REPORTS FROM EARLY BRITISH CAT SHOWS 1923

1923 SOUTHERN COUNTIES (KENTISH TOWN) CAT SHOW

[SOUTHERN COUNTIES SHOW] North Devon Journal, 1st February 1923
Chittlehampton. A cat, the property of Miss Bate (the Vicar's elder daughter) has the notable record of winning eight prizes at a large show. She sent a female Siamese to the Southern Counties' Cat Club Show in London, and it won 1st and 2nd prizes, a challenge certificate and five specials, including a cup and the Club's medal. A Chinchilla kitten was reserved.

1923 EXETER CAT SHOW

EXETER AND DEVON SHOW - Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 28 September 1923
The Exeter and Devon Poultry, Pigeon, and Cage Bird Society are arranging this year a section for cats and kittens in connexion with their show which is held October 17th in the Market, Exeter. There are 20 classes for long and short-hair cats and kittens, and special prizes are offered. The Blue Persian Society will give four badges competed for by its members. Three of the classes are limited to Exeter and a radius 33 miles round the city. Miss Frances Simpson, an experienced judge of London champion shows, will judge all classes. The exhibits will be fed and well cared for the Cat Committee. Schedules can be obtained from Mr. Cornish, 90, Regent street. St. Thomas, Exeter. Entries close October 5th.

FUR AND FEATHER. CREAM OF THEIR KIND ON VIEW AT EXETER - Western Morning News, 18 October 1923
The show of the Exeter and Devon Poultry, Pigeon, Cage Bird, and Cat Society at Exeter yesterday was the most successful in the history of the society. Entries reached the record total of over 2,200, and all the sections contained some of the cream of their particular kind in the kingdom. For the first time a cat section was included with conspicuous success. [. . .].
AWARDS.
Chinchilla, adult, male – 3 Miss. E. Clarke, Exeter. Female – 1, Miss E. Langston, Maidenhead; 2 Miss E. Clarke . Kitten – 1 Miss S. Bate, Chittlehampton.
Tabby, adult, male or female – 1 Miss B.V. Bracey, Bristol; 2 Miss Litten, Dunchideock; 3 Mrs. C. L. Kennaway, Blandford.
Kitten - 1 and 3 Miss E. Clarke; 2 Mrs. C. L. Kennaway.
Any other colour, adult – 1 Misses Fisher, Cheltenham. Kitten, shorthaired - 1 Mrs. M. H. Knowles, Codford; 2 Mrs C. L. Kennaway; 3, Mrs. C. A. Simmons, Exeter.
Short-haired blue, adult, or kitten - 1 and 2 Miss P. Hunt, Plymouth; 3 Miss M. Hunt, Plymouth.
Siamese Kitten - 1 and 2 Capt. L. A. Fordon, Ashcott; 3, Miss S. Bates.
Novice, adult or kitten - 1 F. H. Stevens; 2 Miss Litton ; 3 Capt. L. A. Fordon.
Litter - 1 Mrs. Welham, Teignmouth; 2, Miss P. Hunt; 3 Mrs. G. M. Bolton.
Neuter, long or short-haired - 1 Mrs. M. F. Williams; 2 and 3 Misses Fisher.
Local Classes – 1 Miss Ruby Cooke, Teignmouth; 2 Miss M. H. S. Sedgemore; 3 Miss M. B. Benthall, Countess Wear.
Any variety, kitten - 1 Miss E. Clarke; 2, Mrs. M. Huxham; 3 Mrs. M. Turner.
Neuter - 1, Mrs. L. C'ommins, Exeter; 2 F Chesnut, Topsham; 3 Miss Litton.

EXETER AND DEVON POULTRY, PIGEON, CAGE-BIRD, AND CAT SOCIETY SHOW. Western Morning News, 20 October, 1923
At the recent show of Exeter and Devon Poultry, Pigeon, Cage-bird, and Cat Society Miss Sedgemore, of 40 Queen-street, Exeter, secured for her blue Persian cat Blue Boy first prize for adult male, second prize for adult, any variety; special for best adult male, and special for best colour eyes. Her blue Persian kitten, fairy, was second in a class of 17, and special for the best female kitten.

1923 NORTHERN CAT CLUB SHOW

NORTHERN CAT CLUB. GREAT CAT SHOW. Newcastle Evening Chronicle, 15th October 1923
Great Cat Show, Corn Exchange, Town Hall, Newcastle-on-Tyne, Wednesday, Oct. 17th, 1923. Entries by all the Leading Exhibitors. Admission:- 10 a.m. to 8 p,m., 1/-; 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., 6d.

CAT SHOW IN NEWCASTLE. NORTHERN CLUB’S FIRST ANNUAL DISPLAY. Newcastle Evening Chronicle, 17th October 1923
The Northern Cat Club opened their first annual show, in the Corn Exchange, Town Hall, Newcastle, this morning. The show attracted much attention, and those attending greatly admired the exhibits. In all probability the club will hold a championship show next year. There were 216 entries, competing cats being sent by all the leading exhibitors, the great bulk of these being of a high class character, and all round they were benched in perfect condition.

