Jeudi dernier étant l'anniversaire de la Conspiration des Poudres, des jeunes gens de la ville, suivant l'usage, s'amusèrent à brûler l'effigie de Guy Fawkes et à rouler sur la Place-Royale des barils de goudron enflammés. Ce dangereux passetemps ne fut heureusement marqué par aucun accident; mais il est à regretter que ce genre d'amusement existe encore de nos jours.

Chronique de Jersey 7/11/1846
 

Trahison des Poudres

Hier, anniversaire de la conjuration des poudres, la Cour n'a pas siégé. Nous ne savons trop si c'était par mesure de précaution, ou si c'était pour célébrer dignement cet évènement historique et quasi-tragique. Toujours est-il qu'il y a eu relâche au tribunal, et que la Cour n'a pas sauté. “Chose différée n'est pas perdue.”

Le Constitutionnel 6/11/1847
 

Hier soir, un grand nombre de gamins ont célébré, comme de coutume, l'anniversaire de la conspiration des poudres. Un grand nombre de fusées, pétards et autres feux d'artifices ont été brûlés sur la Place Royale, et dans quelques autres parties de la ville on a mis le feu à des mannequins destinés à représenter l'effigie de Guy Fawkes. Nous n'avons pas appris qu'aucun accident ait eu lieu pendant la durée de cette dangereuse récréation.

Chronique de Jersey 6/11/1847
 

Accident – During the evening of yesterday week ("Guy Fawkes Day") while several boys were discharging fireworks on the pier of St Aubin, one of them, without warning his companions, suddenly ignited a train of gunpowder, which exploded in the face of a boy who was stooping over it and burnt him dreadfully. He was immediately carried into a neighbours house, suffering the most excruciating agonies, and for two days was unable to see, great fears being entertained as to recovering his sight. He is still in a precarious condition, and is seriously disfigured.

Jersey Times 14/11/1848

L'anniversaire de la Conspiration des Poudres fut célébré Lundi soir, de la manière habituelle, et, s'il est possible, avec plus de dangers encore que les années précédentes. Les gamins de St.-Hélier avaient allumé des feux dans la plupart des quartiers de la ville; mais, comme de coûtume, la Place-Royale était le principal foyer de la fête. Vers les 8 heures surtout, la Place était presque couverte de débris de barils à goudron enflammés, et l'intervention de la police devint nécessaire pour empêcher les accidens qui auraient pu arriver si ces dangereux débris avaient été jetés au pied des maisons. La soirée se passa heureusement sans d'autres malheurs que quelques vêtemens brûlés par les innombrables pétards que jetaient les amateurs de ce genre d'amusement.

Chronique de Jersey 8/11/1848

 

Lundi prochain étant l'anniversaire de la Conspiration des Poudres, la Cour ne siégera pas. Le 5 Novembre est un jour férié par la loi, mais nous espérons que des mesures seront prises pour empêcher les bambins de la ville de mettre en danger les propriétés des habitans en roulant des barrils de goudron enflammés dans les rues de la ville.

Chronique de Jersey 3/11/1849

Nous regrettons d'apprendre qu'un jeune garçon eut la main presque emportée par l'explosion de poudre dans la soirée de Lundi dernier, en célébrant l'anniversaithe de la “Conspiration des poudres” dans le Rouge-Bouillon. Il est assez singulier qu'un fait historique qui devrait par lui-même inspirer la plus grande horreur pour la poudre, est célébré chaque année par des réjouissances dont cette substance dangereuse est le premier et le principal agent.

Chronique de Jersey 10/11/1849

A little boy had one of his hands blown to pieces whilst he was playing with gunpowder and Congreve matches on Monday last, near Rouge Bouillon.

Jersey Times, 9/11/1849

Conspiration des Poudres

Mardi l'après-midi dernier, le Crieur Public, annonçait au son de la cloche, un arrêté de M. le Connétable de St. Hélier défendant de lance, à l'occasion de la conspiration des Poudres, ni fusées, ni pétards, non plus que de brûler des barils de goudron, et ce sous peine d'être saisi immédiatement par la police et condamné à une amende. En entendant publier cet ordre nous avons été comme la plupart des habitants très contents; mais quelle a été notre surprise dans la soirée de voir que l'ordre péremptoirement donné et qui entraînait de si graves suites au pauvre petit infortuné qui aurait le malheur de l'enfreindre, était entièrement mise de côté et tourné en ridicule. Les gamins pour une fois, se sont aussi à leur tout mis au dessus de la Loi. Ils donnaient en quelque sorte un défi à l'ordre sévère du Connétable, car les fusées furent jetées sous les fenêtres du Club où la Police était réunie, - et la police sortit-elle pour saisir les refractaires? - point du tout, plusieurs de ses membres se promenaient dans les rues, voyant des personnes jeter les pétards et les fusées et paraissaient eux-mêmes jouir du fun. Emaner des ordres semblables et n'avoir nullemetn le dessein de les mettre à exécution, c'est une véritable farce, qui loin d'attirer le respect qui est dû à l'Autorité, ne fait au contraire que l'avilir aux yeux d'un public éclairé.

Le Constitutionnel 9/11/1850

La Cour n'a pas siégé hier à cause de la solennité de la Toussaint, et il y aura encore vacance Samedi à l'occasion de l'anniversaire de la Conspiration des poudres.

Chronique de Jersey 2/11/1853

Guy Fawkes. - Mecredi dernier était l'anniversaire de la conspiration des poudres et de la bataille d'Inkermann (Crimée). Comme notre jeunesse se disposait bien plus à célébrer le premier événement qu'un acte de Parlement a rayé du tableau des fêtes religieuses, que les second qui couvre de gloire l'Angleterre et que la plupart des brûleurs de pièces d'artifice ignorent complètement, M. le Connétable avait eu l'heureuse pensée d'envoyer sur la Place-Royale les officiers de la police salariée pour empêcher les gamins de lancer des pétards et autres artifices au milieu de la foule et sur les passans. Chassés de ce point, les artificiers se retirèrent dans les faubourgs et quartiers éloignés du centre de la ville, où ils purent se livrer à leurs jeux, sans que les gens paisibles fussent exposées à voir leurs habits brûlés ou à des inconvénients encore plus graves.

Chronique de Jersey 7/11/1862
 

Le cinq Novembre. - Jeudi soir au moment où les amateurs de feux d'artifice avaient déjà lancé quelques pétards et serpentaux à l'encoignure de Halkett-place et de Queen-street, sur la Place-Royale, dans New-street, et autres quartiers de St.-Hélier, on entendit la cloche du Crieur public qui publiait un arrêté de M. le Connétable, qui interdisait tout jet de pièces d'artifice. Cet arrêté contraria sans doute bein des badauds qui s'étaient promis de brûler autant de châles et de manteaux qu'ils pourraient; mais il mérita au Connétable la reconnaissance et le respect de tous les habitant raisonnables, de tous ceux qui disent que maintenir la sécurité dans les rues est un devoir spécial de l'autorité. La défense de M.le Connétable empêchant les gamins de lancer des pétards, il paraît qu'ils s'accordèrent d'autres amusements. On nous assure que vers 9 heures, une bande de jeunes hommes et de gamins poursuivaient dans Hilgrove-lane une malheureuse femme qui, pour se soustraire à leurs maltraitements, se réfugia dans la boutique d'une marchande de cette rue. La bande, furieuse de l'humanité de cette Française, brisa sa porte, ouvrit sa fenêtre, et y prit des marchandises qui y étaient exposées. Ne pouvant lutter seule contre cette bande effrénée, la marchande fut forcée de lui livrer sa victime.

Chronique de Jersey 7/11/1863

"The Fifth of November" in St Helier's

Yesterday evening St Helier's was the scene of the most disagreeable display of impropriety and decency. Under the pretence of celebrating the anniversary of the day commonly called "Guy Fawkes day" the Royal-square, King and Queen-streets, and other streets adjacent, were paraded by a disorderly "rabble rout", who amused themselves by jostling the passers-by, and by insulting girls and young women in a most unprincipled manner. These elegant amusements were enlivened by the "letting off" of squibs and crackers, which were continually thrown in the centre of the stationary or moving groups of persons that thronged these streets. They were at once scattered, and if any of them happened to suffer pain or inconvenience, it added zest to the pleasure of the young ruffians engaged in this pastime. The police, as in duty bound, when nowhere to be seen; the town was, in fact, handed over to the "riff raff" of the population. We observed one highly respectable tradesman precipitately closing his premises in order to save his stock-in-trade from being damaged, and violently gesticulating to an audience who derided him, and, as it were, lit up his portly presence by surrounding him with a halo of light from these explosive combustibles. In the abstract we have no objection to a public display of fireworks, but under proper conditions. But we expect the authorities keep our streets free for peaceable pedestrians, and that they will in future prohibit such unseemly displays as were exhibited last evening in our principal thoroughfares. A number of sailors forming part of the crew of H.M.S. Speedy, highly distinguished themselves by first riding, and then walking, about the town, masked, and levying black mail upon shopkeepers and pedestrians with whom they came in contact. The leader of this game was armed with a stick, and carried a tin box, with a hole in it, through which hole the involuntary contributor was forced to drop his contribution to the physical prowess of these interesting "heroes".

