REPORTS FROM EARLY BRITISH CAT SHOWS 1909

1909 GREENOCK CAT SHOW

ANNUAL DOG AND CAT SHOW Greenock Telegraph and Clyde Shipping Gazette, 24th December 1908
Greenock Canine Society Annual Dog and Cat Show to be held in the New Artillery Drill Hall, South St., on Friday, 1st Jan, 1909 (New Year’s Day). Local Classes, also Children’s Class. Entries close on Friday Night, 25th Dec. Schedules and Prize-lists from Secy., Colin Finnie, Palmerstone Buildings.

GREENOCK CANINE CLUB ANNUAL CAT AND DOG SHOW. Greenock Telegraph and Clyde Shipping Gazette, 2nd January 1909
The seventh annual open show of the above club was held in the Artillery Drill Hall, South Street, yesterday . . . in the cat section there were 113 entries, which was practically the same as last year. [Cat judge Mr A.A. Young, Glasgow]. First prize winners:
Long-haired blue male – Mrs Slingsby.
Blue female – Dr Prior.
Self, any other colour, male or female – Thomas Cassells.
Any other colour, male – Mrs Slingsby.
Any other colour, female – Mrs Slingsby.
Kittens, blue, under nine months – Dr Glasse.
Any other colour, under nine months – Mrs Slingsby.
Any colour, under six months – Roberts & Dawn.
Pair – any colour, under nine months – Wm. Cameron.
Gelding – John Smillie.
Short-haired – self colour, male or female – Roberts & Dawn.
Tabby, male or female – James Reid.
Any other colour, male or female – James Reid.
Kitten, any colour, under nine months – James Reid.
Breeders’ cup for long or short-haired cat or kitten, any colour – Roberts & Dawn.
Novice, long or short-haired cat or kitten – Roberts & Dawn.
Selling, long or short-haired cat or kitten – Thomas Braidwood.

Local, confined to Lower Ward of Renfrewshire or Largs parish:
Male or female, long-haired – John McKellar.
Kitten, long or short-haired, under nine months – A.W. McDonald.
Male or female, short-haired – James McNinch.

1909 EDINBURGH CAT SHOW

TOY DOG [AND CAT] SHOW IN EDINBURGH. The Scotsman, 2nd January 1909
For the annual exhibition of the Toy Dog Society of Scotland, which was held in the Artillery Hall, Grindlay Street, Edinburgh, yesterday, there was a strong entry of 254, included in which were 80 cats.
Long-haired Blue Male – 1, Murray & Breignan, Cowdenbeath; 2, Mrs C.Graham Menzies, Coupar Angus.
Long-haired Blue Female – 1, P. Allison Morris, Dundee; 2, J. Brow, Helensburgh.
Long-haired Chinchilla, Shaded Silver or Silver Tabby (Male) – 1, J.F. Dewar, 2 St. Patrick Square, Edinburgh; 2, A. Mann.
Long-haired Chinchilla, Shaded Silver or Silver Tabby (Female) – 1 and 2, A. Johnstone, Dalkeith.
Long-haired Black or White Male – 1, D.B. Richardson, 158 Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh; 2, John Tait, 3 Cumberland Street, Edinburgh.
Long-haired Black or White Female – 1, John Tait; 2, Miss S.K. Sikes, 1 Brunntsfield Gardens, Edinburgh.
Long-haired Males, any other colour – 1, Mrs Ridley, 6 Buccleuch Terrace, Edinburgh; 2, Miss Clara Davidson, Newbank Trinity, Edinburgh.
Long-haired Female, any other colour – Mrs McLean 11 Haugh Street, Edinburgh.
Long or Short-haired Blue Kittens (under six months) – 1, Mrs Cunningham, Lesmahagow; 2, A. Bryson, 53 East London Street, Edinburgh.
Short-haired Male or Female, Self Colour – 1, Murray & Breingan; 2, J & J McNish, West Kilbride.
Any other colour – 1 and 2, John Young, Balerno.
Litter – 1, Mrs Cunningham; 2, Mrs J. Johnstone, 172 Gorgie Road, Edinburgh.
Long or Short-haired Gelding, any colour – 1, Miss Mary Jardine, 36 Arthur Street, Edinburgh; 2, Mrs Gillam, Costorphine.
Best Cat in Show (Male) – J.F. Dewar.
Best Cat in Show (Female) – P. Allison Morris.

1909 SOUTHERN COUNTIES (WESTMINSTER) CAT SHOW

CHAMPIONSHIP CAT SHOW Newcastle Evening Chronicle, 14th January 1909
A championship cat show, organised by the Midland and Southern Counties Cat Clubs, and the first under the rules of the Cat Fanciers’ Association, brought together a large collection of felines to the Horticultural Hall, Westminster, this morning. In all between 300 and 400 cats were staged. This was a slight decrease on the figures of the previous show, and the falling away was to be largely accounted for, it was reported, by the large number of cases of fatal sickness which over took cats following one of the recent shows. Among the leading exhibitors were Lady Hildyard, Mrs Paul Hardy, Mrs Sinkins, Mrs Norris, Mrs C.L. Kennaway, Mrs Millar, and Miss R. Whitney.

The entries for the show reflected of course the overwhelming popularity of the “blues,” and many fine cats which came under this description were on view. American cat lovers, it was reported, are even more enamoured of “blues” at present than are the English. Chinchillas are the breed that run the “blues” closest in point of popularity. An interesting feature of the show is the classes for working people. It is the object of the Cat Fanciers’ Association to eradicate the common nondescript type of cat from the humble homes of England. “People in humble circumstances who keep cat ought to be encourage,” said the secretary, “to go in for good Persians or well-marked short-hairs, to have a cat of distinction and pedigree in place of the very odd specimens with which they are now content.”

Among the prize-winners are Mrs Sharland, of Exmouth; Mrs Fisher White, Highgate; Miss T. Cochrane, Upper Norwood; Miss Hill Shaw, Croydon; Mrs Bergman, Chiswick; Mrs Dougan, Belfast; Mrs Kennaway, Thetford, etc.

ARISTOCRATIC CATS. "HOSPITAL" PROVIDED AT A LONDON SHOW. WORKER'S FIRESIDE PETS. Westminster Gazette, 14th January 1909
The aristocrats of the feline world, of all species and colours, gathered at the Horticultural Hall to-day for the championship show of the Midland and Southern Counties Cat Clubs. There were over 600, including beautiful blue cats, with amber or copper-coloured eyes, white cats with eyes of deep blue, deep-orange cats with yellow eyes, and cream cats of a delightful pink shade, with hazel eyes, to say nothing of the fashionable chinchillas and tortoiseshells. Two ladies—Miss Jay and Mrs. Carew Cox—priced their pets at £1,000 each, the former's being a pretty Persian blue, and the latter's a silver Abyssinian.

Some of the bolder males were highly indignant. While the judging was proceeding they had nothing but straw to lie on, and the cold bare walls of their temporary prisons were most uninviting. The silks and brocades, and the dainty cushions were at hand, but until the cats had been judged these articles of luxury were not allowed to be used. One lady begged again and again for permission to give her tortoiseshell its downy bed, but the officials were inexorable. Hence the hall rang with angry protests, led by a piercing master voice which began with a growl and ended in the shrillest treble.

The Feline Hospital. There was a charming little cat hospital, but its only occupant this morning was an artful-looking tabby, who was, said the "medical expert," suffering from fatigue after a long journey. Even as he spoke the patient joined in the general chorus, and at this sign of awakening vigour was promptly despatched to his rightful cage.

An interesting feature of the show is the classes for working people. It is the object of the Cat Fanciers' Association to eradicate the common, nondescript type of cat from the humble homes of England. "People in humble circumstances who keep cats ought to be encouraged," said the secretary, "to go in for good Persians or well-marked short-hairs; to have a cat of distinction and pedigree in place of the very odd specimens with which they are now content." Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein is the president of the exhibition, the object of which is to assist the funds of the Receiving Homes for Stray Cats.

MIDLAND AND SOUTHERN COUNTIES CAT SHOW. ELIMINATING THE NONDESCRIPT Evening Despatch, 14th January 1909
A championship cat show, organised by the Midland and Southern Counties Cat Clubs, and the first under the rules of the Cat Fanciers’ Association, brought together a large collection of felines at the Horticultural Hall, London, to-day. In all between 300 and 400 cats were shown. This was slight decrease on the figures of the previous show, and the falling away was to be largely accounted for, it was reported, by the large number of cases of fatal sickness which overtook cats following one of the recent shows.

A £1,000 CAT Coventry Evening Telegraph, 15th January 1909
A cat valued at £1,000 was exhibited a the Midland and Southern Counties Cat Club Show, Royal Agricultural Hall, on Thursday. No purchaser came forward. Indeed, says the “Daily Chronicle,” there were very few sales, and an offer of £25 for a kitten was refused with scorn. The entries numbered around 570, which was slightly lower than last year. The principal classes were those of the Blue Persian species.

MODERN CAT WORSHIP. HIGH-PRICED EXHIBITS AT A WESTMINSTER SHOW. London Daily News, 15th January 1909
Persons possessed of a burning desire to acquire a cat should find little difficulty in suiting their fancy and their pocket at the Royal Horticultural Hall, Westminster. They may pay anything from 1,000 down to half-a-crown. The championship show organized by the Midland and Southern Counties Cat Clubs enabled cat worshippers from many parts of England to gather yesterday at the hall to bestow criticism or smiles of adulation upon nearly 400 of the elite of the cat world. Some of the more enthusiastic among the ladies even went to the length of wearing furs to match the colour of their feline favourites, and at times it was a little difficult to distinguish between the inanimate, as represented a muff or a stole, and animate, but lethargic, monarch of the hearthrug. The temperament of a cat is more philosophic apparently than that dog, and most of yesterday’s exhibits submitted to judicial rumplings of their thick fur in the proper spirit. In due course they received tributes of juicy steak, cut carefully into pieces by the well-dressed ladies who waited upon them.

As regards colour, the most popular cats at present appear to be the “blues,” and of these there is a very large display at the show. “Silvers,” a beautiful shade, are also well represented, and the “smokes,” although they are comparatively few in number, are declared by the judges to be of exceptionally good quality. That the prices put upon these domestic pets are not all fictitious is shown by the fact that yesterday afternoon a lady refused a definite offer of £25 for a “blue” kitten which had won first prize; and offers of £20 and £40 for other exhibits were also declined. Miss Jay’s Holmwood Ray, a fine “blue'’ tomcat, was priced at £1,000, and the same lady had several other animals for which she asked £100 apiece. Nearly every cat had its neck-ribbon of pink or blue or yellow, and Mrs. Hardy's Bonnie Marcello (price £50) reposed with languid grace in a boudoir of golden satin. Quite a display of red first-prize cards marked the cage of Miss R. Whitney’s Brayfort Rajah, a beautiful creature who—in the words of a lady expert—appeared to have scored above his fellows on account of his “perfect” yellow chin. Three first prizes went to Mrs. Bergman’s Macallum Mhor, a “blue adult”; and Mrs. Corner’s splendid orange Zia of Eversley captured two firsts and a second.

So many were the entries that the working people’s class had to be split in two. First prize-winners were Mrs. K. Patman’s kitten. Heston Blue Babs (priced £12), Mrs. Trowbridge’s Evelyn Blue Girl, Mrs. G. Sanders’s Tommy, Mrs. E. Oliver’s shorthaired Golliwog, and Mr. Dart’s long-haired Ching.

The proceeds the show are in aid of Our Dumb League Receiving Shelter for Stray Cats.

FELINE ARISTOCRATS. VALUABLE CATS AT THE HORTICULTURAL HALL. Globe, 15th January 1909
With but few exceptions, 390 cats at the Royal Horticultural Hall, yesterday, attempted to show by their serenity, dignity, and superciliousness that the section of feline society to which they belong is not as that vulgar generality of the tribe whose nocturnal adventures inspire comic writers. In a word, they were show cats, gathered together under the auspices of the Midland and Southern Counties Cat Clubs, in aid of Our Dumb Friends' League receiving shelters for stray cats. The exceptions referred to were a chinchilla kitten, which would persist in playing with the straw in its basket, to the disgust of a "first" and "second" reclining respectively on gold and pink cushions on each side of it; and a couple of Siamese cats, which wailed like any feline democrat.

The exhibits included a splendid collection of blues and silvers, which, stated the secretary, are the fashion in cats at present. The catalogue price against one of the former was £1,000; and as much as £4O was refused for other specimens. A special feature of the show was the large number of entries in the working people's class, which is specially encouraged by the organisation. So numerous were the exhibits in this section that it had to be divided. The prizes won in all classes will be presented to-morrow.

COSTLY CATS Irish Independent, 15th January 1909
Short description of Westminster Show, duplicating other reports here] It was stated by an exert that to keep show cats successfully £50 a year must be spent on each, and £50 for an attendant.

CAT SHOW IN LONDON The Scotsman, 15th January 1909
The Midland and South of England Cat Clubs held a combined show yesterday in the Royal Horticultural Hall, Westminster, in aid of the Shelter Fund. About 340 cats were benched from all parts of England and Ireland, but there was only one exhibitor from Scotland, Mrs Graham Menzies, Coupar Angus, who was highly commended for a blue Persian, and obtained a prize for a short-haired kitten.

[WESTMINSTER CAT SHOW] Western Times, 20th January 1909
At the Westminster Cat Show organised by the Southern and Midland Counties Cat Clubs conjointly, Mrs Sharland, Silverdene, Exeter-road, Exmouth, won the following prizes with her well-known silver tabbes: “Brosie Lass,” first prize; “Silver Yolande,” second prize; v.h.c., “Camaralzaman” (Chinchilla); h.c., “Iris” (brown tabby). This is the second year in succession “Brosie Lass” has taken first at Westminster.

[WESTMINSTER CAT SHOW]Luton Times and Advertiser, 22nd January 1909
The prize for the best kitten at the Royal Horticultural Hall show was awarded to a blue male, with deep orange eyes, belonging to Mr F. Gerrish, or Tring.

PRIZE CATS Torquay Times, and South Devon Advertiser, 22nd January 1909
At the Midland and Southern Counties Cat Club in London last week, Mrs. Louis Maxwell, of Lamorna, secured nine prizes and awards in two classes for orange cats and kittens and tortoiseshell cats, and in the “brace” and “breeders” and other classes.

[WESTMINSTER CAT SHOW] Weekly Irish Times, 23rd January 1909
Pint prizes have been won by three Irish exhibitors at the Cat Show in the Royal Horticultural, Hall, London - Miss R. Whitney, Dublin; Mr. John Woods, Dublin, and Mrs. Duggan, Belfast.

THE WESTMINSTER CAT SHOW The Queen, 23rd January 1909
A Grand Championship Cat Show, open to all, was held at the Royal Horticultural Society’s Hall, Vincent-square, on the 14th and 15th. This year the Southern Counties Cat Club was joined by the Midland Club, and the show was run under the rules of the newly-constituted Cat Fanciers’ Association. The president of the Southern Counties Cat Club is Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein, and on this occasion part proceeds of the show are to be given in aid of the O.D.F.L. [Our Dumb Friends’ League] Receiving Shelters for Stray Cats. The weather proved all that could be desired, and on the first day especially there was a crowd of visitors, a number paying the extra admission money so as to be present during the judging. Vincent Hall is well adapted for holding a cat show, as there is plenty of space, the light is excellent and there is room for seating accommodation.

The judges were Mrs Preston Whyte, Miss Frances Simpson, Mr T.B. Mason, Mr Western, and Mr Billett, about 400 cats being penned, and nearly 600 entries made. This is a slight decrease on the figures of last year’s show, and the falling off is largely to be accounted for by the number of cases of fatal sickness which occurred after a recently held show. The National Cat Club has also made an arbitrary rule disqualifying cats were registrations other than those of the N.C.C. are made compulsory. However, it is to be hoped that for the good of the fancy some satisfactory arrangement may be made which will satisfy the parent club and the newly organised Cat Fanciers’ Association, and will at least not debar exhibitors from showing their cats wherever and whenever they please.

The special prises were, indeed, a formidable array for the judges, but most satisfactory from the committee and exhibitor's point of view. However, as the class judging was fairly well completed by one o’clock, visitors were then allowed admission, and at three o'clock the judging for “best in the show” was carried out. Great interest was displayed as the number of each special was hoisted on a stick so that everyone could tell what the judges were about, and the competition was keen. One of the chief features was the large number of novice exhibitors, and as these are the backbone, so to speak, of every show, it is encouraging to know that even if old fanciers are retiring there are others eager to step into their place. It is also a fact that the “mere man" is interesting himself in breeding and exhibiting cats, for not only were there quite a number of “Mr’s” in the index to the catalogue, but there was a large sprinkling of the male sex amongst the visitors who appeared to be taking a keen interest in the lovely specimens.

The entries showed the overwhelming popularity of the blues, for there were no fewer than 102 entries, these classes being judged by Miss Frances Simpson. Mr T. P. Mason had most of the other colour long-hair cats, and Mr Western too the majority of the short hairs; while Mrs Preston Whyte, who made her debut as a judge, placed the awards in the black and white classes. There was only one white male exhibited and he evidently disapproved of his position. Miss Cope deservedly won in the class for blacks, but the third prize winner, named Snatcher, was lucky. He was a coarse cat, and was reported to have been a stray which the kindly exhibitor had snatched from the streets. Mrs Norris’s beautiful black female Kew My Pet II had to be content with reserve, but she was in superb show form, though her eyes are paling. Blue males numbered seventeen, some being a good deal out of coat, but the winner, owned by Miss Ayre, was in perfect condition. Mrs Hardy took the second prize with Bonnie Marcello, a first prize winner of two years ago, and Miss Jay was a good third with Holmwood Ray. Blue females numbered twenty-four, and were, doubtless difficult to separate. Mrs Fisher White came first and two seconds and two thirds were awarded in this large class. Dr Clement Godson was in the running by reason of the gorgeous amber eyes of his exhibit, which, however was lacking in coat, and Miss Hutchinson’s third prize winner was the best for colour, being a good sound medium shade of blue, short in body coat. There was a class for blue adult, the age limit being from nine to twelve months, and Mrs Bergman had an easy victory with Macullum Mhor, a well-known winner, shown in first-rate condition.

