The 'Song of Canvey' mystery solved.

In 2009 we were given the manuscript for the ‘Song of Canvey’. It was thought to be very old and dating back to the 18th century. However thanks to an eagle eyed reader we now know it dates from 1909.

We now know it formed part of the Southend and Westcliff Pageant performed on the 16th and 26th June 1909 in Chalkwell Park in aid of the funds of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

• Pageant Master: Charles Henry Ashdown well known author of the time.
• Master of Music: Mr C.T. Loveday

Lady Truscott

Composers were Loveday, C.T., Russell, Kennedy and Wagner, Richard.

Opened by the Lady Mayoress of London (Lady Truscott)

The Prologue

The Westcliff-on-sea Amateur Orchestral Society performs ‘Merrie England’. An Essexman contemplatively walks through the district, pondering about the history which shaped it. Growing weary, he falls asleep. The Spirits of the Historical Past of Essex appear and dance round him. He awakes as they retreat and follows them.

Episode I.

Offa and Ciniswintha, A.D. 707.

Episode II.

The Capture of the Duke of Exeter, A.D. 1397.

Episode III.

The Visit of Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn at Rochford, 1532.

Episode IV.

Queen Elizabeth at Tilbury, 1588.

Episode V.

The “Battle” of Canvey, 1656, and Apotheosis of Sir Cornelius Vermuyden.

Elderly Dutchmen of the colony of Canvey Island are seated at a long table. A deputation of Erastian Elders enters. The Elders protest against the Dutch using land to build their own church.

Episode VI.

An Old Dutch Fair on Canvey Island, and Apotheosis of Sir Cornelius Vermuyden. Performance of ‘Haste to the Fair’, ‘Welcome to Canvey’, and ‘The Silvery Thames’.

Final Tableau.

There will be more to follow as we delve into this interesting subject.

 With grateful thanks to Chloe Ratcliffe, King’s College London Undergraduate Research Fellow whose hard work helped answer our questions.