The officials were: President, Lieut-Col. T.A. Higginbotton, D.S.O., T.D.; committee, Mr. S. Anderson, Mrs. Collinson, Mrs. E. Dodds, Mr. Dinning, Mrs. Gilbert, Mr. F. McCullough, Mr. F.W. Fenwick, Mr. J.M. Ronet, Mr. W. Wilson, Mr. H. Worlock; chairman, Mr. J. Davidson; hon. Secretary, Mrs. A.K. Higginbotton; show manager, Mr. W. Wilson; judge, Mr. T.J. Ambrose, Leicester; veterinary surgeon, Mr. F.J.L. Croudace, M.R.C.V.S.

OPEN CLASS.
Longhair [blue] adults, over 9 months – Messrs. Brown and Wilson, Newcastle, “Apollo,” 1; Mrs. M.W. Dodds, Whitley Bay, “Royal Bobs of Whitley,” 2; Thomas Ball, Old Radford, Nottingham, “Friar Tuck,” 3; J. Cross, Newcastle, “Toby,£ res., Mrs F.W. Fenwich, Birtley, “Scamp,” VHC.
Longhair blue female - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Blue Lagoon,” 1; J. Cross, “Elphora,” 2; Mrs. A.K. Higginbottom, Gosforth, “Sheba,” 3; Thomas Ball, “Maid Marion,” res.; J. Cross, “Sunbright,” VHC.
[Longhair] black male of female – Mrs. E. Makepeace, Newcastle, “Madge,” 1; Mrs. Campbell-Fraser, Hendon, N.W.4, “Hendon Black Gama,” 2; Mrs. A.K. Higginbottom, “Chloe,” 3.
[Longhair] Any colour tabby, male - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Red Sand,” 1.
[Longhair] Any colour tabby, female - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Red Star,” 1; Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Red Light,” 2.
[Longhair] Any other colour, male of female – E.W. Guy, Reigate, Surrey, “Golden Myth of Mayfield,” 1.
[Longhair] Breeders’ any colour, male of female - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Apollo,” 1; Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Blue Lagoon,” 2; E.H. Guy, “Pharmacie fo Mayfield,” 3; Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Red Light,” res.
[Longhair] Novice, any colour, male or female - Messrs. Brown and Wilson,, “Hampstead Apollo,” 1; Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Blue Lagoon,” 2; Mrs. E. Makepeace, Newcastle, “Madge,” 3; Mrs. M.W. Dodds, res.; E.H. Guy, “Pharmacie of Mayfield,” VHC; Mrs. Campbell-Fraser, “Hendon Black Gama,” VHC; Mrs. A.K. Higginbottom, “Chloe,” VHC.
Longhair kittens, blue, under 6 moths – Mrs. A.K. Shirley, Breadsall, Derby, “Joan of Breadsall,” 1; Mts. M. Armstrong, Hounslow, Middlesed, “Sweet Hortense of Hounslow,” 2; M. Ramage, Douglas Water, Lanarkshire, “Douglas Daisy,” and Mrs. E. Averell, Hexham, “Blue Powder,W” equal 3; Miss N.E. Langton, Ponteland, “The Wizard,” res; M. Ramage, Douglas Water, Lanarkshire, “Douglas Again,” VHC; Messrs. Lyon and Taylor, Bridlington, “Blue Atom of Burlington,” VHC; Mrs. M.W. Dodds, Whitley Bay, “Nada the Lily of Whitley,” HC; Mrs. H. Broome, Birstwith, Harrogate, “Dinah of Clint,” HC.
[Longhair] Blue, 6 – 9 months – Mrs. M. Armstrong, “Hiawatha of Hounslow,” 1; E.H. Guy, “Carpathus of Mayfield,” 2; Mrs. A.K. Higginbottom, “Deliah of Westfield,” 3; Mrs. J. Robinson, New Shildon, Durham, “Lor,” res.; Mrs. Ernest Bull, Leek, Staffs., “Moorland,” VHC.
[Longhair] Tabby, any colour, under 9 months – Mrs. E. Averell, “Red Crest,” 1; Mrs. K. Gilbert, Gateshead, “Foxtrot,” 2; W. Bannister, Blackburn, “Gaiety Girl,” 3; Mrs. K. Gilbert, “Tango,” res.
[Longhair] White and cream, under 9 months – Mrs. E. Averell, “Beauty of Mayfield,” 1; E.H. Guy, “Mont Blanc of Mayfield,” 2; Mrs. E. Averell, “Delphinium of Mayfield,” 3.
[Longhair] Breeders, any colour, under 9 moths – Mrs. M. Armstrong, “Hiawatha of Hounslow,” 1; M. Ramage, “Douglas Daisy,” 2; Mrs. Rouet, “Silver Laddie,” and Mrs. Gilbert, “Foxtrot,” equal 3; Mrs. Gilbert, “Tango,” VHC.
[Longhair] Novice, any colour, under 9 months – Mrs. M. Armstrong, “Hiawatha of Hounslow,” 1; Mrs. E. Averell, “Red Crest,” 2; M. Ramage, “Douglas Daisy,” 3; Mrs. E. Averell, “Blue Powder,” VHC; E.H. Guy, “Carpathus of Mayfield,” VHC; Mrs. R. Rouet, “Silver Laddie,” VHC.
Short-haired adults, over 9 months – W. Dinning, Hexham, “Puncher,” 1; Fred Hough, Manchester, “Clayton Monto,” 2; Joseph Dent, Crook, Durham, “White Eagle,£ 3; W. Dinning, “Silversmith,” res.; E.H. Guy, “Brown Emulator of Mayfield,” VHC; R. Kuhnell, Kirkstall, Leeds, “Tip-Top,” HC.
Neuter, any variety – Mrs. E. Averell, “Sunlight,” 1; Miss B.A. Hogarth, Whitleh Bay, “Blue Nick,” 2; Mrs. Collinson, Bensham, Gateshead, 3; Mrs/ A.K. Higginbottom, “William,” res.; Mrs. Gjemre, Gosforth, “Paddy,” VHC.; J. Davidsons, Wallsend, “Tony,” HC.
Brace of cats, any variety, over 9 months - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, 1 and 3; Thomas Ball, Old Ratford, Nottingham, 2.

