Henfield has a long tradition of marking royal occasions in style and often in costume. To mark the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II in June 2022, we share here a selection of photos from jubilees and coronations past. Plus, a selection from the most recent event which will be accessioned into the museum collection.
If you have photos or memories of any of these or other royal events that you'd like us to consider for the museum collection, please email us.
The Coronation Carnival, 1953
The Wellsbourne School's Coronation float 'Royal Coach' on Henfield Common
Coronation memories from two local children at the Wellsbourne School
The Henfield Belle riverboat float on the Common, 1953 Henfield Coronation Carnival. Photo: Marjorie Baker Collection
Firing the anvil with black powder - traditionally done to test its quality
The Silver Jubilee, 1977
Hot air balloon on Henfield Common, 1977 Silver Jubilee
The Golden Jubilee, 2002
The Diamond Jubilee, 2012
Coming soon...
The Platinum Jubilee, 2022
The Children's Jubilee Fun Day, Thursday 2nd June
Held on the Kingsfield, events included a tug of war, field sports, crown making and of course a bouncy castle, all under a sky of dramatic cumulus clouds.
The Giant Family Jubilee Picnic and Fancy Dress Competition, Sunday 5th June
Held on Henfield Common, here we see the children's line-up with a mixture of kings and queens, patriotic fare, a suited gent, superheroes and Mario and Luigi! Our Costume Curator awards the commemorative medals (and sweets) and we see the formal opening by the Vicar, his dog and the Parish Council Chair, marooned in a lush field of green, while the Patcham Silver Band prepare for an outing of 'Sussex by the Sea'.