Coronation: Newcastle Celebrations 1937

In May 1937 the stage is set for a jubilant day of street parties in Newcastle to celebrate the Coronation of a new King and Queen.

This rare film records Newcastle in gloriously festive mood for the Coronation of King George VI in May 1937. Celebrations include the pomp of a Town Moor military tattoo, a civic procession with a magnificent fleet of fire engines, and an evening bonfire, built by boy scouts. But it’s the touching scenes of children in Union Jack paper hats and crowns feasting at one of the many jubilant local street parties that really capture the spirit of the day.

This well-composed amateur film was shot by two filmmakers, Leslie Greaves and Mr Bartlett, who were members of Newcastle & District Amateur Cinematographers’ Association, one of the earliest British cine clubs, formed by James Cameron in 1927. Newcastle ACA still operates in the city today. The whereabouts of the street party and route taken by the replica royal carriage pulled by pit ponies remains unknown. Perhaps you can identify the location?