NOTABLE EVENTS & COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
Over the decades, the building has played host to a wide range of community events and gatherings, reflecting the diversity and spirit of its users.
" The Fulham Baths were put to good use during the winter months being let for indoor bowls, dances, bazaars, games and physical training for boys' clubs and the smaller rooms for club meetings"
Fulham Chronicle 1979, Sept 7th
Highlights include:
1902 - OPENING CEREMONY
1909 - November 19th - Kensington Canine Society Dog Show Article
In 1909, the Kensington Canine Society hosted a remarkable dog show at Fulham Baths, transforming both the first and second-class baths into a "dogdom" for the event. A total of 780 dogs were showcased, spanning a wide range of breeds, from the elegant Pomeranians to the sturdy English Sheepdogs, as well as Toy Spaniels, Dachshunds, Poodles, Great Danes, and Pugs.
Among the unique highlights of the event was the presence of a Pyrenean Mountain Dog, owned by Lady Sybil Grant. She was the only breeder of this rare breed in the country at the time.
1931 Indoor Cricket Season begins, Mayor of Fulham bowling first ball
On March 17th, 1931, the Daily Mirror reported that the Mayor of Fulham ceremoniously bowled the first ball to open the indoor cricket season at Fulham Baths. The event was attended by the Deputy Mayor, Mrs. Brooks, marking a special occasion for the local community.
1937 - May - Coronation of George VI
"..Fulham joined the rest of the country in celebrating the coronation of King George VI. Fulham Baths, like many buildings across the borough, was adorned with vibrant bunting and flags to mark the historic occasion. The decorations added to the festive atmosphere in the area, as the local community came together to honor the new monarch and celebrate the momentous event.."
1970 - 2nd Jan - Fulham Chronicle
FULHAM OAP's TEA
1959, Dec 18th, Fulham Chronicle
LABOUR PARTY BAZAAR
CONSERVATIVE PARTY BAZAAR
1950 - Men's Second Class Swimming Pool - Opening of Fulham Borough Council Golden Jubilee Exhibition
To celebrate 50 years of the Metropolitan Borough Council of Fulham, the flooring was laid in the Men's Second Class Swimming Pool
1965 - November 27th Annual Christmas Fair - opened by Mrs Michael Grylls
In 1965, the annual Christmas fair at Fulham Baths was a festive highlight of the season. The event featured Father Christmas himself, and was officially opened by none other than Mrs. Michael Grylls, the mother of famed adventurer Bear Grylls.
1965 - Fulham Chronicle Annual Fair notice
1947 - Ballroom Pageant and New Ballroom opening
In 1947, the new ballroom at Fulham Baths was officially opened by the Mayor beneath a dazzling display of flags and lights. Over 100 couples filled the floor, dancing to the lively tunes of Harry Cheesman and his orchestra.
As part of the festivities, Beatrice Campbell was invited to judge a beauty contest featuring 15 contestants. The winner, Miss Daphne Horton, just 16 years old, was presented with a personal weighing machine. Upon stepping on, her weight was recorded at a perfect 8 stone 7 pounds, considered the ideal average. As an additional prize, Arthur Ferrier, a renowned artist, offered to sketch her portrait. Despite the glamour of the ballroom, Saturday night dances became notorious for unruly behavior. Many mothers forbade their daughters from attending due to the increasing presence of local "gangsters" and frequent fights, which often marred the events.
1950 - March 17th Fulham Chronicle
Police hire out Baths for dance
OAP TEA PARTIES
Dec 25th 1959
OAP Christmas Parties (1979 & 1987)
Hosted by the Filham Old Age Pensioners Association, these festive gatherings provided members a joyful space to "forget their troubles" and celebrate the season together.
1958 Jan 17th Fulham Chronicle
1958 Dec 12th FUlham Chronicle
In other news... Marriages