British Press and Jersey Times 6/11/1863

Guy-Fawkes day was celebrated in the usual way in several country parishes, but more especially in St. Ouen's. After which several pugilistic encounters took place by way of finale.

British Press and Jersey Times 9/11/1864

Guy-Fawkes. - Nous croyions que l'on avait tout-à-fait abandonné l'habitude de célébrer l'anniversaire d'un événement qui ne devrait inspirer que du mépris et de l'horreur pour les misérables qui y jouèrent un rôle; mais il paraît que l'on veut continuer d'honorer la mémoire des lâches qui essayèrent de livrer l'Angleterre à toutes les horreurs de l'anarchie, en faisant sauter l'édifice dans lequel siégeait son parlement. Cette année, il y a même eu recrudescence de zèle de d'entraînement: car non seulement on a lancé des pétards, des fusées et brûlé d'autres pièces d'artifices, au grand danger des personnes et des propriétés, dans divers quartiers de St.-Hélier, dans la soirée du 5 Novembre; mais on s'est livré aux mêmes amusements plusieurs soirs de suite. St.-Ouen a aussi eu son anniversaire de Guy-Fawkes, malgré l'Acte de Parlement qui interdit cet hommage rendu à la mémoire de misérables conspirateurs. Depuis 1856, la police de St.-Hélier avait toujours interdit le jet de pièces d'artifice; et sa défense avait été observée; mais, cette année, son oubli aurait pu coûter bien cher.

Chronique de Jersey 12/11/1864


 

Amusements fort dangereux. - Jeudi vers sept heures du soir, une douzaine de garçons de huit à dix ans s'amusaient à brûler, dans Conway-street, des pièces d'artifice, dont ils lançaient les restes sur les toits. Ces petits insensés portèrent même l'imprudence jusqu'à lancer un pétard allumé dans une maison dont la porte était ouverte. Ces enfants doivent être connus et mériteraient bien quelques heures de détention dans les cellules de la Station. Ils préludaient sans doute ainsi aux amusements qu'ils se promettent pour Mardi prochain, le 5 Novembre; mais nous espérons que, si elle ne défend pas entièrement le jet de pièces d'artifice dans toute la ville, l'autorité en interdira au moins l'usage partout, excepté sur la Parade, et surtout qu'elle sévira contre TOUS les contrevenants à sa défense.

Chronique de Jersey 2/11/1867

Guy Fawkes

Grâce aux sages mesures prises par M. le Connétable de St.-Hélier et surtout à l'avis qu'il avait fait publier avant le jour, on n'a point célébré cette année de fête en l'honneur de l'horrible tentative de Guy Fawkes. A l'exception de quelques très-rares pétards tirés dans les rues, tout s'est borné à la promenade d'un mannequin prétendu représenter le roi Théodore d'Abyssinie, et que les moutards suivaient fort paisiblement, sans même pousser les cris qu'ils font entendre dans leurs jeux ordinaires. Quelques pièces d'artifice furent brûlées au haut du port Albert. La tranquilité de la soirée du 5 Novembre nous avait permis d'oublier l'anniversaire de Guy Fawkes.

Chronique de Jersey 11/11/1868

Guy Fawkes night

The anniversary of the once famous Gunpowder Plot fell this year on a Sunday, and the less enthusiastic portion of the community, and the still larger number of the timid, hoped that the noisy lads of town and country would for once forgo the practice to which their ancestors were more ferociously addicted. They were, however, deceived; for although the custom of observing the event is gradually dying out, the suburbs of the town seemed vocal with the ring of juvenile laughter. In the streets of the town, thanks to the precautionary measures taken by the authorities, the greatest order prevailed. An exception to the rule was the neighbourhood of the Weighbridge, around which a mob gathered, and discharged a number of squibs, crackers, and other fireworks upon Chase's Royal Yacht Club Hotel, to the evident danger of persons there as well as of passers-by. We have not heard of any accidents resulting from these attacks; but we are informed that at the other end of the island a serious and even fatal accident might have occurred had not been for the prompt exertions of those who perceived a fire in subduing the flames. It appears that last evening and number of lads assembled near Mr. Leplanquais' house in Gorey village and set fire, with their squibs, to some curtains inside the window of one of his rooms, in which a little rosy-cheeked boy was fast asleep. The flames were speedily extinguished or the child would inevitably - according to the small size of the apartment - have perished in the conflagration.

British Press and Jersey Times 7/11/1871

Guy Fawkes' Night

The amusements formerly indulged in from a fanatical point of view on the fifth of November has certainly lost its historical significance in the minds of the youthful heroes who annually set up squibs and bonfires in the bye-ways and hedges of our country, and though the custom is gradually dying out from our midst, still a few of its accompaniments were visible last evening, especially in the suburbs of St. Helier's and in the country parishes. The evening, however, passed off very quietly, and tradesmen do not complain very loudly of the little damage which may possibly have been done to their shutters and doors.

British Press and Jersey Times 6/11/1872

Guy Fawkes. - Grâce aux mesures prises par le Connétable et par la police de St. Hélier, on a pu parcourir, sans danger d'être éborgné ou de voir ses habits brûlés, les rues de la ville de St. Hélier. Ce n'est pas qu'il n'ait été brûlé beaucoup de fusées, de pétards et autres feux d'artifice en l'honneur de Guy Fawkes, mais c'était sur les hauteurs environnant la ville, dans les cours et dans les jardins particuliers.

Chronique de Jersey 8/11/1876

The Fifth of November

The anniversary of Guy Faux's day was very generally kept in St. Helier's by the boys of the neighbourhood who were more restless and less under control than usual. In the afternoon three Guys were drawn about the town in an open carriage, and, as the shades of evening drew on, their escort was gradually increased till quite a host followed. They were ultimately taken down to the old Pier and set fire to a little before nine o'clock. By this time the mob had become very noisy, and the hotels near the Weybridge had to close their doors, crackers and squibs being thrown in by the boys there assembled. Chase's Royal Yacht Club Hotel, the Southampton Hotel, and the Star Hotel were singled out for attack by the boys, and the proprietors had to close the doors, and were naturally much alarmed of fire. Two policemen then took up a man whom they caught in the activity of letting off a squib, and were marching him off to the station when they were followed by mob of about 500 boys and young men up Conway-street, through Broad-street, to the Police-station, yelling, hooting, whistling, and pelting them with squibs and crackers. A squib thrown inside the Station was the signal for more to follow, each being succeeded by the most discordant noise that can be imagined. The doors of the Station were then shut, but it did not deter the mob from indulging in more fireworks, mingled with yelling and screeching. Mr Landick, the town crier, spoke to the mob, telling them that they ought to have a respect for the police if they had none for themselves, and that they were only doing their duty. This added fuel to the fire, and he was greeted with cries of "shut up," yelling and hissing. At last the crowd got tired and began to move off; then the police came out and dispersed those remaining. It must be a source of congratulation that but few stones were laying about, otherwise a riot would have been inevitable, cries of "mob them" being freely raised. Several arrests were made. At Havre-des-pas another large concourse of boys had assembled, and at the foot of Roseville-street some tar barrels were burnt. Crackers and squibs were thrown about in all directions, and it was very providential that no accidents took place. In several other localities the day was celebrated with bon-fires and fireworks, a contingent of boys choosing a very sensible place - the sands - for their amusement.

British Press and Jersey Times 6 November 1877

Guy Fawkes' Day in Jersey

Under the above heading the Guernsey Mail and Telegraph publishes the following article signed Inquirer: --

On Monday, the 5th November sacred to Guy and gunpowder, I happened to be in Jersey, and was very much amused by our neighbours' mode of diverting themselves, though I am still in the dark as to the hidden meaning of the mysterious rites at which I assisted.

All the afternoon a solemn cortege paraded the Town and its vicinity. In front, marched a sonorous band of penny whistles all playing different tunes, and herallding, with strains of most immartial discord, the august personages all Jersey was delighted to honor. They were seated in an open carriage and pair, that all, without distinction, might see their manly forms and admire their gorgeous uniforms and decorations. With inebriate dignity the three high potentates bowed and nodded to each other and to the running crowd which surrounded them, until an unfortunate lurch of their equipage threw one of them into the helpless arms of his two friends, when I discovered, they were only Guys.

