Jack In The Green Collection

The May-Day Festivities at St.Mary Cray, Kent, 1890. Creator: Unknown
The May-Day Festivities at St.Mary Cray, Kent, 1890. From "The Graphic. An Illustrated Weekly Newspaper", Volume 41. January to June, 1890

Jack-In-The-Green'--A May-Day Scene Sixty Years Ago, 1830, 1890. Creator: Unknown
Jack-In-The-Green'--A May-Day Scene Sixty Years Ago, 1890. From "The Graphic. An Illustrated Weekly Newspaper", Volume 41. January to June, 1890

Humour gentility Cruikshank 19th century cartoon
This is a cartoon etching by the well-known Victorian social caricaturist / cartoonist George Cruikshank (1792 - 1878), dated May 20th, 1828

England, East Sussex, Hastings, The Annual Traditional Jack in the Green Festival aka The Green Man May Day Festival, Couple of Parade Participants in Costume

England, East Sussex, Hastings, The Annual Traditional Jack in the Green Festival aka The Green Man May Day Festival, Couple of Parade Participants in Costume

England, East Sussex, Hastings, The Annual Traditional Jack in the Green Festival aka The Green Man May Day Festival, Parade Participants

England, East Sussex, Hastings, The Annual Traditional Jack in the Green Festival aka The Green Man May Day Festival, Jack in the Green Figure

England, East Sussex, Hastings, The Annual Traditional Jack in the Green Festival aka The Green Man May Day Festival, Group of Female Parade Participants in Costume

Merry May Day (engraving)
3641929 Merry May Day (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Merry May Day. Illustration for Ally Slopers Half Holiday, 1 May 1886. Cropped image)

East Devon EX5 2 Map
Postcode Sector Map of East Devon EX5 2

London Bridge (new), London, c1870. Artist: G Durand
A London May Day showing pedestrians and horse drawn vehicles battling through heavy rain on London Bridge, London, c1870

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Step into the whimsical world of 'Jack in the Green' - a delightful fusion of humour, gentility, and 19th-century cartoons by Cruikshank. This enchanting tradition has its roots in England's East Sussex, particularly Hastings, where The Annual Traditional Jack in the Green Festival takes place. Immerse yourself in the merry spirit of Merry May Day as you witness this vibrant celebration unfold. Picture an engraving that comes to life with colorful characters parading through the streets. From jesters to musicians, each participant dons elaborate costumes adorned with foliage and flowers. The festival's origins can be traced back to ancient pagan rituals celebrating nature's rebirth during springtime. As time passed, it evolved into a joyous occasion filled with laughter and merriment. The mischievous Jack in the Green became synonymous with this event - a symbol of fertility and abundance. Intriguingly enough, this jovial figure was often depicted as a green-faced man covered head-to-toe in leaves and branches. His presence would bring good luck for harvests ahead while warding off evil spirits lurking nearby. As you wander through Hastings during this festive extravaganza, you'll feel transported to another era. The charming cobbled streets echo with laughter and music as locals come together to celebrate their heritage. But let us not forget about London Bridge. A stunning artwork by G Durand captures its grandeur during the 19th century when Jack in the Green festivities were at their peak. It serves as a reminder that traditions like these have spread far beyond East Sussex over time. So if you find yourself yearning for an experience that combines history, humor, and pure delight – look no further than The Annual Traditional Jack in the Green Festival. Join us on this magical journey where old meets new amidst lush greenery.