Buying presents in 1905

The commercialisation of Christmas is nothing new. Way back in 1905 a trader was able to hire the Workman’s Hall in Market Lavington to display his wares. He sent a letter to locals advising them of his sales.

Circular letter from George T Smith of Devizes advertising his sale days in Market Lavington

So George T Smith, auctioneer of Devizes, was bringing a collection of goodies to Market Lavington to sell, in time for Christmas 1905.

He was selling items made of what we might term china. Whether you wanted a five feet tall ‘jardenierre’ or almost any kind of tea or dinner service – Mr Smith had them. If you wanted nut bowls, fruit bowls or lunch trays all you had to do was turn up at the Workmen’s Hall at 3 pm or 7pm on 27^th to 29^th November and then bid.

We are sure that this provided a good social occasion as well as an opportunity to get vital items for the festive season.

Tags: Christmas, Easterton, Fiddington, Market Lavington, Museum, sale