The most exalted (and evidently the most considered of the three) wore a topper, and was endued in a robe of many coloured postage stamps, and on his back was embroidered (I mean painted) the mystic eye of Egyptian hieroglyphics, on a ground composed of telegram envelopes) - I fail to catch the symbolism). Around the shoulders of the second was hung a galaxy of foreign orders. They were certainly not English in the shape of broken bits of crockeryware. The third was only remarkable by carrying a whip in his hand, and for a cast in his eye, which enabled him to see both sides of the carriage at once.

Moved by a stranger's not unnatural curiosity, I asked the names of these distinguished personages, and for what deeds - wise or otherwise they had been selected for such marked distinction by their fellow townsmen. All my inquiries were met with shrugs and winks, the lightest of chaff and broadest of grins - but information I got none; nameless they were and nameless remain. The only ray of light I got was from a premature urchin, all fun and mischief, but not quite bribery-proof, and his marginal notes ran as follows: -- "that one with a topper on is "sneak." That chap with the broken pots is "Old Crockery" wot buys old chinateapots for five bob, and sells 'em for a fi-pund note - corporation he calls it! - and that chap wots looking two ways for Sunday, is 'old Bluebeard'

British Press and Jersey Times 22/11/1877

Le Guy Fawkes. - Grâce aux mesures de précaution prises par la Police de St. Hélier, la ville a été, Mardi, à l'abri de cette invasion de gamins de tout âge, armés de fusées et de pétards, qui étaient jadis la terreur des paisibles habitants. Quelques fusées lancées dans les abords du nouveau Pont-à-bascule, ont seule marqué cet anniversaire qui disparaît du calendrier.

Chronique de Jersey 9/11/1878

Le 5 Novembre

Nous pouvons espérer, grâce aux mesures prises par la municipalité de voir peu à peu disparaître cette stupide fête de poudres qui pendant tant d'années transformait les rues de la ville en véritable Pandemonium. Nous croyons devoir mettre les Parents et Tuteurs, ainsi que les boutiquiers sur leurs gardes, quant à la loi sur les feux d'artifices, car tout contravenant passera sans distinction pardevant Justice.

Chronique de Jersey 5/11/1879

Le 5 Novembre

Les excellente mesures prises par la Municipalité de St. Hélier, et les avis publiés dans les journaux, ont eu Mercredi, le meilleur effet. La circulation a été libre dans les rues, et le seul endroit où l'on ai jeté des pétards, etc., a été les environs du nouveau Pont à bascule, là otu personne ne pouvait nuire. Bon nombre de Guy Fawkes ont été brûlés aux grands cris de joie des enfants, et des feux d'artifice ont été lancés dans les propriétés particulières. Pendant la soirée, le roi Cetewayo et sa suite ont parcouru la ville au grand amusements de ceux qui assistaient à leurs gambades grotesques. Jamais, peut-être, St. Hélier n'a été plus tranquille en pareille occasion, et un fait assez significatif le prouve. Il n'y avait pas de perturbateurs le lendemain pardevant le Juge de la Police Corectionnelle. Le soir, une société assez nombreuse s'est réunie aux Caves des Troglodytes, à la Croix-de-Bois. Là, la fête a été des plus brillantes, les illumination ne laissant rien à désirer et l'effet général étant des plus beaux.

Chronique de Jersey 8/11/1879

Guy Fawkes et les feux d'artifice

Cette démonstration ridicule a eu lieu Lundi dans les environs du Pont-à-bascule, une foule considérable s'était rassemblée. Une pluie fine a chassé les spectateurs qui s'amusent toujours, en pareilles occasions à contribuer et, à encourager les désordres qui ont lieu, ne se rendant guère compte des dégâts infligés à la propriété par des gamins, grands ou petits.

La police a essayé et a réussi, en partie, à garder l'ordre dans les rues de la ville, mais dans les environs du Weighbridge, la foule dominait.

Nous avons souvent parlé des sifflements partant à droite et à gauche, le jour ouvrier comme le Dimanche. Rien n'y fait. Les gamins d'ici semble être nés, le sifflet à la bouche et ils le portent d'une main tandis qu'il lance de l'autre son coup de pétard, pouvant souvent blesser un passant ou incendier un magasin. C'est ce qui est arrivé Lundi.

On dit que c'est Guy Fawkes et qu'il faut que les enfants s'amusent. Soit. On ne se figure pas l'ennui causé aux propriétaires de maisons, à l'autorité qui veille. Le fun est au désavantage de ceux qui n'en rient pas.

On ne peut que remercier les membres de la police honorifique et salariée des mesures prises dans le but d'empêcher trop de scandale, mais il est dégoûtant d'avoir à dire que parmi la foule encourageant de malheureux gamins à opposer le maintien de l'ordre se trouvaient des “voyous” en habit bourgeois encourageant les joûteurs de fusées.

Ils ne seraient pas prêts de payer les pots cassés, c'est à-dire, un oeil crevé ou des habits endommagés. Grand fun. Voilà leur devise - et le même esprit peut les conduire à casser les lampes ou à enlever des marteaux de porte. Ils peuvent être pincés et condamnés à l'amende, mais cela offre peu des satisfaction au passant allant à ses affaires qui se voit assailli par des individus auxquels tout semble être permis.

Nous ne comprenons guère comment des parents lancent leurs enfants sur les rues jusqu'à des heures aussi avancées de la nuit comme celles de Lundi, sans au moins contrôler leurs actes.

Tout semble être permis aux gamins, qui, au lieu de s'amuser raisonnablement, ne songent qu'à détruire ou endommager la propriété publique, soit à coups de pierre soit à coups de fusée.


Chronique de Jersey 8/11/1882

 

Le Jour de Guy Fawkes. - Décidément, la vieille coutume de brûler Guy Fawkes en effigie le cinq Novembre, tombe d'année en année. Quelques pétards lancés en l'air et un feu de joie sur la place du Pont-à-bascule, et tout a été fini. Une tranquillité remarquable régnait dans les rues de la ville. La police honorifique qui s'était réunie en corps, s'est rendue dans les rues, qui les années précédentes étaient envahies par la populace. Heureusement, cette année leur tâche a été des plus faciles, aucune personne ayant été présentée devant le Magistrat de la Cour pour la répression des moindres délits, le lendemain.

Chronique de Jersey 10/11/1886  

Guy Fawkes

...Que l'on tire des feux d'artifices en pièces montées, c'est le moyen ordinaire de célébrer un anniversaire quelconque, c'est une coûtume consacrée par le temps. Mais nous protestons au nom du simple bon sens, contre des scènes n'ayant pour but que la destruction de propriété soit publique ou particulière.

Il serait un peu trop fort, pour une personne de voir la devanture de son établissement brûlé et gâté par des centaines de fusées, de pétards et de chandelles romaines. Les fenêtres brisées et l'intérieur de sa maison portant les traces de cet amusement élégant. Cependant, c'est ce qui est arrivé maintes et maintes fois à l'occasion de l'anniversaire dont nous parlons. Qu'on s'amuse, oui, mais au moins qu'on s'amuse d'un manière sensée et non pas en détruisant les maisons et en mettant en danger la vie des personnes paisibles....

Chronique de Jersey 29/10/1887

Anniversaire de la conspiration des poudres. - Décidément la manie de célébrer l'anniversaire de la conspiration des poudres se perd à St. Hélier. Chaque année, le nombre des personnes qui se rendent sur la place du Pont-à-Bascule pour y brûler des pétards, diminue considérablement et on ne doit pas s'en plaindre. Quelques barils goudronnés ont fait les frais d'un feu de joie, tandis que plusieurs centaines de personnes seulement occupaient le lieu ordinaire de cette manifestation. Le Connétable de St. Hélier et les Officiers de la police tant honorifique que salariée ont réussi à maintenir l'ordre, cependant, vers 9h. 30, quelques vauriens, n'ayant plus de pétards à leur disposition, ont commencer à lancer des pierres à un groupe d'agents de police qui ont fait bientôt cesser cest état de choses en dégainant leurs bâtons. A 10h. 30, le calme était rétabli.

Chronique de Jersey 9/11/1889


 

Anniversaire de la Conspiration des Poudres Le 5 Novembre a été célébré Mardi soir de la manière ordinaire dans presque toutes les paroisses de l'Ile: pétards, feux d'artifices, processions, et. Le temps était magnifique, et une foule de personnes en avaient profité pour se rendre auprès du Weighbridge, où, dès 6.30, l'on faisait brûler des barils de goudron. Vers 8 heures, lorsque la plupart de magasins furent fermés, la foule qui était en cet endroit se grossit encore, tandis que dans plusieurs autres parties de la ville l'on s'amusait de la manière ordinaire en jetant des pétards et en faisant le plus de bruit possible....

