REPORTS FROM EARLY BRITISH CAT SHOWS (1877)

1877 NORTHAMPTON CAT SHOW

POULTRY, PIGEON, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW. Northampton Mercury, 17th February 1877
On Wednesday and Thursday last the eighth annual show of poultry, pigeons, rabbits, and cats took place in the Corn Exchange. [. . .] The show of cats was fair, the long-haired animals being in the largest numbers. There was a class for tabbies, which was well filled. There was [sic] some fine animals in all the classes, many of them being old prize-takers.
Cats. Class 85.—Long Hair, any colour, male, any age, Ist, 15s., Mr. G. Owen, Holloway ; 2nd, 10s., Mr. E. Cumpston, Pitsford; 3rd, 5., Mr. T. Weightmm, London. Very highly commended, Mr. J. Ward, Northampton; Mr. J. Brockliss, Moreton Pinkney ; Mr. Neep, Dallington. Highly commended, Mr. W. Walker, Warwick; Mrs. Serjeant, Kingsthorpe; Mr. L. Woodhouse, Harrold; Mrs. W. Spencer, Earls Barton ; Mr. T. Digby, Chapel Brampton; Mrs. E. Clarke, Huddersfield. Commended, Mr. D. Griffith, Northampton ; Mr. W. Bradley, Cransley; Mr. J. Boyson, Northampton ; Mr. J. Horsey, Northampton; Mr. A. Bedford, Leamington ; Mr. J. Dalton, Northampton; Mr. C. Berry, Tetford.
Class 86.—Long hair, any colour, female, any age, 1st, 15s., Mrs. E. Clarke; 2nd, 10s., Mrs. Faulkner, Northampton; 3rd, 5s., Mr. J. Howard, Northampton. Very highly commended, Mrs. A. Newton, Northampton. Highly commended, Mr. R. Pudd, Peterborough ; Mr. H. Hawkinson, Kimbolton; Mr. E. Robinson. Commended, Miss Rose, Cransley Hall; Mr. H. Beeby, Loughborough.
Class 87.—Tabbies, any shade, male or female, any age, 1st, 15s., Mr. F. Wright, Rugby ; 2nd, 10s., Mr. T. Weightman ; 3rd, 5s., Mr. S. Dean, Towcester. Very highly commended, Mr. R. Kitchen, London ; Mr. D. B. Smith. Highly commended, Mr. J. Clarke, Oundle ; Mr. W. Reeve, Wellingborough ; Mr. E. Williams, Mr. T. N. Gilbert, Leicester. Commended, Mr. A. Orton.
Class 88.— Any variety or colour, not before mentioned, male or female, any age, 1st, 15s., Mr. H. Hancock, Northampton; 2nd, 10s., Mrs. Slater, Northampton; 3rd, 5s., Mr. L. Gill, London. Very highly commended, Mr. J. Goodall, Northampton; Mr. J. Freear, Northampton ; Mr. C. Henshaw, Northampton. Highly commended, Mr. C. G. Chambers, Mr. T. Love, Mr. A. Orton, Mr. A. Tregenza, Dallington Moors; Mr. L. Gill, London; Mr. F. Mitchell, Stockholme ; Mr. H. Earl. Commended, Mr. T. Plumb, Mr. E. Warren, Bilston; Mr. C. Betts, Northampton ; Mr. J. Brazier, Kingsthorpe.

