Snapshot of Shropshire Show history in archive
It is known as being one of the oldest agricultural shows in the county – but now organisers of the Shropshire Show can trace their roots back more than 150 years.
Beautifully written ledgers with copperplate writing, minutes in cursive and photos of prominent farmers have been unearthed by show bosses following a reorganisation after this year's destructive floods.
The plan is now for the books to form part of an archive room – allowing members of the public to get a behind the scenes look at the show which attracts up to 40,000 visitors each year.
And among some of the dusty pages and faded photos are advertisements for another great Shropshire name - Shukers, which still sells cars and farm machinery as it has done since 1908.
Also hidden within the records are examples of how Shropshire coped during the First World War, when there were no life members registered for more than six years.
Show treasurer, Judith Williams, said: "Amongst the old ledgers dating from 1879 were beautifully written accounts, minutes etc in the most exquisite handwriting, in fine ink.
"There is a photo of a unnamed and mystery man, which is obviously very old. Who is he we all wonder?
"The finest reminder of our county at war came in the life members receipt book. It ran from1879 right through the years – £5 for a life membership – lots of people paying each year, 1910,11,12,13 and then two payments for 1914 and then no more entries until 1920.
"It almost gave us a shiver thinking and seeing the reality of life seeming to stop in those terrible war years.
"Looking through the record books, we were wondering just who is the longest standing life member still alive today?"
Herd books for cattle and sheep date back to the beginning of the shows earliest days and are kept safely in their wonderfully bound leather covers.
"We have hundreds of record books, newspaper cuttings, and scrap books right up to modern day," said Judith.
"Finance permitting one day we hope to develop an archive room for all to see and enjoy. They may be a little dusty, but nonetheless loved and appreciated by the trustees and members of the society.
"Some beautifully handwritten letters on the finest parchment to the society exist, from people whose families are still in the county today, for example Withers, Mansell, Corbett to name a few.
"We feel excited but humbled by the immaculate bookkeeping, when only pen and paper existed. Watermarked receipts, immaculate minutes, and all without a piece of carbon paper or a computer.
"It appears that many things may have changed in agriculture over the years, but the quality of the livestock, and the dedication and loyalty of the society's members remains stalwart. "
Shukers have been regular advertisers and sponsors at the show, and appear on the front of many programmes. Barrie Christopher, sales manager from from Shukers, said he was really touched by the historical connection with the show.
He said: "We are back at the show this year after quite a break and are really pleased to be throwing our support behind something that has such a standing in Shrewsbury. The links with the show go back more than 100 years and are something we are keen to forge for as long as we can. I believe that the show is a great way to forge links between the county and the show."
The show, which takes place at the Agricultural Showground, Berwick Road, Shrewsbury on May 24, will feature a Riyal Navy Field Gun display team, Young Farmers floats, chariots races, livestock shows and trade stands. For more information visit www.shropshirecountyshow.com or call (01743) 289831.