Nouvelle Chronique de Jersey 9/11/1889

Ne v'chin not programme:

1. A 2 heuthes de l'arlevée, être touos assembliés dans l'clios du couosin Tam; faithe les préparatifs;

2. A 2 1/2 heuthes, la procession formée;

3. A 3 heuthes exacte, se mettre en marche pour faithe eunne touannée par la paraisse et saluer moussieu l'Recteur, le Connaitablye, les Chenteniers, et les principaux d'la pâraisse;

4. A 5 1/2 heuthes, les torches allumées; continuation d'la prom'nade;

5. A 9 heuthes, de r'tour dans l'clios; Guy Fawkes d'cendu et porté dans la cave; touos les ch'vaux mins a l'êtable un fricot d'aveine lus est donné et à tout l'monde eunne gache de vraie et eunne fais d'cidre;

6. A 10 heuthes, Guy Fawkes est dêhallé et pendu au gibet, et oprès chonna l'cap'tainne, lé lieut'nant, l'sergent et l'corporal mettent atou lus torches lé feu ès quatre carres de la baraque.

7. A miniet grand feu d'artifice, et fin d'la séthée.

N.B. - Il est d'fendu à tout l'monde de la compagnie de béthe autchune litcheu qu'nou pourrait lus offri duthant la prom'nade; du lait et d'l'ieau tant qui voudront, mais rein tchi pouorrait monté au chervé.

1895

Le 5 Novembre à St.-Martin.

La brigade de Verclut (endroit situé sur les hauteurs nord-est de notre île) a célébré comme d'habitude, Jeudi soir, l'anniversaire du fameux jour. L'effigie de Guy Fawkes était curieuse à voir. On la promena en long et en large et un grand nombre de personnes assistaient à la fête. M. Ph. Coran, leader de la brigade, et M. Alfred Tredent, chanteur principal, se présentèrent à plusieurs maisons et firent une quête, qui s'éleva à une somme assez respectable. (...)

Ici et là, un peu partout, on voyait briller des feux de joie: sur la hauteur de St.-Aubin, à Beaumont House School où les élèves s'en sont donné à coeur-joie, proche l'Eglise St.-Matthieu, proche la Première Tour et sur le Mont Patibulaire. Comme toujours il y avait foule aux environs du Pont-à-Bascule et là on s'amusait à lancer des feux d'artifice. A la ville aussi bien qu'à la campagne il y avait des groupes d'hommes qui s'étaient déguisés pour l'occasion. Evidemment Guy Fawkes n'est pas mort, il jouit encore de sa triste et mémorable célébrité. Cela amuse les jeunes gens et les enfants, et les fabricants de feux d'artifice ne s'en plaignent pas.

Nouvelle Chronique de Jersey 7/11/1896

 

In St. Helier's

The vicinity of the Weybridge was the rendezvous of a number of fun-loving young men and boys, who were honoured with the presence of several members of the fair sex. A bonfire with an effigy in the middle thereof was lighted to the south of the Weybridge about an hour or so after dark, and with the aid of tar and other barrels, and any other fuel which came to hand, this was kept burning till about 11 o'clock. Another fire was lighted in the vicinity of the French Harbour, but this drew nothing like the number of spectators who were in the vicinity of the Weybridge. Squib and cracker-throwing was kept up by a large juvenile contingent about four hours; considerable surprise and even consternation being naturally caused among the knots of people who were standing about by the sudden dropping of fireworks in their midst. About ten o'clock the excitement reached its highest pitch, thousands of people being then at the Weybridge. Lit up by the bonfire and enlivened by the flying fireworks the scene was eminently striking. During the evening some ill-advised ignorant individuals caused wilful damage to the Pomme d'Or Hotel by throwing fireworks in some of the windows thereof, causing the glass to be smashed, and, of course, startling inmates. Some of these missiles, falling into the interior of the room, caused damage to the furniture, etc. Another inane person dropped a squib into a policeman's pocket, where it exploded with the usual bang - and then the crowd laughed! Beyond this, there does not appear to have been any remarkable incident; and the general behaviour of the large concourse of people may be described, with the above exceptions, as orderly.

The Esplanade, Havre-des-Pas, and the suburbs generally were made temporarily lively by the banging of these explosives, but up to the present no serious damage appears to have been done.

At St Aubin's

The celebrations last evening in the old capital town and neighbourhood were but the shadow of years gone by. It is true there were several bonfires, whilst squibs and crackers innumerable were left off, but it was all done in orderly manner. Perhaps the best display of fireworks was at Beaumont House School when Mr Harrison's pupils let off rockets galore until 10 pm, the effect of some of these being splendid.

The largest bonfire in the neighbourhood was at Mr S. Le Marquand's, at Mont des Vignes, the fire being fed by about seven tons of furze and brambles. The huge conflagration lit up the surrounding country, while the glare in the sky could be seen for miles around.

At one time no fewer than nine fires were lit at various spots around St Aubin's Bay and the surrounding heights, the effect being very fine.

Youths by the score, who were dressed in all sorts of costumes, paraded, not only St Aubin's, but also the vicinity of Millbrook and First Tower, but they were most orderly, no rowdyism being observable, while the chief object of some seemed to be collecting coppers from door-to-door.

At St Clement's

A number of young men in the parish of St Clements had taken some pains to organise quite a little carnival in that small parish; and, favoured with fine weather, the party met at Samarès, where a couple of effigies were placed in a decorated and illuminated van. This vehicle headed the procession which, lighted by torches, proceeded along Samarès-lane to the residence of Mr G. T. Labey - who had largely subscribed towards the expenses of the carnival - where the band, principally composed of musicians in the 2nd or East Regiment of Militia, played a musical vote of thanks. Fauvic, La Rocque, and various other points in the parish were duly visited, and the procession finally halted on Le Hocq Common, where the effigies were dismounted, the bonfire and tar barrels lighted, and the customary proceedings forthwith gone through. Another bonfire was lighted on a rock in St Clement's Bay, and yet another at La Rocque. It is estimated that over 600 people - practically all the younger portion of the parish - attended the carnival, which, which, be it said to the credit of all concerned, passed off without a hitch. Members of the honorary police were present, as well as several other well-known residents, and there was a noticeable absence of rowdyism.

At St John's

The St John's carnival proved a huge success. The long procession left the Central School about 7 o'clock, and did not return until close upon eleven. The procession included horsemen, dressed in fancy and grotesque costumes, decorated carriages and bicycles, among the former being a trade device by Mr John Le Quesne, Carpenter, of St John's. There was likewise along the array of cavaliers on foot, while the St Lawrence brass band and the St John's drum and fife band accompanied the procession. The inhabitants of St John's and the surrounding parishes naturally turned out in their hundreds. We hope to give a full account of the proceedings in a future issue.

At St Ouen's

A bonfire was lighted in a field near Deputy Le Feuvre's house in St Ouen's, and the number of fireworks were let off. The young men who were responsible for this local celebration also made a tour of part of the parish, a band, got together for the occasion, making the night beautiful with music. There was no disorder.

At Trinity

There was a bonfire, rockets, etc., in a field near La Rosière, in Trinity parish and procession, headed by the Trinity drum-and-fife, paraded the district. About 300 persons attended.

There were no demonstrations at St Martin's or St. Mary's; while in the remaining parishes, the proceedings appear to have been on a comparatively small scale.

Evening Post 6/11/1897

Guy Fawkes Demonstrations

At St. Clement

"Splendid," was the general opinion of the hundreds of people who assembled on Friday night on Le Hocq marsh, St Clement, to witness the display of fireworks and the burning of the huge representation of the much spoken-of and historical Guy Fawkes. At half-past 6 a procession -- composed of about 30 men carrying torches, and followed by cyclists dressed in grotesque costumes, the "Hearts of Oak " band, under the conductorship of Mr A. J. Pirouet, and a splendid banner bearing the inscription "Hearts of Oak for ever," a large trolley splendidly decorated with evergreens, festoons, Chinese lanterns, lampions, etc, etc, in which trolley, and under a heavy military escort, sat the condemned Guy Fawkes -- left the bottom of Samarès-lane and marched through the principal roads of the parish. Fancy-costumed collectors did their utmost meanwhile to draw from the admiring crowds the necessary funds to cover expenses. On arriving at the Common about 8.30, the executioners at once set to work, with the results that soon two splendid bonfires were blazing away, illuminating with their vivid glare the country for miles around. Fireworks were set off by hundreds, and the "Hearts of Oak" band played selections of music at intervals during the evening. The organisers, committee, collectors, and all those interested in the arrangement of the demonstration afterwards partook of a cold collation, the party breaking up soon after midnight. The general opinion was that, this time, St Clement's had certainly beaten the record. The costumes worn represented almost every nationality, and admirable order was kept throughout. Votes of thanks were, on the motion of Mr P. Le Cocq, seconded by Mr James Pirouet, passed to the four principal organisers of the evenings amusement, viz., Messrs. John Pirouet, A.J. Pirouet, W. Aubert, and H. Lloyd.