1877 NEWPORT CAT SHOW

NEWPORT DOG, CAT AND CAGE BIRD SHOW Monmouthshire Merlin, 4th May 1877
The second Dog, Cat and Cage Bird Show was held at Newport, on Thursday last [. . .] The cat show did not present any features of special interest.
Class 1 - Tabbies. Short-haired, any variety–First prize £1, Mr T. Weightman's Tiger; 2nd, 5s., Mr B. Burge's Kitty; Mr J. Dennis' Lion, and Mr Dines' Tom highly commended.
Class 2 - Tabbies. Long-haired, any variety – No entries.
Class 3 - Tortoiseshell. Any variety–Second prize 5s., Mr W. Williams' Patchwork; Mr E. Taylor's Kitty highly commended; Mrs Walters and Mrs E. Phillips' Puss commended.
Class 4–Persian, or Angora–First prize £1, Mr T. Weightman's Mistletoe; 2nd, 5s., Mrs E. Martin's Minnie; Miss A. Lyne's Fatimus highly commended.
Class 5–For the best Litter of Kittens. Any variety under six months old–First prize £1, Mr J. T. Enstone; 2nd, 5s, Mrs Gratrex; Mr W. Hunt and Mr J. E. Williams commended.
Class 6–For the best Cat of any other variety–Second prize, 5s., Mr C. Whitehouse's Sambo; Mr E. Davies' Menny highly commended.–First prize witheld.

NEWPORT DOG AND CAT SHOW. South Wales Daily News, 8th May 1877
There was an unusually attractive show held at the Newport Cattle Market on Thursdav, of dogs, cats and cage-birds. It was the second annual exhibition of its kind. Considerable improvement was this year made in the arrangements of the show, and particularly in the cat and cage-bird department. [. . .] Only 30 cats were entered for exhibition, but among these were several specimens of the feline tribe. [. . .] The judges were Mr W. Fothergill, Mr T. Llewellen Brewer and Mr C. E. Lewis.
CATS. Tabbies (short-haired, any variety). - 1st prize £1, Mr T. Weightman: 2nd 5s, Mr R, Burge.
Tabbies (long- haired, any variety). - 1st prize £ 1, Mr G. Owen.
Tortoiseshell (any variety). - 2nd prize 5s, Mr W. Williams.
Persian, or Angora.—1st prize £1, Mr T. Weightman; 2nd 5s, Mrs E. Martin.
For the best litter of kittens (any variety, under six months old). - 1st prize £1, Mr J. T. Enstone; 2nd 5s, Mr J. E. Williams.
For the best cat of any other variety. - 2nd prize 10s, Mrs C. Whitehouse.

1877 BRISTOL AND CLIFTON CAT SHOW

THE CAT SHOW AT THE DRILL HALL. Western Daily Press, 4th July 1877
As yet there is a certain amount of novelty attaching to a cat show, the owners of this class of pets have not yet been induced to allow them to be sent to exhibition for three or four days to the same extent that owners of dogs and poultry have been persuaded to adopt that course. However, for a second show that is now being held at the Drill Hall is a most creditable one; and although numerically speaking, it may be considered below what ought be produced in large city like Bristol, it must be remembered that at the exhibition held last week at the Westminster Aquarium there were not more than about 150 entries; so that our local show with its seventy entries is not so insignificant as it may at first appear. But while there may be some doubt as to the success of the show, looking merely at the number of the entries, every visitor will agree that as far the quality of the animals is concerned there is no room for complaint. The cats are lodged in Turner's improved pens, and it is remarkable to observe the care that has been taken to provide tor their comfort during their temporary absence from home. In the majority of cases the temporary habitations have been furnished with soft cushions, and as an instance of the affections which some owners entertain for their pets, one or two persons declined to allow their animals to remain at the show, simply because the pens were not large enough to receive the cushions or beds that had been provided. The pets, however, do not in every instance , appreciate the kindness that has been shown them, for instead of using the cushions for the purpose for which they are provided, some of them utilise them as a covering wherewith to shield themselves from the public gaze.

Glancing at the animals in the order in which they are numbered in the catalogue, we come first to the male “blacks" (short-haired), which number four, and are a very good class. Mr J. Lockyer takes the first prize with a handsome creature, large, with good ears, and Mr Sibley’s is also a very good cat, but does not show himself sufficiently. In the female class there is only one entry, but Miss Pearce’s cat is worthy recipient of first honours, and looks very handsome as she reclines on her neatly-made cushion. In the classes for "whites" there are only two entries - both males - and only one of these is considered worthy of a prize, namely, that shown by Mr Pool, which is a good cat, but ought to be a little cleaner. The “tabby" male class is an excellent one, comprising no less than sixteen animals and the number of commendations given indicates a close competition. A very grand cat is that exhibited by Miss Mercer, and a strong proof of its merits is afforded by the fact that he was one of the three selected for the silver cup. Mr A. Belfield's cat deserves a prize, and that shown by Mr Bowles is a very good specimen but is smaller than the two previously mentioned, and does not show himself well. One or two the in this class have too much white about them, otherwise they might have been included in prize list.