Smokes were not numerous, but the all-round quality was good and in the class for silver tabbies Miss Cochrane’s well-known Garry Owen, shown in faultless condition, headed the males. The chinchilla classes were small, Mrs Millar leading with Regal Hermes, who found a ready purchaser. In the female class Mrs Sedgwick carried all before her with Thelma Leonore, which took the coveted special award for the best cat in the show, Miss Ford’s well-known Roosalka being second. The brown tabby classes contained none of Miss Whitney’s exhibits, Miss Chamberlayne therefore having a look in with Russet Prince, a good-coloured specimen, but lacking in markings. Mrs Drury was put first in the class for grown females, and Mrs Norris won again with her champion orange male tabbies; but Miss Cornish Bowden, who took the third prize, may be congratulated on having the best self orange which has ever been penned. Mrs Kennaway and Miss Lea showed the winners in the class for creams.

There were some splendid tortoiseshells, and Mrs Hersey's exhibit was greatly admired, while there were a wonderful array of neuters in the three classes wisely provided for these showy cats. The blue neuter owned by Mrs Palmer filled his double pen and Mrs Corner’s Red Roy was a blaze of colour, with lovely head and eye. The black in a class of eighteen might be considered lucky to be the first prize winner. In the kitten classes there were some superb blues, and Mr Gerrish won the first prize and challenge prize for the best kitten in the show with Moonstone II., a lovely specimen. Mrs Boyce exhibited a taking chinchilla male, and Mrs Sedgwick’s Lady Lilian in the female class carried off many specials. Miss Whitney sent over two fine brown tabby kittens one of which, Brayfort Rajah, would undoubtedly have been declared the best kitten in the show had it been in fuller coat. There was nothing very striking in the short-haired classes Mrs Carew Cox exhibited her fascinating Abyssinians, and won all along the line, while Mrs Dougan, a novice exhibitor, won with a silver — the best short hair in the show. Lady Hildyard penned two Siamese which had come direct from Bangkok, and there were very few Manx cats. In the neuter class Mr Oliver won with his orange Jacko. The working people’s classes were well filled, and the all-round quality was most creditable. Mr Dart's pale silver, Mr Oliver s handsomely marked orange, and Mrs Patman’s dainty little blue Russian would all have won well in the open classes. There was also a gift class containing ten entries and these kittens were nearly all sold. They were presented by fanciers to be disposed of in aid of the Cats’ Shelter Fund, and found a ready sale at very reasonable prices. On the afternoon of the second day Lady Duckworth kindly came to distribute the prizes, but was only able to present a few, as through some unfortunate mistake the list was not correctly made out, and several of the successful competitors were not in the hall. With the exception of this hitch everything went off very well, and Mrs Sinkins, who worked so hard for the success of the show, may be heartily congratulated. Mrs James had charge of the feeding of the exhibits, and the hall was kept surprisingly sweet and pure. The next event in the cat world is the N.C.C. Show, which is being promoted by Mrs Slingsby, and takes place on Wednesday next at Harrogate.

PERSIAN CATSHastings and St Leonards Observer, 30th January 1909
At the Cat Shows held recently at the Crystal Palace ad Westminster, two Persian cats sent from the Cats Home, Hollington, were successful in gaining honours “Reserve” and “Highly Commended.”

1909 FOLKESTONE CAT SHOW

FANCIERS’ SHOW. FOLKESTONE SOCIETY’S SPLENDID EXHIBITION. Folkestone Express, Sandgate, Shorncliffe & Hythe Advertiser, 16th January 1909
The Folkstone and District Fanciers’ Society’s great annual two day show, which opened on Tuesday, was, so far at least as the exhibits were concerned, quite equal to, if not better, than any of its predecessors . . . It was pleasing to note that although the entry fees had been increased yet the entries showed no falling off, but that is accounted for by the fact that increased prize money was given. Naturally the latter also tended to bring many of the finest rabbits, birds and cats in ithe country together to compete. . . Cavies were rather poor, but cats showed a great improvement, the pussies on show being of an excellent stamp.
Cats. Smooth Hair male or female.- 2, W. Mann, Epsom Common; 3, B. T. Goodban, Folkestone; v.h.c., W. Carpenter.
Long Hair, male.- 1 and special for best cat, Mrs. Onslow, Barham; 2, C.J. Baverstock, Tunbridge Wells; 3, Miss Carr, Adisham; v.h.c., and special for best cat belonging to local members, Miss Bainbridge Smith; c., Miss F. Harvey, Wye.
Long Hair, female.- 2, Mrs. Noyes, Kennington, Ashford ; 3, Mrs. Turnbull, Ramsgate; v.h.c. and h.c., Miss Bainbridge Smith.
Neuter.- 2, C. J. Baverstock; 3, Mrs. Turnbull; 3, Mrs. Featherbe.
Kitten (long hair, under 8 months), male or female.- 1, Miss Hall Atkinson, Coulsdon; 2, Mrs. G. H. Billett, Reading; 3, Miss J. Moore, Folkestone; v.h.c. and c., Mrs. Noyes; h.c., Mrs. K. S. File, Folkestone.
Kitten (short hair, under 8 months) 2 , male or female.-2, Mdlle. de Lisle; 3, A. E. Coleman.
Selling Class (price not to exceed £1). —2, Mdlle de Lisle; v.h.c., Mrs. Onslow; h. c., Mrs. Noyes.

1909 HARROGATE CAT SHOW

CHAMPION CAT SHOW AT HARROGATE. Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 28th January 1909
Yesterday a champion cat show was held in the Drill Hall at Harrogate, under the National Cat Club rules, the exhibits making up a fine show. The judges were Miss Simpson, Mr. Bryce, and Mr. T. B. Mason. Miss R. Whitney (Dublin) won the National Cat Club’s challenge cup for the best longhaired cat in the show, and also the silver bowl for the best kitten. Lady Decies carried off the Rotherham challenge cup for the best English shorthaired cat, the Stisted bowl for the best cat in the show, the champion Junmy challenge prize for the best short-haired silver tabby cat. and the Swinton challenge bowl for the best white shorthaired male cat. The Welburn Memorial Bowl for the best short-haired cat in the show was won by Miss H. Lea, of Sydenham, and the Wrotham Park silver challenge cup was secured by Mrs. Slingsby, of Thorpe Underwoods, whilst the Crystal Palace Company’s cup for the best long-haired kitten was won by Mrs. G. Wilson, of Purley, Surrey. Amongst the prize-takers were Dr. Riseley, Sheffield; Mrs. Tom C. Fletcher, Sheffield; and Mrs. and Miss Welch, Sheffield.

CHAMPION CAT SHOW; HELD AT HARROGATE Hull Daily Mail, 28th January 1909
At the champion cat show; held at Harrogate, yesterday, the local winners included Mrs Behrens, Malton; Mrs J. Kitchin, Malton; Mrs K. Meddings, Grimsby; and the Misses Ayre, Hessle.

CHAMPION CAT SHOW AT HARROGATE Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer. 28th January 1909
Among the local winners were Mrs Behrens, Malton; Miss E.M. Bell-Irving, Barnard Castle; Mrs A. Fletcher, Huddersfield; Mrs E. Hains, Otley; Mrs J. Kitchin, Malton; Mrs K. Meddings, Grimsby; Miss M. Burton, Ossett; F. Helmer, Darlington; Misses Ayre, Hessle; Mesdames Toothill ad Longbottom, Pool; and Mrs C. Wintle, Ilkley.

HARROGATE CAT SHOW The Queen. 6th February 1909
This fixutre (promoted by Mrs Slingsby) was held last week under National Cat Club rules. The announcement that such a show would take place was only published early in January, so that the enthusiastic lady who undertook the management of the Harrogate show had a difficult task to perform. It was indeed, unfortunate that such efforts should have been seriously handicapped by the severe weather, for on Jan 27, Arctic conditions prevailed, so it is to be feared that the gate suffered considerably, as it required a stout heart and strong constitution to face the frost and cold on the morning of the show. Mrs Slingsby had an excellent co-worker in Mrs Weston, who acted as secretary, while Mr T.B. Mason, Mr Bryce, and Miss Frances Simpson were the judges. The placing of awards, especially in the large blue classes, was attended with some difficulty, as the gas had to be lit to give warmth, and with the outside fog there was naturally not much daylight. Then, again, the bitter cold caused the exhibits to crouch under the hay, and few showed themselves well. In many instances their coats were “spiky,” giving an “out of condition” appearance, which, however, was caused by the chilly atmosphere. Mrs Slingsby made no fewer than forty-three entries, some of her lovely cats being generously entered “not for competition,” and the Hon. Mrs Clive Behrens had also numerous exhibits with which she did some winning. Lady Decies showed several good short-haired cats, which carried off many prizes and specials, while Miss Whitney sent two of her famous brown tabbies over from Ireland, and was rewarded by gaining with Brayford Viking the special prize offered for the best cat in the show.

The blue classes were the largest, and the orange and creams were unusually good. The short-haired classes were poorly filled, and this was rather surprising, as in the north short-haired breeders are generally to the fore. The Hon. Mrs Clive Behrens won in the class for long-haired whites with Swinton Pierrot, who was in prime show condition, but her lovely Day Dream (the best in the show at the Crystal Palace) had now to be content with reserve, as she had passed the zenith of her beauty and shed her coat. The blue males were headed by Mrs G. Wilson’s Sir Archie, the Crysatal Palace and Steyning winner, Miss Ayre’s Westminster winner taking second place, and Mrs Mackintosh and Mrs Slingsby both exhibited fine specimens in this class.

Blue females numbered eleven, and Miss Savory’s Regina won easily, this lady also carrying off the honours in the blue kitten class with a nice exhibit. Orange longhairs made a grand show, and Mrs Slingsby’s well-known Red Eagle, though not in full coat, was an easy winner. The cream males were splendid specimens, and were headed my Mr Helmer’s Wildon Wily, which was reserve for the best in the show; he made a splendid appearance, though a little short of coat. Miss Lea exhibited a pretty cream kitten in Bryde. Chinchillas were few in number, Mrs G. Wilson winning in the classes for males and females; and brown and silver tabbies were fairly represented.

Mrs Weston had a grand tortoiseshell in Wynnstay Rainbow, and in the tortoiseshell and white class Minette, exhibited by Mr Woods, was place in front of her champion mother, Mrs Slingsby’s Rosette of Thorpe, both being lovely specimens of this fascinating breed. Neuters were not remarkable. In the stud cat class Mrs Slingsby’s Bertrand of Thorpe was placed first, a massive blue, with good head, and there were three noted champions in this class. In the short-haired classes Lady Decies took the first prize with her lovely white Fulmer Snowstorm, and Juliette, the silver tabby, won the special offered for the best short-haired cat in the show. Mrs Slingsby had entered her beautiful tortoiseshell and white Cretonne 2not for competition.” A fine orange kitten exhibited by Mr Reid, or Glasgow, was greatly admired, and was adjudged the best kitten in the show. Only three Siamese were penned, which was fortunate, astheze amimals are very susceptible to cold. Miss Samuel led the way in the Manx classes; while Lady Decies won easily in the one for short-haired blues with her Fulmer Copper Queen, and also exhibited Silver Menelik, a charming Abyssinian, who reigned alone in the class set apart for this variety.

The Red and White Rose classes open to Yorkshire and Lancashire people constituted a new feature. There were four long-haired and two short-haired classes, which filled very well, and the competition was keen between the county fanciers. Mrs Slingsby offered two specials for the best exhibits from Scotland, and inv the long-haired section Miss Silkes from Edinburgh won with her nice black, Mr Reid, of Glasgow, claiming the other special with his winning orange short-haired kitten. It is to be hoped that no serious cases of illness amongst the cats will be the result of exposure to the intense cold. The arrangements for the dispatch of the exhibits were admirable, and the feeding was carried out by a well-organised staff. Mrs Slingsby was indefatigable, overcoming many difficulties in a wonderful way, and it was, therefore, all the more disappointing that the bitter cold so interfered with the comfort of exhibitors and exhibits.

1909 KILMARNOCK CAT SHOW

KILMARNOCK DOG AND CAT SHOW Kilmarnock Herald and North Ayrshire Gazette, 5th February 1909
The annual open show of dogs and cats under the auspices of the Kilmarnock Canine Club took place yesterday in the Agricultural Hall and Art Gallery. There were 560 entries, which is about 100 more than last year. The following is the prize list.
Cats. Blue, male – 1, John Hogg; 2, Mrs Andrew McCowatt; 3, James Ballantyne.
Blue, female – 1, Mrs Slingsby, 2, P. Allison Morris; 3, Hal. Maden.
Blue Novice, never having won a first prize – 1, Mrs Andrew McCowatt; 2, James Ballantyne; 3, Mrs Wm Boyd.
Blue, cat or kitten, bred and owned by exhibitor – 1, Mrs Wm. Boyd; 2, James Ballantyne; 3, Thomas Braidwood.
Black, male or female – 1, Mrs Thompson Waugh; 2, Mrs James Nicoll; 3, Miss S.K. Sikes.
White, male – 1, D.B. Richardson; 2, Mrs Wm. Faulds; 3, Mrs Wm. Faulds.
White, female – 1, J Moore Lipscomb; 2, Wm. Walker; 3, Mrs J.G. Davidson.
Chinchilla, male or female – 1 and 2, Peter Brown; 3, Thomas Braidwood.
Silver Tabby, male or female – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs Davies; 3, Arch. G.B. Paterson.
Red, male or female – 1 and 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Mrs E. Caunce.
Red, kitten under 10 months – 1 and 3, Mrs Slingsby.
Cream, male or female – 1 and 2, Mrs Somerville; 3, Mrs T.H. Alston.
Tortoiseshell or tortoiseshell-and-white – 1, Ms Slingsby; 2, hugh Murphy; 3, Mrs Jas. G. Hepburn.
Any other colour, male or female – 1, Mrs A. Macgregor; 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, William Gemmill.
Kitten, any other than blue or red, under 9 months – 1, Mrs Davies; 2, John Anderson; 3, Peter Brown.
Kitten, any colour, under 6 months – 1, Mrs Davies; 2, Mrs J.D. Arnott; 3, Mrs Wm. Faulds.
Pair of kittens, under 10 months – 1, Mrs Somerville; 2, Mrs Davies; 3, John Hogg.
Neuter – 1, Miss Livingstone; 2, Mrs Somerville; 3, Mrs Heggie.
Stud, any colour – 1 and 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Mrs Somerville.
Brace – 1 and 3, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs Somerville.
Team of three, any colours – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs Somerville; 3, Mrs Wm. Faulds.

Shorthair Section.
Self-coloured, male or female – 1, Andrew Campbell; 2, Murray & Brenigan; 3, Master David Logan.
Tabby, male or female – 1, James Reid; 2, Wm. Simpson; 3, Arthur E. Bell.
Any other colour, male or female – 1, Mrs Tom C. Fletcher; 2, M. McGarry; 3, James Reid.
Kitten, under 9 months – 1, James Reid; 2, Mrs Cunningham; 3, W.A. Barron.
Neuter – 1, Miss Elizabeth Richmond; 2, Murray & Brenigan; 3, Mrs F. Western.
Stud, any colour – 1, James Reid; 2, Tom Hanley.
Brace – 1, James Reid; 2, Wm. Simpson; 3, Wm. Paton.
Team of three, any colours – James Reid.

Long or Shorthair Section.
Novice, other than blue longhair, never having won a first prize – 1, Murray & Brenigan; 2, Thomas Braidwood; 3, Mrs Wm. Faulds.
Cat or kitten, other than blue longhair, bred and owned by exhibitor – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs Somerville; 3, Mrs William Faulds.
Novice (confined to Ayrshire) – 1, John Hogg; 2, David Smith; 3, Master David Logan.
Selling class – 1, John Leigh; 2, Wm. Gemmell; 3, William Hawkins.
Children’s class for cat or kitten – 1, Miss Nancy Leadbetter; 2, David Smith; 3, Miss Jessie Robertson.

KILMARNOCK DOG [AND CAT] SHOW Falkirk Herald, 6th February 1909
At Kilmarnock dog show on Thursday . . . in the section for cats, a first and special prize was won by Mr T. Waugh, Falkirk, with his black Persian cat “Gipsy Queen.”

1909 FALKIRK DOG [AND CAT] SHOW

FALKIRK KENNEL CLUB. DOG AND CAT SHOW Falkirk Herald, 27th March 1909
Falkirk Kennel Club. Dog and Cat Show, within the Town Hall, Falkirk, on Thursday Next, 1st April. Admission during Judging (10 a.m. till 1 p.m.), 2s; 1 p.m. till 4 p.m., 1s; 4 p.m. till 8 p.m., 6d. Hugh P. Black, Secretary.

FALKIRK DOG [AND CAT] SHOW Falkirk Herald, 27th March 1909
As announced in our advertising columns, the annual show promoted by the Falkirk Kennel Club wil be held in the Town Hall, Falkirk on Thursday . . . On this occasion the prize list will include several classes for cats.
Longhairs, male – 1, C.B. Maitland, Ballantrae; 2, D. Scobie, Errol.
Longhairs, female – 1, J. Nicoll, Perth; 2, W. Walker, Cowdenbeath.
Shorthairs, Male – 1, Miss Jeanie Cunningham, Carnoustie; 2, Mrs C. Lindsay, Dundee.
Kittens – 1, D, McGillivray, Dundee; 2, W.W. Forbes, Dundee.
Gelding – 1, Mrs W. Blackie, Leven; 2, Miss Anderson, Fowlis Easter.