LOCAL CLASSES
Long-Hair Adults over 9 months.
[Longhair] Blue, male or female - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Apollo,” 1; Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Blue Lagoon,” 2; Mrs. A.K. Higginbottom, “Sheba,” 3; Mrs. F.W. Fenwick, “Scamp,” res.
[Longhair] Any other variety, male of female - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Red Star,” 1; Mrs. Makepeace, “Madge,” 2; Messrs. Brown and Wilson, “Hampstead Red Light,” 3; Mrs. A.k. Higginbottom, “Chloe,” res.
Long-haired kitten, under 9 months – Mrs. A.K. Higginbottom, “Delilah of Westfield,” 1; Mrs. E. Averell, “Blue Powder,” 2; Miss W.H. Siddle, Gosforth, “Prince Edward,” 3; Miss N.G. Langton, “The Wizard,” res.; Mrs. J. Robinson, New Shildon, “Toy,” VHC.
[Longhair] Any other colour, male or female - Mrs. E. Averell, “Red Crest,” 1; Mrs. Gilbert, “Fox trot,” 2; Mrs Gilbert, “Tango,” 3.
Short-haired adults, over 9 months.
Any colour, male or female – W. Dinning, “Puncher,” 1; W. Dinning, “Lady Mavis,” 2; Joseph Dent, Crook, Durham, “White Eagle,” 3; Mrs. Collinson, “Susanna,” res.
Short-haired kittens under 9 months.
Any colour, male or female - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, 1; W. Dinning, 2 and 3; Geo. J. Caygill, Middlesbrough, res.; Mrs. F.W. Fenwick, VHC.
Litter, under 3 months, any variety (not less than 2 kittens) – John Parker, Bensham, Gateshead, 1; Messrs. Brown and Wilson, 2; Mrs. M.W. Dodds, 3; Mrs. J. Robinson, res.
Selling class, any variety, cat or kitten - Messrs. Brown and Wilson, 1 and 3; W. Dinning, 2; Mrs. A. Dryden, Consett, res. and VHC.
Household pets – Mrs. A.K. Higginbottom, “Loki,” 1; Mrs. E. Raynor, Jesmond, 2; Mrs. Gilbert, 3; Mrs. Kipling, Gateshead, res; Mrs. M. Hann, Gateshead, VHC.

1923 NEWBURY CAT CLUB (READING) CAT SHOW

FORTHCOMING CAT SHOW Reading Observer, 7th September 1923
Newbury Cat Club’s eighth championship cat show will be held in Reading Corn Exchange on Tuesday, October 30th next. Last year more than 200 cats were penned and the show was the best in the provinces. All points to this show being even better, but more local entries are wanted. A special class for cats whose owners live in the borough of Reading will be provided, and will be judged by Miss Frances Simpson, the best-known cat expert living. Entries close on October 18th and schedules will be ready on October 1st. So all offers of help should be sent at once to the Hon. Secretary, Mrs Fosbery, Black Nest, Brimpton, Berks.

READING'S GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP CAT SHOW. Reading Observer, 26th October 1923
Entries have now closed for the Grand Championship Cat Show which is to be held at Reading on October 30th. A wonderful entry has been received, and all cat lovers should make a point of attending, as more than 260 exhibits will be penned, including cats from all the best-known catteries in England. Blue Persians will make a great feature, and many kittens being entered at very low sale prices, there is therefore an excellent chance for anyone wanting a cat to get a bargain. The show is open at 12.15, and will close at 7 p.m. The best time for visiting the show is about two o'clock, as the judging for "best in the show" is about three. This is much the largest show held outside London since the war.

GREAT SUCCESSES BY A CARDIFF CAT. MRS CRESSWELL’S “STAR OF WALES” AT NEWBURY SHOW. Western Mail, 31st October 1923
Mrs. F. P. S. Cresswell, of Windsor-place, Cardiff. had remarkable successes at the Newbury Cat Show at Reading on Tuesday. Her white Persian male kitten, "Star of Wales," took one first prize, two special prises, two second prizes, two third prizes, two reserve prizes, and one very highly commended.