The female tabbies are not so good as the males, and only one of the animals shown is deemed worthy of a prize in the estimation of the judge. In the male class for “any other colour or marking” there are thirteen entered, but owing to some misapprehension one two of the animals entered are tabbies. The prize goes to a large tiger-coloured cat, owned by Miss S.L. Tyndall. He has a good whole colour, and , the only defect noticeable is an consistency about the eyes, which should correspond as near as possible with the colour of the cat. Between the second prize taker and the two animals which are highly commended there is close competition, but Mr Baker’s cat shows himself off to the greatest advantage. The animal shown by Miss Kidner is as yet rather small, but he has a good eye and may probably occupy a more favourable position at another show. The female class comprises five entries, and the first prize is awarded to a very good tortoiseshell cat with a kitten, belonging to Mr E. Foxon. Mr Wheare’s' cat is also a tortoiseshell, but she has not so good colour as her more fortunate competitor. An animal exhibited by Mr Keough was, perhaps, the best colour of any in the class, but she is poor about the head, and does not look at all happy; there is also not so much style about her as is noticeable in the prize takers.

We come now to the long-haired cats, and, with regard to these, a departure from the pure breed is in some instances noticeable. In the class for white or black males, first honours are awarded to a nice white cat, but he seems to have an objection to show himself more than absolutely necessary, and has a habit of getting under his bed instead of upon it. No second is awarded, the only other animal exhibited, though in some respects a good animal, wears too short hair to come up to the character of a longhaired cat. The female class, although comprising only three entries, is noticeable for including one of the best specimens in the show, namely, that exhibited by Mr E. Lane, which takes the first prize. She is a handsome white Persian cat and possesses a pair of eyes of a rich blue colour. No other animal in the class can compete with her, and although Mr Knowland's cat has a very handsome look, the judge, although highly commending her, did not think her deserving a prize. Mr Lane's was also one of the three animals referred to as having been selected for the silver cup.

The male tabby class, in which there are four entries, includes a nicely marked cat, belonging to Mr Andrews. This animal took the silver cup last year, but this year he is considered to be fairly beaten by the cat shown in the male class of “any other colour marking,'' by Mr S. Mills, of Weston-super-Mare. The latter is undoubtedly one of the most perfect specimens of his class; his colour is tabby and white; he has good eyes and ears, and is nicely marked. He also takes the first prize in his class, the second going to a very good red shown by K. Matthews. The females (any other colour or marking) are an excellent class, and out of the seven animals shown five have either received prizes or commendations. Mr Bridgman's, who takes first prize, is a very nicely marked tortoiseshell cat, with long hair, and the second prize taker (Mlss Homfray's) has a good coat, but her colour is bad.

Perhaps it is not too much to say that the kittens form the most interesting feature of the show, for while the old cats, for the most part, lie in their pens, looking as serious as possible, the young ones frisk about, and are ever ready to with those who feel disposed to devote few moments to that purpose. The first prize is awarded to a pair of very fine kittens, belonging to Mr Bridgman, who delight in playing with a ball suspended from the top of the pen; Mr Goldsworth taking second with a pair of very handsome reds, very sharp looking, and exceedingly playful. In the absence of Dr. Gordon Stables who, it will be remembered, officiated as judge at the last show, the judging was this year undertaken by S. Lang, of Henbury, and the post of hon. secretary is filled by Mr E Cambridge, who is also the originator of the show, and who has been most indefatigable in his efforts to make it successful. A brass band under the direction of Mr T. Bigwood is engaged to play during the show, which will be continued till Friday, and is well worth a visit. The weather yesterday was rather unfavourable, and the attendance was somewhat limited; but fine weather for the remaining three days will doubtless ensure for the exhibition a large amount of patronage. Refreshments are supplied in a room adjoining the hail by Mr Brown, of the Drill Hail Restaurant. The following is the PRIZE LIST.

