A newly discovered diary from 1935 offers a unique glimpse into the lives of England’s upper-middle-class motor tourists during the holiday season.
A Glimpse into England’s Festive Past: A Newly Discovered 1935 Diary
In the midst of the holiday season, a treasure trove of information has been unearthed in the form of a newly discovered diary from 1935. The diary, penned by Doris Perry, offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the upper-middle-class motor tourists who emerged during this era.
The Adventurous Duo
Doris and her husband Jumbo embarked on a “merrie England quest,” seeking to experience the quintessential English Christmas. Their travels took them through various regions, including Dorset, where they encountered a mix of picturesque villages, charming inns, and less-than-impressive service.
A Taste of Tradition
The diary reveals that during this time, tourist-focused experiences began to emerge, often accompanied by misguided notions of regional authenticity. The Devonshire cream tea, for instance, was invented as a tourist experience, showcasing the era’s fascination with traditional English culture.
A Critique of Local Hospitality
Doris’s account is striking in its depiction of the locals. While she lavishes praise on picturesque settings and charming villages, her disdain for certain individuals is palpable. She describes Swanage‘s “bright young things” as “large, vulgar, and determined to enjoy themselves at all costs.” Her encounter with an inadequate barmaid at the Bankes Arms hotel in Corfe Castle is particularly jarring.
A Glimpse into a Bygone Era
Historians Annie Gray and Florence White provide valuable context for this era. Gray notes that the 1930s saw the emergence of “experiences” alongside regional authenticity, while White highlights the importance of Florence’s 1932 cookery book Good Things In England in revaluing traditional English cuisine.
A Reflection of Entitlement
Purkiss suggests that Doris comes across as “unbelievably entitled” by modern standards, her distaste for restaurants serving standard Christmas fare like cold ham and turkey. Her heart’s desire is the cozy version of Dickensian hospitality, which she believes is lacking in these establishments.
A Legacy Preserved
The purchase of this diary is part of Dorset History Centre’s drive to increase public engagement with its archives. The centre plans to stage works by local author Thomas Hardy in communities across Dorchester for the centenary of his death in 2028.
As we reflect on this glimpse into England’s festive past, we are reminded that our perceptions of tradition and hospitality can be vastly different from those of our ancestors. Despite the disappointments and criticisms, Doris’s resolve to continue her search for the quintessential English Christmas is a testament to the enduring power of nostalgia and the human desire for connection with the past.
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