At St John's

The first annual carnival under the auspices of the St John's Amateur Athletic Club took place on Friday evening last in favourable weather; the fête proved quite a success. The procession left the Central School a few minutes before seven, and returned at 11. The procession was headed by half-a-dozen cavaliers in ancient costumes; then came the St Lawrence's brass band, under the conductorship of Mr P. F. Le Boutillier, in a van beautifully decorated with evergreens and chinese lanterns; the rear being brought up by four horses ridden by two gentlemen and two ladies in costume. The van representing the Club came after -- this was the most attractive of all: a large motto was fixed to each side of the band which "Success to St John's A. A. Club," decorated with evergreens and chinese lanterns; two Jersey coat-of-arms on each side with flags, and the Club shield at the corner pillars, arranged with fine chrysanthemums, gave it a fine appearance. Horses again took the rear; then came Mr Le Masurier's van, decorated with taste for the occasion, followed by half-a-dozen bicycles and tricycles artistically decorated and ridden by ladies and gentlemen -- these made quite a picture. Then came the St John's fife-and-drum band, under the leadership of Mr J. Anley, in an open band, followed by four more horses. An old Jersey fancy cart decorated the occasion with Jersey cabbage stalks and evergreens, and half-a-dozen children with garden bonnets and black faces, looked quite picturesque, and a happy old pair in the front driving. This cart bore an advertisement, The Evening Post on one side and Le Petit Journal on the other. This portion was the work of Mr P. Benest. It was followed by the rest of cavaliers on horseback and on foot. Mr J. Renouf came next in his cart, which was prettily decorated with white chrysanthemums. Half-a-dozen more cavaliers were followed by Mr J. Le Quesne's van, which bore a representation of a house with Mr Le Quesne's name, and "Carpenter, established 1877," on each side; the interior was illuminated with chinese lanterns. The procession included some 30 horses and 100 persons in character besides the spectators, about 500 in all. The Mourier was the first round, then by Mr H. Falla's (Les Buttes) to the Manor House, the procession, entering by the west entrance and passing the front of the house, left by the east avenue; then to Melbourne House and St. Cyr, to St Germains, the residents of Mr Bichard, where the van with the St Lawrence band entered the grounds, played selections and gave three cheers for Mr Bichard and family. The procession next went to Sion, the little village being crowded with spectators awaiting the procession. The residence of the Connétable (Mr C. Mauger) was the next halt, both bands playing and three cheers being given for Mr Mauger and family,. The procession regained the main road and halted at Deputy Hocquard's, with three more cheers, the band is still playing. High Cliff was the next halt, then to Mont Mado, and back to Cross Cottage, then down to Les Prairies, where a halt was made and three cheers given for Mr A. Le Gallais, the vice president of the Club. Then the procession returned to its original starting place near the Church. Bengal lights were burned at every halt, giving the procession a very bright appearance. Both bands played a selection of music in a delightful manner, reflecting credit on their conductors. Everything was very orderly, thus giving the fête a good name. Everybody seemed pleased with the evening's amusement, whilst a good collection was made en route.

Evening Post 9/11/1897

The First Tower Band
Fancy Dress Carnival

Last evening, the members of the drum-and-fife band connected with the First Tower Band of Hope commemorated Guy Fawkes Day by a fancy dress carnival. The members of the band, accompanied by several friends of the cause, were attired in almost every form of fancy costume, representing clowns, niggers, jockeys, soldiers, sailors, girls, etc. The procession formed up at First Tower, and shortly after 7.30 o'clock a start was made, Mr Penley, attired in a Hussar's undress uniform, leading. Then came an immense "guy," well made up, and profusely decorated with flowers, followed by a number of torch-bearers and the band, under the direction of Mr W. Watts, who figured as an Indian Chief. The route taken was along the Victoria Avenue, Esplanade, Sand-street, Charing Cross, King-street, Halkett-place, Beresford-street, Lower Bath-street, Queen-street, King-street, to the Parade, and on to St. Aubin's-road. After perambulating the First Tower district, the procession marched to St Aubin's, where a short halt was called, and refreshments served. Resuming the march along the extremely muddy road, the procession arrived at First Tower shortly after ten o'clock, when the proceedings concluded by the burning of the "guy." A collection was taken en route on behalf of the band funds, the amount of £4 being thus realized.

Evening Post 5/11/1898

Guy Fawkes day

The old custom of observing the discovery of the gunpowder plot by means of fireworks and an accompanying bonfire, was followed up on Saturday evening, though the number gathered round about the Weighbridge was smaller than for many years past. A large bonfire was, as usual, lighted at the head of the North Quay, and was a source of delight both to the on-lookers and those who fed its flames, but very little was attempted in the way of a display so far as fireworks were concerned. As a fact, the observance of the fifth of November in St Helier seems, year by year, to be developing more into rowdyism than anything else. As such it is, of course, enjoyed by a certain element, though it is now by no means altogether free from danger. To avoid this as much as possible, the authorities wisely took necessary precautions. A fire engine was kept fully equipped and horsed at the Town Hall Fire Station, while the harbour officials, under the direction of Captain F. J. Renouf, made full arrangements for the protection of the buildings under their charge. The police patrol in the neighbourhood, too, was strengthened, and extra men of the paid police force were posted at the entrances to the town from the Weighbridge, to prevent the spreading of any riotous proceedings might occur. The members of the honorary police were also en évidence, headed by Mr H. E. Le V. dit Durell, the popular Connétable of St Helier. At the same time, the proprietor of the Pomme d'Or Hotel had wisely barricaded that building, in the expectation of its having to withstand rough usage from squibs and other missiles. And, as it proved, this work was not undertaken in vain, for the crowd, which had been improving the occasion by carrying on a mimic battle, getting tired, perhaps, of this kind of amusement, rallied in full force towards the latter part of the evening and showered a perfect storm of squibs, crackers, and miniature bombs against the front of the building. Then about 11 o'clock a loud crash of glass gave evidence that stones were being brought into play, which caused considerable damage. Four large panes of glass in a second storey bedroom window were smashed, together with the Venetian shutter, whilst the bedroom itself was strewn with fragments of glass and stones. For this work a man named Malzard was arrested. Several other cases of stone-throwing were also reported, some of the missiles being evidently aimed deliberately at the police. After the arrest, however, the crowd began to disperse, and by 11.30 peace and quietness once more reigned in the neighbourhood.

The said Malzard was brought before the Connétable this morning, and was remanded till to-morrow.

Bonfires were lit at various points around the Bay of St. Aubin, but in many cases were scarcely a success, owing to the heavy downpour of rain about 7 o'clock. A brilliant fire was, however, observable on the heights of St Peter's.

At St. Aubin's, the local youths indulged in a display of fireworks, but the honorary police were on the qui vive, and prevented any horse play, the evening passing off comparatively quiet.

Evening Post 7/11/1898

Guy Fawkes celebrations

The 5th of November celebrations were on a very much less pretentious scale this year than they have been on other occasions, and throughout the island where the historic date was celebrated, the proceedings were marked with perfect quietness. The Weighbridge, once the scene of excitement and rowdyism on these occasions, was practically deserted, and with the exception of a bonfire on the beach near the Cheapside slipway, and the burning of the number of effigies, chief among which was that of Mr. Kruger, there was nothing done. The police force was in attendance near the Picquet House, but the crowd was a most orderly one, and without exception good humour and order prevailed. The fire was lit soon after dark, and the large number of persons assembled on the Promenade to watch the mimic warfare carried on by the young folk around the fire. Another smaller fire was also lit on the beach beneath the red lamp at the angle of the Esplanade and Albert Pier, but before 10 o'clock there was nothing but the embers to mark the spot where the fires had been. The St Helier's Fire Brigade assembled at their station, York-street, but were not required. At Havre-des-Pas a bonfire was lit on the beach near the Roseville-street slipway, while at Beaumont a bonfire, initiated by Mr A. Langlois, was made the centre of much jollity. Unfortunately one of Mr Langlois's sons met with an accident during the course of the evening, when either a squib or catherine wheel thrown inadvertently struck him in the eye, burning him severely. Medical assistance was summoned, and the injury attended to, and they were pleased to learn that although the burn is somewhat painful, yet he is progressing favourably.

At Gibraltar Farm, at the top of Beaumont Hill, where a bonfire was burnt, and fireworks set off in commemoration today, several lads were amusing themselves by firing what they thought to be blank cartridges. One of the cartridges proved to be loaded one, the bullet of which struck a lad named Poingdestre in the neck, inflicting a serious wound. He was assisted to his home in the vicinity, and medical attendance called in. To-day we learn that he also is progressing favourably.

An accident also occurred at St Peter's, when a large and valuable wheat stack, belonging to Mr E. Le Bas, became ignited by a coloured light thrown by children playing in the roadway in proximity to the stack. Several of the neighbours were soon on the scene, and rendered all possible assistance in distinguishing the blaze. Although the fire was soon under control, practically the whole of the wheat has been rendered valueless owing to the amount of water poured upon it.

