Germoe

1878: Germoe Wesleyan Sunday School: “…The annual festival of this school was held on Saturday last. The children and teachers, headed by the Germoe Brass Band and carrying banners, marched in procession”. (2 August 1878 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

 

Goldsithney

1920: “Goldsithney celebrated their Sunday school festival on Saturday. The school was instituted 1818. Headed by Camborne Town Silver Prize Band, the superintendents (Messrs. J. Williams and H. H. Griffin), and the teachers and scholars …” (16 June 1920 – Cornishman)

1932: Goldsithney Wesleyan Methodists: “… annual Sunday school festival. The weather, unfortunately, was very unfavourable. After a parade, headed by Penzance Silver Prize Band, the children were provided with buns and tea. This was followed by a public tea, at which a good number sat down.” (9 June 1932 – Cornishman)

 

Goonbell

Goonbell Primitive Chapel and Schoolroom (Photo: courtesy Donald Blight)

 

Goonhavern

1908: Goonhavern Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Derek Brooks)

 

Gorran

1912: “…Gorran Wesleyan Band of Hope was favoured with splendid weather, and the usual march was headed by Stenalees Temperance Band. A well-attended tea was held in the schoolroom, and games were indulged in…” (8 August 1912 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Grampound

1907 circa: Grampound UMC (Photo: Govier)

 

Grampound Road

1912: “Grampound Road Wesleyan Band of Hope was held on Friday when members and friends met in the schoolroom, and after parading the village, headed by Fraddon Coronation Band, sat down to a public tea…” (11 April 1912 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Greenbottom

1888: “The teachers and scholars of the Greenbottom Bible Christian Chapel held their annual tea in a field at Greenbottom, on Wednesday, kindly lent for the occasion by Mr Hendy Pearce. The Perranporth Brass Band was in attendance.” (28 June 1888 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1895: Greenbottom Bible Christian Sunday School: “… Saturday last, when the teachers and scholars assembled at the schoolroom, and, forming a procession, headed by the Twelveheads Brass Band, they marched to Chacewater, returning to a field, where the children had tea…” (11 July 1895 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1908: Greenbottom United Methodist Sunday School: “… Assembling in the schoolroom the teachers and scholars formed a procession, and headed by the Treviscoe Brass Band, marched as far as Three-mile-stone …” (13 August 1908 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1920: “… annual Band of Hope festival at Greenbottom United Methodist Church took place on Monday in ideal weather. Headed by Indian Queens Silver Band, the members walked … making halts en route and returning to Mr. W Bowes field, when the children had their tea. …” (27 May 1920 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Gulval

The Sunday school tea treat at Gulval on the 19^th of July 1975 was described as an unqualified success. It seems that the threat of rain made it necessary to hold the tea in Lanisley Hall, but other aspects were unaffected. There was a fancy-dress parade and pony rides and good use was made of the field for other events.

 

Gunnislake

1902: “… Gunnislake children were provided with tea and were presented with mugs. Some 500 adults attended a public tea … Gunnislake Band, under Bandmaster Dingle played capital selections of music during the day. Street collection was made in aid the Hospital Fund …” (12 August 1902 – Western Morning News / 16 August 1902 – Cornish & Devon Post)

 

Gunwalloe

1889: Gunwalloe Band of Hope: “The annual united festival was held on Monday, when the members perambulated the village headed by the Porthleven Brass Band under Mr N Pentecost. Tea was served in one of Mr T J Harris’s fields adjoining the little fishing cove…” (20 June 1889 – The Cornish Telegraph)

 

Gweek

The Gweek Rifle Band, under the leadership of Mr Emmanuel Harris, played at the Gweek Wesley and Band of Hope tea in 1883. Perhaps the weather was unfavourable as it seems to have been a largely indoor event as it was reported that “members and friends partook tea in the chapel”. (Cornishman 14^th June 1883)

Photo is of Gweek Sunday School Tea Treat in 1902

 

Gwithian

1906: “Gwithian Wesleyans held their annual festival on Saturday. The teachers and scholars formed a procession, headed by the Camborne Town Band, and perambulated the village. On returning to the Towans the children were regaled with tea and buns.” (14 July 1906 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

 

Harrowbarrow

1872: “Harrowbarrow All Saint’s Schools. The first annual festival has just been held. More than 200 children headed by the Luckett Brass Band and carrying suitable banners and flags walked in procession. A bountiful supply of tea and cake followed.” (31 August 1872 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

 

Hayle

1827: Hayle and Angarrack Sunday schools combined and processed “to the height of the Towans” where they sang hymns and heard an address by the Rev. Thomas Martin. They returned to the chapel for tea and cakes and then went to the beach where they formed a circle and sang hymns. (8^th June West Briton)

On the 28^th May 1849, the “scholars of a Hayle Wesleyan Sunday School held their Gala Day and perambulated through different parts of Hayle and Copperhouse. They assembled on the Towans where they were regaled with cakes and milk.” ⁽²⁾ The apparent absence of tea here may be explained by the difficulty of transporting hot water or the problem of boiling it on site.

1897: Hayle Sunday Schools: “… walked in procession, by way of Copperhouse and Phillack, to the Towans, where tea was provided …. Copperhouse Rifles, Deveral Band, and the Wesley Guild Drum and Fife Band supplied the music. The procession was a large one, over 1,700 children …” (24 June 1897 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1899: Hayle: “The annual festival of the Highlanes Bible Christian Sunday-school was held on Saturday afternoon. After perambulating the town, accompanied by the Hayle Town Band, tea was provided in a field…” (29 June 1899 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1899: Hayle Band of Hope: “…formed a united possession. They were accompanied by the band of the 1st. Co. D.C.L.I. and the Hayle Town Band. After perambulating the town, the Western Towans was reached in good time and the children had a plentiful supply of tea and cake …” (10 August 1899 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1939: Hayle: “… the weather was inclement, the children could not go on the Towans as arranged but marched through the town headed by the Penzance Silver Band, afterwards proceeding to the schoolroom for buns and tea. A public tea was well attended by visitors and friends.” (10 August 1939 – Cornishman)

 

Heamoor

1906: Heamoor Bible Christian Tea Treat procession heading for “Picnic Fields” accompanied by Heamoor Brass Band (Photo: Bill Dale courtesy Val Thomas of St Ives OCS)

 

Helston

1912: Helston Lowertown Higher United Methodists: “On Monday, the annual festival took place, and the teachers and scholars marched through the village, headed by Helston Temperance Band.” (20 June 1912 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Hellesveor

