LOCAL CELEBRATIONS of the CORONATION
PETERSFIELD
The first demonstration of celebrating this eventful day commenced at three o'clock in the morning, by the firing of Mr Jack Tee's artillery from the church tower, which continued till nearly six. The bells rung an early peal, which was repeated at nine, and the elasticity of our nerves again tested by the firing of more guns. At one o'clock the shops were closed, and at two four hundred persons of the town and vicinity sat down to a dinner provided for them by a subscription from the inhabitants; the tables were laid out in the High Street, covered by an awning, the supports of which were decorated by laurels, &c., and on a signal (the firing of a gun) a rapid diminishing of beef, &c., was soon visible. The plum puddings were particularly good, and seemed to be much enjoyed by the children. Dinner finished, a quart of strong beer to the men, a pint to the women, and a smaller allowance to the children, was then distributed. On another signal being given, health and prosperity to the Queen was drunk, which was followed by hearty cheering. The repast being finished the party broke up, apparently much gratified. At four o'clock the gentlemen of the town and neighbourhood, to the number of seventy-two, met to celebrate the event at dinner, in the Town Hall; Mr Robert Parsons ably performed the duties of the chair, and was well seconded by the vice, Mr. Allen, the two gentlemen who planned and inspected the affairs of the day. Mr. Cropps, of the Lion Hotel, illuminated a full length portrait of her Majesty, in her chair of state, with "Long live Queen Victoria;" the transparency was most brilliantly lighted and appeared to good advantage. The Post-office, kept by Mr. Parsons, was fancifully illuminated, the figure of Britannia in the centre, guarded by two divisions of soldiers; above was a crown composed of flowers, laurels, &c., the whole surmounted with the motto "God save the Queen" in good bold characters, well illuminated; it had a very pleasing effect. The day's festivities concluded with an excellent display of fire-works, exhibited from a stage in the square. The Rev. Mr. Trowers, of Milland, invited one hundred of the parishioners to church, and afterwards to dinner in a booth erected on his pleasure grounds.