HARDY (Thomas, 1840-1928, Novelist & Poet)

Fine Autograph Letter Signed to "the Worshipful Mr Mayor, Colchester" Sir William Gurney BENHAM (859-1944, Newspaper Editor, Author and 3 times Mayor of Colchester) regretting that he finds himself "unable to accept the honour of your invitation to the Colchester Oyster Feast on Oct. 21. I would have replied sooner, but I had hoped that it might be possible to attend ...". 1 sie 8vo., Max Gate, Dorchester headed paper, 6th October

The Colchester Oyster Feast is the centrepiece of the annual civic calendar in the ancient borough of Colchester. The Colne oyster fishery dates to the Roman era and was mentioned in the Domesday Book. The oysters obtained from the fishery are known as "Colchester Natives". On the last Friday in October each year, the Mayor of Colchester hosts the Feast in the Moot Hall. It attended by civic dignitaries from around the nation, and worthies from the world of arts and entertainment. The Mayor also invites Colchester citizens who are active in local charities, civic bodies, and good causes.

Item Date:  1909

Stock No:  40010