1922: “… Hellesveor Wesleyan Sunday-school had their annual tea-treat Wednesday, St Ives Silver Prize Band supplying the music.” (16 August 1922 – Cornishman)

 

Herland Cross

1914: “Helston Temperance Band, under Mr. F. James, attended the tea treats of Coverack Bridges (Tuesday), and (Wesleyan) and Herland Cross (Saturday) …” (16 July 1914 – Cornishman)

 

Herodsfoot

1870: Herodsfoot Band played for their local Bible Christian Sunday school anniversary procession and tea treat. (John Brush)

 

Hicks Mill

Hicks Mill Chapel

1993 3^rd July 1993: Hicks Mill Methodist Sunday School Tea Treat with Redruth Town Band (Photo: courtesy Paddy Bradley, Redruth)

 

Horse Downs

1879: “At Horse Downs tea, on Saturday, the Mullion Band was well received while the Mammoth School tea at Carleen, on the same day, Helston Rifle Band performed a capital selection…” (7 August 1879 – Cornishman)

1946: “… Horse Downs Methodist Sunday school’s annual tea treat was held on Saturday. Officers and scholars, headed by Porthleven Silver Band, paraded to Leedstown, and on returning to Horse Downs, a free tea was provided for the scholars and a public tea for adults.” (1 August 1946 – Cornishman)

1948: “Horsedowns Methodist Church Sunday-school held their annual school treat on Saturday. The children and teachers, headed by Porthleven Silver Band, under Mr T Rule, paraded Horsedowns and Leedstown…”  (29 July 1948 – Cornishman)

 

Illogan

1946: “… Illogan Highway Fore-street Methodist Sunday-school held their annual tea treat. They paraded the street headed by Gweek Silver Band. Teas were served in the schoolroom to the adults and each child was given a bun, tea and threepence. …” (11 July 1946 – Cornishman)

A tea treat in the grounds of Tehidy House with Illogan Band (Photo: courtesy Paddy Bradley, Redruth)

 

Indian Queens

1873: Queens United Methodist Free Church School: “… On the following day the children and teachers perambulated the village and neighbourhood, headed by the brass bands from Queens and St Enoder. About four o’clock they proceeded to the amphitheatre …” (26 June 1873 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1883: Queens United Methodist Sunday School: “…  scholars and teachers, numbering about 170, met at the schoolroom, and at 2 o’clock formed a procession, headed by the Indian Queens Brass Band, and marched to the residence of Mr William Langdon. Returning to the pit they were regaled with tea and cake. …” (29 June 1883 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1923: Queens & Fraddon United Band of Hope Festival: “On Monday the scholars formed a procession headed by the Indian Queens Prize Silver Band, perambulated the village, returning to a field where the children were served to tea and cake. A public tea was laid, …” (12 April 1923 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Kehelland

The “Cornubian and Redruth Times” in July 1909 reported that Kehelland annual tea treat of the United Methodist Sunday school was held in propitious weather. “The scholars, headed by the Camborne Town Band, proceeded to Polstrong Gardens, by kind permission of Capt. R. A. Thomas and Mr H Reynolds, returning to a field.”

1950: : “After a short service, conducted by Mr. E. J. Cliff, the scholars and teachers marched through the village, headed by Porthleven Town Band, under Mr. Telfer Rule, …” (27 July 1950 – Cornishman)

 

Kerley Downs

1909: “Kerley Downs United Methodist Sunday school tea treat took place on Saturday in ideal weather. Headed by the St Agnes Brass Band the teachers and scholars walked to Baldhu and returned a field where tea was provided for the children. …” (17 June 1909 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

 

Kerris

1886: Kerris Wesleyan Sunday School annual treat: “Saturday. The children met about one, and after their usual walk to Sheffield and back, by way of the Grove, headed by the Paul Brass Band, they were regaled with ample supply of cake and tea.” (20 May 1886 – The Cornish Telegraph)

 

Ladock

1871: St Dennis Band played at Ladock Bible Christian Sunday school Anniversary, “Tea and cakes were supplied to our 250 visitors in a meadow kindly lent by Mr Ward, during which time the St Dennis Brass Band performed some excellent music”. (Royal Cornwall Gazette 24^th June 1871)

1880: Ladock Wesleyan Sunday School Tea Treat

 

Lane near Newquay

1911: Lane Band of Hope Tea Treat

 

Lanner

1894: “Yesterday, Lanner Wesleyan tea treat took place. Pool and Ponsanooth Bands were engaged.”

(27 July 1894 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

Circa 1905: Lanner Primitive Chapel (Photo: E A Bragg courtesy David Thomas)

1906: Lanner Primitive Chapel (Photo: Argall of Truro courtesy David Thomas)

Lanner Wesleyan Chapel and Sunday School (Photo: E A Bragg courtesy David Thomas)

Lanner United Methodist former Bible Christian, Chapel (David Thomas)

1908: Lanner United Methodist Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy David Thomas)

1908: Lanner United Methodist Lanner (Photo: Samuel John Govier courtesy David Thomas)

1919: Lanner Primitive Sunday School Tea Treat processing up through the village. The Sunday School banner leads the way, followed by the hired band and a lad carrying a large flag. The Sunday School was established when the chapel was built in 1858 and at the bottom of the banner can be made out the encouraging words ‘Come and join us’. (David Thomas)

1925: “Lanner … Methodists had their annual tea treat on Thursday last when the scholars, headed by the Redruth Town Band (under Mr. Wills) paraded the village to Trevarth, the residence of Mr. T. Balph and thence to a field …” (23 July 1925 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

Carharrack and St Day Silver Band provided the music during the afternoon and evening at Lanner Moor Sunday School annual tea treat in July 1945 when the “Cornishman” reported, “…it was held in the Lanner playing-field where the old-time games were revived”.

1947: Lanner Wesley Sunday School: “… scholars and teachers, with Messrs. W. H. Langford and H. J. Keast (superintendents) paraded the village, headed by Redruth Silver Band, and the traditional serpentine walk took place in the Square. Miss A. Langford, general secretary, supervised the day …” (31 July 1947 – Cornishman)

 

Leedstown

Leedstown Methodist Chapel (Photo: courtesy Paul Phillips)

In July 1858, Camborne Town Band were chosen to entertain at Leedstown for the Bible Christian Sunday School tea treat. (West Briton 6^th August 1858) These were early days for brass bands and it is likely that the cadre still included a few woodwind players.