SHORT-HAIRED CATS - Black (male) - 1st, Mr J. Lockyer, Commercial Road, Temple Backs, 3 yrs; 2nd, Mr J. Sibley, 13 Prince Place, Clifton.
Black (femaJe) - 1st, Miss Pearce, the Vicarage, Long Ashton, 2 yrs.
White (male) – 1st, Mr B. Poel, Rownham Lodge, BowerAshton, Ashto, 2 yrs. Commended, Mr C. H. Whereat, Rock Hall Villa, Redland Road, 7 yrs.
White (female) - No competition.
Tabby (male) - 1st, Miss B. Mercer. 6 Belgrave Place, Clifton, 8 years; 2nd, Mr A. Belfield, 6 White Ladies' Road. Highly commended: Mr W. Bowles. St. George's Road, 3 years; commended: Mrs C Richardson, 10, Berkeley Square, 11 years; Mr Richardson, St. Vincent's Hall, Clifton.6 years; Mr W. Shrines, 6 Montague Street, 18 months; Mr J. Bracey, Hallen, Henbury, 2 yrs and Mr A. D. Morton, Totterdown, 2 years.
Tabby (female) - 1st, Mr C. Chandler. Stokes Croft.
Any other Colour or Marking (male) – 1st, Miss S. K. Tyndall, The Fort, 2nd, Mr T. P. Baker, 4, Prospect Cottages, Kingsdown, 3 yrs; highly commended, Mr W. Greening, 12 Alfred Place, Kingsdown, 3 yrs, and Mr T. Overbury, Park street, 6 yrs; commended, Mr W. Welsh, Grand Hotel Vaults, 8 months, and Miss A Kidner, Newton Street, Stapleton Road.
Any other colour or marking (female) – 1st, Mr E. Foxon, 3, Avon Street, St. Philip's; 2nd, Mrs Wheare, Abbot's Leigh, 16 months; highly commended, Mr T. Sheldon, Brislington, 5 yrs.
Long Haired Cats. - White or Black (male) - 1st, Mrs E. Ford, Minor Villa, Kingsley Road; commended, Mrs E. O. Treveiyan, 7. West Mall, Clifton, 3 yrs.
White or black (femaie) - 1st, Mr E. Lane, 5 Byron Place, Triangle, 22 months; highly commended, Mr G. Knowland Jun., Wine Street, 4 yrs.
Tabby male. - 1st, Mr L. Andrews, 29 Morley street, Russell Town, 9 years; 2nd. Mr L Andrews, 8 years: commended, Mr J. Pearce, 10 Queen Parade, Brandon Hill, 21 months.
Tabby, female - 2nd, Mrs Crook, Keynsham, 3 yrs.
Any other colour or marking (male) - 1st and silver cup for best cat in the show, Mr S. Mills, York Hotel, Weston-super-Mare, 4 yrs; 2nd, Mr R. Matthews, 1 Lawrence Hill.
Any other colour or marking (female) - 1st, Mr J. Bridgman, Tyndall's Lodge, Queen's Road, 2 an a half yrs; 2nd, Miss Homfray, Seaton Lodge, Fernbank Road; high y commended, Mr W. Gibbons, Cleeve, Yatton, 4 yrs. Mr G. Knowland Jun., Wine Street, 2 yrs; commended, Mr W. Gibbons, 2 yrs.
Long on Short Haired Cats (any colour). - For the best lot of two or more kittens, not exceeding three months' old - 1st, Mr J. Bridgman, 9 weeks; 2nd, Mr G. H. Goldsworthy, Weston-super-Mare; commended, Mr J. Blunsden, Zoological Gardens, 5 weeks.