1909 CARLISLE SHOW

[CUMBERLAND AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY SHOW] Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser, 26th July 1909
The Cumberland Agricultural Society’s old-established fixture attracted the usual large attendance at Carlisle on Saturday, despite the inclement weather. . . The dog and cat show which has been added of late years was also completely successful.

CUMBERLAND SHOW West Cumberland Times, 28th July 1909
The annual show of The Cumberland Agricultural Society was held at Carlisle on Saturday in showery weather … in the section for dogs, cats, rabbits, and cavies there were 335 compared to 421 [entries] last year.

THE CAT SHOW IN CARLISLE Carlisle Journal, 30th July 1909
[This item was damaged and some words are missing](From a correspondent). The quality of cats entered for the show in conjunction with the Cumberland Agricultural Society’s exhibition last Saturday was far above any previous show. Among the long-haired cats, a huge blue tom, [??] condition and colour, took first and championship for the best cat in the show. It also took three other [??] prizes. Avery close competitor was a lovely [??] cat that paraded quite consistently among the [??] This cat deservedly took the special prize or the perfect coat; there was no other cat near it in this respect. It was a beautiful and sweet tempered [??] In contrast to this was a spiteful tempered cat that not only bit and clawed, but used most uncomplimentary language. In the long haired kitten class there was a local cream kitten shown of a most [??] colour and gentle disposition; it just failed by a few point only to take first prize in its class. The [??] of this youngster was greatly admired by the [??]. Another striking cat, also a local one, was a beautifully coloured silver tabby with most glorious [??] which is took a special. It was a very perfect specimen of its kind, and is sure to secure further success for its young owner. Another well-known cat, a black long-hair, failed in eyes, and had to be content with a third place. The long haired kittens was an exceptionally strong section, and the judge [Flett?] awarded them six prizes, and expressed regret that, even then, he had to pass over kittens that were well worth a place on the prize list. Among the specimens was one of a pair of charming white [??] but an excellently coloured black and white had to be content with a reserve card only. A very fine group of four blue kittens took the special prize for [blue litter?] These were shown by Mrs Baldry [??] whose kittens always do well. Among short-haired cats, the first prize was given to a red cat of quite exceptional colour, beating a well-known [Yorkshire] champion. The other three prizes went, however, to Yorkshire cats of sterling merit. The first prize for short-haired neuters also went to Yorkshire – a fine white cat. A well-known local black short-hair was not in its usual fine condition, and only took [??] prize this year. Among the short-hair kittens was an excellent litter of three silver tabbies, which won first, third, and very highly commended cars – a [??] achievement. Besides the regular prizes, twenty specials were awarded, and as the cat tent was always [packed?] this portion of the Society’s show can be [considered/] a great success. A word of praise is du to the excellent work of the lady stewards.

1909 BOURNEMOUTH CAT SHOW

FORTHCOMING CAT SHOW Bournemouth Daily Echo, 21st July 1909
The Southern Counties Cat Club, the headquarters of which are at Southampton, will hold one of their periodical exhibitions at Bournemouth on Friday next. This, we are led to believe, will be a very attractive exhibition, consisting of some of the finest living specimens of high class cat culture, the varieties including British and foreign cats, such as the much-admired long-haired Persians, as well as Siamese, Abyssinian, Russian, and Manx.

[BOURNEMOUTH CAT SHOW] Daily Telegraph & Courier (London), 23rd July 1909
This afternoon a cat and kitten show will be held in connection with the Southern Counties’ Cat Club.

CAT SHOW Bournemouth Daily Echo, 24th July 1909
At the Central Hall, Bournemouth, yesterday, the Southern Counties Cat Club held a cat and kitten show, which attracted a very large number of entries. The exhibitors included some of the best known fanciers in various parts of the country. The classes for blue kittens were exceptionally well filled, while some notable Chinchillas were shown. Two of these latter, which won prizes for Mrs Bell, Ringwood Faith and Ringwood Charity, were sired by the champion Rob Roy II, which last week changed hands in America or the record sum of 105 guineas. An exhibit much admired was a brown tabby shown by Miss Whitney, of Wicklow, his pen after the judging was plastered with “specials.” There were strong classes of Siamese, but popular interest centred largely in the braces and litters of “blues.” Among local prize winners, Mrs Corner, of Branksome Park, Mrs Sinkins, of Southampton, Miss Hastings Lees, of Bournemouth, and Mrs Maturin, of Southampton, were to the fore.

LONG-HAIRED CATS.
Female – 1, Mrs A. Corner, Branksome Park; 2, Miss Fleming, Christchurch, and Miss E. Browne, Bournemouth; 3, Mrs Ryder, Milford-on-Sea, and Miss Chamberlayne, Greenford; vhc, Mrs Finch, Westminster, and Miss Sturley, Bournemouth.
Any colour, male – 1, Mrs Morris, Kew Green; 2, Mrs Western, Bedfordshire; 3, Miss Lea, Sydenham; vhc, Miss Chamberlayne.
White, black, or cream, neuter – 1, Miss Lees, Bournemouth; 2, Miss Sturley; 3, Miss Miss Harper; vhc, Miss Browne.
Any other colour, neuter – 1, Mrs A. Corner; 2, Miss Lees; 3, Miss Chamberlayne; vhc, Miss Hutchison, Kew Gardens; hc, Mrs Clothier, Freemantle.

LONG-HAIRED KITTENS
Blue, under five month, males – 1, Miss M. Whyte, Bideford; 2, Miss F. Simpson, Kensington; 3, Miss M. Whyte; hc, Miss Whyte; c, Mrs Fielding.
Blue, under five months [females] – 1, Mrs Hanson; 2, Miss Lees; 3, Mrs Western; vhc, Mrs Forsyth-Forrest, Burton, and Mrs Western.
Blue litter, under three months – 1, Miss Sargent, Upper Norwood; 2, Miss Hutchison; 3, Miss Spring-Bransen.
Blue brace, three to nine months – 1, Miss Whyte; 2, Miss Bowtell, Earl’s Court; 3, Miss Western.
Blue breeders, male or female – 1, Mrs Hansen; 2, Miss F. Simpson; 3, Miss m. May.
Chinchilla, under five months, male of female – 1, Mrs Bell; 2, Mrs Gregory, Southampton; 3, Mrs Bell; vhv, Miss Bowtell; hc, Mrs Tyrwhitt Drake, Scawby; c, Mrs Gregory.
Silver tabby, under five months, male or female – 2 and 3, Mrs Bawtell; vhc, Mrs Clark, Bath.
Brown tabby, under five months, male or female – 1, Miss Whitney, Wicklow; 2 and 3, Miss L. hotson, Loughborough; vhc and hc, Mrs A. Corner.
Orange and cream, under five months, male or female – 1, Mrs Morris; 2, Miss Lees; 3, Mrs Norris; vhc, R. J.B. Bourne, Lee-on-Solent.
Any other colour, under five months, male or female – 1, Miss Banks, Thornton Heath; 2, Rev. J.B. Bourne; 3, Mrs Western; vhc, miss V. Solry, Parkstone; hc, Rev. J.B. Bourne.
Litter, any other colour except blue – 1, Mrs Sinkins, Southampton; 2, Miss Harter, Bournemouth; vhc, Mrs Ryder.
Siamese, over nine months, male or female – 1, Rev. J.B. Bourne; 2, Mrs Clark; 3, Mrs Tubertin [Aubertin?], Alresford; vhc Mrs Aubertin.
Siamese, under nine months, male or female – 1 and 2, Mrs Allen Maturin, Southampton; 3 and vhc, Mrs Aubertin.
Any colour and variety, five to nine months, male or female – 1, Mrs Maturin; vhc, Mrs Western.
Litter, any variety, under three months – 1, Mrs Aubertin; hc, Mrs Livesay, Parkstone.

WORKING PEOPLE’S CLASSES
Adult, long or short-haired, male or female – 1, Mrs Dean, Bournemouth; 2, Mrs Hill, Bournemouth; 3, Mrs Emmett, Epsom; vhc, Mrs Trowbridge, Winton; c, Mrs Hill.
Neuter, long or short-haired – 1, Mr Hammett, Bournemouth; 2, Mr gibbons and Miss W. Yeatman (bracketed); vhc, Mrs Tizzard, Bournemouth, Mrs Trowbridge, Winton.
Litter, long or short-haired – 1, Miss Hodges, Fleet; 2, Mrs Adams, Southampton; vhc, Mrs Trowbridge./P>

SPECIAL PRIZES - Over sixty special prizes were awarded.
Under the Southern Counties Cat Club the following were awarded:-
Longmore challenge bowl, presented by Mrs Hastings Lees, for best long haired kitten – Miss Whitney.
Longmore breeders’ challenge cup, presented by Mrs Hastings Lees, for best brown tabby kitten – Miss L. Hotson.
Similar cup, for cream kitten – Miss Lees.
Wilson and Co’s challenge cup for kittens – Miss Banks and Miss Hotson.
Gold medal, Miss Whitney; silver medals, Mrs Norris, Miss Hodges, Mr Hammett.
The Blue Persian Cat Society’s gold medal, presented by Mrs Mellor – Miss Lees; badges, Miss Whyte and Miss Lees.
Chinchilla and Silver Society badges – miss Fleming and Miss Bell.
Incorporated Cat Fancier’s Association certificates – Mrs Corner, Miss Banks, Miss Whitney, Mrs Wester, Mrs Maturin.
Orange and Tortoiseshell Society’s special prizes – Miss Lees, Mrs Norris, Mrs Western.
Brown Tabby Club’s prizes (challenge bowl, spoon, and medal) – Miss Whitney.
Short Haired Cat society’s medals – Mrs Western, Mrs Aubertin.
Siamese Cat Club’s medal – Mrs Maturin.
Wilsons, Limited, challenge cup – Miss Banks.
Black and White Club’s specials – Miss banks and Mrs Western.
Over twenty individual special prizes were also awarded.

The judges for the show were Mrs Hardy, Mr Gambier Bolton, and Mr T.B. Western. During the show a presentation was made on behalf of the Society to Miss Sangster, the hon. Treasurer of the Club, and Mr T.B. Western, the well-known cat judge, on the occasion of their marriage. The presentation, which was made by Mrs Sinkins, of Southampton (vice-president of the club) took the form of a solid silver fruit dish. The show was well-patronised by the public.

CAT AND KITTEN SHOW. Western Gazette, 30th July 1909
Under the auspices of the Southern Counties' Cat Club a show of cats and kittens was held Friday in the Central Hall, the Square. The number of entries in, the various classes was large, the competition in some cases being very keen. The judges were Mrs. Hardy, Mr. Gambier Bolton, and Mr. T. B. Mason. There, was a good attendance of the public. During the day a presentation was made by Mrs. Sinkins, of Southampton (a vice-president), on behalf of the Society, to Miss Sangster, the hon. treasurer of the Club, and Mr. T. B. Mason, one the judges, on the occasion of their marriage, the present, taking the form of a handsome solid silver fruit dish. [Results list as per the Bournemouth Daily Echo, 24th July 1909.]

1909 SANDY CAT SHOW

SANDY SHOW Northampton Mercury, 27th August 1909
In the cat classes Miss G. Savory, Newport Pagnell, was first for male blue longhair, female junior any variety, brace, litter, blue male kittens, any colour breeders, any colour pairs, and specials for second best longhair, best longhair kitten, and best kitten. Mrs. M. Gray, Bedford, was second for a litter and for a blue kitten; Mr. E. White, Kempston, Bedford, was first for blue Russians shorthairs and special for best shorthaired blue and blue Russian; Mr. J. Woodwards, Linslade, Leighton Buzzard, was third for shorthair tabby.

SANDY CAT SHOW. The Queen, 4th September, 1909
THE FORTY FIRST annual exhibition of the Sandy and District Floral and Horticultural Society was held in the park of Sandye Place on Thursday in last week which has been placed at the disposal of the committee for many years past. Though the show now includes many important livestock sections, yet the fixture is generally known as the Sandy Flower Show. It was in 1894 that cats were first catered for at Sandy, and there was only one class, namely "Any variety. any age, male or female." there being an entry of eight cats! From this time onwards. however, the section has been steadily improving in quantity and quality, and this year the classification consisted of sixty classes for cats and kittens, long and short haired, while the record entry amounted to 446. Mr F. Western, the energetic secretary of the livestock sections must have been very gratified, as he and Mrs Western are keen cat fanciers.

After several days of cold and showery weather, Thursday morning broke dark and threatening, and the promoters of the show must have felt anxious. Rain held off, however, and it was estimated that there was an attendance of about 11,000visitors, as compared with 10,000 last year. The cat tent proved a great attraction, and was crowded throughout the day. The judges were Miss Frances Simpson, Mr T. B. Mason, and Mr F. Norris. The blue classes were well filled. and, in fact, there were over a hundred entries in this variety alone, while competition was also keen in the blue kitten classes. Numerous special awards were offered, and all the specialist clubs supported this show. The society’s silver medal for the best cat in the show was won by the Hon. Mrs Clive Behrens’s beautiful Swinton Day Dream, a longhaired white Persian, which took the challenge prize at the Crystal Palace show for the best exhibit. The prize for the second beet cat went to Miss Savory's handsome winning blue male. This lady, indeed, had a field day with her blues, for her Bluecoat Boy carried off the special prize for the best kitten in the show. Mrs Bell Irving’s nice orange female being reserve.

Mrs Western’s exhibits in the various classes in which she entered did extremely well. Her noted orange long-haired male Blazer, though out of coat, won in his class and also in the ring class, where he certainly distinguished himself by walking round with much dignity, whereas many of the cats had to be pulled along by their lead, and refused to use their legs. The neuter class, though containing only six entries, had some nice cats entered, Mr E. Palmer penning a fine blue and a grand orange, both in good coat and condition, but Miss Harper’s Lu Lu, an enormous silver, took the first prize. Mrs Western did a lot of winning with her recent purchase of two brown tabbies, sons of Persimmon II. There was only one class provided for litters of kittens, and the blues had it all their own way, Mrs Gray’s exquisite pale blue kittens running the winner, owned by Miss Savory, very close. These fascinating youngsters attracted a great deal of attention and admiration from the never-ceasing throng of visitors. There were many beautiful pairs of blue kittens, and Miss Frances Simpson, who judged the blue classes had to ask for some extra prizes to be awarded. The short-haired section contained some nice exhibits. The Siamese were particularly noticeable, and Mrs Maturin penned some lovely kittens of this quaint variety. Miss Hill Shaw did well with her Manx cats and kittens, and Dr Prior won several prizes with his exhibits from the north. The local classes were poorly filled, and it would be advisable to limit the entries in these to non-prize winners.

1909 BRISTOL CAT SHOW

[BRISTOL SHOW] Western Daily Press, 27th October 1909
The cat show will be the largest ever held in connection with the Bristol Fanciers' Association, and there are twelve championship classes.

THE BRISTOL FANCIERS’ ASSOCIATION. Western Daily Press, 28th October 1909
BIG SHOW AT THE DRILL HALL. INCOROPRATION OF NATIONAL FIXTURES. The Bristol Fanciers’ Association may well be proud of the show now being held under its auspices at the Drill Hall, at the top of Park Street. It is the nineteenth annual exhibition for which it has been responsible, and the exhibits have increased to such an enormous extent – they now number about 4,000 – that the accommodation of the hall is severely taxed. There I a grand display of cage birds, pigeons, poultry, rabbits, cavies, cats, mice, and rats and this wide range of exhibits accounts for the popularity of the show [cats- about 200 entries] . . . Additional interest attaches to the show on account of the national clubs holding their shows in conjunction with the Bristol fixture, and this fact has to some considerable extent enlarged the number of entries in the classes concerned . . . there are the Incorporated Cat Fanciers’ Association.

Cat lovers should not miss visiting the show to-day, for such a collection of these popular pets has probably never been brought together before in in Bristol. This is due to the fact that the Cat Fanciers’ Association is holding a grand championship show in the lesser hall of the building. . . . officials of the show include . . . Mr F. cook, cats.
THE CAT SHOW. Judge: Miss White Atkins, Mr Western, and Mr H. V. James.

LONG HAIRED CATS.
White, male and female —2, Mrs Knapman ; 3, Miss Kerswill.
Black, long hair—1, Miss Cope; 3. Mrs F. Norris.
Blue, long hair, male— 1, . Mr J Walton; 2, Mrs T. W. Hardy; 3. Mrs Palmer.
Blue, long hair, female—1, Mrs S. W. Hardy; 2, Miss Agnes Beatson; 3, Mrs F. Norris.
Blue, long hair, novice, male and female — 1, Miss Agnes Beatson; 2, Mrs F. Norris: 3, Mrs C. L. Kennaway.
Blue, long hair, breeders, male and female- 2, Mrs F. Norris; 3, Mr E. Manuel.
Smoke, long hair, male—2, Mr T. W. Horton.
Smoke, long hair, female – 1, Mrs F. W. Horton; 2, Mrs H. V. James; 3, Mrs H. V. James.
Silver tabby, long hair, male and female —1 and 3, Miss Cope; 2, Mrs Davies.
Chinchilla, long hair. male- 1. Mrs L. S. Sedgwick; 2. Miss Chamberlayne.
Chinchilla long hair, female— 1, Mrs L. S. Sedgwick: 2, Mrs Denyer; 3 Mrs Palmer.
C. and S.S.S. [Chinchilla & Silver Specialist Society], novice, male and female— 1, Mrs L. S. Sedgwick; 2, Mr Fred W. Horton; 3, Mrs Davies.
C. and S.S.S. breeders, male and female — 1, Mrs L. S. Sedgwick; 2, Miss Cope; 3 Miss Sedgwick.
C. and S.S.S. brace, male and female – 1, Mrs Sedgwick; 2, Miss Cope; 3, Mr Horton.
Brown tabby, long hair, male and female – 2, Mrs C. Gibson Fleming; 3, Miss Chamberlayne.
Orange, long hair, male and female – 1 and 2, Mr F. Norris; 3, Mrs Horace Cook.
Cream, long hair, male and female – 1, Mrs C.L. Kennaway; 2, Mrs F. Norris.
Tortoiseshell, long hair, male or female – 1, Mrs A.H. Hersey; 2, Mr T.B. Mason; 3, Mrs louis Maxwell.
Any other colour – 2, Mrs M.E. Spofforth; 3, Miss C. Brown.
Any other colour, long hair, novice, male and female – 2, Mrs Gibson Fleming.
Any other colour, breeders, male and female – 1, Miss Cope; 2, Mrs Gibson Fleming; 3, Mr F. Norris.
Any other colour, brace, male and female – 1, Mrs F. Norris; 3, Miss Cope.
Limit, any colour, male and female – 1, Mrs Davies; 2, Mrs F. Norris; extra 2, Miss Banks.
Junior, any colour, male and female – 1, Mrs F. Norris; 2, Mrs Davies; 3, Mrs Sedgwick.
Stud cat, any colour, male – 1 and 4, Mrs F. Norris; 2, Mrs Kennaway; 3, Mr J. Walton.
Team, any colour, male and female – 1, Mrs F. Norris.
Neuter, any other colour, neuter – 1, miss G. Henderson; 2, Mrs A.K. Corner; 3, Miss Greenwood.
Selling class, £5, male and female – 1, Miss Agnes Beatson; 2, Mrs Spofforth; 3, Mr Fred W. Horton.