1932: “The Methodists of Leedstown held their annual Sunday-school festival on Saturday. Led by the superintendents and Penzance Silver Prize Band, the usual parade was made after which tea was served. This was followed by well-attended public games and sports …” (14 July 1932 – Cornishman)

 

Leek Seed

 

Lelant

1887: Lelant Sunday School Tea: “The annual tea of the Polpeor Wesleyan Sunday School was held on Tuesday. The Lelant Downs Band was in attendance…” (9 June 1887 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1895: “… At three o’clock, the procession of the Lelant Downs Sunday school, headed by the Towednack Brass Band, perambulated the roads, after which they adjourned to the chapel, where tea was provided. …” (4 July 1895 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1907: “Sunday School Festival. Lelant Wesleyan Sunday school held its annual festival on Saturday. Led by the local brass band, the teachers and scholars paraded the village, afterwards going to a field, where there was tea and various forms of amusement …” (27 June 1907 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Lemon Wesleyan Band of Hope, Truro

Lemon Wesleyan Band of Hope, Truro, with Summercourt Band (Photo: courtesy Dick Cole)

 

London Apprentice

Mid to late 1930s: London Apprentice Primitive Methodist Chapel Tea Treat with the children enjoying their buns on Pentewan Beach (Photo: Harry Stark – courtesy of David Stark)

 

Lostwithiel

A little further west and we find the Brass Band of the Lostwithiel detachment of the E Company 2nd Battalion Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry attending the tea and sports held in the grounds of Lanwithan which was kindly lent by Mr R Foster, JP., Mayor of Lostwithiel. (Royal Cornwall Gazette 16^th July 1886)

 

Ludgvan

1860: Ludgvan Sunday School Jubilee: “… Crowlas, and then took a comfortable walk through the gardens of the Rev. Archibald Paris. Crowlas school was preceded by the Ludgvan Band; while Cross and Canon’s-town schools by the New Mill Band; Newtown school by Germoe Band: and Trenawin school by the Towednack Band.” (27 June 1860 – The Cornish Telegraph)

 

Luxulyan

Cedric Appleby wrote that the Bible Christians at Luxulyan, in 1861, considered dispensing with bands of music. This was said to be because they were “prejudicial to spiritual prosperity and derogative to the promotion of intelligence and morality”. It would be good to know what prompted that outburst, but there are a couple of newspaper reports in section 4 that may have contributed to it.

 

Mabe

1912: Mabe (Halvossa) Wesleyan Band of Hope: “… On their return to the chapel, tea was served, and afterwards games were arranged in a field lent by Mr. Treneer. Falmouth Town Band played excellent selections during the proceedings.” (15 August 1912 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Madron

1876: Madron Primitive Methodist Sunday School: “…the children met at the schoolroom and formed a procession, headed by the Madron Brass Band, whence they proceeded to the grounds of Trengwainton, by the kind permission of T S Bolitho, Esq., …” (8 August 1876 – The Cornish Telegraph)

The “Cornishman” newspaper in 1879 reported on Saint Madron Sunday School tea treat: it was the Methodist Sunday school according to Val Thomas of St Ives Old Cornwall Society. “On Wednesday 3 September, the children of the Madron Sunday School, to the number of 137, were entertained at their annual treat at Trengwainton by Mr and Mrs T S Bolitho. Favoured by splendid weather, an ample tea spread on the lawn tennis ground, and the universal kindness of their teachers and several friends, they spent a most enjoyable afternoon. There is considerable increase this year in the number of children attending this Sunday school, and now that the new schoolrooms have been opened it is expected that the number of boys and infants will be very much further increased.”

1882: Madron Wesleyan Sunday School: “On Saturday afternoon the school and teachers met in the chapel and formed in procession, and headed by the Newbridge Band enjoyed a good walk through Trengwainton grounds, by the kindness Mr T S Bolitho. The band played before the house. Leaving Trengwainton the procession marched to the Union, where the band played to the inmates.” (20 July 1882 – The Cornish Telegraph)

St Just Independent Band led the annual tea treat procession of the Madron Sunday School. The scholars paraded to Trengwainton but, unfortunately, neither Bellair nor the workhouse could be visited owing to the deaths of Mrs Wallace and Mrs Francis (the matron). “Arriving at a field kindly lent by Mr James White, tea was provided, and games indulged in. Despite an occasional shower, a most happy and enjoyable day was spent by all.” (Cornishman 21^st July 1904)

In 1906, Madron Church Sunday School combined with Heamoor and Morvah schools for their annual treat: it was held in Trengwainton. Perhaps the combined event reflected falling numbers or maybe it was a way of reducing the financial burden of hiring a brass band. Whatever the reason, the “Cornishman” of the 19^th July reported that the Penzance Independent Band provided the music, the weather was good, and the treat was very successful.

 

Manaccan

1849: Manaccan: “… formed into procession and headed by their teachers bearing flags with suitable inscriptions and preceded by the Cury Brass Band playing national airs, they proceeded to the church. …” (29 June 1849 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1908: “Manaccan. The Wesleyan Sunday school tea was held Thursday in a field … The members of St Martin Band wore their new uniforms for the first time on that day…” (18 June 1908 – The Cornish Telegraph)

 

Manhay

1875: Manhay Wesleyan Sunday School: “… teachers and scholars met at the chapel at 2 o’clock, and after singing a favourite hymn formed a procession, headed by the Brass Band of Seworgan, and parading the adjacent villages, returning to the chapel, where the children were regaled with tea and cake.” (24 July 1875 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

 

Marhamchurch

1888: Marhamchurch Bible Christian Sunday School: “On Bank Holiday the children, teachers, parents, and friends of the Bible Christian Sunday school had an outing to the seaside, and tea at Salthouse, and participated with large number of other visitors from Week St. Mary and elsewhere in enjoying the music of the waves, as well as that of the Week St. Mary brass band which was in attendance.” (Cornish & Devon Post 18^th August 1888)

 

Mawla

Mawla tea treat pre-1902 in front of a building which may be the 1842 chapel (Photo: courtesy Clive Benney)

 

Mingoose

Mingoose Chapel (Photo: courtesy Clive Benney)

Mingoose is a small community, not far from St Agnes, and the tea treat was always a big day for the children there. The “West Briton” of the 30^th June 1843 reports: “On Saturday last the annual festival of this school was held in a field belonging to Mr A Williams, kindly lent by that gentlemen for the occasion. After parading the village accompanied by St Agnes Band, the children were regaled with tea and cake. The proceedings were closed by the Rev J Cullen who delivered a suitable address which was listened to with attention by all present.”