A PRIZE-WINNING CAT. Burnley News, 10th November 1923
At Reading Championship Cat Show, held Oct. 30th, Mrs. James Holmes, Reedley Crescent, entered her Siamese cat, "Hyang-Hi," and was awarded two firsts and a championship certificate. He won under two different judges.

1923 CROYDON CAT SHOW

CROYDON CAT SHOW. FIVE HUNDRED PUSSIES STAGED. ENGLAND’S BIGGEST EXHIBITION. SOME LOCAL SUCCESSES. Croydon Times, 17th November 1923
Five hundred cats, some coming from as far away as Scotland, were staged in the Croydon Cat Club championship show, which was held at the Central Baths Hall, Scarbrook-road, Croydon, on Wednesday last. It is claimed that the show is the largest of its kind ever held in this country. Formed four years ago, the club’s growth has been mushroom-like. From a few cages exhibited at the Croydon and District Farmer’s Show the club has developed into a show of national importance, and cats are now exhibited at its annual show from all over the country. There were over 1,050 entries, the largest number that has ever been received in the Club’s shows. Altogether there were 160 different exhibitors, and out of this number eleven were local people. There were 153 different classes, apart from a long list of special classes.

Some of the cats which came from distant parts of the country arrived over night and spent the night in their cages in the Baths Hall. The exhibits, in fact, were arriving night and day. The staging of the various exhibits was in itself quite a work of art. The cats reposed in wire cages, and were lined round the hall. In some cages, arrogantly holding court, were cats with such names as Hiawatha of Mayfield, Paula of Allington, Golden Myth of Runnymede, and Champion Chelsea Twilight. At least one cat had risen from humble surroundings. This was Lady Alexander's Ballochmyle Big Lump, G. Winkles ex Snooky. But most of the other cats were rank aristocrats, and never for one moment did they allow spectators to forget this important fact. Some of the Debrett pussies [allusion is to Debrett’s directory of the Peerage] reclined on rich purple and orange mats, while one Manx cat was in a cage lined with pale blue fabric and with an Isle of Man badge and a piece of white heather above it. Other cats with wonderful coats of greyish hue reclined in their cages looking quite unconcerned of all that was going on about them.

Among the many prizes were awards for the best deep orange eyes in blue long-haired females in a certain class, and also for the “most typical Russian blue female with green eyes.” There was a prize for the best head and expression in Seama [Siamese?] cats, and also for the best eyes in the same breed of cats. Some of the finest cats in the country were to be seen at the show. The short-haired cats have come to the fore in a wonderful manner, only being a few points behind their long-haired brethren. Siamese were much in evidence, and some of the kittens in this particular class were a very popular feature of the show. There were only about half a dozen Abyssenean [sic] cats on show, but some of them were marvellous specimens of their kind. The Manx cat attracted a goof deal of attention, as also did the Russian blues. There was hardly a breed of cats that was not exhibited.

A novel feature of the show was a Genet cat from West Africa, which was exhibited by Dr. Noel Alder, of Brighton. This curious looking animal is fourteen inches long, and its tail is as long as its body. Its coat, of a greyish colour, is covered with black spots. This cat sleeps in the daytime and works of a night.

Most of the local exhibitors were confined to the classes open to domestic pets. Local successes in the open classes included Mrs. Carew Cox, of Addiscombe, who carried off first and second prize in the class open to Abysseneans, male or female. Mrs Saunders was another local successful exhibitor. Miss Hill Shaw (secretary) carried off the championship in the class open to Manx cats with her beautiful Firchley Boy of Codemuir [Finchley Boy of Cademuir]. Other local exhibitors were Mrs. Anderson, Miss Clark, Mrs Elmslie, Miss Fauler, Mr. Hodges, Miss Read, Miss Rose, Mrs. Saunders, Miss Shaw, and Miss Williams. The officials were as follows: President – Dr. Noel Alder; Committee – Mrs. Carew Cox, Mrs. Hill, Miss Adams, Miss Perkins, Miss Langston, Miss M. Perkins, and Miss Atkinson; Chairman – Major E.S. Woodiwiss, M.B.E.; Hon. Secretary – Miss H. hill Shaw; Hon. Treasurer – Miss M. Hill Shaw; Hon. Vet. Surgeon – Mr. Frank Wooff, M.R.C.V.S. (London), Whitgift Street, Croydon; Judges – Miss F. Simpson, Mrs. Gertrude Taylor, U.S.A., Mrs. Marion Oran, Miss Adams, Mr. S. Woodiwiss, mr F. Western, and Mr F. Norris.

LORDLY CATS Daily Herald, 21st November 1923
Everybody who is susceptible to feline charms should make a point of visiting a cat show. I am, and did, and was thrilled by the galaxy of beauty on the benches. The cages contained all sorts and sizes, from our friend and consoler - the hearthrug tabby - to the silky chinchilla and the short-coated, terrier-faced Siamese. The hall was hot, odorous, and crowded with critics, passing lingeringly from cage to cage. Some were merely cat adorers murmuring dulcet “did-e-was-a-s" over dl the exhibits; others were stern, implacable experts, out for blood and money forgathering in groups, note-book in hand, discoursing on family trees - or should I say tiles? But to one and all, the occupants of the cages evinced the same ineffable calm.