KITTENS, LONG HAIR
White kitten, male and female— 1 and 2, Miss N. G. Kerswell; 3,. Miss M. N. Jackson.
Blue, kitten, male — 1, Mr C. J. Baverstock: 2. Miss Agnes Beatson; 3, Mrs Palmer.
Blue, kitten, female— 1, Mrs H. V. Brewer; 2, Mrs M. E. Spofforth; 3. Mrs Palmer.
Blue, 4 to 7 months, male— 2, Mrs T. W. Hardy.
Blue, 4 to 7 months, female —1, Mrs H. V. Brewer; 2, Mrs M. E. Spofforth: 3. Miss M. Grindley.
Blue, novice, male and female— 1, Mrs H. V. Brewer; 2, Mrs Palme;: 3, Miss M. Grindley.
Blue, breeders, male and female— 1, C. J. Baverstock; 2. Mrs H. V. Brewer; 3, Mrs Palmer.
Smoke, kitten, male and female— 1, Mrs Sinkins; 2, Mrs Singleton; 3. Mrs H. V. James.
Silver tabby— 3, Mrs E. A. Clark.
Chinchilla, kitten, male and female — 1, Mrs L. S. Sedgwick; 2, Mrs Sinkins; 3. Mrs P. Tyrwhitt Drake.
Brown tabby— 1,, Mr W. H. Powell; 2 and 3. Mrs A. K. Corner.
Any other colour, novice, male and female— 1, Mrs Singleton; 2, W. H. Powell; 3, Mrs Sedgwick.
Any other colour, breeders, male and female— 1, Mrs Sinkins; 2, Mrs Singleton; 3, Mrs Sedgwick.
Any colour, pairs, male and female— 1, Mrs M.E. Spofforth; 2, Mrs Palmer; 3. Miss Kerswill.

SHORT HAIR CATS
Black and white, male and female— 1. Mrs J. Joy.
Siamese, male and female—l. Mrs Scott Russell; 2. Mrs Victor Bosanquet; 3, Rev. J. B. Brown.
Abyssinian, male and female— 1 and 3, Mrs E A. Clark.
Any colour, novice, male and female – 1, Mrs Scott Russell; 3. Rev. J. B. Brown.
Any colour, breeders, male and female – 1, Mrs J. Joy.
Any colour, neuter— 3, Miss Chamberlayne.

SHORT HAIR KITTENS.
Tabby, any colour, male and female— 3, Miss Chamberlayne.
Any other colour, male and female—1, Miss Chamberlayne; 2 and 3, Miss E. Livesay.
Siamese, male and female – 1, Mrs Allen Maturin; 2 and 3, Mrs Aubertin.

LOCAL CLASSES.
Long hair, female— 3, Mr E. J. Screen.
Neuter, long hair— 1, Miss G. Henderson; 2, Miss Greenwood; 3, Mrs Harris.
Novice, any variety, male and female— 1, Miss G. Henderson; 2, Mrs Harris; 3, Madam Mavor.

KITTENS.
Long hair, kitten, male and female— 2, Mr Symes: 3, Mrs Eddolls.
Selling, any variety. 30s — 1. Mr E. J. Screen; 2, Mr Symes; 3, Mr E. J. Screen.

A CHAMPION TIDDLES Herts & Cambs Reporter & Royston Crow, 5th November 1909
At a recent Cat Show at Bristol, Mrs Joy, late of the Sun inn, Royston, exhibited a black English short-haired cat which was awarded a first prize and championship certificates. This cat having won two certificates at other championship shows is entitled to the name of “Champion Tiddles.”

1909 TRING CAT SHOW

TRING FANCIERS’ ASSOCIATION. FOURTH ANNUAL SHOW. Watford Observer, 6th November 1909
The fourth annual show of poultry, pigeons, rabbits, cats, and cavies organised by the Tring Fanciers Association was held in conjunction with the annual show of the National Lop Rabbit Club at the Victoria Hall on Wednesday. Hitherto the show has been held in conjunction with the Tring Agricultural Show at Tring Park, but this year it was decided to hold it later in the year, chiefly because August is not one of the best months for a show connected with the “fancy,” so many of the birds being out of show condition. Unfortunately for the promoters, the weather on Wednesday was very bad, and the attendance of visitors was naturally considered affected. As to the show itself, it was undoubtedly one of the finest held in Tring . . . The cats were a fine feature, in fact the judge described the show as without question the best cat show held this year. Entries were very numerous, as many as 24 cats competing in one class, and competition was so keen that it was late in the afternoon before the judge completed his duties. The cup for the best cat in the show was carried off by the Hon. Mrs Clive Behren’s “Swinton day Dream,” and in the local classes the winner of the spoon for the best cat was Miss f. Fincher. Some of the cats, it is interesting to note, were priced in the catalogue at no less than £1,000.

CATS – OPEN CLASSES
LONG HAIR
Class 166 – Blue, male – 1, Miss Gladys R. Savory; 2, Mrs George Bergeman; 3, Miss Georgina Hine; vhc, Mrs Chilcott; hc, Fincher and Cook.
Class 167 – Blue, female – 1, Mrs Roper; 2 and r, Mrs Richard Forsyth Forrest; 3, Dr Woodcock; vhc, Miss Gladys R. Savory; hc and c, miss Georgina Hine.
Class 168 – Orange Tabby, self orange, or cream, male or female – 1 and hc, Mrs F. Norris; Mrs F.W. Western; 3 and vhc, the Hon Mrs C. Behrens; c, Mrs Neate.
Class 169 – Tabby, brown or silver, male of female – 1, mrs F.W. Western; 2, Miss Chamberlayne; hc, W. Royce.
Class 170 – Any other colour, male or female – 1 and r, the Hon Mrs C. Behrens; 2 and 3, Mrs Denyer; vhc, Mrs F.W. Western; hc, Mrs F. Norris; c, Mrs Judge.
Class 171 – Limit, any variety for exhibits which have not won three first prizes at championship shows – 1 and 2, Edward Denyer; equal 2, Miss Gladys R. Savory; equal 3, Mrs Richard Forsyth Forrest and Dr Woodcock; r, Mrs F.W. Western; vhc, the Hon Mrs C. Behrens, Miss Chamberlayne, Miss Georgina Hine.

SHORT HAIRS
Class 172 – Self colour, male or female – 1 and 2, Mrs F.W. Western; 3 and vhc, the Hon Mrs C. Behrens; hc, J. Haslam.
Class 173 – Any Other Colour, male or female – 1, J Woodwards; 3, Rhodes bros.; hc, John Hickson.
Class 174 – Siamese, male or female – 1, Mrs Richard Forsyth Forrest; 2, the Hon Mrs C. Behrens; 3, Mrs W. Adams; vhc, Mrs Locock.
Class 175 – Any other Colour, male or female – vhc, Mrs Pitkin.
Class 176 – Limit, any variety for exhibits which have not won three first prizes at championship shows, male or female – 1 and 3, Mrs F.W. Western; 2, Mrs Richard Forsyth Forrest; vhc, Rhodes Bros.

KITTENS, 3 – 8 MONTHS.
LONG HAIRS
Class 177 – Blue, male or female – 1, Mrs W.L. Wynn; 2, Miss Gladys R. Savory; extra 2 and vhc, Mrs Richard Forsyth Forrest; 3, Dr Woodcock; extra 3, Clement Godson; r, Miss Georgina Hine; vhc, Mrs Chilcott, Mrs J. Hill, Mrs Avery, Fincher and Cook.
Class 178 – Orange Tabby, self orange, or cream, male or female – 1 and 3, Mrs F.W. Western; 2, Miss Wilde.
Class 179 – Tabby, brown or silver, male or female – 1, Mrs F.W. Western; 2, Miss Chamberlayne; 3, Miss Wilde; vhc, Mrs Davies, Mrs J.T. Newman; hc and c, Miss J. Bowtell.
Class 180 – Any Other Colour, male or female – 1 and 2, Edward Denyer; 3, Mrs Judge; r, the Hon Mrs C. Behrens; c, P.J. Lawrence.
Class 181 – Any Variety (members), male or female – 1, Mrs F.W. Western; 2 and vhc, Miss Georgina Hine; 3, hc and c, Fincher and Cook.
SHORT HAIRS
Class 182 – Tabby, male or female – 1, Rhodes Bros; 2, Mrs Chamberlayne; 3, Miss K. Oliver; c, C.T.B. Chetwynd.
Class 183 – Any Other Colour, male or female – 1, Mrs Richard Forsyth Forrest; 2, Mrs W. Adams; 3, John Wardell; vhc, Mrs Locock; c, F. Bly.

LOCAL LIMIT CLASSES (£2 2s)
Class 184 – Long hair, any variety – 1, Fincher and Cook; 2, F.G. Gerrish; 3, Miss Baker; vhc and hc, George G. Jeffrey; c, Miss J. Cosier.
Class 185 – Short Hair, any variety – 1, 2, and special, Miss F. Fincher; 3, Mrs H.E. Cosier; hc, Robert Hedges; c, W.L. Archer.

SPECIAL PRIZES – CATS – OPEN CLASSES
Silver Cup for the best Cat in the Show (given by the “Wilson” Veterinary Manufacturing Company) – The Hon Mrs C. Behrens.
Cup for the best exhibit shown by a member of the Richmond Cat Club, per Mr E.T. Cox – the Hon Mrs C. Behrens.
Special for the best White Hair (given by the Hon Mrs C. Behrens) – Mrs F. Norris.
Special for the best Self Colour Short Hair (given by the Hon Mrs C. Behrens) – Mrs F.W. Western.
Special for the best Kitten, short hair, bred by the exhibitor (given by the Hon Mrs C. Behrens) – Miss F. Fincher.
10s. special for the best Long-haired Kitten registered with the N.C.C. (given by Mrs Slingsby) – Mrs F.W. Western.
Special for the best Blue Cat in the Show (given by Mrs Norris) – Miss Georgina Hine.
Special for the best Blue Kitten in the Show (given by Mrs Norris) – Mrs W.L. Wynn.
Special for the best Brown Tabby Cat or Kitten in the Show (given by Miss R. Whitney) – Mrs F.W. Western.
Medal for the best Cat shown in Class 174, shown by a member of the Siamese Cat Club – Mrs Richard Forsyth Forrest.
Special for the best Orange, Cream, Tortoiseshell, or Tortoiseshell and white Cat or Kitten exhibited by a member of the Orange and Tortoiseshell Society – Mrs F. Norris.

CATS – LOCAL CLASSES
Silver Spoon for the best exhibit bred and reared by a member of the Association in 1909 – Miss F. Fincher.

TRING CAT SHOW The Queen, 13th November 1909
On Wednesday (Nov. 3) the Tring Fanciers’ Association held their fourth annual show of poultry, pigeons, rabbits, cats, cavies, and cage birds, in the Victoria Hall, situated in the centre of the town. The association is fortunate in having the Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein as patroness and Lord Rothschild as president. The cat section received excellent support from well-known and also novice exhibitors, and the attendance during the day proved that great interest was taken in this division. There were more than a hundred entries, which is an increase over last year, and the quality was wonderfully good, specially as regards the blue and chinchilla Persian cats and kittens. The much-coveted prize for the best cat in the show was won by the Hon. Mrs Clive Behrens with her well-known white Persian Swinton Day Dream, who has been successful at many large shows, and is always in the pink of coat and condition. Mrs Todd of Basingstoke, a comparatively novice exhibitor, penned one of the most perfect chinchilla kittens seen for some time. Silver Empress is wonderfully pale and pure in colour and almost entirely free from markings on head, legs, and tail. In the classes for blue males the competition was keen, especially between the two first prize winners. Mr T. B. Mason, who judged the long-haired section, decided in favour of Miss Savory’s Billy, and Mrs Bergman’s Macallum Mhor has to be content with second place. The blue female class was well filled, and several first-rate specimens were penned. The winner, Mrs Roker’s fine queen, possessed a grand head and massive limbs, but failed in eye colour. Several cats in this class were worthy of prizes. In the orange and cream classes Mrs Clive Behren’s took the third prize with Swinton Daffodil, who was rather short of coat, and Mrs Norris carried off the first with her will-known winning orange ale Kew Red Comyn.

Brown tabbies were rather disappointing, and silver tabbies were not up to the mark. In the any other colour class, Mrs Clive Behrens’s Swinton Day Dream carried all before her, and in the blue kitten class there were twenty-five entries. Here again Miss Savory won with a lovely male, and Mrs Wynn’s exquisite queen was also bred by Miss Savory. Dr Clement Godson’s Jules made a good show, and but for the Savory exhibits would have won easily, while Dr Woodcock took the extra third offered by the Blue Persian Cat Society with a promising kitten, Winchmore Blue Belle. A gem was to be found in the orange and cream kitten class exhibited by Mrs Western. This kitten has a wonderful snubby face with glorious orange eyes, and the colour and shape are all that could be desired in a youngster. Robin Redbreast, marked “not for sale,” should do a lot of winning. Mrs Western penned a fine-grown cream male in this class, which won the second prize, and Miss Wilde exhibited a grand orange, which would probably have been higher that third but for a white tip to his tail. Mrs Western’s winning brown tabby was first in a mixed class of silvers and brown; Miss Chamberlayne’s Astorina, another dainty little brownie, came second, and Miss Wilde’s silver tabby male was a good third. This cat only needs neck markings to make it very fine specimen of a breed in which it is difficult to reach anywhere near perfection.

There were only five classes for short-haired cats and kittens, and these were poorly filled. Mrs Ransome judged, and the winners stood out very conspicuously. In the self-colour class Mrs Western was put first with a fine type of a short-hair blue purchased at the summer show at Sandy, the same exhibitor standing second with a nice black having glorious orange eyes. Mr Woodward and Messrs Rhodes Bros. divided the honours in the silver and red tabbies classes.

There were four Siamese, and the winner, owned by Mrs Forsyth-Forrest, was a typical queen with excellent points, while Mrs Clive Behrens came second with Princess of Siam, a cat with gorgeous blue eyes. The local long-haired class contained some good specimens, and all appeared in excellent form, Mr Fincher winning the first prize with a fine blue female. Lady Rothschild paid an early visit to the show, and was particularly interested in the cat section, where her daughter, Mrs Clive Behrens, was one of the most successful exhibitors.

1909 HASSOCKS CAT SHOW

FINE SHOW OF POULTRY, PIGEONS AND CATS. HASSOCKS AND DISTRICT POULTRY CLUB Mid Sussex Times, 9th November 1909
230 MORE ENTRIES AT HASSOCKS. “WONDERFUL CLASSES OF CATS.” Lady Decies opened the second annual show of the Hassocks and District Poultry Club at Hassocks on Wednesday. “I have great pleasure in declaring the show open,” said her Ladyship, who had judged the cats, “and I congratulate everyone on the most wonderful classes of cats. There was marvellous entry, and I hope soon to see this exhibition rank as one of the best, chief and foremost in the country. The blues were very difficult to judge, and I felt that I should like to give first prizes to most of them. It has given me great pleasure to come down and judge the cats.” (Applause). . . . Miss F. E. Frowd kindly [organised] the cat section.

Although the crowds of visitors were not so dense as at the first exhibition in the same place - the Hassocks Assembly Room and grounds - last year, when the show was quite a novelty to the district, still there were hundreds of people present, and they were full of praise for what they saw. The cat classes were quite a feature, and the ladies flocked to this department and showed their pleasurable interest in the fine specimens penned and in the playful tricks of the kittens. Lady Decies found the judging no easy task, so spirited was the competition. Numerous specials were awarded. The gold medal for the best black or white kitten in the show, competed for by a member of the Southern Counties’ Cat Club, was carried off by Mr. E. W. Bisset, of Hurstpierpoint. The prize of a photographic enlargement given by Mr. H. de Witt, of Keymer, for the best long-hair shewn by a member of the Hassocks Club was won by Mrs. G. Wilson, of Purley. Mr. de Witt had on view some fine photos of many of the famous cats in the show. Miss F. E. Frowd’s special for the descendant of the well-known local cat “Keymer Sir Patrick” (owned by Miss F. E. Frowd, of Hassocks) went to the Chinchilla winning kitten “Silver Belle,” belonging to Mrs. Judge, whilst Miss F. E. Frowd won Mrs. George Wilson’s silver special for the best Chinchilla owned by a member, and also a second with her noted “Cuddles,” a Chinchilla female. The far-famed blue male “Sir Archie II of Arrandale” brought a first prize and many specials to Mrs. G. Wilson, who has just refused a large sum offered for the fine creature by a would-be purchaser in America. Miss Harper, of Haywards Heath, brought off first and special with her pretty blue-eyed White Queen, “Mollie II.” Mrs. G. Wilson’s “Sir Archie II” was fancied as the best cat in the show and as the probable winner of the Mowatt challenge fur cup.

