From Cromwell to crackers, the way Christmas has been celebrated over the years has changed dramatically and Thornbury is no different.
The photograph that shows a long line of people near The Swan Hotel in the High Street was taken in the late 1800s.
It was part of a ceremony in which the poor people of the town were presented with warm clothing at Christmas by the Town’s Mayor and Corporation.
Giving warm clothing made at Christmas to the deserving poor by this charity called ‘The Mayor’s Gift’ continued until about 1940.
The recipients were expected to show their gratitude by parading down Castle Street to the church to give thanks for the town’s generosity.
Boxing Day hunts were common too.
The exact date of the hunt photograph is not known but it is likely to be from the late 1930s.
If you have any photographs of Christmases past Thornbury & District Museum is always grateful for donations.
More information on the history of the town is available at thornburyroots.co.uk
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