The Padstow "Hobby Hoss" (1932)

Full title reads: "Cornwall. The Padstow 'Hobby Hoss' - whose origin is buried in oblivion & has been held from time immemorial to 'welcome in Summer' - sound filmed for first time."



Padstow, Cornwall.



Strange festival taking place in the streets of Padstow. In the distance is a man dressed in a very stylised horse costume. Other people in costume can also be seen. One of the shops in the street is advertising 'Hovis' bread.



The Padstow Hobby Hoss comes out of a building watched by a group, he is being led by a man in a very odd costume - something like a Morris Dancer. People are singing in the background. The man in the horse-like costume keeps backing into the crowd and moving them back - this appears to be part of the custom. Several of the women in the crowd are laughing.



A different street. Two Hobby Hoss men are in the midst of a crowd. In the background is a large advert for "Jewellers Stationers Fancy Stores - May's". The two horse characters are running at each other.



Another small gathering with 'The Hoss'. The man leading him stops to make a quick running repair to the horse costume.



(Natural sound track only - No commentary)
FILM ID:673.2

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