Morris Dancers and Rose Queens – summary

Johnny Haslett’s talk on Morris Dancers and Rose Queens Volume 1: 1888-1900 ‘Once Over Lightly’, hosted by the Morris Federation via Zoom on 15 May 2021, offered a detailed exploration of the origins, spread, and development of Morris dancing in connection with Rose Queen festivals during the late 19th century. Drawing extensively from period newspaper accounts, Haslett highlighted how this folk tradition flourished as a form of popular culture, adapting to local contexts and reflecting broader social trends of the time.

The talk opened with Haslett explaining the vast amount of material covered in his book and his methodology of piecing together history through newspaper archives. He showcased several significant events, including the earliest recorded Rose Queen festivals and Morris dancing in Lancashire, emphasising the communal and festive spirit that characterised these celebrations. He recounted the evolution of events like the May Festival in Leyland, where Morris dancers played a central role, and the emergence of Rose Queen processions as an adaptation to unpredictable May weather. These festivals became major local highlights, often involving multiple teams competing or performing in colourful, distinct costumes.

Haslett traced the geographical spread of Morris dancing across Lancashire towns such as Horwich, Leyland, and Preston, noting the strong links between different teams and their shared or borrowed traditions. For example, Leyland’s Morris dancers frequently performed in neighbouring towns, influencing local styles and practices. Horwich, known for its distinctive use of props such as wands and ropes instead of sticks, showcased the diversity within Morris dancing traditions. Costume variations were also discussed, with references to red, blue, and even purple breeches, reflecting both practical constraints and stylistic choices.

The talk illuminated the dynamics of competition and collaboration among teams. While some teams emerged for specific events and dissolved shortly thereafter, others, like the Horwich and Preston Morris dancers, became enduring institutions. Haslett highlighted how some teams transitioned to include women and children in the early 20th century as the availability of male dancers declined due to societal changes, including the First World War.

Religious and temperance movements also shaped Morris dancing during this period. Haslett discussed the involvement of organisations like the Band of Hope, which adapted Morris dancing to promote moral values. He detailed how some teams incorporated religious banners and themes into their performances, blending entertainment with a didactic message.

Throughout the talk, Haslett shared anecdotes, photographs, and advertisements from the era, painting a vivid picture of how Morris dancing intersected with the social, cultural, and economic fabric of late Victorian England. Despite the challenges of public speaking, Haslett’s meticulous research and enthusiasm brought the subject to life, engaging attendees and sparking discussions about the evolution and significance of Morris dancing.

The talk concluded with a Q&A session, where participants praised Haslett for his dedication and valuable contribution to understanding the history of Morris dancing. Questions explored topics such as the variability of costumes, the influence of religion, and the legacy of these early traditions in shaping modern Morris dancing.