CAT CLASSES. Prizes—First, 10s; 2nd, 5s; 3rd, 2s 6d.
Long-Haired (not Blue) Male—First, Mrs Chamberlayne; 2nd and 3rd, Mrs Geo Wilson; reserve, Mrs R. A. Elbourn; very highly commended, Mrs W. E. Geal and Mrs Geo Wilson.
Long-Haired (other than Blue) Female —1st, Miss E. Harper; 2nd, Miss F. E. Frowd; 3rd and hc, Mrs Geo Wilson; reserve. Miss M. Gow; vhc, Godfrey Shaw and Miss E. Wells; c, Miss R. Holland and W. E. Gates
Long-Haired Blue, Male — 1st, Geo Wilson; 2nd, Godfrey Shaw; 3rd, Mrs Hugh Marshall; reserve, C. O. Marshall; vhc, L. Chown ; hc. Miss N. Tolputt
Long-Haired Blue, Female —1st Mrs Fisher White; 2nd, Mrs Geo Wilson; reserve, Mrs E. Watson; vhc, A. M. Tabb and Miss Holly Gruby; hc, Mrs E. Watson and Godfrey Shaw ; c, Mrs G. Thackery
Long-Haired Blue Kitten, Male or Female — 1st, Mrs Fisher White; 2nd, Mrs Geo Wilson; 3rd, A. M. Tabb; reserve, Mrs R. A. Elbourn; vhc, Miss C. Knight, L. Chown, A. M. Tabb, and Mrs Geo Wilson; hc, Mrs Fisher White and Mrs D. Bird; c, Godfrey Shaw and Mrs Hugh Marshall
Long-Haired Kitten (Not Blue) Male or Female- 1st, E. W. Bisset; 2nd, Mrs Geo Wilson; 3rd, Mrs Judge and H. Walkings: reserve, Miss Barton; vhc, Mrs E. Hopkins and H. Orrin
Short-Haired (other than Blue) Male or Female- 1st and 3rd, E. Oliver; 2nd, Miss Chamberlayne; reserve, G. Oliver; vhc, Mrs C. M. Bonny; c, Master G. Kaye and Mrs Barclay; c, J. E. Taylor
Siamese, Male or Female— 1st,Miss H. H. H. Shaw; 2nd, Mrs C. L. Kennaway ; 3rd, Miss Peggy Crowden ; reserve, Miss May Domvile
Neuters — 1st, E. Oliver; 2nd, Miss L. E. Tongue; 3rd, Mrs E. Trotter; extra 3rd, C. Clarke; reserve, Mrs F. Shaw; vhc, Miss B. Allfrey
Cottager’s Class, Male or Female— 1st, Mrs F. E. Child; 2nd, Mrs Oram; 3rd, Elswater; vhc, K. M. Juniper, N. Mooring, Mrs Baker, P. Newnham and Mrs Penny; hc, S. Hollingdale
SPECIAL PRIZES.
Southern Counties’ Cat Club. One gold medal for best black or white kitten in show, to be competed for by member of S.C.C.C. – E.W. Bisset
Southern C.C. Club. Also one silver medal for working people Open to all—E. Oliver
The Siamese Club. Medal for members only. First prize winners and not less than four entries competing—Miss H. Shaw
The Short-Hair Cat Society of Great Britain. Bronze Medal for the best cat or kitten, any breed or colour. Short-hair. Owned by a member— E. Oliver
The O.S.S S badge for best Chinchilla,. Shaded silver, silver tabby, or smoke cat —Miss Chamberlayne.
Miss H. Hill Shaw. Special for best blue-eyed white Persian, female—Miss E. Harper.
Colonel Trotter. 10s for the best fed and groomed cottager’s cat in show—P. Newnham
Mr De Witt. Photographic enlargement—10s 6d, for best long-hair. Member of Hassocks Club —Mrs George Wilson
Madame L. Barrere. Small special for brown tabby cat or kitten—Miss Barton
Mrs Harper—Special for best cat or kitten shown by local exhibitor, but not in cottager’s class—Mrs Judge
Mrs J Asser. For best blue male, from Nigger Asser. Black Pug—Mrs George Wilson
Mrs E Marshall for Smokes—Mrs W. E. Geal
Also one for either be-t or second best Blue, female Prize —free mating to blue stud cat, Dorando - Mrs Fisher White
Miss Ryder. Cream or orange, male or female - Mrs R. A. Elbourne
Mr Avery. Cake—Mrs Judge
Mrs Howe-Wheatley. Small special for best Ohinchilla kitten, long-hair—Mrs Judge
Miss F. E. Frowd. Special for best Chinchilla cat or kitten Sire or graunsire, “Keymer Sir Patrick” —Mrs Judge
Mrs Thackeray, Hove. Special for best copper-eyed in blues, male or female —Mrs G. Wilson
Mrs Pauley Clarke, Hove Special for best-headed Chinchilla—Miss Chamberlayne
Mrs Elbourne, Bramber. 2s 6d. Also free mating for best cream—Mrs E. Hopkins
B.P. Cat Society. A badge for best blue longhaired cat, owned by a member of the B.P.C.S. —Mrs G. Wilson
Also badge for best blue long-haired kitten, owned a member of above Society—Mrs G. Wilson
Miss Bester. 2s 6d for reserve Silver Queen - Miss Gow
Mrs Campbell-Fraser. 5s 6d for “reserve” blue female, adult—Mrs Elbourne
Miss Edith Marshall. Special for best blue female, kitten —Mrs Fisher White
Mrs Watson—5s special for best neuter—E. Oliver
Mrs Geo Wilson, silver special for best Chinchilla owned by a member —Miss F. E. Frowd
Mrs Douglas Karr. Reserve blue kitten—Mrs Elbourne
Mrs A. £. Booth, a painting, best Siamese—Miss Hill Shaw

1909 NORTHERN COUNTIES CAT CLUB SHOW

NORTHERN COUNTIES CAT CLUB SHOW Bradford Daily Telegraph, 24th September 1909
All the glorified specimens of the kitchen mouser are shortly to visit Bradford. It has now been arranged to hold the annual show of the Northern Counties Cat Club in the city, and considering the fashionable craze the feline fancy is to-day and the great dames who follow it, one must regard the fact as an honour to the city, especially when it is added that the N.C.C. (the National Cat Club) is concerned in the event. We understand that Lady Decies, who is one of the leading cat fanciers in the country and who has possessed pussies running into three figures each in value, will open the show, which is to be held on November 25th at the Central Baths. Sir William Priestley, M.P., has kindly consented to preside over the opening.

GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP CAT SHOW, BRADFORD Bradford Daily Telegraph, 24th November 1909
A Grand Championship Cat Show, to be held in the Central Baths, Bradford, no 25th, 1909. To be opened by the Lady Decies, at 11.30 a.m.. Chairman, Sir W.E.B. Priestly, M.P. Admission – All Day, 2s 6d; from 1.30 to close, 1s.; from 5 p.m. till close, 6d.

CAT CHAMPIONS. GREAT SHOW IN BRADFORD. LADY ARISTOCRATS’ FANCY. OPENING BY LADY DECIES. Bradford Daily Telegraph, 25th November 1909
A dog may be a Newfoundland, or a “pom.,” a spaniel or a terrier, but to the ordinary person a cat is always just a cat. Now this is really a great insult to the whole of the feline race, for pussy knows as many varieties as her canine rivals, and those who take an interest in her welfare and breeding form a “fancy” which is rapidly growing in importance and size. Just as there is a National Kennel Club, so is there is a National Cat Club, and it was under the rules and protection of the latter organisation that the Northern Counties Cat Club held their great show at the Central Baths, Bradford, today. To a visitor uninterested in the subtleties of catty lore a trip round the pens was a revelation. The common or back garden prowlers, the kitchen mousers. and the miserable miawlers of the midnight tiles have been glorified into animals that might truly look at king and be unashamed.

ALL KINDS OF CATS. The number of varieties that have been developed leaves one bewildered and intensely interested. From the quaint little Siamese darlings, with funny eyes, to the great Australian animals, with long curly hair, is a far cry, and it is indeed somewhat difficult to believe that they are all cats. Tabby-the hearthrug Tabby of our childhood-has been extended into silver Tabby, brown Tabby, red Tabby, orange Tabby, or any-other-colour Tabby. Varieties of the fluffy Persian are almost as numerous. The entries, which number well over 350 (and might have been more had it not been for the unfortunate friction between the National Cat Club and the Cat Fanciers' Association), include some very celebrated animals.

ARISTOCRATIC FANCIERS. Lady Decies, of Sefton Park, Slough, who opened the show this morning, is one of the most famous fanciers in the country, and also well known in the dog world. It was she who owned the famous chinchilla Persian, “Zaida,” which won a thousand prizes in its day. The cats, which glory in the distinctive name of “Fulmer” are known wherever the fancy extends, and her exhibits were among the features of the show.

Where is the cat fancier in the North England, at any rate, who does not know of the successes of Mrs. Slingsby, of Thorpe Underwood Hall, near York? She had no fewer than 66 entries to-day. All her exhibits were worthy of notice, but chief interest seemed to centre round her “Bluecap of Thorpe,” a long-haired blue, which has almost attained the acme of perfection so far as grace of contour and general beauty are concerned. Blues, in fact, seem to the most popular variety just now, and fetch big prices.

The Hon. Mrs. Clive Behrens, the president of the club, had some splendid animals, upon which she received many congratulations. Much admiration was also expressed for “Sir Archie II. of Arrandale,” a beautiful long haired blue male, shown by Mrs. George Wilson-, who recently sold ”Rob Roy II. of Arrandale to America for £105.

THE SHOW OPENED. Sir W. D. Priestley. M.P.. who had promised to preside at the opening of the show, was detained in London, and Lady Priestley was present as his deputy. In declaring the show open Lady Decies said it was the first time they had had a cat show in Bradford, and she hoped it would not be the last. She trusted that by this means they would collect a good many cat fanciers in the Northern Counties. People said: ‘Oh, a cat: what is a cat?” She supposed they were thinking of the poor strays they saw running about in the streets. But those that they saw there today were pampered pets, and they wanted everybody to like them and to have a cat. A vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Prior, Heckmondwike who mentioned that just now there was a crisis in the cat world. But the Northern Counties’ Club, he said, had no axe to grind, and were only wishful to forward the interests of the fancy. Mr. T. B. Mason seconded the vote, which was carried.T

THE AWARDS.
Black, male or female – 1, Mrs. Noble Wilson; 2, Miss Greta Wright.
Long-haired, blue male – 1, Miss Gladys Savory; 2, Miss Ayre; 3, Mrs Grundy.
Long-haired, white, male – 1, Lady Decies; 2 and 3, Hon Mrs C. Behrens.
Long-haired, white, female – 1, Hon Mrs Behrens; 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Mrs J Kitching.
Orange tabby, [long-hair] male – 1, Mrs Hardman; 2, Hon Mrs Behrens; 3, Mrs Slingsby.
Orange tabby, long-hair, female – 1, Lady Decies; 2 and 3, Mrs Slingsby.
Blue, female, long-hair – 1, Miss Gladys Savory; 2, Miss Brereton; 3, Miss G. Wright.
Chinchilla, male or female – 1, Misses Elliot; 2, Mrs George Wilson; 3, Mrs Dunderdale.
Brown tabby, long hair, male – 1, Mrs R. Whitney; 2, Mrs Meddings; 3, Mrs J. Kitching.
Brown tabby, long hair, female – 1 and 2, Miss R. Whitney; 3, Mrs Meddings.
Chinchilla, male or female, 3 to 8 months – 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3 Mrs Violet R. Head.
Smoke kitten, male or female, 3 to 8 months – 1, Miss Burton; 2, Mrs W. Singleton; 3,Dr Prior.
Cream Persian, male or female – 1, Mr F. Helmer; 2, Hon Mrs Behrens; 3,Mrs Slingsby.
Tortoiseshell, male or female – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Miss Winifred Beal; 3, Hon Mrs Behrens.
Tortoiseshell and white, long hair – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs Alice Heslop.
Neuter, black, white, blue, or cream – 1, Miss Greta Wright; 2, Mrs Slingsby.
Tortoiseshell and white, short hair – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2 and 3, Mrs Tom Fletcher.
Abyssinian silver, male or female – 1, Mrs A.E. Clark; 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Lady Decies.
Black, white, or blue, 3 to 8 months – 1 and 3, Mr J. Reid; 2, Miss A Durham.
Any other foreign variety, 3 to 9 months – 1, Mrs Forsythe Forrest; 2, Mr H. Catlow.
Brace, any colour, long hair – 1, Miss Gladys Savory; 2 and 3, Mrs Slingsby.
Team, long hair – 1, Mrs Slingsby.
Neuter, any other colour – 1, Misses Elliot; 2, Mrs Tom Fletcher.
Limit, exhibits not to have won more than three first prizes – 1, Lady Decies; 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Miss Gladys Savory.
Black, white, or cream novice, male or female – 1, Lady Decies; 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Miss G. and D. Cheetham.
Novice, blue, male or female – 1, Mrs M. Pease Bennett; 2, Mrs Brereton; 3, mrs Slingsby.
Novice, A.O.C., male or female – 1, Mrs Singsby; 2,Mrs Wm. Singleton.
Novice, Chinchilla, silver tabby, or shaded silver, male or female – 1, Mrs George Wilson; 2, Mrs Dunderdale; 3, Misses Elliot.
Orange or brown tabby, novice – 1, Miss R. Whitney; 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Lady Decies.
Orange kittens, 3 to 8 months – 1 and 3, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs M. Hall.
Cream long hair kitten, 3 to 8 months – 1 and 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Mrs Forsythe Forrest.
Kitten, any other variety – 1, Mrs Edward Hodges.
Breeders’ class, blue, male or female – 1 and 2, Miss Gladys Savory.
Long hair breeders’ class, any colour tabby, male or female – 1, Miss R. Whitney; 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Mrs Hardman.
Orange or silver tabby, pairs, 3 to 8 months – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs R. Cowan.
Pairs, any other variety – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Miss M.D.H. Spittal.
Blue, male or female – 1 and 2, Lady Decies.
Silver tabby, male or female – 1 and 3, Mrs T. Fletcher; 2, Lady Decies
Breeders, any other variety, long hair – 1 and 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Misses Elliot.
Brown tabby, short hair, male or female – 1, Lady Decies; 3, Miss A.M. Burton.
Silver, brown, or red tabby, 3 to 8 months – 1, Miss R.S. Kershaw; 2, Dr Prior; 3, Mrs H. Greenwood.
Stud class – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs Geo Wilson; 3, Miss Gladys Savory.
White or black, 3 to 8 months – 1, Miss E. Soans; 2, Mr j. Reid; 3, Mrs Goodrick.
Long haired kittens, blue male, 6 to 9 months – 1, Miss Grundy; 2, Mrs Brereton; 3, Mrs M. Pease Bennett.
Long haired blue kitten, 6 to 9 months, female – 1, Mrs W.L. Wynn; 2, Mr L. Atkinson;; 3, Mrs R. Forsythe Forrest.
Blur male kittens, 3 to 6 months – 1, Mrs E.B. Hughes; 3, Misses Elliot.
Blue female kittens, 3 to 6 months – 1 and 3, Miss Grundy; 3, Mrs F.E. Fletcher.
Silver tabby, male or female, 3 to 8 months – 1, Mrs Slingsby; 2, Mrs E. Harris; 3, Mrs F.G. Moore.
Siamese, male or female, over 9 months and under 2 years – 1, Mr W.H. Steevens.
Self Manx, male – 1, Miss Samuel; 2, Mrs T. Fletcher
Self Manx, female – 1 and 2, Miss Samuel; 3, Mr T. Furze.
Tabby Manx, male or female – 1 and 2, Mrs T. Fletcher.
Short haired neuter, any colour – 1, Miss Chamberlayne; 2, Miss A.M. Burton.
Short haired, limit, not to have won more than three first prizes – 1 and 2, Lady Decies; 3, Mr J. Reid.
Novice, any colour, short hair – 1, Mr J. Reid; 2, Miss A M Burton; 3, Mrs A E Clark.
Short haired brace – 1, Lady Decies; 2, Dr Prior; 3, Mr J Reid.
Short haired team – 1, Dr Prior; 2, Hon Mrs Behrens; 3, Miss E Samuel.
Any other colour, English, including Manx, 3 to 8 months – 2, Dr Prior; 3, Miss A Heslop.
Pairs, any variety, 3 to 8 months – 1, Dr Prior; 2, Mrs A Durham; 3, Miss A Heslop.
Kittens, blue pairs, 3 to 9 months – 1, Miss Grundy; 2, Mrs Slingsby; 3, Mrs Forsythe Forrest.
Brown tabby pairs, kittens, 3 to 8 months – 1, Mrs J Kitching.
Litter, any variety, under 3 months – 1, Mrs Weston; 2, Mrs F E Fletcher.

[NORTHERN COUNTIES CAT CLUB SHOW] Heywood Advertiser, 3rd December 1909
Miss Grundy, Springfield, Heywood, was successful in winning 1st and 2nd prizes and reserve with Blue Persian kittens, six months old; also 1st prize for best pair Blue kittens, and 3rd prize in the old [adult] blue class at the Northern Counties’ Cat Club show, held at Bradford on November 25th.

NORTHERN COUNTIES CAT SHOW AT BRADFORDYorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 26th November 1909
The Northern Counties Cat club held a successful show yesterday at the Central Baths Hall, Bradford. There were 69 classes, and these drew about 360 entries of all varieties of cats. The exhibitors numbered close upon 100. Lady Priestly presided over the opening ceremony, which was performed by Lady Decies.