“As well as Mount Hawke, we went to Mingoose Chapel, now alas turned into a house. Their tea treat was held in Tredinnick’s field, it was a small event but always very special, surrounded as we were with warm safe happiness. Community service was very much to the fore then and a part of Cornish life which has carried on even into this day and age, and certainly tea treats were a prime example of how small communities with few material possessions gave everyone a day to remember for the rest of their lives.

At times, I feel sorry for children today who have so much, go all over the world, and probably at least once a week have something organised for them at great expense. Somehow, I feel that they will never experience the elation I felt at that once a year festival long ago. Happy days.” (Joy Stevenson)

1913: Mingoose Wesleyan Tea Treat

 

Mithian

Mithian Chapel (Photo: courtesy Tony Mansell)

The May 1903 tea treat of the Mithian Band of Hope was reported as a great success. Blackwater Band headed the members in a parade of the village following which tea was taken and various games were played. This continued until seven o’clock when the choir of the Crosscoombe Chapel gave a sacred entertainment in the chapel. It was said that a large number attended and greatly appreciated the singing of the choir. ⁽³⁾ Not to be outdone, Mithian for the 1903 Wesleyans also held a tea treat for which the Foxhole Band were said to have “rendered a good selection of music”. ⁽³⁾

1903: Foxhole Brass Band played at Mithian Wesleyan Sunday school tea treat. (Royal Cornwall Gazette 2^nd July 1903)

1907: Mithian Band of Hope at Rose in Vale Hotel

1907: Mithian Band of Hope at Rose in Vale Hotel

1907: Mithian Band of Hope Tea Treat Procession in Carriage Drive, Mithian Farm

1907: Mithian Wesleyan Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Ken Miners)

1907: Mithian Wesleyan Tea Treat with Camborne Band

1910 circa: Mithian Tea Treat with St Agnes Town Band (Photo: Solway courtesy Clive Benney)

1908: Mithian Band of Hope Sunday School Tea Treat with St Agnes Town Band, under John Paull. (Photo: courtesy Clive Benney)

1913: Mithian Band of Hope Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy June Lovering)

1914: Mithian Band of Hope Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Angie Harrall)

1919: Carharrack Temperance Band at Mithian Wesleyan Sunday School tea (Royal Cornwall Gazette 18^th June 1919)

A good brass band was a way of ensuring a good attendance at tea treats and the little village of Mithian, near St Agnes, always had this in mind when the Wesleyans’ organising committee sat down to sort out the details. In June 1907, they managed to attract a large crowd when Camborne Town Band was present. Of course, the tea and sports were of major interest but across the years it was always felt that they had to go for the best brass band – if it was available. In 1909, the new band from St Agnes under John Paull was booked and the following year, Treviscoe Band made the long trip to be there. St Agnes Band, then under Harry Robins, were there for the 1912 Mithian Band of Hope event and just a month later, on the 27^th June 1912, heavy rain completely spoilt the Wesleyans’ tea. The children had theirs outdoors but just as the tables were prepared for the teachers, elder scholars, and visitors, down came the rain. St Agnes Town Band, under Harry Robins, played during the afternoon and evening. ⁽³⁾

1910: Mithian Wesleyan Tea Treat

1910: Mithian Wesleyan Tea Treat

1913: Mithian Band of Hope Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Derek Anstis)

1914: Mithian Band of Hope (Photo: Geoff Osborne)

On the 18^th June 1919, it was Carharrack Band which was engaged for Mithian tea. This was before the incorporation of St Day to make it the Carharrack and St Day Band. (West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser 8^th July 1920)

1930s: Mithian Wesleyan Tea Treat

Farmer Ken Miners chatted freely about the tea treats held at Mithian in the 1930s. “I know that Camborne Band charged £11 for the day, quite a lot of money in those days. It started with the traditional parade led by the Sunday school banners. This was followed by the band and, what seemed like, the entire village. The route of the parade was from the field, circling Mithian Farmhouse, to Barkla Shop where the band would play a piece or two. It then made its way back to Rose-in-Vale where the children would be given sweets and an orange before returning to the field. Whilst the band played, there would be traditional races, Serpentine Walk, tea treat (saffron) bun and tea. Jack Chapman (father of Jack & Maurice) usually served the tea which was made in a large urn. He also supplied the buns. Several other locations were later used including the field below the chapel, (White’s field) now belonging to Geoff and Jennie Osborne, and Mrs Chapman’s chalet field. Many may remember White’s field also being referred to as Tea Treat Field.”

Several locations have been used for the Mithian Wesleyan Chapel annual tea treat but the field on the village side of Trewartha Farm became known as “Tea Treat Field”. Prior to it moving there it was held in Moor Field, by the Rose-in-Vale. When the move was made up the hill it caused some discontent and, under cover of darkness, Bill Brown and friends moved the stalls and farmers wagons, which were set up for the bandstand, back to the field at Rose-in-Vale. On the morning of the event there was the unexpected task of moving everything back up the hill again to “Tea Treat Field”. ⁽³⁾

1950s: Mithian Tea Treat with St Agnes Town Band

Lavinia Hughes née Boundy was growing up in the 1950s and was delighted to recall her memories of the tea treat: “We gathered at Mithian chapel and played a few games while we waited for the procession to start. We then formed up in pairs behind the band before processing to the village and down the hill to Rose-in-Vale Hotel where the lady gave each of us some sweets from a large greaseproof, triangular bag, and her husband passed around oranges. We stayed for a while and then continued with the procession. When we arrived back at the chapel we sat on the grass bank on the left and were given paper bags containing our tea treat buns (supplied by Cowls of St Agnes, I think) and milky tea usually served by Mildred Lobb and Annie Tregenna. The tea was poured into mugs which we had brought with us: it was horrible. After that we made our way to the tea treat field. In my time there were three fields used. One was in a little three-cornered field just below the chapel, another was a little further on and on the right and the third was above the chapel, on the left as you approach the village; there was a wooden chalet there. [Presumably, the choice depended on the crop situation]. We played games and sports in the field and during the evening the band gave a concert and we ended up doing the Serpentine Walk around the field.”

Each Sunday school held its own tea treat, always hoping that it would be bigger and better than the one down the road. One way of ensuring this was to invite one of the better brass bands. Yes, it cost more, but in the words of Franklyn Ennor of Mithian referring to Camborne Town Band, “They were worth it as they made some ‘ansome sound”. ⁽³⁾

Local councillor John King wrote a paper in 1965 entitled “Mithian Village”: it looked back on “times Past”. “Miners, having worked the ‘shift’ either underground or on the surface, would return home to the proverbial ‘three acres and a cow’. Although times were hard and money not always easy to come by – people were contented; the chapel was full on Sundays and Sunday school and Band-of-Hope tea treats – where sugary tea and saffron buns were the order of the day – were highlights in village life.”