Curled round or crouched among the straw litter, they took things as they came with an inward shrug. If anyone wishes to learn how to endure the rigours of misfortune, waiting serenely for what the future may provide, let them visit a cat show. Some of the cages had been draped and cushioned in becoming colour schemes, others were merely furnished with a handful of straw, but in each case the tenant showed the same sublime indifference. There had been protests earlier in the proceedings. I'm sorry to confess it, but truth will out, and when I approached the official table, surrounded by the inner circle of experts, I could not fail to observe that the hands of the judges, jotting down entries in stud books, wore an epidemic of scratches. Perhaps that was why when, as I paused before a chinchilla Persian and murmured, in a voice husky with admiration. "Did they then, my beauty; did they then?” one of the calm, glorious, contemplative eyes half closed in a wink, expressing the eloquent rejoinder, "Yes, but so did we." – Jessie Pope.

[CROYDON CAT SHOW] LOCAL CHAMPION CAT. Newcastle Evening Chronicle, 22nd November 1923
At the recent Croydon Cat Show, a male blue Persian, “Hampstead Apola,” the property of the well-known red and blue Persian breeders, Messrs. Brown and Wilson, local butchers, brought more honours to Tyneside. Among competitors from far and near, this cat, which is as big as a terrier and weighs 14 lbs, took first prizes in each of the five classes shown, and in addition obtained many specials. He was also reserve in the judging for the best cat in the show. When shown by Messrs. Brown and Wilson for the first time at Newcastle show last month, he was awarded Dr. Bennett’s Silver Challenge Cup for the best cat bred by exhibitors, in addition to first prizes and special mentions.

1923 CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW

BLUE AND YELLOW. Gloucester Citizen, 1st December 1923
A white Manx cat, with different-coloured eyes, one blue and one yellow, will be one of the novel exhibits at the National Cat Show at the Crystal Palace.

YELLOW-EYED CAT. Daily Mirror, 1st December 1923
White Manx Novelty at Crystal Palace and a Rare Tortoiseshell. One of the most interesting exhibits at this year's National Cat Show, which opera at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday’ will be a white Manx recently imported from the Isle of Man. it has different coloured eyes, one being blue and the other yellow. A male tortoiseshell will be another novelty. Nearly every tortoiseshell born is a female, and the present male specimen is only the second shown in the last ten years.

[ NATIONAL SHOW AT CRYSTAL PALACE ] Hull Daily Mail, 1st December 1923
A novelty at the National Cat show . . . a tortoiseshell tom-cat will another novelty. Nearly every tortoiseshell born is a tabby, and the present male specimen is only the second shown in the past ten years. [In common parlance, “tabby” meant a female cat regardless of colour.]

FELINE STARS ON SHOW Birmingham Daily Gazette, 6th December 1923
Unlike prize dogs, prize cats evidently lead frugal and unpampered lives, for at the National Cat Club Show, opened at the Crystals Palace yesterday, only one of the 300 valuable exhibits had the comfort of a rug, the others having to be content with straw beds. The possessor of the rug was a lovely Chinchilla Persian wearing the bored expression of thoroughbred, and showing a gorgeous silver coat above a wrap of turquoise blue. The stern label, “Not to be fed,” was hung on the cages of most of the champions, and for the others there were dishes of raw meat.

Blue Persians with coats like the finest lynx are the most fashionable cats of the moment. They comprised one third of the entries, and “Misty Morning,” a champion of their class, is valued at 100 guineas. The most remarkable cat in the show is a pure white Manx – the tailless breed of ancient lineage whose origin is “wrapt in mystery.” Manx cats of this colour are of great rarity and the present specimen, which is owned by Miss Cochrane, was recently imported direct from the Isle of Man. Its coat colour is, however, not the only remarkable feature possessed by this cat. It also has odd eyes – one optic being blue and the other yellow.

Another of unusual interest is Tom Noddy, a fine tortoiseshell male. Tortoiseshell cats are not, of course, especially uncommon, but they are almost invariably of the female sex, the male representative of the variety being sandy in colour. In the course of the last thirty years only one tortoiseshell of the masculine gender has appeared on the show bench.

Six Canadian cats came over to the show, but only three withstood the effects of the Atlantic voyage. One was a radiant blue Persian, who spent most of his time buried in the straw of his cage. Among the very excellent entries of Siamese cats, the most intelligent breed of all, was a champion who greeted his owner as soon as he entered the room, with a deep-voiced “Meow.”

