a marching band played
the crowds cheered
as Chapman's Great London Circus arrived in Cheltenham town
photo from Cheltenham News
One Spring day in 1934 three elephants were being paraded through Cheltenham town to announce the arrival of the circus. On smelling some interesting aromas drifting across the road from Bloodworth's, a local seed merchants shop, one of the elephants decided to pay a visit, closely followed by the other two.
The first elephant gained entrance, but the second became stuck in the doorway, the third was quickly caught and restrained by his keeper.
Imagine the surprise of the owner standing behind his shop counter and suddenly seeing this giant shape looming inside the premises. Not only that, but an elephant that was busily helping itself to his seed potatoes, dog biscuits, and other tasty morsels
Yum - delicious
The spectators watched with amazment and some alarm
but finally peace and order was restored
so the wind musicians played on
the drummer banged his drum
and the parade proceeded out of town
This series of mosaics in an alleyway off the High Street in Cheltenham depicts a glimpse of our social history from over 80 years ago. It shows the style of clothing worn, including that of the police, and importantly the use of wild animals in a way that most would consider unacceptable today.
