In December 1900 the Rushden Echo reported on some of the shops in Rushden which were decorated for Christmas. The tradesmen had made a big effort and the High Street was looking particularly festive.
Mr. Buckle’s shop had been destroyed by fire in the spring of that year, but it had been rebuilt and was now Buckle and Christian. The window was displaying shirts, ties, gloves, handkerchiefs, mufflers, and fancy goods for evening wear. Mr. Samuel Powell, photographer, had a good display of photographs and photographic equipment in the shop next door.
The shop on the far left of the picture is that of Buckle and Christian, with Samuel Powell next door.
Photographs by Samuel Powell
A Sanderson Plate camera c1895
Mr. Charles Fisher, watch and clockmaker, in the same row of shops, was catering for the younger generation and had a good display of toys.
A wall clock by Charles Fisher
The Lumar jig-saws are each priced at 6d. and although the pictures shown on the boxes are black and white the jig-saws are coloured.
Messrs. Phillips, drapers, had a good display of fancy aprons, travelling rugs, oil cloths, hemp carpets, tapestry carpets, curtains, and umbrellas. Seckington’s, further along the High Street had a good show of choice hot house grapes, fine English pears, palms, ferns, heather, and solanums. They also had Christmas trees and mistletoe.
Messrs. Edwards, general stores, High Street South, had a fine display of goods, including glass and china, the window being well set out.
Two shaving mugs and three ornaments bearing the Rushden crest, all from the Rushden Museum collection.
Messrs. Nattrass had a good display of goods suitable for presents, including mincers.
No. 30/2 Food Mincer by John Harper & Co. Ltd. Willenhall, Staffs.
The items shown, although not necessarily dated 1900, are all from the Rushden Museum collection. Christmas will be very different this year and for so many families it will be a sad and difficult time, but the lights are up in the High Street, and we must all make the best of it whilst making sure that we stay safe.
Happy Christmas.