Jubilee Bonfires, 1935

Postcard of bonfire at Windmill Hill, Rottingdean, 1935

For many, this weekend will be dominated by celebrations of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. These anniversaries have long been marked by the people of Brighton & Hove, but they have not always been celebrated by street parties. Back in 1935, during King George V’s Silver Jubilee, bonfires seem to have been a popular means of marking the occasion.

One postcard in our collection shows a bonfire prepared in Rottingdean. Another two photographs show a bonfire constructed by local scouts at Hollingbury Hill Fort. These two photographs are of particular significance to Brighton Museum because they were taken by former curator and archaeologist Herbert Toms.

Bonfire at Hollinbury Hill fort, May 1935. Photo by Herbert S Toms.

Brighton News Story — 15 May, 1797: The Prince loses his corpulence

This day, we hear, the Prince leaves Brighton, having come here only for a few days, by the advice of Dr Warren, for the benefit of the sea air.  His Royal Highness has lost much of his corpulence since he was last at Brighton.

From The Sussex Weekly Advertiser, 15 May, 1797

Coronation Day 1953

Brighton Palais, now the Sea Life Centre

The Brighton History Centre will be presenting a free talk about life in Brighton in June 1953. Come and find out where you could have gone dancing, what films were on at Brighton’s many cinemas, where you could collect your ration books and, most importantly, which coronation festivities you could have taken part in.

Essoldo Theatre, North Street

The talk is free but limited to twenty people so it is best to book on 01273 296972.  It will take place at the Brighton History Centre (first floor of the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery) on Wednesday 30 May from 11 – 12 and will be repeated on the Wednesday 6 June at the same time.

Paul Jordan, Senior History Centre Officer