Establishment of MIHS 1876
Mersea Island Horticultural Society - it is so rare to have anything like a "Fete Day" on the island, that the inauguration of such a Society as the above is welcomed with the greatest enthusiasm, as affording at least one day in the three hundred and sixty-five for a general holiday for the islanders as well as being an incentive to the cottager to improve the cultivation of roots, vegetables, fruits, &c. The new Mersea Horticultural Society has been established, thanks to the energy of Mr. Hugh Green and a number of gentlemen of the island, who have willingly co-operated with him. A meeting of the principal residents, convened by Mr. Hugh Green, was held at his residence early in the year, when the Rev. Thomas R. Musselwhite was appointed Treasurer ; the Rev. Edward Musselwhite, Secretary; and the following the Committee : -Messrs. Hugh Green, H. J. Eagle, Alexander Bean, Charles Cock, and John Bacon, Sen. Several Committee and general meetings have since been held, and a short time ago, printed bills, containing the list of prizes, were placed in the hands of the inhabitant. The day for the show is not yet fixed, but it is to be early in October. Forty prizes are offered for roots, vegetables, and fruits, but only to cottagers having less than half-an-acre of land. There are also good prizes, £1, 10s, and 5s. to men over eighteen years of age, for ploughing, and two prizes of 10s. and 5s. to boys. Prizes, too, are offered for faithful and long service, £1 & 10s., on one farm, and two similar prizes for long service under one master. Two prizes, of 10s. and 5s. are to be given to the two maidservants, who have been longest in their present situations. Running, jumping, &c, is also to form part of the day's programme, so on the whole, should the weather prove favourable (and let us hope the sun will deign to shine on such an occasion), the Islanders may look forward to a thorough " Gala Day."

From The Essex Standard 29 Sept 1876
Date: 29 September 1876