55/1171

Polehead in the form of a crown with cut outs 'K S', a cross and other shapes, surmounted by a Maltese cross. Unknown to which Club it belonged.
This polehead is in the form of a crown with cut outs of the letters 'K S', a cross and other smaller shapes. The polehead is surmounted by a Maltese cross. It is not known to which Club it belonged. Poleheads were carried on processions by members of village clubs or parish friendly societies on their annual ‘walks’. The friendly societies were formed to provide some insurance for members against sickness or death, and also played an important role in the social life of the village.

1 polehead: metal

Club brasses, mounted on poles, were carried in procession by the members of village clubs on their annual ‘walks’. These clubs were parish friendly societies formed to provide some insurance for their members against sickness or death, though in addition they played an important part in the social life of the village. The majority of these societies dated from about 1793 when the Government passed an act to encourage their foundation. Several more acts followed during the first 60 years of the 19th century, until excessive government protection led to the decline of the clubs. A few however remained in existence until the National Insurance Act of 1911. Most clubs had a strict code of behaviour laid down in their constitutions and usually the annual meeting was followed by a church service and a ‘walk’ round the parish. Although poles were carried in this procession in many districts, the use of brass heads was confined to Somerset and the adjoining counties. The design of the brasses was sometimes conventional or sometimes represented an interest of the club such as the inn in which the meetings were held., MERL miscellaneous note - 'Outline of repair added 30/11/06. // This is virtually identical to Shickle 51/968 which is missing (30/11/06) but detailed comparison with photos confirms the item still here is 55/1171.'

The Dulverton Trust (Agent)