The members the South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade will hold a ball in their Watch House at the Pier shortly.
Source: Shields Daily Gazette 13 January 1883
South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade
Never since the formation of the South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade was such a sight witnessed within the walls of the Watch House, on the South Pier, as was seen last night, the occasion being a ball given to the members and their wives. Stretching from the Brigade House to the end of the railings was a large canvas tent, and inside were some large forecastle lamps, Chinese lanterns, &c., the whole being tastefully decorated with flags Along one side of the tent was displayed the new flag just furnished by the Board of Trade, in the centre of which is a large full-rigged ship. To show this to advantage one of the large port lights was placed at the back, the effect being very fine. The Christmas decorations remained in the house, but in addition several Chinese lanterns were hung up and illuminated. There was a large muster of members with their wives and sweethearts. There were also present, Messrs Malcolm, M. Cay, W. Cay, Wood, G. R. Potts, Dr Crease, A. Whitelaw, S. Cottew, T. G. Mabane, T. Coulson, &c. The rocket house for the time being was converted into a refreshment saloon. Previous the proceedings commencing, Mr Malcolm, on behalf of the officers, welcomed the men and their wives. He said that this year they had made an innovation which he hoped would be acceptable to them. They were often told that they were a gallant brigade, and he hoped that the members would shew that evening that they were gallant by choosing their partners for the first dance. The band, a string one, was stationed at the south end of the room, and was conducted by Mr Cooper. After an overture by the band the ball commenced and was opened with the "Keel Row," Captain W. Cay and Mrs M. Cay and Captain M. Cay and Mrs Crease leading off. In the intervals between the dances the company were entertained to songs and recitations given by the members and some friends. Among those who thus contributed were Messrs. Bell and Walton and Deputy Captain Whitelaw. Mr Burrows was also present, and entertained the company with his musical glasses. The greatest treat of the evening was Mr P. T. Marshall (a gold medalist), who gave four recitations in capital style, and also sang a song. Too much praise cannot given to the Coastguard for the manner in which they decorated the place.
Source: Shields Daily Gazette 13 January 1883
South Shields Volunteer Life Brigade
The annual entertainment given to the members of the above brigade by the Captains of Divisions was held at the Brigade House, South Pier, last night, when a large number of the members and their wives accepted the invitation. Amongst the company assembled were the Mayor (Capt. T. G. Mabane), Captain M. and Mrs Cay, Captain W. and Mrs Cay, Captain S. Cottew and the Misses Cottew, Mr J. Crisp, Dr J. R. Crease and Mrs Crease, Mr W. Ross and Mrs Ross, Mr T. Coulson and Mrs Coulson, Mr and Mrs S. Malcolm, Captain Bentley, Mr G. R. Potts, Mr G. Grey, Mr and Mrs J. H. Morton, Mr J. Stableford, Mr and Mrs John Robinson, Captain Cottew and Mr J. Taylor, of the screw-steamer John Williamson, the heroes of the ill-fated steamer San Augustin. Through the Indefatigable exertions of Chief-officer Hart and Coastguardsman Ashton, assisted by one or two of the members, the ball-room for the nonce presented a most pleasing appearance, having been prettily decorated with flags, mottoes, evergreens, &c , and was much admired. At the south end of the room the large flag of the Brigade was stretched, above which was placed a likeness of Her Majesty, while underneath was a scroll inscribed “God Save the Queen." Several of the large engravings and photographs hung on the walls were also encased with tissue paper borders, showing that Messrs Hart and Ashton were possessed of very adept fingers. The melancholy records of past storms deposited round the room had not escaped attention, and the several figureheads of ill-fated vessels wrecked in the vicinity were freshly painted and otherwise decorated to make them look cheerful for the occasion. Varied-coloured paper chains were also stretched from end to end of the room, and added greatly to the effect. The large chandeliers in the room were very effectively decorated, and when lit up, the work accomplished was seen to very great advantage. The room set apart for the sleeping accommodation of ship wrecked sailors had not been forgotten by the two "Jolly Jacks," while even the look-out tower, used as a temporary retiring room, had also received its quota. From the entrance gates on the pier to the door of the Watch House a large canvas awning was spread, in which were displayed Chinese lanterns and coloured lights. Immediately opposite the door of the ball-room was a scroll with the word, "Welcome." The large stove which usually stands in the centre of the room had been removed, and was placed in the rocket house adjoining, which was, for the time being, converted into a cook's kitchen. This department presented a striking contrast to its near neighbour, not a semblance of decoration was to be seen, even a twig of holly being conspicuous by its absence. Deputy-Captain Coulson was here installed monarch of all he surveyed, and was kept hard at work serving out refreshments to the male guests, while his Man Friday (Mr John Brown) attended to the brewing of "the cup that cheers, &c." The entertainment provided was of a varied character, and consisted of dancing, singing, reciting, &c, The music for the dancing was supplied by Mr S. Hetherington's quadrille band, while the Messrs Burrows, with their musical glasses and band bells, contributed greatly to the evening's enjoyment. Songs were sung by Messrs Stableford, Walton, R, Bell, J. Henderson, and J. Ross, and their efforts to please were duly appreciated. Mr Sullivan, of Sunderland, by his humorous and other recitations, earned the hearty approval of his audience, and was frequently applauded. The large company separated at a late hour, having spent most enjoyable evening. The whole arrangements were carried out by Mr S. Malcolm, hon. secretary to the Brigade, assisted by the captains, and reflected great credit on that gentleman and his colleagues.
Source: Shields Daily Gazette 28 January 1883