We have been lent copies of Schedules and Catalogues relating to the Annual Shows of the Totley Allotment and Horticultural Society in 1921 and 1922 - the 4th and 5th shows. They are fascinating.
In 1922 there were 35 classes in the Allotment Holders and Cottage Gardeners’ Class, 21 in the Open Classes and 5 in the Farmers’ Class. Prizes ranged in value from one shilling to twenty shillings with 22 Special Prizes which were mostly garden tools.
The exhibition tents (where the junior school is now) was open for exhibits from 7.00 a.m. and specimens could not be removed before 7.00 p.m. To enter one had to be a member of the society but there were almost 250 members - all listed in the programme!
There was also a Poultry and Rabbit Section (including Pigeons in 1922) which also seemed to serve as a sale ring. Each entry was supposed to be accompanied by the price which the exhibitor wanted upon sale of the item. There was a rule which stated that exhibits claimed at catalogue price must be sold. If there were two or more claimants an auction was held but we are left to assume that the exhibitor could not have his entry returned to him unless there was no-one who wanted it at the named price.
At 6.0 p.m. on Show Day all exhibits not removed by exhibitors (or purchasers we presume) were packed and delivered to the Railway Company for return whence they came.
There was also a rule about telegrams respecting awards if the exhibitor paid the appropriate fee! The cost of a catalogue with awards listed increased from 6 pence to 1 shilling between 1921 and 1922.