Maypoles

Maypoles are a feature of many villages throughout England, although it is a tradition that exists throughout Europe [1]. Yorkshire still has many important maypoles such as the one at Barwick in Elmet [2]. Others can be found in villages such as Long Preston and Elvington [3].

Historically the maypole was regarded as a major feature of a community. Originally they were probably just simple trees cut down and re-erected in the centre of a village green or another public space. Before the Reformation churches would erect them in churchyards and use the associated festivities to raise funds (Church Ales). They even appear in stained glass windows, for example the 16th century stained glass window from Betley Hall, Staffordshire. They could also become objects of inter village rivalry, with villages trying to outdo each other in height and stealing the other's pole etc. We know that by the 16th and 17th centuries they were very tall and that dancing took place around them on May 1st and other festivals.

The destruction of maypoles during the Commonwealth is well documented. The Restoration of the monarchy was symbolised by the reintroduction of maypoles in public places, such as on the Strand in London. This maypole was 134 foot high (41m) and stood there until Sir Isaac Newton used parts of it as a base for his telescope! At this time maypoles were decorated but did not have ribbons. Maypoles with ribbons are recorded at Vauxhall Gardens in the 18th century. The Maypole Dancing that people know today, happened because John Ruskin introduced it at Whitelands College in 1881 and created a series of dances and a May Pageant. Maypole dancing in schools was popular from late 19th century to the modern day, for example a photograph c. 1890 (ref: WRD5.6.180)

Many maypoles were removed in the late 19th century and the only clue to their former existence is in the name of the local pub, shops or area. A revival in interest in traditional customs/dancing in the 1970s led to a number of projects to restore maypoles. The momentum has continued and many maypoles have been restored by local communities. For example the maypole was reinstated in Otley in 2004 by two Otley morris dancing sides with support from the local community and a successful Heritage Lottery Fund bid, [4].