Annual tea treats are no longer held in Mithian but, like so many Cornish villages, they were once a major event in the annual calendar. The day began with the traditional parade led by the Sunday school banners followed by a brass band and, probably, the entire village. One early route of the parade was from Moor Field by the Rose-in-Vale at the bottom of the village, it circled Mithian Farmhouse, and then processed onto Barkla Shop where the band would play a piece or two. It then made its way back to Rose-in-Vale where the children would receive an orange and some sweets or nicies ⁽⁵⁾, before returning to the field. Whilst the band entertained, there were races, the distribution of tea treat buns with a cup tae (sic) and, finally, the Serpentine Walk⁽⁶⁾.

 

Molinnis

“Molinnis Primitive Methodist chapel closed about the time of the First World War and the congregation moved to a new building on the other side of Bugle. The Fife and Drum band associated with this chapel used to perform for local tea treats including playing the Snail Creep.” (Garry Tregidga)

 

Morvah

At Morvah Sunday School in June 1836 we read, “the day appointed for the Tea-Drinking the weather being fine the children walked two and two, attended by the teachers, to the top of the watch which commands a fine prospect of the western parts of Cornwall extending from the Land’s End to Redruth”. Hymns were sung and at the end of the walk the children were treated to tea and cake. The report continues. “Morvah Wesleyans had their treat on or close to the 23^rd June, which was St John’s Eve and marked by bonfires”. ⁽²⁾

 

Mount Hawke

The Mount Hawke Band of Hope tea treat of 1861 was clearly a large affair as it included two bands: Chacewater and St Day. There was the usual parade with their banners and, on this occasion, it ended up for tea in Mr Garland’s field. Ashley Rowe, writing in the “Journal of the St Agnes Museum Trust,” describes an even more elaborate affair the following year when the procession began at Mount Hawke and made its way to St Agnes, led by the Redruth and St Day Bands. From there they headed for Trevaunance Pier, a total distance of three miles! He wrote that they enjoyed their penny trips on the boats and returned to Mount Hawke for the tea and a band concert.

1895: “The Rev. Harry Oxland, of Illogan, who was present with the Illogan Band at Mount Hawke, on the occasion of the annual Sunday school tea, was received with open hostility with some, and the treatment that he received from others was, to say the least of it, cold in the extreme. Little wonder then in leaving the village the Rev. gentleman shook the dust off his feet as a testimony against them. ” (8 August 1895 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1903 circa: Mount Hawke Methodist Tea Treat with fairground attractions and brass band (Photo: courtesy Clive Benney)

The rear elevation of Mount Hawke Chapel and considering the presence of brass instruments, it is probably a tea treat (Photo: courtesy Clive Benney)

1910 circa: Mount Hawke Wesleyan Tea Treat

1910 circa: Mount Hawke Wesleyan Tea Treat with Camborne Town Band outside the Chapel

1910 circa: Mount Hawke Wesleyan Sunday School Tea Treat at Banns

1915:  Mount Hawke Wesleyan Tea Treat

John Kinsman, a Cornishman in London, wrote “The Cornish Handbook” circa 1920; it included his memories of the local event in his village of Mount Hawke. “Whitsuntide festival in Cornwall was when maidens and youths selected it as the season for the display of new clothes. Many villages held their ‘Tea Drinking’ on Whit-Monday. It was the time for lovers to walk together and to indicate their preferences to their neighbours. A ‘Tea Drinking’ is essentially a social function, enabling all who take part to dispense with the formalities which would keep them apart. First, a procession is formed, headed by a brass band and resplendent with banners and flags. After parading the village, it enters a field, lent for the occasion by a friendly farmer and men, women and children sit down to eat huge quantities of saffron cake and drink freshly-made tea, the adults at long tables and the children on seats arranged to form a complete circle. Each child brings his or her own ‘Tea Drinking’ cup, which is emblazoned with some suitable motto; the tea is poured from huge earthenware pitchers, while saffron cakes are served from wide wicker baskets, each child receiving a whole cake. After tea, music and games fill the hours. The custom is so full of gladness that one hopes it may never be forgotten.”

Joy Stevenson looked back fondly of her early memories of tea treats which would have been sometime around 1930: “The first indication I had as a child that tea treat day was approaching was the arrival of Miss Pearce, a birdlike lady who travelled the area with a small case of personal belongings and her sewing machine. She lived as part of the family for a week, or however long it took to sew whatever garments the family needed. In our case it was new dresses for tea treat day. Can you imagine the excitement as we saw the material which mother had bought in Truro weeks before, transformed into dresses?

Some years there was a fancy-dress competition and Miss Pearce turned out costumes with the artistry of today’s dress designers. One year she made my Queen of Hearts costume, it was quite beautiful though I did not appreciate it at the time. You see, my sister had an Indian Squaw costume and was to walk with a boy dressed as an Indian Chief, they even had a tepee to carry, much more exciting than a Queen of Hearts. I screeched blue murder to be allowed to join them, but in those days children were kept firmly in their place and it was Queen of Hearts or nothing, as mother reminded us all, ‘Who do ee think iz goin stop their orse and cart to geek at you?’

The day usually started with a parade through the village behind a band, we did not boast one of our own so usually had the St Agnes Band to play for us. Of course, we always danced the Flora, I can never remember not being able to do it, as if we Cornish were born with the ability to dance it, and we did with gusto on tea treat day showing off to the people lining the route.”

The location is Mount Hawke but the band is unknown

1950: Mount Hawke Methodist Tea Treat with St Agnes Band

 

Mousehole

A story which underlines the decision by Sunday schools to hold separate events comes from Cedric Appleby and suggests that rivalry between the different chapels seems to have been carried to extraordinary lengths. It concerns the children of the Zion United Methodist Church at Mousehole who went out collecting snails before the Wesleyan tea treat in the belief that this practice would cause it to rain and spoil the Wesleyans’ day. Cedric said, “You could be quite sure that the Wesleyans were doing the same for the United Methodists”.