WESTON CATS AT THE BRISTOL SHOW Weston Mercury, 7th July 1877
The second cat show was held the Drill-hall, Bristol, on Tuesday, when 70 owners of feline pets were induced to enter their specimens for competition. The show, the whole, was very good, and prominent amongst the prize-takers we notice the names of Mr. Mills, of the York Hotel, and Mr. G. H. Goldsworthy, of High-street—the first-named being awarded first prize (for long-haired cats, any colour, male) and a silver cup for the best cat in the show ; and the latter took the second prize for long or short hair cats, any colour. Mr. Mills' cat is spoken of as being “one of- the most perfect specimens of his class—he has good eyes and ears, and ia nicely marked and Mr. Goldsworthy’s “handsome reds,” although only five weeks old, attracted much attention for their style and show.

A contemporary relates the following amusing relative to the “hopes and fears” on the part of ladies who venture to trust their pet tortoiseshells, tabbies, blacks, whites and reds to temporary residence amongst the colony of cats at the show: “A lady at a distance forwarded a photograph, of ‘her cat and herself,’ with the polite request that the secretary would kindly tell her return of post whether he thought her cat would likely to win. Of course the cat, a great favourite, had been photographed with the lady, and sending the one she was compelled to send the other, or spoil the picture. But the position in which the secretary was placed must have been exceedingly delicate and difficult one. He ventured, however, the story goes, to express his firm conviction that the cat must win, and, as the event turned out, ‘win it did’ and not only in its own class, but we are much mistaken if it is not the remarkably fine puss which earned off the cup awarded by the judge, to ‘the best cat in the show.'”

1877 MANCHESTER CAT SHOW

DOG AND CAT SHOW AT MANCHESTER Liverpool Daily Post, 21st July 1877
The third international dog and cat was opened yesterday morning, at the Royal Pomona Palace and grounds, Manchester, under the most favourable auspices. In number and quality the show was an excellent one. The spacious Agricultural Hall has been specially fitted up for the reception of the animals, and the accommodation is first-class in every respect. The dogs and cats of all classes are comfortably placed, so that they can easily and well seen by the spectators. As shown the catalogue, the total entries number 679, but the animals actually shown slightly exceed that figure. Of cats the entries number 71, including tortoiseshell, brown, blue and silver, red, black, white, and other colours and markings. The exhibitors come from all parts of the United Kingdom.

INTERNATIONAL DOG AND CAT SHOW. Warrington Evening Post, 21st July 1877
The third international dog and cut show was opened yesterday, and will be continued until Tuesday, at the Pomona Gardens, Manchester. Upwards of £650 is offered in prizes, and the promoters of the show have succeeded in bringing together an exceptionally fine collection of animals, including all the well-known breeds, and many specimens of foreign breeds not usually seen in this country. The dogs number about 620, exhibited in 76 classes, while of cats there are 65 entered for competition in 29 classes. The latter form for lady visitors a very popular feature of the show. The exhibitors have evidently bestowed much care and attention upon their feline favourites, and the animals, many of them surrounded by families of thriving kittens, repose upon cushions, and are decorated with ribbons to which, in one or two instances, gold lockets are attached. One cat of unusual size, bearing the name of Faithful Tom, is an object of considerable interest. He is stated to have belonged to one family for eighteen years, and to have made three voyages across the Bay of Biscay. [. . .] First prizes for eats were gained by Mrs. S. J. Lees, Warwick-street, Hulme, Manchester; Mr. Marshfield, jun., Stockport; Mr. George Dews, Greenheys, Manchester.

DOG AND CAT SHOW AT POMONA. DETAILED PRIZE LIST Sporting Chronicle, 24th July 1877
[. . .] Of cats the entries numbered 71, including tortoiseshell, brown, blue and silver, red, black, white, and other colours and markings. [. . .]

