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100 years on, peace day marked again

100 years on, peace day marked again

Sunday 14 July 2019

100 years on, peace day marked again

Sunday 14 July 2019


The centenary anniversary of International Peace Day is being marked in Guernsey today, with an event reminiscent of that which happened in 1919.

Back then, 'Peace Day' was observed on July 19, 1919, across the UK to mark the official end of the Great War after the signing of the Treaty of Versailles the previous month.

News reports from the time tell us that Fetes were held all over the island, but that wet weather caused a bit of a washout, although it didn't dampen the spirits of those who did attend the planned events.

One of those events 100 years ago was held at Candie Gardens, which is hosting the anniversary event today.

A public picnic is being held between 12:00 and 15:00 with entry free to all. There will be live music and dancing, crafts and living history. Visitors should take their own refreshments and vintage dress is encouraged but is not compulsory.

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File image of children playing, dated 1918-1920. 

Jo Dowding, Access & Learning Manager said; "we’re particularly excited to welcome a group of maypole dancers from Amherst School. A group of 16 children from the same school entertained the crowds in 1919, so they aretruly recreating what happened a century ago in the very same place."

The Guernsey Military History Company will also be there this afternoon to help take visitors back to the 1900’s with a living history picnic in period dress.

Members of the group will be happy to answer questions and to provide a vivid insight into Guernsey life following the First World War. The collection of handmade poppies, one made for each Guernsey life lost during the war, will also be on display for the three hours.

The Guernsey Dancers will perform on the terrace and there will be face painting and crafts for children and families. Live music will be provided by some buskers including multi-instrumentalist James Dumbelton. At 15.00, the picnic will end as the Sunday music performance on the terrace will begin, hosted by vocal soloist Ashleigh de Jersey-Moore.

Ms Dowding is hoping for a good turnout and said; "vintage dress isn’t compulsory; while we welcome boating hats and frills, please turn up in whatever means vintage to you."

Pictured top: Candie Gardens.  

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