1 MOUSE, 300 CATS. CRYSTAL PALACE DRAMA OF CAGED FURY AND IMPUDENCE. PRIZE THAT NONE WON. Daily Mirror, 6th December 1923
[Evidently a “slow news” day!] A mouse which had evidently lost its way at the Crystal Palace yesterday had the fright of its life. While searching for its wife and family it turned suddenly into the concert room and came face to face with three hundred cats. There were tabby cats, tortoiseshell cats, black cats, grey cats, white cats, blue cats, Persian cats and Manx cats, all expert and experienced mousers, who at the invitation of the National Cat Club had come to contest for prizes. Such a prize as this wretched little creature, which blinked in dazed bewilderment at the “nightmare of a mouse," had never occurred to them, and as soon as he was spotted by six hundred ferocious eyes a blood-hungry howl went up which sent a shiver through all the mice in the Crystal Palace. For a little while the mouse searched hurriedly for a hole; then, sitting in a corner, patiently prepared for approaching death, it slowly dawned upon him that the cats were all in cages. The position was, of course, unique for any mouse, and he must be forgiven if he smiled behind his paws as he washed his face with leisurely impudence. At this piece of effrontery the fury of the cats was dreadful to see. They clawed at their prison bars and spat heartily in the faces of the judges, and when the mouse, with a smirk curling round its whiskers, walked boldly up to the cage of the largest and fiercest Persian the pandemonium was deafening. There is no doubt that a wonderful story was told over a cheese supper in many a mousehole last night.

CAT WITH ODD EYES Hartlepool Northern Daily Mail, 6th December 1923
The 34th Championship Show of the National Cat Club at the Crystal Palace yesterday attracted 780 entries. Novelties included a pure white Manx, . . . and Tony, a gigantic tabby of the short-haired type, which during its twelve years of life has collected a large sum for charity. The cat with the highest price ticket was probably Captain Cuttle, a blue Persian, valued by its owner at £200. Three exhibits came from Canada. The rare specimen of a tortoiseshell Tom cat, to which reference has already been made in the “Echo” also attracted attention.

RED TABBY WINS. Hartlepool Northern Daily Mail, 6th December 1923
Any mouse foolhardy [. . . ] There were charmers of Persian ancestry reclining on soft silken cushions; Siamese cats, with short soft coats and wearing chic collars; cats from Russia, cats from Canada, and some from the Isle of Man. One large red tabby was adjudged the best cat in the show, while a white Manx cat with eyes of two different colours was easily the most talked of exhibit. The most fashionable breed is the blue Persian. One these came especially from Canada for the show.

NOVELTIES AT CHAMPIONSHIP CAT SHOW. Western Morning News, 6th December 1923
Novelties at the championship show of the National Cat Club at the Crystal Palace yesterday included a pure white Manx cat belonging Miss Cockerel, which possesses one yellow eye and one blue one, and Tony, a gigantic tabby of the short-haired type, which during its 12 years of life has collected a considerable sum for charity. There is also a tortoiseshell male, a very rare specimen. According to some fanciers a cat of this kind has not been exhibited for 30 years.
Local Awards.
Long-haired cats, not under 9 months - Any colour, limit, except blue - 3, Miss F. Litton, Exeter.
Siamese female - 3, Miss Ruby Cooke, Teinmouth..
Siamese breeders – 1, Miss Ruby Cooke.
Siamese veteran, over 4 years – Reserve, Miss Ruby Cooke.
Short-haired kittens, under 9 months, any variety-2, Miss Hunt, Plymouth.

CAT'S EYES. Gloucester Citizen, 6th December 1923
In connection with the statement that a cat shown at the annual championship cat show at Crystal Palace was distinguished by having eyes of two different colours, Mr. Albert Windo, of 12, Counsell-street, Kingsholm, informs us that he possesses a large pure white cat about two years of age that has the same peculiarity. One of its eyes is quite yellow and the other blue.

NOVELTIES AT CHAMPIONSHIP, CAT SHOW. Western Morning News, 6th December 1923
LOCAL AWARDS: Long-haired cats, not under 9 months - Any, colour, limit, except blue - 3, Miss F. Litton, Exeter.
Siamese female - 3, Miss Ruby Cooke.
Siamese breeders – 1, Miss Ruby Cooke.
Siamese veteran, over 4 years – Reserve, Miss Ruby Cooke.
Short-haired kittens, under 9 months, any variety - 2, Miss Hunt, Plymouth.

ODDITIES IN CATS Aberdeen Press and Journal, 6th December 1923
Cat-breeding as hobby growing in popularity. That why there are 300 cats on show by the National Cat Club at the Crystal Palace, including three brought specially over from Canada. Of course, they are all animals much prized by their owners, as they might well be a when it is remembered that one of those on view is valued at £200. That is a blue Persian, which seems to be the most popular breed outside of the ordinary hearth-rug cat. It is quite an entertaining pastime to saunter round the benches and see what to the ordinary person must be regarded as oddities . . . .

NATIONAL CAT CLUB SHOW The Scotsman, 6th December 1923
The following were Scottish awards at the National Cat Club's thirty-fourth Championship show, held yesterday at the Crystal Palace, London.
Long-Haired Cats, not under nine months, red, self, or shaded, male or female - Reserve, Mrs Graham Coltart, Kilcreggan.
Long-Haired Cats, not under nine months, any colour, stud - 3, Mrs Bowman, Newton-on-Ayr.
Long-Haired Cats, not under nine months, tortoiseshell or tortoise and white - Reserve, Mrs Bowman.