1893: “…children and teachers who comprise the Wesleyan and Free-church Sunday-schools of Mousehole met on Monday. The music of the Paul and Drift Bands as they paraded the town, passed along the cliffs to Newlyn, and then, by Paul-hill, reached the Grove, …” (6 July 1893 – Cornishman)

1934: Mount Zion Methodist Sunday School: “… Scholars, teachers and friends formed a procession and, headed by Messrs C B Simons, J Wallis (superintendents), Paul and St Just Town Bands, paraded the principal streets, on to the north pier, where three hearty cheers were given for H.M. the King, …” (19 July 1934 – Cornishman)

Cedric Appleby records “The Mousehole Gala suffered the fate of so many of the others just before the last war [WWII] when the charabanc took the children to some resort such as Carbis Bay or Praa Sands. The Gala was restored during the war but it did not continue afterwards …”

 

Mullion

1871: Mullion Band of Hope: “… kindly lent for the occasion by the neighbouring farmers from Mullion Churchtown to Porthleven, accompanied by the Mullion Brass Band. After marching on the cliffs, the young ones again started for home, where a bountiful repast of tea and cake was enjoyed.” (5 August 1871 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1906: Mullion United Methodist Free Church: “…teachers and children met at the schoolroom at 2 p.m., formed into procession and walked to Polurrian grounds headed by the Redruth Hungarian Band, thence back to their schoolroom where tea was provided. The tables were very tastefully decorated by the lady teachers …” (14 June 1906 – Cornishman)

 

Mylor

1891: Mylor: “The annual tea treat in connection with the Wesleyan Sunday school took place Thursday week. The teachers and scholars formed a procession, headed by the Falmouth Gospel Temperance Band, and after perambulating the village returned to the schoolroom, where the children were regaled with tea and cake. …” (1 August 1891 – Lake’s Falmouth Packet and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Nanpean

1921 – August: Greensplat Band played at Nanpean C of E tea treat. (Greensplat Band minutes – CCHS)

 

Nanstallon

1893 – 11th July: Nanstallon Wesleyan Tea Treat on route to Tregurrian Beach with Bugle Brass Band (Photo: courtesy Paddy Bradley)

 

Newquay

1857: Newquay: “The Reform Wesleyans of this place gave their children their annual tea treat on Wednesday last. The weather being very fine, and the Newquay Fort Brass Band being in attendance, added much to the pleasure of the children and those present.” (17 July 1857 – Royal Cornwall Gazette Truro)

1877: Newquay United Methodist Free Church: “The children had their annual treat on the Beacon. Various amusements were carried on for the interest of the children, and the Newquay Band, conducted by Capt. W Chegwidden, added much to the pleasure of the occasion. A large number sat down at the public tea …” (13 July 1877 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1885: Newquay. “… Meantime a long procession was formed, which, headed by the Queen’s Brass Band, paraded Fore-street, and the grounds of Pentewan, returning via Great Western Hotel to the schoolroom.…” (31 July 1885 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1886: Newquay: “United Methodist Free Church had their annual treat on Thursday. The procession was formed at half-past two and headed by the Queen’s Brass Band marched as far as the Great Western Hotel, and thence through the town to the Headland and Mr. G. Hick’s grounds …” (2 July 1886 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1888: Newquay Gospel Temperance Society:  “… The weather cleared up, however, in the afternoon, so as to allow of a procession being formed, which, headed by the Queen’s Brass Band paraded the main streets of the town and afterwards repaired to the Free Church Schoolroom, …” (2 August 1888 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

 

Newlyn

1910: Newlyn Primitive Methodist Band of Hope: “… it was naturally a huge success and all who attended it enjoyed themselves heartily. The procession, headed by the Tredavoe and Paul Bands, the Independent Band of Hope banner, presented by Messrs Mackenzie and Bramley, borne aloft.” (26 May 1910 – Cornishman)

 

Padstow

Padstow (Photo: courtesy Daphne Hicks)

Padstow Procession (Photo: courtesy Malc McCarthy)

They there Witsun Tay Treats

This article was written by Mary Magor for the Padstow Echo number 41, printed in 1976. Annette Roberts, Mary’s daughter, considered that it related to the early 1920s and was happy for it to be included here.

“Well me dears, Easter’s come and gone, and now Whitsun won’t be long. What a time that used to be when we were kids. I think apart from ‘Mayday,’ Whit week was the highlight of the year in Padstow. Whit Sunday, church and chapel Sunday school and always had a new rig-out, girls mostly in white. I remember a hat I had when I was about seven or eight years old – large straw brim, trimmed (no, smothered) in forget-me-nots and tulle, as did most of us maids.

Monday the regatta, when all the town was on holiday, (only Whit-Monday off work). The quay and Rock full of the old schooners dressed overall in bunting and flags, as were our local boats. Padstow Band under their bandmaster Mr Edgar Tonkyn playing ‘Way goes the Annie’ etc. There were races round the quay for boys and girls while the regatta was on, prizes were only a few coppers, but so enjoyable! Then there was the sports up Trethillick Fields, no worry about car parking space – everybody had to walk up. Then of course the church and tay treats. Wednesday chapel and Thursday church. Oh! What grand do’s they were, and what work, all starting the week before, when the ladies used to gather in the church rooms to make the yeast cakes. I can see it all so plain in my mind. Trestle tables all down one side, gurt big cloam stugs, you knaw the ones, earthenware smooth inside, big enough to bath in, each with two or three women to each pan to rub in the fat, home cured lard. Yes, every family had a pig up meadow and run down the lard for special cakes such as saffron, sultana, plain white, masses of fruit washed and cleaned, dried at home, and best butter. My gar, yes, none of yer margarine. It used to take all day. I was young and was stood on a chair with a great white apron tied round me to help Gran on her pan to rub in the fat. The flour in Spiller’s flour sacks, which when empty were boiled and washed for all sorts of things from dish cloths to bags in which to hang up the hams from the pigs. Well, when all the mixtures were ready and well mixed, (no electric mixers then, just hand-power), and ‘wetted’, yes, that’s what they call the part when the yeast goes in. What a lovely smell, even before it was baked, and so on to getting it in the tins, dozens of them, and away to the bakehouse. There was Mrs Oldham’s opposite the cinema and the one in Duke Street where the post office is now.  So on to the tea treat day, every available trap, jingle or horse and cart, dressed in green shrubs, and flowers, mostly paper, everyone hoping for a fine day. Hours of work getting the carts ready for the young Sunday school children to ride in. The older children would carry the huge banners, two on the tassels to help keep it down in case of a wind. Every other boy and girl carrying a pole with a hoop of flowers tied to it, or a flag. A wonderful sight, all in new white dresses and hats, all headed by the band, down through the streets from the Lawn, round the town and up to the field where the tables were all laid out. (I’m not going to mention if it was wet, we’ll forget that). Just imagine this all in beautiful sunshine, how proud we used to be. Happy days. As children we took it all for granted, but just think, every single thing was homemade, even the butter and the splitters, what a spread, you name it, it was there, and great urns of tea. Then the homeward parade at about five o’clock, weary and tired. All the banners and poles put away for the next year. Happy, happy days, Memories are great aren’t they?”