At St Martin's there was pretentious demonstration. Both the Faldouet and Rozel drum and fife bands paraded the parish, accompanied by torchbearers, cyclists, etc., etc., in fancy costumes. Many of the principal residents of the parish were serenaded at their residences.

At St John's the party of merrymakers also paraded the parish in fancy costumes, and a large bonfire, together with effigies, were burnt near the ruined mill at Mont Mado.

At Gorey and Grouville, as also St. Ouen's, St Lawrence, and at La Rocque and Samarès, bonfires were burnt. In the former cases the districts were paraded by the young people, bearing the effigies to be burnt, and headed by drum and fife bands.

Evening Post 6/11/1901

La Conspiration des Poudres

...Qu'on nous permettra de dire cependant que les bannières portant les mots "Success to our Guy Fawkes," ou d'autres pareils ne revèlent pas une grande "connaissance de cause." On lui souhaite les succès,.... puis on le fait rôtir. C'est curieux!

Nouvelles Chroniques de Jersey 8/11/1902

...Strangely enough, however, the celebration of the 5th of November is gradually dying out in England, whilst in the Channel Islands, which boast their independence of the British Parliament, the occasion is celebrated with the utmost enthusiasm.

Last evening was no exception to the rule, and despite the keen wind, and the bright moon -- which to some extent marred the effect of the fireworks -- there were demonstrations in all the principal parishes of the Island. Fortunately, amidst all the excitement no serious accident occurred, neither was there any damage to property by fire. The crowds, too, was very orderly, and gave little or no trouble to the police.

St Helier's

Though more money was probably spent in St Helier's than in any other parish on fireworks and other materials, there was no organised demonstration. Several "guys" were paraded through the town, being eventually consigned to the flames on the Cheapside slip. In the town itself the only fireworks used were the popular coloured lights, which could be seen in all the streets. A few young men attired in carnival costumes also drove through the streets in landaus. The occupants of one such landau, however, were pulled up rather summarily. The young men in question were attired in military uniforms, and were, in the opinion of the provost-sergeant, bringing His Majesty's uniform into ridicule. Information was therefore given to the civil police, and the young men were requested to drive to the Police Station, where the Constable gave some advice, which happily was taken, and thus the incident terminated.

On the Esplanade large crowds had assembled by 6 o'clock, but as the tide was high, it was impossible to burn guys until later. The scene from the Promenade, however, was very fine. Large fires could be seen burning at Noirmont and South Hill -- the extremities of the bay -- and there were other bonfires at St Aubin's and Beaumont, as well as on the summits of the hills surrounding the bay, particularly Mont Cochon. Everywhere, too, fireworks were being let-off. Rockets shot up in all directions, crackers rattled across the Esplanade and railway lines, squibs hissed through the air, and terminated their brief existence on the wet sand or in the waves of the bay, and the very atmosphere seemed charged with good humour and jollity. By 8.30 the tide had receded somewhat, and parties carrying guys proceeded to the sand, where the unoffending effigies were burned to the accompaniment of the clatter of fireworks, and amidst the lurid glare of the coloured lights. A large bonfire, too, was lighted just below the Picquet House and attracted a large crowd. By 10 o'clock the fun was practically at the end, although occasional reports of fireworks were heard still after midnight.

From South Hill, the scene was even more effective, the view included St Clement's bay in which, particularly in the neighbourhood of Havre-des-Pas and the Dicq, several fires could be seen. From this point too, the rockets set-off in various parts of the Island could be seen.

We might say that the whole of the St Helier's Fire Brigade, in the charge of C.O. H. Eady, "stood by" at the Fire Station during the evening, with a horse harnessed to the engine, ready for eventualities.

St Saviour's

The St Saviour celebrations were held in what is generally known as the "square field," which was kindly lent for the purpose by Mr N. F. Gorvel. An enormous bonfire had been prepared, composed of the least 15 loads of wood faggots, shavings, tar, etc.. A carnival had been organised, and this aroused considerable interest as the procession passed through the parish. The procession was headed by the fife and drum band and buglers of the St. Mark's Boys Brigade. Following came a number of mounted men, representing foresters, rough-riders, cow-boys, and cavalry. Several clowns, soldiers, nigger minstrels, and others in fancy costume followed. A van filled with masked children accompanied the procession. Leaving St Saviour's schools about 7 o'clock, the masqueraders proceeded to Five Oaks, down L'Hermitage-road, to Longueville, through Bagot, and Georgetown, and by Don-road, Colomberie, Hill-street, Mulcaster-street, Conway-street, New Cut, King-street, Halkett-place, Beresford-street, Bath-street, Belmont-road, and St Saviour's-road, to "Belleville," the residence of Mr J. J. Ereaut, the esteemed Constable of the parish, where a halt was made, the band playing "For he's a jolly good fellow." The procession then returned to the "Square Field," where the band played selections during the evening. The bonfire was lighted about 9 o'clock, and the huge "Guy," about 7 ft. in height, stuffed with bombs and Chinese crackers, was cast into the flames about half-an-hour later. Hundreds of people congregated in the field and its immediate vicinity, the locality presenting the most animated appearance. The celebrations were kept up till shortly before midnight, when the crowd dispersed, evidently perfectly satisfied with the evening's amusement. The committee desire to thank Mr Gorvel for his generosity in placing his field at their disposal, and express a hope that the celebration may be repeated with still greater success next year....

St Lawrence

The celebrations in this parish were very extensive. An enormous bonfire of straw and shaving had been built up in the field near Oxenford House, and Smith's galloping horses close by tended to enliven the proceedings. A carnival, in which are very large number of parishioners took part paraded through the principal roads headed by the Couvent Band, the members of which were dressed for the occasion in military costume. A number of well-decorated vehicles took a prominent place in this procession. Milkmaids, housemaids, soldiers, sailors, policemen, and clowns were well represented. The bonfire was lighted about nine o'clock, and then the crowd began to set fire to a generous supply of bombs, squibs, crackers, rockets, and other fireworks. Many town folk proceeded to the spot, and some of them in fancy attire assisted in the merrymaking. The rejoicing was kept up with zest until midnight...

Evening Post 6/11/1903

La célébration de la conspiration des poudres a été célébrée cette année dans plusieurs paroisses avec une ardeur nouvelle. Samedi soir un immense brasier flambait sur la plage à Cheapside, tandis que tout autour les gamins s'amusaient avec des pétards, des centaines de personnes les regardant avec intérêt.

Le même soir, à Ste.-Marie, un grand carnaval a parcouru les routes de la paroisse, musique en tête. La fin de la fête s'est donnée dans un champ près de Bel Air où le traditionnel Guy, les fusées, les pétards et feu de joie étaient fort en évidence, et les Ste.-Mariais ont été enchantés de leur "fête".

Lundi soir, jour considéré plus commode que le Samedi, des célébrations ont eu lieu un peu partout, notamment à Grouville où il y a eu une cavalcade ainsi que plusieurs feux dans différents endroits.

A St.-Sauveur, une procession fit le tour de la paroisse la musique de la brigade des garçons en tête, et le "Guy" traîné derrière un van. Vans, bicyclettes décorées, cavaliers et piétons déguisés se sont ensuite rendus dans un champ près de la Croix-de-Bois où le reste de la soirée s'est passé comme d'usage, un grand feu étant allumé.

Le carnaval de St.-Laurens, qui profitait du renfort de certains de ceux qui étaient en évidence à Ste.-Marie, Samedi, se forma au Couvent, descendit vers la vallée, et remonta vers Avranches où l'on alluma un immense brasier, et où de nombreux pétards furent lancés avec effet. Les déguisements variés, les feux d'artifice, la musique, et le désir de tout le monde de s'amuser, malgré le temps, a assuré le succès de la fête.

Nouvelle Chronique de Jersey 9/11/1904

Guy Fawkes

The tercentenary of the notorious Guido Fawkes' frustrated plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament on November 5th, 1605, was celebrated yesterday, and as far as our own little community is concerned passed off without much incident. The famous "fifth" falling this year on a Sunday, was the result of local celebrations being split up, some folk preferring to hold their carnivals and pyrotechnic displays on Saturday, and others, perhaps endowed with a little more patience, reserving their fun until last evening. Still, it seems that much less enthusiasm was shown than on previous years, and vendors of squibs, crackers, and other detonating materials state that they did not dispose of half as much of their wares as on former occasions.

As has been the case for several years past the parochial authorities last evening very wisely caused a large bonfire to be lighted on Cheapside sands, and thither the youthful portion of the community hied in full force. There was a good supply of food for the fire, and the fun was kept up until a late hour. The Esplanade was thronged with folk, despite the somewhat chilly atmosphere and the dampness under foot, and squibb throwing, etc., was freely indulged in. Good order, however, prevailed, the members of both the honorary and paid police being present in full force to check any attempt at rowdyism.

