 21 1868 } Wm. T. Thwaites, Esq. 10 10 o 1869 John Illingworth, Esq. 10 10 5 210 WRESTLIANA. 213 Also in the year 1864. To COMMERCIAL TRAVELLERS' SCHOOLS. Per Frank Bell, Eeq 1010 To WAREHOUSEMEN AND CLERKS' SCHOOLS. Per James Brown, Esq 1010 List of amounts given in prixes during the last thirteen years : 1857, at llaokney Wick 35 5 1858, ditto 35 15 1859, ditto 30 14 1860, Horusey Wood House 53 10 1861, ditto 93 5 1862, ditto 93 8 1863, ditto 102 4 L864, Agricultural Hall 128 2 1865, ditto 153 10 1865, Crcmorne Gardens 105 1866, Agricultural Hall 137 14 6 1867, ditto 145 11 6 1868, ditto 103 G 1869, ditto 122 12 6 EULES. The following revised rules were passed at a general meeting held at the " Salutation Hotel," Newgate- street, on the 6th March, 1867. 1. That this Society shall be designated the CUM- BERLAND AND WESTMORELAND WRESTLING SOCIETY. 2. That the benefits conferred by this Society shall be confined to Natives of Cumberland and Westmoreland, and at the discretion of the Com- mittee to other North-country men, to whom suitable Prizes shall be given to be Wrestled for, on GOOD .FRIDAY, in each year ; the amount and number of sucli Prizes to be regulated by the Committee ; and should any surplus money, arise, over and above 150, that power shall be given to the Committee to decide 214 WEESTLIATTA- the amount of Gift (if any), which shall be handed over to the Benevolent Institutions of Cumberland and Westmoreland ; all such Gifts from this Society, be it understood, shall be equally divided betwixt the two. 3. That the government of this Society shall be vested in a Committee of Eleven Members, consist- ing of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Treasurer, Secre- tary, and seven Stewards, to be elected annually, by ballot or otherwise, that the Committee shall have full power, and that all its transactions shall be binding until the election of the new Committee, at the Annual General Meeting : and that Five of the Committee shall be a Quorum. 4. That no person shall be eligible to be elected on the Committee, or become a Member of this Society, or be allowed to propose any Resolution, or Vote at any Meeting, who has not subscribed Two Shillings and Sixpence or upwards ; or be allowed to Wrestle, unless his Subscription has been duly paid up before the time of Wrestling. 5. That the Secretary shall read a Report of the Transactions of the Committee whenever the same shall be required. 6. That any Member of the Society having a Complaint to make, shall make it to the Secretary, in writing, who shall have power, at all times, to call a Private Meeting of the Committee for the dispatch of such business, and their decision upon it shall be final. 7. That all sums of money arising from Subscrip- tions or otherwise shall be paid into the hands of the Treasurer "every Thursday or other night, when the Meetings take place, for the necessary expenses of the Society. 8. That proper books shall be provided for the use of the Society, and all Receipts and Disburse- ments be entered therein, in such manner as the Com- mittee shall direct. AVBE3TLIAXA. 215 9. That at the General Meetings of the Com- mittee (at which subscribers shall be allowed to attend) the Treasurer shall pi'oduce his accounts of Eeceipts and Payments, and Cash in hand, the parti- culars of which shall be entered as part of the Minutes. 10. That the number and amount of Prizes, and the different Classes of "Weights, shall be regulated by the Committee. 11. That should any dispute arise in the King bet\vixt the Umpires, the decision of the Eeferee shall be final ; and any individual refusing to con- form to the usual Rules of Wrestling, either by re- fusing to take fair hold to Wrestle over again or otherwise the Umpire shall have full power to strike out his name. 12. That should any Member or Members do any act to the dishonour or prejudice of the Society, either in the Ring or out of it, the Committee shall have full power to expel him or them from the Society ; but that it shall not be considered a dis- grace for any Member of the Society to challenge another to Wrestle, provided it is done privately, and not by public advertisement (with his knowledge and and consent) ; but if any Member shall challenge, or cause another to be challenged by public advertise- ment, the Committee shall expel him from the Society. 13. That should any Member buy or sell, or offer to buy or sell, a Fall ; or by neglecting to do his best, and thereby suffer himself to be unfairly thrown, he shall be expelled from the Society ; and any Prize he may have been entitled to, shall be forfeited by him, and given to the next in rotation. 14. That the Anniversary shall take place imme- diately after the Wrestling, when the Chairman shall deliver the Prizes to each successful Competitor. 15. That a Private Meeting of the Committee and Stewards be convened, a fortnight after Good Friday, 216 WEESTLIAXA. for the settlement of Accounts, that a General Meet- ing of the Society, may be held not later than mid- summer, when a dinner shall be provided at Two Shillings and Sixpence, each Member. That Two Tickets shall be allowed to each Member of the Com- mittee, at the Expense of the Society ; and that the Tickets shall express the Time and Place of Meeting. 16. That the Balance Sheet be Printed and Circu- lated amongst the Subscribers at least one week before the Annual General Meeting. 17. That the Annual General Meeting of the Society shall be convened by public advertisement, at least one Month before Good Friday, stating the Time and Place where the Meeting will be held, to elect Officers, and to receive the Annual Report of the Committee, which shall contain a general State- ment of Accounts, duly audited ; the Eules and Pro- gress of the Society, aud an accurate List of Subscribers-. 18. That power be given to the Committee to ren- der Pecuniary Assistance, at the expense of the Society, to deserving Members in distress. 19. That none of the Eules herein contained shall be rescinded, or altered, or new ones made except at the Annual General Meeting of the Society : aud that any Member or Members wishing to introduce any new Eules or Ec-gulations, he or they must give notice of the same, in writiug, to the Secretai-y. at least one week previous to the Annual General Meeting ; and that none of the Eules or Alterations shall be binding until confirmed at the Annual General Meeting of the Society. 20. That all the Eules and Eegulations affecting the Cumberland and "Westmoreland "Wrestling Society heretofore existing shall be null and void ; and that the present Eules and Eegulations shall be the governing Eules of the Society. TJ University of California SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY 405 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90024-1388 Return this material to the library from which it was borrowed. REC'DYRLMOV09'99 7>'/nnuiniiv S! ' y*^ ^ I S^~ l %^Jl IB %~ "fystotmw* yoMtmin^ y o* ^UBRARYQ^ i? 1 *{-* '. 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