Another offering from Padstow paints a very vivid picture of a mother determined to send out her daughter in suitable attire. “White voile dress trimmed with a sash of silk ribbons, a big bow at the back, Panama hat, white sockes [sic] and gloves with ankle slip shoes.” Another comment is that church and chapel boys and girls always had a new rig out – girls mostly in white. Even when a set of new clothes was a bit more than the family resources could manage, it certainly had to be the best available. Pride in appearance was paramount, of course.

1930s: Padstow Wesleyan Procession on North Quay (Photo: courtesy Daphne Hicks)

 

Par

1920s: Par Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Paul Phillips)

 

Paynters Lane End

1948: “Paynters Lane End Redruth Silver Band. Mr A. S. Grant, headed the Parade at Paynters Lane End Sunday-school at their tea treat on Saturday …” (17 June 1948 – Cornishman)

 

Pendeen

1893: The Rev. F J Horsefield came to Pendeen from Manchester for a year and wrote “A Life in a Cornish Village” and on page 82 we read. “Dissenters have their Sunday School parades accompanied by various bands, followed by tea parties on a large scale. On Midsummer Day, the Church people hold their festival with the schoolchildren perambulating the district to the music of two brass bands, afterwards having buns and tea in a field opposite the Church – (fun, bonfires and gunpowder explosions). The hills resounded to the music produced by the bands.”

“Pendeen Band played for the non-conformists. The organist at Carnyorth Free Church, Mr J H Ellis, known locally as ‘Boy Jim Henney’, got the Pendeen Band under way in 1892.” (Band website)

1899: “Midsummer Day at St Just. … usual fair attractions. Pendeen Church Sunday-school had prayer and praise in church; then, to the music of North St Just and Heamoor Bands, paraded, and had tea and buns. A public tea on the vicarage lawn, games, sports, and refreshments followed.” (29 June 1899 – Cornishman)

1901: St John the Baptist’s Church, Pendeen: “… At 2 o’clock the procession was formed, the Sunday school teachers and scholars, which was led by the Pendeen and Newlyn Brass Bands. The route was taken to Portheras Cross, Boscaswell, Trewellard, and then returned to the starting-place …” (27 June 1901 – Cornishman)

 

Penhallow

1908: Penhallow Sunday School Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Derek Brooks)

 

Penmarth

1876: Burras Brass Band was at the annual tea treat of the Penmarth Wesleyan Sunday School. (John Brush)

 

Penponds

1908: “… scholars of the Penponds Church celebrated their annual treat on Wednesday. After parading the village, headed by the Camborne Town Band, tea was provided in a field adjoining the vicarage, and in the evening the scholars enjoyed themselves in various games.” (23 July 1908 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

 

Penryn

1883: Penryn Band of Hope: “… The children, numbering about two hundred, assembled at the Temperance Hall; and headed by the Penryn Volunteer Band, paraded the principal streets of the town. A boat, representing a temperance lifeboat, drawn on a car, was a special attraction…” (27 July 1883 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

 

Pentewan

1863: Pentewan Wesleyan Methodist Sunday School: “… teachers, assembled at the chapel, where they formed in procession, and marched through the village, headed by the St Blazey Brass Band, carrying with them several appropriate flags and banners…” (5 June 1863 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

Rob Evans of Pentewan Old Cornwall Society recalled the Pentewan school master, Mr Tregenza, who was a man to be feared and respected. “He was a Wesleyan local preacher and the President of our United Band of Hope weekly meetings. We always had a band and tea treat on Good Friday, this was held in the Board School and the band played in the grounds outside. It was always lovely weather and we wore no coats. My grandfather, Richard Matta, and one of his brothers, Stephen Matta, tried to stop this annual effort – they said it was not in keeping with Good Friday and the crucifixion. Some of the village lads composed a song about it:”

“Roll on Band of Hope,

Good work to be done,

We don’t care for Steve nor Dick,

We’re going to have some fun”

 

Penwithick

Garry Tregidga recalled that in more recent times they celebrated with the cup of tea but there was no food available. This would probably have caused a riot in some areas!

 

Penzance

1856: Morvah and St Just Band played at Penzance Institute Gala Tea where they gave the most unqualified satisfaction. (Royal Cornwall Gazette 22^nd August 1856)

Penzance Wesleyan Association Sunday School held their annual tea treat on Whit-Monday 1857, on Trencrom Hill. “About a hundred members and friends repaired to that wild elevated spot. They came by the West Cornwall Railway to St Erth station and then walked up to the top of the hill. Tea was furnished by Mrs Quick of Trencrom. The Penzance Band played during the tea and an agreeable afternoon and evening was spent.” (RCG 24^th July 1857) Cedric Appleby states that the press report hints that this was not the first annual tea treat of this Sunday school.

The tea treats of the 19^th century were clearly large events and must have attracted a good mix of folk including some who were intent on spoiling it for others. Surely not at a chapel tea treat we hear you say. Well, it may come as a surprise that in July 1879, Penzance Bible Christian Chapel found it necessary to arrange for members of the police to attend their Sunday school and Band of Hope anniversary tea treat to keep the peace. (CRO MR/PZ/123 High Street Bible Christian Sunday School teachers meeting minutes 1875-1883)

Margaret Hosken, president of St Buryan Old Cornwall Society (2020), recalled the 1948 tea treat held by Richmond Methodist Chapel in Penzance – she was then 15 years of age. “Fridays in Penzance was our half-day. The main Sunday school and teachers went down to Carbis Bay at 11 o’clock by a through train (never changed at St Erth). The teachers who were working caught the 1.30 pm train from Penzance and instead of going down the hill, climbed down the cliff as our Sunday school met on the right and, normally, Redruth and Camborne met on the left. We hired huts to change in and in which to keep the crates of pop and saffron buns. Some of the teachers who arrived earlier had walked into St Ives but were back in time for tea. I remember playing games, entertaining the younger ones in building sandcastles, floating their boats and paddling.

There were lovely shops with various seaside ware. I can only remember one day when it rained, and we all traipsed up to Payne’s Picnic Gardens and had our pop and buns on trestle tables. Our mothers made pasties which were wrapped in brown paper bags and covered with tea towels (no tin foil in those days).”

