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The Wiltshire Champion Coursing Meeting at Stonehenge, 1865. Creator: Unknown
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The Wiltshire Champion Coursing Meeting at Stonehenge, 1865. Creator: Unknown
The Wiltshire Champion Coursing Meeting at Stonehenge, 1865. Engraving of a sketch by Mr. G. B. Goddard, representing '...the trysting-place for the coursers on one or two mornings during "the Champion week." Stonehenge, that pile of ambres or holy stones, is a great mystery. Some aver that they were brought by Merlin's aid from Scythia's shore by the great Pendragon, and others that they were raised by Danish chiefs in honour of the Idol of Victory. Be this as it may, the shepherds and the [hare] coursers share them now...The recent meeting was very well attended, and nine stakes were run off. The champion cup was won by Captain Viner's Shadow...At one time...the Wiltshire greyhound was a peculiarly small one, and often only weighed from 30 lb. to 35 lb...Gradually the Wiltshire men have been obliged to breed their greyhounds as large as their fellows; and the hares, which were once only five-pounders, have increased considerably as well, owing to their improved fare, since so much of the downs was broken up for turnips and corn'. From "Illustrated London News", 1865
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Media ID 38687039
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A Piece of History at Stonehenge - The Wiltshire Champion Coursing Meeting, 1865
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a moment in time when the ancient stones of Stonehenge played host to a thrilling coursing meeting. In August 1865, enthusiasts gathered for this prestigious event, which drew competitors from far and wide. At its peak, nine stakes were run off, with Captain Viner's Shadow emerging victorious.
The photograph also offers a glimpse into the world of greyhound breeding at the time. Once renowned for their small size - weighing in at just 30-35 pounds - Wiltshire hounds had to adapt to keep pace with larger breeds from elsewhere. Similarly, local hare populations grew stronger due to improved grazing conditions on the downs.
This rare and fascinating print not only celebrates a bygone era of coursing but also provides insight into the evolution of greyhound breeding in 19th-century England. The image is all the more remarkable for its connection to one of our most enigmatic ancient monuments, Stonehenge - an enduring symbol of mystery and wonder that continues to captivate us today.
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