The Knottingley to Goole Canal, the port and the embryonic town of “New Goole” was opened for business on 20 July 1826. One hundred years later the people of Goole celebrated that very important birthday in a grand manner.

Among the events in what was a week long programme, there was a grand pageant, comprising of 67 “tableaux” – staged scenes with actors in costume –  supported by three marching bands, which processed from Hook Road through Goole to assemble in West Park where they were inspected by members of the public. The tableaux were in six sections – His Majesty’s Forces, Local History, Dress and Transport, Social Services, Elementary Schools and Religious Tableaux.

There was also an evening programme for dancing, music, a fancy dress parade and finally a torchlight procession back into Goole ending at the Market Hall at 11pm. 

The details of what would be seen on each of the tableaux  and the timetable for that evening’s entertainments in West Park was published as a Souvenir Programme, priced 6d, and it can be seen below.

We are indebted to Susan Butler for the loan of her copy of the programme, which has been scanned to allow you to view it for yourself.