The Sixth Pie: 1896 – Fiftieth Anniversary of the Repeal of the Corn Laws
With the problems of the previous two pies only just fading from memory, the village decided to hold yet another Pie event, this time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Repeal of the Corn Laws.
Why this was seen to be so important can be demonstrated by the significant difference in price of corn in the 50 years – in 1846 corn was 4 shillings per stone and in 1896 it was only 1 shilling per stone. This was conveyed further with the decision to have two boys at the lead of the procession; one dressed in poor clothing and the other in good clothing to represent the difference in the standard of living between the two eras.
There was more of a local feel to the proceedings, and Joseph Hirst, an original campaigner against the Corn Laws in 1846, was chosen to lead the procession with two boys.
Also, this time the Committee recognised the ability of the villagers to produce the pie, so local experts supervised a number of local ladies.
The Dish
The pie dish from 1887 was scrubbed clean and re-used.
The Pie
The contents of the pie, without a game bird in sight, included 1120 lbs beef, 180lbs veal and 112lbs mutton.
It took 6 hours to bake the pie and another 2 ½ hours to cook the crust. This time, the Medical Officer of Health certified the pie fit for consumption before it was served!
Pie Day
Learning from the previous episodes in the Pie’s history, the stage in Norman Park was reinforced to support the pie, and railings were set-up to prevent the crowds from surging forward. It was a very successful day and about 2000 portions of pie were sold for a shilling each.