SHORT-HAIRED HE-CATS.
Class 77. –Tortoiseshell: Mr. A.O. Eastwood’s “Tom,” first prize, £1.; Mr. John Hurry’s “Totty,” second, 12s 6d.; Mr. Joseph Newland’s “Beauty,” third, 7s 6d.
Class 78. – Brown tabby: Mr. Frederick Wright’s “Tiger,” first prize, £1; Mr. Thomas Weightman’s “Tiger,” second, 12s 6d.; Mr. Albert Justice, third, 7s 6d.; Mrs. Elizabeth Jones’s “Tom,” Very Highly Commended; Mr. William Hadfield’s “Tabby,” Highly Commended; Mr. W. Fitton’s “Dick,” Commended.
Class 79. – Blue or Silver Tabby: Mr. Robert Kitchen’s “Duke,” first prize, £1; Miss H. king’s “Silver King,” second, 12s 6d; Mr. W. Earp’s “Sir Roger,” third, 7s 6d.
Class 80. – Red Tabby: Mrs. W.J. Nichols, first prize, £1.
Class 81. – Black and White: Sarah Jane Lee’s “Tom,” first prize, £1; Mr. W. McKenna’s “Puck,” second, 12s 6d.
Class 82. – Black: Miss H. king’s “Black Prince,” dirst prize, £1; Miss Permerton’s “Sambo,” Very Highly Commended; Mr. Robert Lesley’s “Kettledrum,” Highly Commended.
Class 83. – White: Mr. George Morshfield junr’s “Dick,” first prize £1; Mrs. T.W. minton, Very Highly Commended.
Class 84. – Any other Colour or Marking: First prize withheld; Mr. Thom’s “Allen,” second, 12s 6d.; Miss H. Dawkins’s “Beauty,” third, 7s 6d.

SHORT HAIRED SHE CATS
Class 85. – Tortoiseshell: Mr. E. Horner, first prize, £1; Mr. George Lister, very highly commended; Mr. H.C. Hancock, very highly commended.
Class 86.- Tortoiseshell and White, or Tortoiseshell and Tabby: Mrs. Leonard U. Gill’s “Black Nose,” first prize, £1; Mr. Joseph Newland’s “Minnie,” very highly commended; Mrs Leonard U. Gill’s “White Face,” highly commended.
Class 87. – Brown Tabby, or Brown Tabby and White: Mr. George Dawes’s “Lottie,” first prize, £1; Miss H. King’s “Queen,” highly commended.
Class 89. – Red Tabby, or Red Tabby and White: Mrs. W.J. Nichols, first prize, £1; Mr. Robert Kitching’s “Topsy,” second, 12s 6d.
Class 91. – Black: Miss Pemberton’s “Collie,” first prize, £1.
Class 92. – White: Mr. J. Harris’s “Mrs. Snowball,” first prize, £1; Mr. J. arris’s “Mrs. Snowdrop,” second, 12s 6d.; Mr. F. Staples Browne’s “Snow,” third, 7s 6d.
Class 93. – Any other colour or marking: Mrs. H. Dawkins’s Siamese cat, “Bonam,” first prize, £1.

LONG-HAIRED HE CATS
Class 94. – White: Mr. Thomas Weigtman’s “Mistletoe,” first prize, £1.
Class 96. – Tabby: Mr. George Owen’s “Prince of Wales,” first prize, £1.; Miss. Hodgson’s thoroughbred Persian cat, “Shah,” highly commended; Mr. John Gardiner’s “Jennie,” highly commended.

LONG-HAIRED SHE CATS
Class 98. – White: Miss Sarah Ann Pocock’s “Tina,” first prize, £1; Mr. F. Staples Browne’s she-cat, second, 12s 6d.; Miss A.E. Bryant’s “Balance,” third, 7s 6d.; Mr. F. Bryant’s “Daisy,” highly commended.
Class 99. – Black: Mr. John Gardiner’s “Nellie,” first prize, £1.
Class 100. – Tabby: E. Martin’s “Minnie,” first prize, £1.
Class 101. – Any other Colour or Marking: Miss A.E. Bryant’s “Topsy,” first prize, £1; Mrs. Eyre’s tortoiseshell and white, highly commended.

