Stow On The Wold Horse Fair

1
Stow On The Wold Horse Fair

• A Traditional gathering for Gypsies and
  Travellers

2
A short history of Stow fair

• Stow fair began as a medieval hiring fair in the
  14th Century.
• The Lord of the Manor held the fair by Royal
  Charter, and people came to find work.
• The fair is held every May and October.

3
Gypsy families have been coming to Stow for many
years

• Over time the hiring fair became known for
  horses, attracting many Gypsies and Travellers.
• Nowadays, it is mainly Gypsy and Traveller
  families who keep the tradition alive.
  

4
Families come to socialise and to trade with each
other and the public
5
Horses are still the main attraction
6
Stalls are pitched in streets in a field

• With all the people, horses and vehicles it can
  get a bit muddy!

7
People dont just come for horses. Collectable
motors and trailers are popular too
8
Crown Derby china is a must have investment
9
Traditional vardos

• Few families live in these caravans permanently
  now.
• In the old days, the parents and girls would
  sleep inside, the boys would sleep underneath.
• They are beautifully decorated and sell for high
  prices.

10
More wagons and motors
11
The farrier is a busy man at the fair

• Many families still travel to the fair in horse
  drawn vardos.
• Horses can wear their shoes down quickly on the
  road.

12
Many animals are well-liked by Travellers
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More stalls

• Smart clothing for children is fashionable
  amongst Travellers.
• Stalls selling horse tack are commonly found.

14
Travellers sometimes find it hard to keep their
traditional way of life going in the 21st
Century. Stow and other horse fairs are hugely
important gatherings where people celebrate their
culture and ethnicity.
15
Further information

• Find out more about Stow Fair, including dates,
  online.
• Photographs used with the kind permission of
  Nicky Price and Traveller pupils at Wyebridge
  Sports College.

Presentation developed by Ben Straker Advisory
Teacher Herefordshire Council.