 

Perran-ar-Worthal

1893: Perran-ar-worthal Church Sunday School: “… The Ponsanooth Brass Band was engaged. After a capital tea various games were moulded in, and an enjoyable time was spent. …” (24 August 1893 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

 

Perranporth

1907: “… Perranporth, the annual treat took place on Saturday. The members met in the schoolroom, and headed by the Indian Queen’s Brass Band, paraded the streets of the village. Returning to the school they were provided with tea and buns.” (16 May 1907 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1913: Perranzabuloe Church Sunday School Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Derek Brooks)

 

Perranuthnoe

1917: “In ideal weather, Perranuthnoe Wesleyans held their annual Sunday-school festival on Saturday. Headed by Marazion Town Band, the teachers and scholars paraded the Churchtown, forming a circle in The Square, after which they repaired to the chapel …” (9 August 1917 – Cornishman)

 

Perranwell near Goonhavern

1910 circa: Perranwell Tea Treat (Photo courtesy Lynette Duckham/Derek Brooks)

1911 July: Perranwell Methodist Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Derek Brooks)

1942: Perranwell Methodist Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Derek Brooks)

 

Perranwell near Perran-ar-Worthal

1883: Perranwell: “The annual tea treat in connection with the Wesleyan Sunday school took place on Monday when the teachers and scholars met in the schoolroom at 1.30 p.m., and after a service formed a procession, headed by the Penryn Brass Band, and marched to the beautiful grounds …” (29 June 1883 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

 

Pool

1895: Pool: “Trevenson Church Sunday School tea-treat took place on Saturday in the fair field kindly lent by Mr Phillips. Pool Brass Band was engaged. Before marching out the children were addressed by the curate in charge, the Rev. W H Wilcock …” (5 July 1895 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1907: Pool United Methodist Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Paul Phillips)

 

Porkellis

1870: Porkellis Lowertown United Free Church Sunday School: “The children had their annual tea on Monday. The Porkellis Brass Band attended and performed some choice selections of sacred music, from Handel, Mozart, and other masters, to the great satisfaction of all present.” (4 June 1870 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1889: “Porkellis Sunday school tea-treat was held on Monday in last week. The attendance was not large as in former years. Black-rock band discoursed appropriate music…” (Cornishman 18 July 1889)

 

Porthleven

1877: Porthleven: “… Hundreds of Sunday school children walked in procession around the village, headed by the Porthleven Brass Band, which was a very imposing sight. After parading they retired to a field and partook of tea and cake…” (6 July 1877 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1883: Porthleven: “The Wesleyan Sunday School held its annual fete on Friday, St. Peter’s Day. A procession being formed, the school perambulated the place, headed by the Porthleven Brass Band. Suitable hymns were sung en route, and tea provided in the timber-yard of the Porthleven Trading Company…” (6 July 1883 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1883: Porthleven Wesleyan Sunday School Festival: “… their teachers and friends regular intervals, maintaining strict discipline, the resuscitated Porthleven Brass Band playing lively airs, and the array flags and banners—these contributed to form a long and gaudy procession…” (5 July 1883 – Cornishman)

1893: “…Porthleven on Friday, when the Bible-Christians held their school-tea and engaged the services of the Penzance Season and Helston Volunteer Bands…” (6 July 1893 – Cornishman)

1894: Porthleven Wesleyan Sunday School Festival: “…After tea a variety of amusements were provided and heartily enjoyed. Music was supplied by the Illogan Highway and Porthleven Bands. The playing of the former, which was conducted the Rev. Harry Oxland, was greatly admired…” (5 July 1894 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1912: Porthleven. “… teachers and scholars, after meeting at the schoolroom, formed in procession, and, accompanied by Porthleven and Helston Temperance Bands, marched through the place, after which they proceeded to a field lent Mr. R. J. Edyvean where tea was provided…” (4 July 1912 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Porthtowan

The little 1820 Porthtowan Chapel to the left and the larger chapel which stood there from 1841 to 1978. (Photo: courtesy Clive Benney)

1905: Porthtowan: “… The Wesleyans held their annual tea treat on Saturday, and headed by the Redruth Town Band, started from the schoolroom … After marching through the beautiful grounds of Mr. Dungey, proceeded to the beach …” (5 August 1905 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

 

Portloe

1877: Portloe Bible Christian Sunday school: “… in the afternoon the children and their officers, teachers, and friends assembled on the Gow near the chapel, with a Brass Band from Truro, and, after perambulating the village, attended the chapel, which was tastefully decorated with evergreens …” (25 May 1877 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1879: Portloe Bible Christian Sunday School: “Whitsuntide Celebrations. …at half past two the children and teachers met at the Gow, and a procession having been formed, headed by the Tregony Brass Band, they perambulated the village…” (13 June 1879 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1886: Portloe Band of Hope and Teetotal Festival: “…The members of the Band of Hope, numbering 120, with the teetotallers in front, and headed by the Mevagissey Brass Band, marched to Sunny Corner and back to the school, where tea was provided. …” (16 July 1886 – RCG)

 

Portreath

1870: Portreath Wesley Chapel School: “… the children and teachers of the Wesley Chapel School marched in procession through the town with flags, headed by the Roscroggan Brass Band. Afterwards the children were regaled with tea and cake in a field near the schoolroom. …” (4 August 1870 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1904: Portreath Tea Treat (Photo: courtesy Paul Phillips)

 

Portscatho

1866: “Portscatha (sic) Independent Sunday School children, under the superintendence of their minister, the Rev. G Orme, headed by the St Anthony Band. At five o’clock a good tea was provided, and various sports were engaged in, and at seven o’clock the two schools separated …” (28 July 1866 – Lake’s Falmouth Packet and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

Quenchwell

1919: Quenchwell United Methodist Tea Treat – Fred Woolcock (possible) on right with flat cap and buttonhole (Photo: courtesy Phil Woolcock)

Circa 1932: Quenchwell United Methodist Tea Treat – Roy Woolcock, is second from left with mug in hand and drinking (Photo: courtesy Phil Woolcock)

^{End notes:}

 

• ^{Cedric Appleby quotes are taken from his paper “Methodist Tea-Treats in Cornwall” written for the Cornwall Association of Local Historians Journal No. 58 Autumn 2009}
• ^{“Mithian” (ISBN 0-9545583-0-8) by Tony Mansell (Trelease Publications – out of print)}
• ^{“Blackwater and Its Neighbours” (ISBN 0-9545583-4-0) by Clive Benney and Tony Mansell (Trelease Publications – out of print)}
• ^{“Jericho to Cligga” (ISBN 0-9545583-6-7) by Clive Benney and Tony Mansell (Trelease Publications) (Trelease Publications – out of print)}