The Northern Counties Cat Club medal for the best cat and also for the best long-haired cat went to Miss R. Whitney (Dublin). Other winners of the Club’s special awards were:-
Blue Breeders’ Cup – Miss Gladys Savory, Newport Pagnell.
Chinchilla – Misses Elliott, Garston.
Silver Tabby – Mrs Slingsby, Ouseburn.
Best Long-haired Neuter, other than blue – Misses Elliott.
Short-haired Blue – Lady Decies, Slough.
Best Short-haired Cat in Show – Lady Decies.

Scottish Cat Club Awards:
Long-haired Male – Mrs Slingsby.
Long-haired Female – Hon. Mrs Behrens, Malton Grange.
Short-haired Male – Lady Decies.
Short-haired Female – Lady Decies.
Kitten Mrs Slingsby.

The Short-haired Cat society of Great Britain awards:
Kitten – Mrs R.S. Kershaw, Lenthwaite.
Tortoise or Tortoiseshell and White – Mrs Slingsby.
Tabby, other than red – Lady Decies.
Novice – Miss M. MacDowell, Shaldon.
Abyssinian – Mrs E.E. Clark, Combe, Devon.

LONG-HAIRED CATS.
Whites – Lady Decies (best male), Hon. Mrs Behrens (best female), Mrs Slingsby, Mrs J. Kitching (Norton).
Blacks – Mrs N. Wilson (Middleton) (best), Miss Greta Wright (Highgate).
Blues – Miss G. Savory (best male and female), Mrs W.I. Wynn (Castlethorpe), Mrs Slingsby.
Chinchillas – Misses Elliott.
Smokes – Dr Prior, Heckmondwike (best), Mr F. Helmer.
Silver Tabbies – Mrs Slingsby.
Brown Tabbies – Miss R. Whitney (best male and female), Mrs Kitching.
Orange Tabbies – Mrs Hardiman, Rawtonstall (best), Mr F. Helmer, Lady Decies.
Creams – Mr F. Helmer.
Tortoiseshell, also Tortoiseshell and White – Mrs Slingsby (best), Mr Helmer.

SHORT-HAIRED CATS.
Whites – Master A.C. Mann, Bradford (best male), Dr Prior (best female).
Blacks – Dr Prior (best), Miss A.M. Burton, Flushdyke.
Blues – Lady Decies.
Red Tabby – Dr Prior.
Brown Tabby – Lady Decies (best), Miss Burton.
Tortoiseshell – Dr Prior (best), Mrs Slingsby.
Tortoiseshell and White – Mrs Slingsby(best), Mr J. Reid, Glasgow.
Abyssinian – Mrs Clark.

CAT SHOW AT BRADFORD. SOME OF THE WINNERS. Leeds Mercury, 26th November 1909
The first open cat show ever held in Bradford was opened at the Central Baths Hall yesterday. There was a large assemblage of prize felines from all over the country, and in diversity of breed, colour, and voice there was sufficient to interest the most stringent fancier. From all corners of the hall the cries of the pampered favourites arose in plaintive unison, while their masters and mistresses, the latter of course predominating, strove to soothe their pets’ anxieties.

Lady Decies, of Gloucestershire, opened the show, but Sir William Priestly, who was billed to take the chair, was absent. Lady Decies said that it gave her great pleasure to open a cat in Bradford. Her ambition was that ever person should keep a cat and show it and be proud of it. The arrangements were most admirably carried out by Miss Stewart, Mr Burton, and Dr Prior, and altogether the first show in Bradford of the Northern Counties Cat Club may be pronounced a complete success, a very large number of visitors being present during the day.

Amongst the principal prize-winners were Lady Decies, who took a championship with her white-haired male Persian, and also won the Johnsome Weed Cup for the best short-haired cat in the show; Mrs Slingsby, of York, who was also a very prominent winner in several classes; the Hon Mrs Clive Behrens and Miss Burton, of Ossett, the last-named being the owner of a particularly beautiful smoky kitten. Master Mann, of Bradford, won the white short-haired championship, and the distinction of owning the best cat in the show was awarded to Mrs [Miss] Whitney, of Dublin, for her long-haired, brown tabby, who was indeed a perfect picture.

Dr Prior, of Heckmondwike, took perhaps the highest aggregate of prizes with the Collingwood Bowl, the Weybourne Challenge Cup, and the championship for the best smooth-haired cat in the show.

[BRADFORD CAT SHOW] Bradford Weekly Telegraph, 26th November 1909
The Bishop of Ripon has been inveighing again his week against “race suicide.” We are producing a population which shows marked signs of degeneration, and there is such a decrease in the birth-rate that the Bishop predicts that in forty years England will not retain any authority among the more virile nations . . .no attempt is made in Great Britain to restrict the number of the physically unfit. We allow persons to marry with the certainty that they will produce degenerate offspring. On the other hand, the greatest pains are taken in the mating of farm stock, of dogs, of poultry, etc . . . I thought of this perplexing matter while visiting the National Cat Show which was held in Bradford this week. Breeding for points has become a fine art, and great ladies do not disdain to dive into the mysteries of pedigree. Any such thing as a mesalliance in the show cat world is impossible. A great deal more care and attention is bestowed on their well-being than is devoted to the average working-class children. They sleep on velvet cushions and live on dainties. Nothing is too good for a Persian or a blue Siamese. And yet a cat is perhaps the last of all animate to respond to human affection. Only in a case here and there does a cat show any marked individual preferences. They have neither the intelligence nor the affectionateness of a dog. They are useless except for stealing the cream. Some of these valuable show cats would disdain to catch a mouse. And yet all this care and money is lavished upon them because certain ladies have adopted them as the fancy of the hour. Father Bernard Vaughan ought to fulminate against cat worship as of the greatest of the sins of society.

BRADFORD CAT SHOW (NORTHERN COUNTIES CAT CLUB) The Queen, 4th December 1909
Under the rules and regulations of the National cat Club, the Northern Counties Cat Club held a show at Bradford on Nov. 25 in the Central baths Hall, the first occasion on which a cat show has been held in that town. The president is the Hon. Mrs Clive Behrens, and Mrs Slingsby is the vice-president. Sir W.E.B. Priestley, M.P., had kindly promised to preside at the opening ceremony, but was unfortunately detained in London, so Lady Priestley took his place, and, after a few appropriate words, called upon Lady Decies to declare the show open. This was done, and Dr Prior of Heckmondwike, who had worked so well for the success of the show, asked for a vote of thanks for Lady Priestley and Lady Decies. He alluded to the present crisis in the cat world, and remarked that the Northern Counties’ Cat Club had no axe to grind, and was only wishful to forward the interests of the fancy. Considering the unfortunate friction between the National Cat Club and the Cat fanciers’ Association, the entry, which numbered 370, was fair. Mrs Slingsby, whose name is so well known as an ardent cat fancier, had no less than sixty-six entries, and Lady Decies brought several of her noted winners from Sefton Park. The Hon. Mrs Clive Behrens penned some of her celebrated cats, all of which were in the pink of condition. The judges were Mrs Ransome, Miss Frances Simpson. Mr T.B. Mason, and Mr Western; and the Central baths is certainly a splendid hall for a show, there being plenty of room for exhibits and ample space for the visitors, who on this occasion attend the show in large numbers.

There were sixty-nine classes provided for long and short haired cats, and, as usual, the blue Persians outnumbered any of the other exhibits. There was a nice entry in long-haired whites, and in the class for males Lady Decies won with White Prince, a superb deep blue-eyed specimen, while there was nothing to beat Mrs Clive Behrens’s celebrated Day Dream in the female section. The competition in blue males was very keen, and Mr T.B. Mason awarded the first prize to the Tring winner, Miss Savory’s Billy Button, while the same fancier won in the class for blue females with Regina. Chinchillas were disappointing, and Silver Robin exhibited, by the Misses Elliott, was an easy winner, but was not in full coat. In the class for smokes Dr Prior carried off the honours with Bowness, a grand female, who also won a number of special prizes, while Mrs Slingsby’s superb tabby male, Don Pasquale, was far away the best of this handsome variety. He also took the prize offered for the best stud cat. Miss Whitney sent some of her noted brown tabbies over from Ireland, and Brayfort Victory, who made his debut, won the medal offered for the best cat in the show. There was keen competition for this trophy and Miss Whitney may be congratulated on her success. This enthusiastic fancier won the first and second prizes in the class for brown tabby females.

There was a grand array of orange cats, and it was generally remarked that the colour in this breed becomes brighter every year. Mr F Helmer headed the class for cream males with his well-known Wily Wily, who, however, was wanting in coat. Mrs Slingsby took the first prize in the tortoiseshell class, and also had an easy win with Rosette of Thorpe, the noted tortoiseshell and white. Neuters were few in number, and Miss Greta Wright’s Attila, a handsome blue, was the winner. Blue kittens made a splendid show, but there was nothing to beat the Tring winner, and Mrs Wynn’s Sapphire was admired of all. Chinchilla and silver tabbies were not up to the mark. Mrs Slingsby penned the winning orange and cream kittens and Mr Kitching exhibited two lovely brown tabbies, which won well. The short-haired classes were poorly filled in many cases, although there were several splendid specimens. The prize-winning white female was purchased by Lady Decies at catalogue price. Dr Prior did a lot of winning amongst the short-hair exhibits, but was lucky in the red tabby class, as two of three very fine specimens were dangerous to handle, and therefore not judged. Lady Decies Copper Green, the winning blue, is a fine specimen, and her brown tabby, Flash Jack, looking very fit and well, was declared to be the best short-haired cat in the show. This exhibit, which has improved in colour, might have otherwise been beaten by Mrs Slingsby’s beautifully marked tortoiseshell and white Cretonne of Thorpe, a winner at Bradford in a strong class of this charming variety. Siamese. Manx, and Abyssinians were few in number, and in the first-named breed there was nothing to beat Mrs Forsythe Forrest’s charming kitten. Miss Samuel won in the Manx class, and Mrs A.F. Clark in the Abyssinian with Silver fairy. The long-haired litter class contained only two entries, and the short-haired had to be cancelled. At this season of there year there are few young families, and fanciers do not care to risk the little ones on the show bench during the winter months.

The next cat show of any importance will take place at Hounslow on Dec. 7, at the Public Baths. This exhibition will be held under the rules of the Cat Fanciers’ Association. Miss Frances Simpson and Mr T.B. Mason will be the judges, and there will be thirty-eight classes, while nearly one hundred special prizes have been offered.

1909 CRYSTAL PALACE (NATIONAL CAT CLUB) SHOW

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP CAT SHOW. Croydon Chronicle and East Surrey Advertiser, 11th December 1909
The National Championship Cat Show will be held at the Crystal Palace on Dec. 14th and 15th next. The number of entries are considerably in advance of any previous show, and the exhibits include many rare and beautiful cats. It is a well-known fact that ladies are always greatly in evidence at these shows, and the high value they put upon their pets is proved by the fact that for one of these treasures the price has been known to run into thousands of pounds. There will be cats of many varieties and hues—black, white, blue, grey, tortoiseshell, etc., but perhaps the blue Persian will be among the most popular. It is well known that show animals assume a dignity amounting to positive boredom at the flattering attention they receive by numerous admirers, and cats are no exception, as visitors to the Crystal Palace next week will learn.

KITTLE CATTLE. CAT SHOW STEWARDS PLAY CATCH-AS-CATCH CATS CAN. Evening News (London), 14th December 1909
Although the toy-dog reigns as the most popular lady's pet, there are plenty of women who still keep their affection for the cat. At the twenty-second championship show of the National Cat Club, held today and to-morrow at the Crystal Palace, 560 cats, representing all that is aristocratic and high-born in the cat world; were shown, and 182 prizes, trophies, medals and diplomas were offered. The difference in the treatment of these graceful purring creatures and that of the pet dog was particularly noticeable. While the show dog cages are hung with silk and satin, and the dogs themselves, wearing fur coats, recline on down cushions, the show cats, however great their catalogue price, have to be content with Spartan conditions. A bundle of hay or shavings in the galvanised wire cages was all the luxury accorded to the exhibits. In one instance only was a cushion provided. In cat shows there is no judging rings. Centuries of training have failed to give pussy any respect for judges or any desire to make the most of its show points. The cats have to be dragged out of their cages and held up for examination, and the judges, who were mostly ladies, deputed this duty to trained stewards skilled in taking a pugnacious cat by surprise.

"First catch your cat," is the motto of the stewards, as everything depends on who gets the first grip. Frequently the cats took hold first, and when the judging was over there were few stewards, male or female, who had not bites and scratches to show. One woman steward had both hands severely bitten, and many scratches on the arms from a single combat with a fighting Thomas. A demure little Persian who looked all kindness and tractability made its teeth meet in the thumb of another female steward, and scratched furiously until it was overpowered by strength and science combined. One of the injured women cheerfully informed an Evening News representative that leather gloves were useless, aa they hinder the grip, and the cat easily bites through them.

The most enthusiastic exhibitors were Lady Decies, Lady Alexander, and Mrs. Slingsby, who between them were responsible for well over a hundred exhibits. Some of the animals, according to the catalogue, are costly pets. Sir Archie II, of Arrandale, a huge blue long-hair or Persian, and two specimens of the Chinchilla breed were priced at 1,100 guineas each.

NATIONAL CAT SHOW. Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 15th December 1909
Opening at Crystal Palace. The twenty-second championship show of the National Cat Club, under the patronage of Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein, opened at the Crystal Palace yesterday. The principal cat clubs contributed valuable premiums to the prize list. All varieties of cats were benched, and the total entry was well up to that of last year, being slightly over 350. The following were leading exhibitors: Sir Claud Alexander and Lady Alexander, Lady Decies, Mrs. Slingsby, of Thorpe Underwood Hall, Yorks; the Hon. Mrs. Morrison, of Kepwick Park, Northallerton, Yorks; and the Hon. Mrs. Behrens, Swinton Grange, Malton, Yorks. In the afternoon a large number of fashionable ladies were present at the show, which will remain open until this evening. The principal prize-winners were:-
The National Cat Club’s Ten-guinea Challenge Cup for Long-haired Males or Females.— Miss R. Whitney, Dublin.
The Rotherham Challenge Bowl, value ten guineas, for English Short-haired Male or Females.—Lady Decies.
The Stisted Bowl for best Cat in the Show.—Miss R Whitney
Welburn Memorial Bowl, value ten guineas, for English Cat or Kitten.—Lady Decies.
The Swinton Challenge Cup, presented by the Hon Mrs. Behrens for Blue Eyes, White Short-haired Male Cats.— Master A. C. Mann, Bradford.

THE CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW. Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer , 15th December 1909
The annual championship show of the National Cat Club was opened at the Crystal Palace yesterday. There was a collection of over 370 cats, and 180 special prizes, including challenge cup and trophies, were offered. Lady Alexander of Ballochmyle benched a collection of the short-haired variety, creams, blacks, red tabbies, and tortoiseshells, and won a host of prizes. Lady Decies obtained many of the leading honours in the long-haired division for smokes, chinchillas, whites, and orange, and a number in the short-haired section. Sir Claud Alexander won several prizes for the Manx variety, and the Hon. Mrs McLaren Morrison, Northallerton, was very successful with long-haired Chinchillas and orange or shaded. The Hon. Mrs Behrens, Malton, obtained several prizes for long-haired whites, and Mrs Slingsby, of Thorpe Underwood Hall, exhibited a team of thirty-one which gained many honours for blue Persians, whites, silver, and orange tabbies. Other successful North-country exhibitors were Misses Ayre (Thornton-in-Craven), blue Persians; Miss W. Beal (Darlington), second for long-haired orange or shaded tabby , and tortoiseshell; Mrs F. Becher (York), first and two seconds for Siamese and second for long-haired kittens; Miss A.M. Burton (Ossett) second blue Persians, short-haired blacks, and blue Persians, third brown tabbies, and first neuter; Mrs B. Douglass (Ayrton) first blue Persian; Mrs A. Fletcher (Huddersfield), third in the same variety; Mrs Tom Fletcher (Sheffield), second and third silver tabbies, two seconds Manx; Mr F. Helmer (Darlington), third tortoise-shell and white, second and third short-haired similar type; Mrs E. Hodges (Dewsbury), second self-colour Manx; Mrs F.B. Hughes (Wakefield), third blue Persians; Miss M. Bell-Irving (Barnard Castle), third, long-haired black; Master A.C. Mann (Bradford), first, short-haired white; Mrs Meddings (Stamford), first and two seconds, brown tabbies; Mrs G.F. Moore (Goole), third, long-haired silver tabby; Dr Prior (Heckmondwike), third, short-haired black, second tortoiseshell, and first red tabby.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB. DUBLIN AWARDS AT CHAMPIONSHIP Dublin Daily Express, 15th December 1909
The twenty-second Championship Show the National Cat Club was opened at the Crystal Palace, London, yesterday. All varieties of cats were exhibited, and the total entry was well up to that of last year, being slightly over 350. The following Dublin competitors were among the prize-winners: -
Brown Tabby (male)- 1st, Miss R. Whitney, Dublin; (female) - 1st and 3rd, Mist R. Whitney.
Tortoiseshell and white- 1st, Mr. J. Woods.
Any other colour (male or female)-1st, Miss R. Whitney.
Team, any variety, longhaired (male or female)-1st, Miss R. Whitney.
Tortoiseshell or tortoiseshell and white, 3 - 9 months-Mr. J. Woods.
The National Cat Club’s 10 Guinea Challenge Cup for long haired (male or female)-Miss R. Whitney.
The Stisted Bowl for the beet cat in the Show-Miss R. Whitney,

[CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW] The Times, December 15, 1909
The 22nd championship show of the National Cat Club opened at the Crystal Palace yesterday. The principal cat clubs contributed valuable premiums to the prize list. All varieties of cats were shown and the total entry was well up to that of last year, being slightly over 350. The following were the leading exhibitors:- Sir Claud and Lady Alexander, Lady Decies, Mrs. Slingsby, of Thorpe Underwood Hall, Thorpe, Yorks, the Hon. Mrs. Morrison, of Kepwich Park, Northallerton, Yorks, and the Hon. Mrs. Behrens, of Swinton Grange, Malton, Yorks. The National Cat Club’s ten-guinea challenge cup for long-haired males or females was won by Miss R. Whitney, Dublin; the Rotherham challenge bowl, value ten guineas, for English short-haired males of females, by Lady Decies; the Stisted bowl for best cat in the show by Miss R. Whitney; the Welburn memorial bowl, value ten guineas, for English cat or kitten, by Lady Decies; the Swinton challenge cup, presented by the Hon. Mrs. Behrens, for blue-eyed white short-haired male cats, by Master A.C. mann, Bradford; the Wilson challenge cup for best kitten in the sow, by Mr. B. Currie, Farnborough, Hants.

SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE Leicester Daily Post, 15th December 1909
The twenty-second championship show of the National Cat Club was held yesterday, at the Crystal Palace. Mr Louis Wain, the well-known painter of cats, is the chairman of the club, the members include many titled ladies, with Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein as patron. About six hundred cats were entered for competition including the most valuable specimens in this country of all the well-known breeds. A great value is put by many of the owners on their pets, and it was computed that, the total value of all the exhibits exceeded £3,000.

Lady Decies and Lady Alexander were both well represented, showing over 100 cats between them. Lady Decies, a well-known animal lover, showed a team of handsome white cats, their chief feature being their deep blue eyes, as distinct from the light blue eyes usually associated with white cats. Her ladyship also showed some wonderful short-haired blues, with eyes of a cherry red or copper. A chinchilla just purchased by Lady Decies was given a first prize.

Some particularly good specimens of the Siamese variety were to be seen. These (to English eyes) weird-looking creatures are becoming more numerous and more popular, and those on view at the show were noticeable for their well-marked characteristics. Persians were to be seen in great numbers and varieties, and other classes well represented were those for tabbies, tortoiseshells, and Manx cats.

The benches showed that the utmost care was taken by the mistresses of their pets, and many of the cages were most luxuriously fitted. One of the cases contained a lifelike representation in marble of a white cat, which deceived many onlookers, until they attempted to rouse it from its unnatural stillness.

LUCKY BLACK CAT. Daily Mirror, 15th December 1909
Animal Which Was To Be Destroyed Found To Be of Great Value. If your cat happens to be jet black, but because it is a poor "mouser" you have no special affection for it, don't decide to get rid of it until you have examined its eyes. Yesterday at the National Cat Club Show at the Crystal Palace, where cats worth some £3,000 were on view, The Daily Mirror was shown a prize cat of great value. This cat was once the property of a gardener, who loved it so little that he made up his mind to have it destroyed, but a cat fancier happened to see it just previous to the intended execution, and noticed that it had eyes of that particularly rich shade of orange that makes such cats very valuable.

[CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW] The Times, December 16, 1909
The full list of awards at the 22nd Championship Show of the National Cat Club held at the Crystal Palace, were announced yesterday. Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein is the patron of the club, and the vice-presidents include Lady Aberdeen, Lady Maitland, Lady Hothfield Lady Decies, Lady Willoughby, and Mrs. Herring. Mr. Louis Wain is the chairman of the committee, and Mr. E.T. Cox the secretary. The entries numbered 560, which compared very favourably with former shows, although it was not quite so good as last year, The quality of the exhibits was considered by the Judges to be of a very high standard. Among the varieties shown were Manx, Siamese, short-haired and long-haired, blues, smokes, chinchilla, and Abyssinian. There was a long list of special prizes, including challenge trophies, and the following awards were made in addition to those published in yesterday’s issue of The Times

The champion Jimmy challenge prize was presented by Mrs. Herring for the best short-haired silver tabby, Lady Decies; a silver challenge cup, presented by the Crystal Palace Company for, the best long-haired kitten in the show, Mr. B. Currie, Farnborough, Hampshire ; a silver challenge cup, presented by the Crystal Palace Company for, the best short-haired kitten in the show, Miss A. M. Hawkins, of Kensington ; cup presented by the president of the Siamese Club for the best Siamese cat in the show, Mrs. A. de Vere Brooke, of Courtfield Gardens S.W.; the National Cat Club’s Championship for the best tortoiseshell, Mrs. Slingsby;, Underwood Hall, Yorkshire; the club championship for the best Manx cat, Sir C. Alexander, Fay Gate Wood, Sussex; a silver salver for the best Manx, the competition to be confined to members of the National Cat Club, the salver to be won five times to become then absolute property of the winner, Sir C. Alexander; the club's championship for the best Siamese, Mrs. A. de Vere Brooke; and the club’s championship for the best Abyssinian, Mrs. G. Pitkin of Watford.

The judges were:- long-haired cats – Mrs. Bennet, Mrs. Fosbery, Mrs. Balding, Mrs. Billett, and Mr. Mason; short-haired cats – Mr. L.P.C. Astley; Siamese – Miss. Forestier-Walker; Abyssinian - Mr. L.P.C. Astley; Manx – Mr. Mason; miscellaneous short-haired - Mr. L.P.C. Astley; kitten classes – Mr. Astley; working men’s or women’s classes – Mr.T.B. Mason

NATIONAL CAT SHOW. Staffordshire Sentinel, 16th December 1909
The 22nd Championship Show of the National Cat Show has been held at the Crystal Palace this week. The entries numbered 560, which compared very favourably with former shows. although it was not quite so good as last year. The quality of the exhibits was considered by the judges to be of a very high standard. Amongst the varieties shown were Manx, Siamese, short-haired and long-haired, blues, smokes, chinchilla, and Abyssinian.

NATIONAL CAT SHOW. Liverpool Daily Post, 16th December 1909
The twenty-second championship show of the National Cat Club, held under the patronage of Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein, was at the Crystal Palace, on Tuesday. The principal cat clubs contributed valuable premiums to the prize list. All varieties of cats were benched, and the total entry was well up to that of last year, being slightly over 350. The leading exhibitors were Sir Claud and Lady Alexander, Lady Decies, Mrs. Slingsby (of Thorpe Underwood Hall, Thorpe, Yorks), the Hon. Mrs. [McLaren] Morrison (of Kepwick Park, Northallerton, Yorks), and the Hon. Mrs. Behrens (of Swinton Grange, Melton, Yorks). The prize-winners included Miss Elliot, Garston. who took first and third, with chinchillas, and second with a female silver tabby; Miss A. Wilson, Fairfield, Liverpool, third with young blue male: Mr. H. Maden, Bacup. second with a cream female, and Mrs. Hall, Tower Wood, Windermere, second and third in the orange classes.

[CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW] Woolwich Herald, 17th December 1909
The exhibitors at the Crystal Palace Cat Show this week included Mrs. C.E. Filby, Clovelly, Breakspeats-road, St. John’s; Dr. Dyson, 82, Lowwer-road, Rotherhithe (highly commended); Miss H. Lea, Guliston, Lawries Park-gardens, Sydenham (two second prizes, v.h.c., etc.); and Mrs. Newton. 7. Hindsley-place, Forest Hill (third prize).

ABOLISHING THE TABBY CAT. Globe, 17th December 1909
The tendency of the present day among cat fanciers is to do away with that venerable and domestic species, the Tabby Cat. Any other sort of cat will pass, but not the tabby, for those who take an interest in such matters prefer the whole colour cat to the particoloured animal. The breeder and the fancier, if not the ordinary householder, have declared war on tabby markings, and are doing their utmost to breed them out. But the tabby is a very persistent type, and do what they will, the markings remain. It is probably this very obstinacy of the race, which lends interest to the attempt to get rid of the markings, and a great reward awaits the successful breeder who can get rid of the tabbiness in the silver chinchillas. At the cat show at the Crystal Palace there were all sorts of cats of many colours, but the obstinate tabbies held their own, and carried off many of the prizes. There does not appear much chance as yet of the tabby following the tortoiseshell cat to partial extinction, for the tabby is exceedingly hardy, whereas the tortoiseshell, which used to be so greatly prized, is a delicate cat, and the dearth of Toms is most remarkable. There may come a rage for tortoiseshell cats owing to their rarity, and breeders might well try to revive them instead of devoting all their energies to stamping out the poor harmless tabby. But there are fashions in cats as in everything else, and the “whole colour” cat is the favourite of the hour.

[ THE CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW.] Falkirk Herald, 22nd December 1909
The twenty-second championship show of the National Cat Club was held on Tuesday at the Crystal Palace. About six hundred cats were entered for competition, including the most valuable specimens in the country, and it was computed that the total value of all the exhibits exceeded £3,000.

WHITE CAT’S RAGE. Lloyd's Weekly Newspaper, 19th December 1909
At the National Cat Show, held at the Crystal Palace on Tuesday were orange cats – a wonderful class – dark blue cats of the Russian type, silver cats, white cats, black cats, the self colours quite outnumbering the rest. During judging some excitement was caused by the sudden rage or a white cat. It bit the hand of the steward, who nearly fainted. Then it turned on the judge and made an ugly wound. The Stisted bowl for the best cat in the show was awarded jointly to Miss Whitney’s Brayfort Victory and to Lady Decies’ Fulmer Tabby Boy, the best long-haired cat in the show. Lady Alexander and the Hon Mrs C. Behrens were also highly successful exhibitors.

BLUE AND ORANGE CATS Falkirk Herald, 22nd December 1909
The most glorious days of the cat show are eclipsed since the fanciers and the National Cat Club split and started different “herd books.” No more is the record price of £1100 offered or refused, and regardless Americans who seek for cat pedigrees grow confused between the two authorities. But in spite of the split, says the “Daily Mail,” the National Cat Club held a most successful show at the Crystal Palace on Tuesday, and one the exhibitors sold the other day a chinchilla for between one and two hundred pounds to an American purchaser. There is still money in cats, and as the vogue grows and prices drop quality and beauty increase. There is still the price of at least £1000 awaiting the breeder who can breed the tabby markings out of the silver chinchillas. Full of quality as the cats were, they all showed the tabby stripes, somewhere, generally between the eyes, which grew wider and bigger year by year. The extinction of tabbiness may be said to be the cardinal aim the breeder. At the Crystal Palace were orange cats - a wonderful class - dark blue cats of the Russian type, silver cats, white cats, black cats, the self colours quite outnumbering the rest. And yet one of the largest and most tiger-like of all the cats in the show was a silver tabby belonging to Mrs Slingsby. Two champion tabbies looked of a different genus from such creatures of quality as the prize chinchillas, Lady Decies’ Fulmer Ladybird, or Mrs Wellbye’s Silver Milord II, or the supreme kitten of the show, Miss Elliott’s silver Rene. During the judging some excitement was caused by the sudden rage of a white cat. It bit the hand of the steward, who nearly fainted, and then, turned on the judge and made an ugly wound. Close by the strange blue-eyed, stoat-like Siamese, which are bringing back the smooth-coated cat into popularity, set up their long, wailing cry, which is more like the cry of a coyote than the miaou of a cat. The Stisted bowl for the best cat in the show was awarded jointly to Miss Whitney’s Brayfort Victory and Lady Decles’ Fulmer Tabby Boy. the best long-haired, cat in the show.

CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW The Queen, 25th December, 1909
The twenty-second championship of the national cat Club was held at the Crystal palace on the 14th and 15h, when entries numbered nearly 500, 374 cats being penned. The largest exhibitors were Lady Alexander, who brought twenty-five short-haired cats from Faygate; Mrs Slingsby, who had a contingent of thirty-one; and Lady Decies, who penned sixteen. As many, if not all, of these cats were entered in several classes, these three enthusiastic fanciers helped considerably towards the total entry, The judges were Mrs bennet, Mrs Fosbery, Mrs Balding, Mr T B Mason, and Mr L P C Astley. The classification was a very comprehensive one, number 104 classes, but in many cases, these were poorly filled. Miss Whitney repeated her success at Bradford, and won the Challenge Cup for the best cat in the show with Brayfot Victory, a wonderfully coloured brown tabby. Lady Decies took the prize for the best short-haired cat with her well known and beautifully marked Silver tabby Boy, while a lovely white Persian kitten, exhibited by Master b Currie, won the Challenge Cup for the best kitten in the show. The short-haired trophy was won by Master A Mann’s white kitten.

In the white long-haired male class Lady Decies and he Hon. Mrs Clive Behrens were beaten by Mr b Currie’s Minley Remus. In the class for females, however, there was nothing to touch Mrs Behrens’s well-known Swinton Day Dream, who was exhibited in perfect show form. Only three black cats were entered, Mrs Dee winning the first prize. Blue males only numbered twelve, and Mrs Fosbery followed Mr Mason’s Bradford awards by giving Miss Savory’s Billy Button the first prize, but apparently had difficulty in selecting the next best, and so awarded two equal seconds to Mrs G Wilson’s Sir Archie and Miss Ayre’s Struwwelpeter of Hessle. Blue females only numbered six, this being, indeed, a small class when compared with those at Bradford and Hounslow. Miss Savory again repeated her victories with Regina, a handsome specimen, the second and third awards going to Mrs George Wilson, but the reserve seemed badly treated.

Chinchilla males were a grand lot, and were headed by Mrs Wellbye’s Silver Milord II, a worthy son of this well-known sire. In the class for chinchilla females Lady Decies took the first prize with Fulmer Ladybird, a pleasing exhibit. Smokes were few in number, and Dr Prior’s superb female Bowness stood out from the rest. In the class for silver tabbies Mrs Slingsby’s Don Pasquale of Thorpe was far away the best and scored easily. Miss Whitney’s Brayfort Victory, before mentioned, was alone in his glory in the male class, his pen being smothered with prize cards. This enthusiastic breeder of brown tabbies stood first and third in the female class of four entered. Orange tabbies were a grand coloured set of cats, all sound in chin, and mostly good in eye. Mrs Slingsby won in the male class and Mrs Forsyth Forrest took the first prize with a lovely little female. In the class for cream males the well-known Wildon Wily, very much improved since Bradford Show, came out first, and Mrs Western’s Daffodil won in the female section. There were two classes set apart for orange selfs, which is a new departure. The nearest approach to the correct type was Mrs Neate’s Queen of Hearts, who only had very slight tabby markings on the head. Mrs Slingsby’s Rosette of Thorpe had to give way to Mr Wood’s Minette in the tortoise and white class, but both are grand specimens of this very fascinating breed. The neuter classes were not well filled. A handsome blue, in Royal Rex, made his first appearance in the show pen, and won easily over the well-known Oscar, who had to be content with second place. There was nothing very striking in the white and black kittens. Blue kittens were divided according to age into four classes, which were fairly well filled. Again the Bradford judging was repeated, and Miss Savory won with Robin. In the female kitten class a little gem owned by Miss Muriel Wilson was put first; and in the adult kitten class Mrs Wynn repeated her Tring and Bradford successes with Sapphire, who was reserve for the best in the show.

There were some dainty little silver kittens penned, and the third prize winner was purchased by the Hon. Mrs Maclaren Morrison. Smoke kittens were light in number, but, with one exception, lacked the orange eyes so essential in this lovely variety. Only two brown tabby kittens were penned by Mrs Meddings, but both were worthy of their prizes. Miss Bell Irving may be proud of her orange kitten, the first prize winner, as it is a grand specimen, and might well have been brought out for higher honours.

The short-haired section contained some superb cats, but in several classes it was difficult to follow the judging. Lady Alexander had exhibits in almost every one, and in Class 78, for creams, male or female, the six entries were all owned by this lady. Perhaps the most remarkable specimen exhibited at the Crystal Palace was th tortoiseshell and white male Ballochmyle Bachelor. As is generally known, males in this and the tortoiseshell breed are almost unknown, and if existing are seldom of good type. Lady Alexander, however, has a really handsome cat in Bachelor, and he swept the board. In the class for blue short-hairs, Lady Decies’s lovely cats were not favourably treated by the judge, and her well-known brown tabby Flash Jack was put second to Lady Alexander’s exhibit in the same class. In silver tabbies, however, Fulmer Tabby Boy beat Simple Simon, owned by Lady Alexander. Mrs Bonny won in the class for females with Dame Fortune, now getting on in years, but looking wonderfully well. Red tabbies were good, and Mrs Oliver may be proud of standing second to Lady Alexander’s King of Reds – so rightly named. There were nine entries in this class.

Mrs Slingsby’s Cretonne of Thorpe headed a class of seven tortoise and white. Siamese were few in number; perhaps fanciers were afraid of the chilly weather, and certainly the Crystal Palace is not a safe place to risk delicately brought up kittens. Mrs de Vere Brooke was put first with her grand Siamese male, Sancho, and charming female, little Lady, exhibited by Mrs Gawne, found a purchaser in Mrs Rycroft. The well-known Abyssinian Princess Alice, owned by Mrs Pitkin, held her own amongst specimens of this breed, and though nearly nine years old, was looking very fit and well. Sir Claude Alexander won the first prize in all three classes set apart for Manx cats. The ring class was judge by Mr T b Mason on the second day, and Lady Decies’s short-haired brown tabby, Flash Jack, walked off with the first prize. Mrs Forsyth Forrest’s Siamese came second, but all the exhibits seemed to resent being dragged around and protested in various ways. There were a fair number of visitors on the first day, but it becomes more and more evident that a cat show is not attractive enough to bring peopled from London, and the Crystal Palace in its present condition is unsuitable. The next show of importance will be held by the Southern Counties Cat Club at St. Vincent Hall, Westminster, on Thursday and Friday Jan. 13 and 14. This fixture is in aid of Our Dumb Friends’ league, and ought to be well supported. All information and schedules can be procured from the Show Secretary, Mr F Western, Sandy, Beds.