CARDIFF PRIZE CATS Western Mail, 6th December 1923
The following were among the awards at the National Cat Club Show at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday:-
Long-haired kittens, under nine months, white male – 3rd and reserve, Mrs Cresswell, Cardiff.
Pairs, except blue – Reserve, Mrs Cresswell.

Leamington Spa Courier, 6th December 1923
At the National Cat Club Show at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday, Miss Beaven’s long-haired blue kitten, “Greyfriars Jill,” was awarded the second prize in the class for kittens under five months old. “Greyfriars Jill” is one of a remarkable litter which one many prizes at the Newbury Championship Cat Show in October last.

[LOCAL WINNER] Leamington Spa Courier, 7th December 1923
At the National Cat Club Show at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday, Miss Beaven’s long-haired blue kitten, “Greyfriars Jill,” was awarded the second prize in the class for kittens under five months old. “Greyfriars Jill” is one of a remarkable litter which won many prizes at the Newbury Championship Cat Show in October last.

CATS ON SHOW Norwood News, 7th December 1923
The Cat Show at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday and Thursday attracted many visitors. The local exhibitors were comparatively few. Among the prize takers were:
Class 101 (any colour, long-hair) – 1, Mrs Adlington, Melfort-road, Thornton Heath.
Class 100 (blue long-hair neuter classes – Mrs Babb, Dilwara, Briar-avenue, Norbury (reserve).
Class 359 (white female) – 2, Mrs Dillon, Royston-road, Penge.
Class 56 – Mrs Dillon (reserve)
Class 108A – 3, Mrs Dillon.
Class 37 – 2, Mrs Logan, Downton-avenue, Streatham.
Class 79 (tortoiseshell) – 2, Miss F. Moore, Crystal Palace Station-road.
The exhibition was regarded as a fine one.

[LOCAL WINNER] Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate & Cheriton Herald, 8th December 1923
Local successes at Crystal Palace Cat Show – Mrs Conran, champion, 4 1st’s, 3 2nd’s, and 5 special prizes; Miss Mumford 1 1st, 3 3rd’s, Special prize, also winner at Croydon, 2nd, 2 3rd’s.

PRIZEWINNING CATS Middlesex County Times, 8th December 1923
Mrs Spencer-Smith, 138, Argyle-road, west Ealing, and Mr. C. J. Daniel, 29 Mount Park-crescent, Ealing, were successful exhibitors in the 34th Championship Show of the National Cat Club, held at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday and Thursday. Mrs Spencer-Smith obtained three third-class and one reserve for her longhaired, white, female kitten, "Snowdrift," and exhibited a long-haired black female kitten, "Black Pearl." Mr. Daniel won awards for two of his several exhibits, namely, a second and a third prize for his blue female "Atalanta," and two firsts, one second, and two thirds for his long-haired kitten "Gentleman.”

LOCAL SUCCESS Surrey Mirror, 14th December 1923
It is interesting to note in connection with the Great National Cat Show at the Crystal Palace last week, that Mr. Ernest Henry Guy, of “Mayfield,” Blackborough-road, Reigate, constituted a world’s record as an exhibitor, his cats being awarded 54 prizes. The awards included 13 first prizes, 14 second. 17 third, five reserves and 15 special prizes, which included the Welburn Memorial Bowl for the best short-haired cat in the show, the Harrison Weir challenge trophy, the Rotherham challenge bowl, and the Black and White Club’s challenge bowl. Mr. Guy was also awarded the first and second prizes in the champion class, and a silver-mounted yellow rosette for the best cat in the show.

PRIZEWINNING CATS Middlesex County Times, 15th December 1923
Mr. C. J. Daniel. 29. Mount Park-crescent, Ealing, won sixteen prizes at the Championship Show of the National Cat Club at the Crystal Palace last week. He was awarded five first prizes, nine special prizes, and one second prize for his seven-months-old long-haired blue Persian "Gentleman," and a third prize for his blue female Atalanta," which together were awarded first prize for the best pair of kittens shown by one competitor.

[LOCAL WINNER] West Sussex Gazette, 20th December 1923
Mr E.H. Guy, of Blackborough-road, Reigate, who is regarded by Americans as the “Cat King,” was awarded no fewer than 54 prizes at the National Cat Show. Several of his valuable cats, which have realised big prices, have been shipped to America.

1923 REGIONAL SHOWS

POULTRY SHOW AT INNERLEITHEN. Southern Reporter, 25th January 1923
The Innerleithen Ornithological Society held their twenty-ninth annual exhibition and competition in the Drill Hall on Saturday. . .
Cat or kitten, long-haired- 1, Mrs F. Fairley; 2, J. S. Waugh; 3, Mrs Mackay.
Cat or kitten, short-haired – 1, Harrowers Bros.; 2, Mrs Eckford; 3, T. Wilson.