Several other residents of Bagot had a huge bonfire at the stone depôt, kindly led by Mr Touzel, and the fun was considerably increased by the letting-off of a number of fireworks.

In several of the country parishes processions were made, the different parties subsequently adjourning to various rendez-vous where bonfires were lit and pyrotechnic displays held. In St Saviour the cavalcade started from the Parish School soon after 7.30, and proceeded via Five Oaks, l'Hermitage, Bagot, Don-road, Rouge Rue, Bagatelle, Wellington-road, St. Saviour's-road to a field near the Church, which in kindly lent by Mr Edward Mourant. The procession consisted of horsemen, cyclists and pedestrians in fancy uniforms, including military attires in different characteristic dresses, many of the processionists having taken considerable trouble with their "get up." A large guy on a stretcher was borne on the shoulders of four young men. Halts were made en route, many of the best-known residents of the parish being called upon and serenaded by the drum-and-fife band. At the Constable's residence loud cheers were given to Mr Ereaut. The bonfire was lit soon after 9 o'clock, and a very fine fireworks display was given, being watched by a large number of persons many of whom had made their way out from town.

At Saint Lawrence, the celebration was of a very pretentious character, the organisation of the carnival having been undertaken by the more prominent of the parishioners. The procession was formed at Le Couvent, those taking part assembling there shortly after 6 o'clock, but it was quite an hour and a half later before the procession set out on their walk through the parish. A drum-and-fife band headed the cavalcade, which included cyclists, horsemen, pedestrians, and several decorated cars. These latter were quite features of the procession, and reflected the utmost credit on those who had carried out the decorations. The costumes worn were highly fanciful. Here was to be seen a semi-military and semi-original costume, a Highlanders' cast-off uniform, while a goodly number of the regiments that have been stationed here during the past few years were represented by wearers of the uniforms. Prizes were offered by the organising committee for the best decorated vehicles, and the judging of these, as well as of the cyclists and horsemen also contributed to the delay in the start. The procession eventually paraded along Mont Cochon road as far as First Tower, along St Aubin's-road to Millbrook, and from thence via Mont Felard and along Saint Lawrence main road to Carrefour Selous, near which the fun was centralised. Accompanied by torch bearers, the procession, when on the march, looked highly effective, and along the roads, but more especially in the vicinity of First Tower, crowds had gathered to watch the cavalcade go by. The procession eventually arrived at the field where the bonfire had been erected, shortly after 9 o'clock, and this high mass of furze and other combustible material was set alight, as was also a number of tar barrels placed about the field. The band mounted a platform on one side of the field, and at intervals discoursed popular music, while from another large platform fireworks, which included rockets, Roman candles, coloured fires, etc., were set off by members of the committee. Meanwhile the masqueraders were promenading about the field, throwing the smaller articles of pyrotechnic art, amongst the crowd, and for some two hours the utmost good-natured fun prevailed. During the evening a huge guy, into which was incorporated a quantity of gunpowder, was set alight, and literally blown to pieces. Confetti was also allowed on the ground, and the throwing of this added in no small measure to the general jollity of the scene. Shortly after 11 o'clock, the supply of fireworks being exhausted, the band played the National Anthem, and although the bonfire was still burning brightly, the majority of the crowd departed homeward.

Evening Post 7/11/1905

Guy Fawkes

L'anniversaire de la Conspiration des Poudres fut célébré, Jeudi soir, dans différentes parties de l'île avec l'éclat usuel.

Un gros feu avait été allumé sur la plage à West Park et pendant toute la soirée, ce fut un crépitement continuel de pétards, lancés dans toutes les directions, et jetant partout des gerbes d'étincelles. Une foule de plusieurs centaines de personnes s'y amusa longtemps et les gamins s'en donnèrent à coeur joie.

A St.-Aubin, on faisait les choses plus en grand. Il y avait notamment une grande cavalcade, des prix étant offerts pour les meilleurs déguisements. (....)

Le joyeux cortège, parti de St-Aubin, alla jusqu'à Beaumont et revint en passant par la Haule et High Street. Il y avait là des costumes les plus divers et les figures les plus grotesques. Dans plusieurs cas les déguisements étaient très réussis. A citer, particulièrement, un très élégant Henry VIII (M. Alf. Potier) sur un cheval richement harnaché, et sa Reine (A. Potier, jun.) au costume d'une splendeur égale; puis des suffragettes tapageuses, des soldats de tous les grades, des polocemen, des “cowboys,” un corps de musique, des cyclistes, quelques voiturettes, etc. Et tout le monde dut servir de cible aux nombreux pétards qui arrivaient de tous côtés sans intermission. Un gros feu fut allumé sur le bout du quai. Des centaines de spectateurs venus de la ville passèrent plusieurs heures joyeusesparmi les bruyants St.-Aubinais.

A St.-Ouen, la célébration fut encore plus 'grandiose' de nombreuses voitures y prenant part.

Le départ se fit de Le Pallion à 7h. 30, des cyclistes et cavaliers ouvrant la marche. Venaient ensuite les fifres et tambours de St.-Ouen, les musiciens étant déguisés de toutes les manières.

Parmi les voitures participant au défilé il y avait un camion portant le bateau de M. P. Vibert gaiement illuminé et monté par un équipage. Une autre voiture, celle de M. A. Vibert, représentait une forge en pleine activité; celle de M. J.B. Le Feuvre était décorée de fleurs. Dans une autre était le mannequin destiné aux flammes. Il y avait de nombreux piétons dans toutes sortes de costumes et les incidents comiques ne manquèrent pas. La cavalcade passa par Vinchelez, Léoille, le Manoir, les Six Boules et finalement atteignit les Cinq Verges où tout l'amusement se concentra. Un gros feu fut allumé, le “Guy” finit dans les flammes, la musique joua et des fusées et pétards innombrables illuminèrent la scène.

- Il y eut aussi des feux, etc, dans différentes autres localités mais sur une échelle plus modeste.

Nouvelle Chronique de Jersey 7/11/1908

Le Samedi au sé devant l'jour du carnaval, tch'avait 'tait fixèt pour Guy Fawkes Day, dans chutte pâraisse tchi n'y-a pas encuo d'parish-all et qu'les râts sont à quatorze sous l'quartchi, unne p'tite touannée fut faite, parce que n'y-aurait pas ieu temps d'allé partout Guy Fawkes Day.

Enfin i' fallait réunithe à sept hèuthes au pus tard à unne longue p'tite maison tchi n'est pas bein haute.

Devant stèrté, le “big drummer” qu'est pas bein haout, mais qui bat d's'ailes numétho iun, s'mint à dithe: Aussi bein d'pratitchi daous-trais tunes ach'teu, Allons garçons, altogether, “There's no luk about the 'ouse”.

Après avé joué un autre “partie de musique,” qui fut si appréciée par les spectateurs, i' tait temps d'sorti parce qu l'hèuthe avançhait, le Président dit Fall in et tous sortes de dans l'bel, la banner allé l'avant, avec l'inscription: In aid of the poor, et pis la band (in full strength!) et les dèsgisés.

La procession fit route par Les Crouaix, tout drèt par la Chapelle et entri dans l'bel des lanchouneurs.

La band jouait tout l'temps et ma fé les v'là qui ouvre la grand'porte de drièthe de la wing. Ah! mais s'ou z'éthaites veu coumme i' 'taient contents d'avé l'honneur d'avé unne telle band à joué siés y'eux, car chèst du monde tant portée pour la musique.

Après qu'il avaient laissi tchès un pièche d'argent dans la boëte, le Président cryit Three cheers for Mr --------- tandis que la band jouait la pièche de musique: For he's a jolly good fellow.

La procession se r'formit dans la route et s'en fut par sus les pliatons jusqu'en Egypte.

À la préchaine fais le deuxième châpitre.

Chronique de Jersey 13/11/1909

Pour continué m'histouèthe d'la s'maine passée de la bordée du carnaval, le Samedi au sé, après avé sorti de sus la propiriétèt des lanchouneurs, fermièrs, commis d'office, organistes, musiciens, etc., etc., la procession s'en fut par les Pliatons et arrêtirent pour collecter à unne maison et ma fé ne v'là toutes les filles qui dèshalent pour vais tchu carnaval. La Beena tait là mais pas san galant, Mess le Grèslèt, Fred, du moulin qui n'touonne pas, tchi tait collecteux eut la chance parce qui l'y mèrent des sous dans sa boëte.

J'y ouï dithe qui y-a tait d'pis et lus aide à patchi l'linge quand y-a prêsse.

De là, j'cachîmes tout drèt pour le châté d'Esgypte, et après, avé traversèt la mé rouoge à pit sèt, j'arrivîmes et j'vos assèuthe que j'fumes erchus à bras ou'ert par le roué et la raînne de tchu pays-là.