NEWS FOR CAT FANCIERS. Leinster Reporter, 1st January 1910
The National Cat Club's 22nd Championship Show was held at the Crystal Pace last week, and engaged three whole days, as such it was very attractive, there being something like 400 exhibits. Though the fabulous times when Puss in Boots made the fortune of the Marquis of Carabas and grimalkin paved the way of a poor apprentice to the dignity of Lord Mayor of London have passed away, there would appear to be a fortune in cats, for the value of the various species on view were appraised by their owners at sums ranging from 150 down to three guineas, while several animals of minor merit entered in the sale classes changed hands at from £3 to £5 apiece. Among the largest prize-winners were Lady Decies, Sir Claud Alexander, Mrs Slingsby, (who had thirty in the long-haired classes, Persians, orange, tortoiseshell, silver and white), the Hon. Mrs Morrison (for several Chinchillas), and the Hon. Mrs Behrens with short-haired whites. Of the special prizes and challenge trophies the National Cat Club's Challenge Cup for the best long haired male or female, and the Stisted Cup for the best cat in the Slow, long or short haired, were awarded to Miss Whitney, the same also winning the Wellburn Bowl. The Rotherham Challenge Bowl for the best English short-haired male or female; the Wellburn Memorial Bowl for the best English cat or kitten, and the challenge prize for prize for the best short-haired and silver tabby were taken by Lady Decies with her champion Fulmer Boy. In the four Manx classes, Sir Claud Alexander took all the first prizes and one second prize.

1909 REGIONAL SHOWS

WISHAW POULTRY, PIGEON, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW Wishaw Press, 1st January 1909
The annual poultry, pigeon, rabbit, and cat show of the local Ornithological Association takes place in the Town Hall on Saturday First.

[WISHAW POULTRY, PIGEON, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW] AWARDS Peebles News, 9th January 1909
Exhibiting a beautiful white Persian kitten at Wishaw Cat Show, on Friday last, Mrs A. Weir, Langside, Peebles, secured a second and a v.h.c. At Lanark, on Saturday, the cat and kitten were awarded second and third prizes.

MELKSHAM POULTRY, PIGEON, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW. A CREDITABLE EXHIBITION. Wiltshire Times and Trowbridge Advertiser, 16th January 1909
The sixth annual show in connection with the Melksham and District Fanciers’ Association took place on Wednesday, in Mr. Pocock’s Auction Rooms, Watson’s Yard.
Cats. Long-haired, male or female, 2 and 4, Mrs Clark; 3, Mrs Hawkins; v.h.c., H Butcher; h.c., F. Creswell.
Short-haired, male or female, 2, special and v.h.c., A.S. Clark; 3, W.J. Webb; extra 3 and h.c., Mrs Clark.

SIX HUNDRED DOGS AND CATS. SUCCESSFUL SHOW AT CARLISLE. Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser, 22nd January 1909
The first dog and cat show organised by a newly formed society was held in Carlisle yesterday and proved a success. There were nearly six hundred entries, including many well-known exhibitors. The following were the principal prize-winners: Cats: Mrs. Allison, Scaleby, Carlisle; Mrs. Jesper, Carlisle; Dr. Pryor, Heckmondwike; Mrs. Hewitson, Carlisle; F. Pratt, Rochdale; Mrs Fletcher, Sheffield; E. Meek, Pooley Bridge; Mrs Hall Atkinson, Carlisle; Mrs Dobinson, Carlisle.

POULTRY, PIGEON, CAGE BIRD AND CAT SHOW Hamilton Herald and Lanarkshire Weekly News, 30th January 1909
Poultry, Pigeon, Cage Bird and Cat Show will be held in the Royal Hall, The Cross, (Car Terminus), Uddingston on Saturday First, 6th Feb. Competition confined to Uddingston, Blantyre, Hamilton, Bellshill, Broomhouse, Cambuslang, & Shettleston. Entries accepted till Tuesday evening, 2nd Feb. Schedules from the Secretary, W.P. Campbell, Croftbank Lodge, Uddingston.

CAT SHOW Hampshire Chronicle, 20th February 1909
A cat show was held in connection with an auction sale at the entrance to the Recreation Grounds last week, the first and champion awards being taken by a Persian cat (Albina) owned by Mrs Nunn.

LOCAL PRIZE WINNERS AT DOG [AND CAT] SHOW Falkirk Herald, 17th April 1909
At Crieff dog show . . . Thomas Waugh, Falkirk, was the first, second[?] and special prize-winner in the class for long-haired Persian cats.

DOG [AND CAT] SHOW AT DUNDEE. The Scotsman, 8th April 1909
The two days’ show of the Dundee Canine Club opened in the Kinnaird Hall yesterday . . . Cats were weaker section numerically, the entries totalling scarcely forty.

[DUNDEE DOG AND CAT SHOW] Dundee Courier - Thursday 08 April 1909
Cats were not nearly so strong a feature of the show as they used to be. The entries just fell short of the two score, but included in the number were some of special merit. Lord Burt (B.B. Maitland) was first for longhairs (males), and Largo Queen (John Nicholl, Lower Largo) led the field in the female class. Lord Darnley (D. McGillivray) was ticket first in the kittens class.

HARPENDEN SHOW. AN ALL-ROUND RECORD. Luton Reporter, 3rd June 1909
Harpenden Agricultural and Fanciers Association. [Cat judge – Mr C.A. House]
Long haired, male or female – 1, Mrs F.H. Judge; 2, Mr J.P. Wilkinson; 3, Mrs W. Folkes.
Short-haired, male or female – 1, Miss Belton; 2, Mr John Hickson; 3, Mr E.S. Willmott.

NEWPORT PAGNELL FLOWER SHOW Croydon's Weekly Standard, 26th June 1909
Last year a cat show was successfully introduced.

LANARK’S GREAT OPEN SHOW The Scotsman, 8th July 1909
Upperward of Lanarkshire Agricultural Association. Lanark’s Great Open Show on July 17th (Fair Saturday). Usual classes for Cattle, Horses, Sheep, Pigs, Dogs, Poultry, Cats, Rabbits, Dairy Produce, Baking, and Fruit …. Entries received till Monday 12th July. Prize-lists and Schedule from W.D. Brown, Fernie-lea, Lanark.

PRIZE KITTEN West Middlesex Gazette, 10th July 1909
At the Richmond Cat Show on Tuesday, Mrs Cunningham of Hayes was a successful exhibitor with her prize-winning kitten “Caruso” a very pale blue Persian. He is a son of a famous cat owned by H.R.H. Princess Victoria of Schlewig-Holstein.

THURLOW POULTRY [ETC] SHOW East Anglian Daily Times, 26th July 1909
The sixteenth annual show under the auspices of the Thurlow and District Poultry and Dog Show Association was held in the customary field at Great Thurlow on Saturday. [Cat judge – Mr Clem Watson of “Fur and Feather”]
Cats: 1, Miss H.A. Stallard, Great Thurlow; 2, Mrs D. Mayes, Great Thurlow.

KEELE AGRICULTURAL AND HORTICULTURAL SHOW Staffordshire Sentinel, 6th August 1909
[Cat judge – Mr W.H. Silvester, The Hawthorns, Hillsboro’ Park, Sheffield]
Three classes ware provided for cats, but there were only eight entries, some of these, however. being of good quality.
Cats (Open). Any variety, male – 1, L.R. Williams; 2, A.E. Chadderton, Eccleshall.
Any variety, female – 1, J. Macham, Keele; 2, J. Wade, Hanley; 3, T.R. Wheeler, Banbury.
Any variety, Kitten, Male or female – 1, J. Wade; 2, T.R. Wheeler; 3, Mrs E. Donne, The Rectory, Keele.

CAMBRIDGE SHOWEast Anglian Daily Times, 14th July 1909
Cambridge, Bank Holiday, August 2nd, 1909, the Sixth Grand Mammoth Show and Sports Carnival. Dogs, Cats, Poultry, Pigeon, Rabbits, Cage Birds and Cavies . . . Great Cat Show . . .

CAMBRIDGE MAMMOTH SHOW
Cats were a new department, and there were 70 entries. (Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 6th August 1909)
In the cat classes. Mr J. Woodward, or Leighton Buzzard, was third in the short hair adult classes. (Luton Times and Advertiser, 6th August 1909)

[WORSLEY AND DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY] Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser, 19th August 1909
. . . A pretty little show of cats, cavies and rabbits [no listing of numbers or winners in these classes]

HINCKLEY POULTRY RABBIT, CAT & CAGE BIRD SHOW, Hinckley Times, 23rd October 1909
Hinckley Poultry Rabbit, Cat & Cage Bird Show, Drill Hall, Friday & Saturday Oct 22nd. Admission: Friday 1 To 6 - One Shilling; 6 – 9.30 Sixpence; Saturday 11 to close, 8 pm – Sixpence. Schedules, Particulars from H Towers, Secretary.

BELFAST DOG [AND CAT] SHOW Northern Whig, 30th October 1909
The championship show to be held under the auspices of the Belfast Dog Show Society in St. George’s Market on Tuesday and Wednesday, 16th and 17th November, promises to be a great success . . . The cat and rabbit classes should also prove attractive.

BELFAST DOG SHOW SOCIETY. SPLENDID SHOW AT ST. GEORGE'S MARKET. Belfast News-Letter, 17th November 1909
The tenth exhibition of dogs, cats, and rabbits held under the auspices of the above society opened yesterday in St. George’s Market, and the interest taken in the fixture was evidenced by the large and representative attendance not only of city visitors, but also of those from the surrounding country districts. The popularity and success of the show will perhaps best be indicated by stating that the entries total an increase of 160 over those of last year. . . Cats were not numerous, but Sanford Boy, owned by Mrs. F. G. McCann, is worth seeing; while Miss Von Steiglitz, Mrs. J. E. W Dougan, Dr. A. V. Browne, Master Ford, and Mrs. P Gaussen also won prizes.
Cats. Long haired, male or female—1, Mrs. F. G. M'Cann —Sandford Boy; 2, Miss Von Steiglitz; 3, Miss Von Steiglitz.
Short-haired, male or female—1, Mrs. J. E. W, Dougan—Falls Beauty: 2, Mrs. E. W. Dougan— Falls Fairy ; 3, Dr. A. V. Browne.
Neuter, any variety —I. Miss Von Steiglitz.
Kitten, any variety, under months—1, Miss Von Steiglitz; 2, Master Ford; 3, Mrs. P. Gaussen – Paddy.

GREAT SHOW ANNUAL EVENT OPENED AT BARNSTAPLE Western Times, 3rd November 1909
Barnstaple Great Show, one the most popular and important fixtures of its kind outside London, opened yesterday, and will be continued to-day. As a result of the labours of enthusiastic local fanciers this annual exhibition has gained a position which is remarkable, considering the size of the town, and the remoteness of the locality in which it is successfully held. Prizes of the valueof £700, sixty-five silver cups and medals are offered, and attracted the following entry . . . Cats 21 (1909), 27 (1908), 18 (1907).
Class 363.—Long hair. —1, Mrs. Short; 2, Mrs. J. Rivington; 3, G. Bale; 4, Miss Smyth.
Class 364.—Short hair— 1, Mrs. G. Bowden and Mrs. Dowdle (equal); 2, A. de Winton; 3, Mrs. Thorne; 4, Mrs. T. Hoyles.

ANNUAL POULTRY, PIGEON, CAGE BIRD, AND CAT SHOW Grantham Journal, 13th November 1909
Poultry Hall, Oakham – The Annual Poultry, Pigeon, Cage Bird, and Cat Show will be held in the above Hall on Thursday Next, Nov. 18th. Any entries will be accepted up to No. 15th. Admission 1 to 4, 1s; 4 to 7, 6d; after 7, 3d. T.J. Walker, Sec., Burley Road, Oakham.

EVESHAM CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOW Evesham Standard & West Midland Observer, 20th November 1909
The twenty first shoe of the Evesham Chrysanthemum Society was held in the Public hall on Friday, and was a great success . . . Mr G.H. Billett, of Reading [judged] the cagebirds and cats, which were exhibited in rooms in the basement.
Cats. Long haired, any age: Mr James Walton, Evesham, 1 and special, and prize for best cat in the show, and extra 3; the Misses Powis, Bromsgrove, 2; Miss Chamberlayne, Southall, 3; Mrs C. Whitem Bengeworth, r; Mrs Averill, Evesham, vhc; Mrs Lowe, Evesham; Mrs C. Knight Coutts, Evesham; Mrs G. Grove, Evesham; Mrs Harris, Evesham; Mrs Hinks, Evesham;, and Mrs W. West, Evesham, hc; fifteen entries.
Short haired cat: Mr J.H. Barrett, Evesham, 1 and special; Mrs Smith, Hampton, 2 and special; Mrs Alfred Haines, Port Street, 3; Miss E.M. Burlingham, extra 3; Mr James Walton, Miss Coombs, Evesham, Mr Tandy, Evesham, vhc; Mrs Hawker, Evesham, Mr Beale, Evesham and Mr S, Beasley, Dumbleton, hc.
Best kitten born in 1908: Mr F. Westwood, Hampton, 1; Miss Ellis, Evesham, 2; Mrs Sadler, Evesham, 3; Mr Parker, Bengeworth, r; Miss E.M. Burlingham, vhc; Mrs H.J. Baylis, Bengeworth, Mrs E. Kimber, Evesham, and Miss L. Thacker, Evesham, hc.

POULTRY, PIGEON, AND CAT SHOW Hamilton Advertiser, 20th November 1909
The annual exhibition and competition of the above took place on Saturday last in the Public Hall. There were upwards of 500 entries, and the competition in many cases was very keen. [Cat judge – Mrs Mcintosh]
Long-haired blue, male or female – 1, G. Barclay, Tollcross; 2, Mrs McCowatt, Glasgow; 3, G. Barclay.
Long-haired male, any other colour – 1 and 2, Mrs Sommerville, Carnwath; 3, Mrs Faulds, Kirkmuirhill.
Long-haired female, any other colour – 1, Mrs Faulds; 2, Wm. Bruce, Lanark; 3, Mrs R.B. McLaren, Glasgow.
Long-haired blue kitten, under six months – 1, Mrs McCowatt; 2, John Cole, Wishaw; 3, G. Barclay.
Long-haired kitten, any other colour, under six months - 1, Mrs Faulds; 2, Jne. Anderson, Hamilton; 3, Andw. Campbell, Cathcart.
Long or short-haired gelding – 1, Jas. Ballantyne; 2, Mrs Graham, Colthart; 3, Mrs Sommerville.
Short-haired male or female – 1, Andw. Campbell; 2, Wm. Bruce; 3, Mrs Cunningham.
Novice class – 1, Mrs Faulds; 2, W. Bryce; 3, G. Barclay.

FRAMLINGHAM FANCIERS’ SOCIETY. East Anglian Daily Times, 3rd December 1909
[Their first show – print quality too poor to decipher whole report] Cage birds, rabbits and cats made a pretty show and the winners were well-chosen.
Cats (Members only):
Long-haired, male or female, 1, E. and B. Rackham; 2, Mrs Bloomfield; 3, J.R. Cobbing.
Short-haired, male or female, 1, Miss A.M.E. Watson; 2 and 3, Mrs Bonney.

PIGEON, RABBIT AND CAT SHOW. Arbroath Herald and Advertiser for the Montrose Burghs, 10th December 1909
The Arbroath Pigeon Fanciers’ Association held their fourth annual exhibition in the Corn Exchange on Saturday. This year there was added exhibition and competition in cats and rabbits the entries for which were good, and added interest to the exhibition. In all there were about 600 entries, and the quality all over was good.
Cats —Long-haired - W. L. Traill, Lochee; 3rd, Mrs Corsar, Cliff House.
Gelding— 1st and 3rd, Mrs W. Cameron, Arbroath; 2nd, W. Brown, Kelly.
Kitten — 1st, Ann F. Hastings, Arbroath ; 2nd, A. Low, Cliff House, Arbroath; 3rd, Mrs John Kydd, Arbroath.
Long-haired (local) —1st, Mrs Corsar; 2nd, Mrs John Low, Caimichill; 3rd, Mrs W. Skea, Arbroath.

POULTRY, PIGEON, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW. A SUCCESSFUL EXHIBITION. Wiltshire Times and Trowbridge Advertiser, 18th December 1909
The seventh annual show in connection with the Melksham and District Fanciers' Association took piece on Wednesday in Mr Pocock's Auction Rooms. All the space available, upstairs and down. was utilised to the best advantage, the exhibits being round the walls, leaving the centre for visitors who had more room for walking about than has been the case at some previous shows. So far as numbers are concerned the entries showed a falling off compared with last year, the total being about 270, against a little over 300, but in quality the show was on all hands admitted to be the best yet held. A change has been made in the rules in recent years. The show was at first limited to a comparatively small area, now the bulk of the classes are open. Hence opportunity is afforded for owners and breeders from a distance to compete. This, of course, has had the effect of getting together a collection of higher quality, but at the same time it has made It somewhat more difficult for local breeders to carry off the honours. Some of the prizes were secured by exhibitor's as far off as Eastbourne, Essex, Bucks, etc. At the same time it is satisfactory to note that all the awards did not leave the district, several local breeders heading the list various classes. The judge, in all classes was Mr. Clem Watson. of Watford, who pronounced the show as a whole to be a capital one.
Mr W. Webb, of Bank Street, carried off a prize given by Mr E.A. Clark for the best short-haired cat. It may be mentioned that this “pussy,” a fine golden tabby, is no doubt a valued possession of its owner. It has now been exhibited at eleven shows, and secured ten prizes, besides two specials.

In respect to the prize list It should be explained that no first was awarded except in classes where there were eight or more entries. Hence the number of classes where no first is mentioned. The quality of the exhibit merited first, but, under the rules second was awarded. There were a large number highly commended, in many classes every entry being marked "c." or " h.c." For want. of space we have not given these. [Only the poultry prizes were listed]