POULTRY SHOW AT THE UNICORN HOTEL Banbury Guardian, 29th March 1923
The Banbury Pigeon Rabbit, Cat and Cage Bird Society held another local show the Unicorn Hotel on Saturday. There were the usual classes, thirty altogether, but a few found no entries, and others were only sparsely filled, yet on the whole it was a creditable exhibition. [No cat results]

BABY AND CAT SHOWS FEATURES OF A NORMANTON GARDEN PARTY Nottingham Journal, 21st May 1923
Unfavourable weather largely affected the attendance and entries at a garden party held in the Normanton-on-Soar Rectory yesterday afternoon in aid of the funds of the R.S.P.C.A. Features of the party were the baby and cat shows . . . Unusual interest centred round the cats. The Persian variety prize went to Mrs Hamilton; in the other class Mrs Harvey and Mr T. Wobbley were successful.

TYNESIDE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY Shields Daily News, 9th July 1923
Tyneside Agricultural Society Annual Show, Monday August 6, 1923 (Bank Holiday) . . . Open Classes in all Sections . . . Poultry, Cats, Rabbits and Cavies.

HAMBROOK HOSPITAL. POPULAR GARDEN FETE. Western Daily Press, 4th June 1923
A garden fete in aid of the Hambrook Village Hospital new ward was held at Whites' Hill, Hambrook, Saturday, in Dr. Crossman's spacious garden and grounds.
Male cats - 1, Mrs Gilbert James.
Female cats - 1, Miss Ina Mirehouse.
Second-class - Alice Wicks.

THURLOW AND DISTRICT FLOWER & POULTRY SHOW Bury Free Press, 7th July 1923
Thurlow and District Flower & Poultry Show will be held Saturday, July 7th and will include. . . Poultry, Rabbits, Pigeons, Cats and Ferrets . . . Gates open 12.30 p.m. Admittance 1/- (including tax), Children Half-price. Entries close: Poultry, etc., July 2nd; [. . .]

ANNUAL SHOW, CHESTER Staffordshire Advertiser, 21st July 1923
Cheshire Agricultural Society, Federated. Annual Show, Chester, Wednesday, August 29, 1923. . . . Poultry, Pigeons, Cats, Rabbits, and Cavies [. . . ]

WELLS AGRICULTURAL SHOW. Western Daily Press, 9th August 1923
[Cat judge - A. T. Parsons.] [Although there were cat classes, no results were given for any of the small animal classes]

EGGLESTON AGRICULTURAL SHOW. Penrith Observer, 28th August 1923
Saturday, September 15th, 1923. For the Exhibition of . . . Poultry, Pigeons, Cats, Rabbits, . . . Lovely Scenery. Amusements, &c. Entries Close September 1st.

MARNHULL SHOW Western Gazette, 31st August 1923
The annual horticultural and industrial show for the parishes of Marnhull, Fifehead Magdalen, Stour Provost, Todber, Stour Row, and Manston was held in the Recreation Ground on Wednesday.
Cats – 1, Miss Lena Rose.

KINROSS POULTRY SHOW Arbroath Guide, 27th October 1923
At Kinross Poultry Show, D.C. Gauldie, Arbroath, gained . . . third for Russian blue cat.

INVERURIE POULTRY SHOW. Aberdeen Press and Journal, 11th December 1923
Tilts annual arranged the Inverurie Poultry, Pigeon, Rabbit, and Cage Bird Association was held the Drill Saturday. . . . The exhibits ware of a high order, and were drawn from a wide radius. In some the sections competition was keen. . . .
Cats - Mrs M. Armstrong, Hounslow; Margaret Mann, Saphockl Cottage; Janet Clark, Inverurie.

WRINGTON POULTRY SHOW. Western Daily Press, 15th December 1923
The Wrington and District Fanciers' Association twentieth exhibition of poultry, pigeons, rabbits, cats, and cage birds, open to residents within a radius of five miles of the parish church, took place yesterday in the large warehouse of Messrs Organ Bros., Ltd., Wrington.. . . The long-haired cats provided close contest, and if the second prize-winner could have been handled by the judge there might have been different placing. One or two of the kittens were of outstanding quality, and should go far.
Long hair - 1, W. Parsons; 2, Miss E. Houlding; 3, R. Stride.
Short hair - 1, Mrs J. Hancock; 2, Mrs R. D. Buttell; 3, Mrs E. Bond.
Kitten, long hair - 1, Mrs G. Taylor; 2 and 3, Mrs R. D. Buttrell.
Kitten, short hair - 1, P. F. Wear; 2, Miss Joan Pope; 3, J. Vowles.
Silver challenge cup for best cat or kitten in the show - Mrs J. Hancock.
Judge, Mr Jack Hooper.

POULTRY SHOW AT INNERLEITHEN. Southern Reporter, 27th December 1923
The Innerleithen Ornithological Society held their thirtieth annual exhibition in the Drill Hall, Innerleithen, Saturday. The competition was as hitherto confined to the counties of Peebles and Selkirk, and the burgh of Galashiels.
Cat or kitten, long haired - 1, T. Forsyth; 2, A. Doherty; 3, M. Campbell.
Short haired – 1, T. Wilson; 2, Mrs R. Thomson; 3. L. Hogg.