Il invitirent tous à entré mais trais ou quatre restirent à èspié à la f'nêtre tchi tait ou'erte.

Des chansons fûtent donnée par Jack, qu'avait passèt ses bâtons à travers le tambour par accident, Nic, etc., et iun chanti la chanson de Nicolas.

Unne fais à bèthe fut servie, et pis le Président ermerci le Monsieu du Châté et èttou au sien tchi tait assis dans la f'nêtre tchi tait ou'erte, et en fut tchitte d'unne bein mauvaise suée de frait,

La préchaine maison qui ieut halte ch'tait à la préchaine porte de La Porte.

Après avé joué deaux ou trais tunes, le Patron d'la maison, tchi trébuque un mio l'jerriais en l'pâlant, passe unne fais à béthe et dit : Ou pouvèz entré garçons.

Tous taient contents et j'vos dit que ch'tait un réel concert. Des chansons et pis la band. Ch'tait manifique.

Le fis du Patron tait bein enbarrasèt avec sa canne à traithe à servi l'bèthe.

La Missis fit passé un monièthe de mousse dans l'appartement à côté pour se cauffer au pid du feu parce qu'i disait qu'il avait frait.

Mais le temps veint qu'il l'tait temps d'sorti. Pour fini bein l'concert, la band joui le "King", et tout l'monde sortirent sauf les siens qui restirent en d'dans.

Chronique de Jersey 20/11/1909

Les lecteurs de la Chronique daivent se rappeler que dans ses Nouvelles Locales, Mess Bisson dit qui y'avait yeu des squibs ichin et là et qu'à St.-Sauveux, y'avait yeu chein qu'nou-z'appelle une Cavalcade, ch'est à dithe une moniéthe de Guy-Fawkes et d'Bataille de Fleurs tout ensembl'ye! (Tout dêgénéthe, hélas, êche qu'un Guy-Fawkes n'est pas bon assez pour des Jersiais?)

Nouvelle Chronique de Jersey 23/11/1912

"Guy Fawkes" celebrations

St Helier

Last evening we set out to see the celebrations at West Park, but this was a celebration minus of (sic) the glory or eclat of procession or organised carnival such as were held elsewhere. Chiefly with a view to concentrating the crowd in a place where but little damage could be done, the Constable of St Helier had arranged for a bonfire to be burned on the sands at West Park. Material for this was taken to the beach by the parish employees and others, and the pile was built up roughly to represent a cottage.

Shortly after seven o'clock this was set alight, and it blazed for a couple of hours, being replenished from time to time with an extra tar barrel or so, which caused lurid flames to shoot up skyward. A large crowd gathered about the fire, and squibs, crackers, catherine wheels, and coloured matches were lighted here and there by those forming the concourse, and a good deal of harmless fun was enjoyed. Beneath the Esplanade wall several private bonfires were burned, each being surrounded by its own particular group of celebrators, mostly of the younger generation.

The police had a soft time. In fact they had less to do done on many ordinary night when there was no historical event to celebrate. We stopped for a minute or two and spoke to one of the "men in blue" on the Esplanade. "It's a very tame affair," said he; "I remember - ." But we did not stay long to listen to his reminiscences. We also said we could remember and could tell of occasions when celebrations will not as famous that of 1909, but we were modest and refrained.

An number of youths paraded the town wearing masks, and incidentally frightening the girls, while one little party in disguise carried a guy with them, which later on was very probably reduced to ashes in some backyard. These back yard celebrations were fairly numerous, and between 7 and 9 o'clock the appearance of the glare or an occasional bang showed that these minor celebrations under the auspices of paterfamilias were in progress.

A celebration of a somewhat more pretentious scale took place at West Mount Lodge, the residence of the Reverend J. O. Crosse, between 7.30 and 9 o'clock. Here Signor Protelli set up a number of rockets of his own make, and lit some effective coloured lights for the edification of the few spectators who had gathered in the roadway. A rocket stick with the casing aflame, fell on to a small fir tree, and set it alight, and this gave a good opportunity to the members of the 1st Jersey Troup of Scouts to show what they could do in an emergency, and following the orders of Scout Master Le Cocq, they soon had the outbreak, which would have spread along the Avenue, if not controlled, stamped out....

St. Aubin

...The remainder of the procession was made up of pedestrians, and included a party who had formed themselves into a mock band with cardboard "instruments," etc.

A number of young men, two of whom at least are connected with the theatrical profession, were attired as suffragettes, their "make up" being very funny indeed. They proved the centre of attraction, and they certainly added in no small measure to the fun of the evening. The remainder wore all sorts of costumes, representing Arabs, Chinamen, soldiers, cowboys, etc., while several decidedly novel advertisements were noticeable. The procession was accompanied by 48 torchbearers, all of whom had volunteered their services...

St Ouen

At St Ouen, the celebration as last year, was exceedingly well carried out, an organising Committee having been at work for some weeks collecting the necessary funds, etc. The masqueraders assembled at Les Landes shortly after 7 o'clock, and headed by a fife and drum band, a perambulation of the parish was made, the route being via Leoville to the Manor House, and then through the Ville-au Neveu district to the vicinity of the Parish Hall, and on to Cinq Verges, where a huge bonfire was burnt. The procession comprised a number of decorated and illuminated vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and horsemen, all wearing more or less nondescript costumes.

A halt was made at the Manor House, where the processionists were hospitably entertained by Mr and Mrs R. Malet de Carteret, and a second halt was made opposite the Parish Hall.

At Cinq Verges the band discoursed music from a specially-erected stage, and while the bonfire still burned, the guy, a terrible looking creature, was blown to smithereens with a charge of gunpowder...

Evening Post 6/11/1909

Elle disparaît - la vieille coûtume de célébrer le 5 novembre à grands coups de pétards disparaît de plus en plus et le nombre de feux de joie allumés cette année fut peu nombreux. A St.-Pierre il y eut une petite fête de ce genre et au Ritz, dans la Colomberie, l'on fit partir quelques fusées et autres pièces d'artifices. Ce fut tout.

Chroniques de Jersey 7/11/1923

La Coûtume.- Hier, Vendredi, était le jour de Guy Fawkes, et si la coûtume de fêter cet anniversaire par des feux de joie et le lancement de pétards tend de plus en plus à disparaître, néanmoins nombre d'écoliers se chargèrent de faire de leur mieux pour continuer la tradition.

Les Chroniques de Jersey 6/11/1926

La coûtume - Vieille coûtume qui tend à disparaître, ce que nul ne point regretter, c'est celle qui se célébra Jeudi, par des feux de joie et le lancement de pétards et feux d'artifices.

Chroniques de Jersey 7/11/1936

...One of the great events was Guy Fawkes night and the burning of the effigy of this national hero, preceded by a great procession to the accompaniment of brass bands, sometimes mounted horsemen, facial distortions, crackers and fireworks...

George Whitley, Jersey Society in London 1949

100 years ago

The 5th of November celebrations were on a very much less pretentious scale this year than they have been on other occasions and the proceedings were marked with perfect quietness. The Weighbridge, once the scene of excitement and rowdyism on these occasions, was practically deserted, and with the exception of a bonfire on the beach near Cheapside, and the burning of a number of effigies, chief among which was Mr. Kruger, there was nothing done.

75 years ago

While on the Esplanade last evening a seven-year-old named Rolland, who resides with his parents at Kensington-place, was approached by a number of lads, and one of these about 18 years of age, it is alleged, placed a lighted firework inside the child's clothing. The firework exploded and burnt the unfortunate child considerably, though fortunately woollen underclothes saved parts of his body from injury. The boy was later taken to the General Hospital.

50 years ago

A shocking tragedy marred the Island's Guy Fawkes Night for, at the celebrations held in a field near the States Airport last evening, a 13-year-old lad named Patrick Sheehan was killed, an employee at the Airport, Mr. C.A. Stearn lies at the hospital critically ill and a number of others were less seriously injured when a steel drum containing an amount of waste oil that had been used to light the bonfire exploded. The explosion was heard two miles away.

25 years ago

This year's Guy Fawkes night celebrations were, like last year, luckily not marred by any unfortunate incidents or accidents. The popularity and advantages of a central display have been proved. The largest and best organised fire in the west of the Island was staged by the St. Brelade's Honorary Police. Security was obviously of great concern to the organisers and they ensure that the 3,000 strong crowd and houses in the vicinity were well looked after.

JEP 6/11/2001

See also:

• Guy Fawkes

• La séthée d'Guy Fawkes

• Guy Fawkes

• Entouor la séthée d'Guy Fawkes

• Guy Fox

• Guy-Fawkes à St.-Ouen

• Guy Fawkes 1909

• Les traditions d'la Séthée d'Guy Fawkes