SHORT-HAIRED CATS. Class 102. – Mr. Thomas J. Pallet’s ”Prince,” first prize, £1.
LONG-HAIRED CATS. Class 103. Mr. John Stevens Pocock’s “Tine,” first prize, £1; Mr. John Stevens Pocock’s Angora she-cat, highly commended.
SHORT-HAIRED KITTEN (under six months). Class 104. – Miss H. King’s “Young Silver,” first prize, £1; Miss Lucy Grant’s “Toby,” highly commended.
GELDED CATS. Class 105. – Mr. E. Unsworth’s “Billy,” first prize, £1; Mr. H. Sadler’s “Trim,” second, 12s 6d.; Mr. Joseph Murphy’s “Tom,” very highly commended; Mr. J.G. Paton’s “Kit,” highly commended.

1877 WESTWARD HO CAT SHOW

DOG AND CAT SHOW AND SHEEP-DOG TRIALS AT WESTWARD HO! North Devon Herald, 30th August 1877
One of the primary novelties now-a-days is the display of cats in conjunction with the other domestic animals that beforetime were displayed in annual exhibitions and there is not the slightest doubt but that this auxiliary lends an additional attraction to such shows. The main object of almost every committee connected with these exhibitions is to introduce a many novelties as they can in order [to] ensure a “draw” in the attendance of visitors; and, in their energy, to cater for the amusements of the inhabitants of North Devon [. . .] Adverting to the cats. Of which, in the aggregate, there were thirty entries, we may state that they were a very interesting show, Mr. Kier (Bideford), taking the first prize for long hairs with “Katinka,” and Mr. Ackland (Bideford), “The Shah,” second. There were eleven entries in the Tabby class, and “Billy,” (Mrs. Murray’s, Bideford) a fine specimen of the feline breed, claimed the “blue,” with Mr. Vellacott’s (Bideford) “Tom” as his companion in honours. Everybody knows that a good tortoiseshell cat is a great attraction, and only four were exhibited here on Wednesday, the first prize falling to Alfred Nutt’s (Barnstaple) “Mina.” The “Any variety” first was won by Mr. A. Kier’s “Tom,” and the second by Mr. G. Paddon’s “Topsy.” The litters of kittens drew many admirers, especially from the younger branches of the visitors, Mr. Hearn’s (Northam) “Sharper” and its offspring, three in number, having the honour of wearing the blue favour [ribbon], Miss Lock’s (Royal Hotel, Westward Ho!) “Jack,” “Jill,” “Jethro,” and “Jessie,” four pretty little creature (so the ladies said) getting second.
Class 1– Long Hair, any colour, male or female, any age, first prize 10s; second 5s. – 1, J L Kier, Fordlands, Bideford, “Katinka;” 2, Dr Ackland, Bridgeland-street, Bideford, “The Shah” Other competitors: Annie Andrew, the Barton Parkham, “Fairy;” W P Vile, Boutport-street, Barnstaple, “Minnie;” W C Murphy, Mill-street, Bideford,” Tom;” William Knill, Unicorn, Pllton, “Sir Roger.”
Class 2. – Tabbies, any shade, male or female, any age, first prize 10s; second 5s. – 1, Mrs M Murray, Bideford, “Billy;” 2 W L Vellacott, High-street, Bideford, “Tom.” Other competitors: Samuel Hearn, Newport Road, Barnstaple, “Young Barum;” Honourable C H D Butler, Town-lake, Tavistock, “The Cadger;” William Richards, Silver-street, Bideford, “Tom;” Miss Ethel Hamilton, Buckley, Westward Ho, “Tommy;” Willis Major Chingswell-street, Bideford, “Puss;” William Keyte, Post Office, Westward Ho, “Pinky;” Alfred Stone, Allhalland-street, Bideford, “Jimmy;” Mrs M C Clarke, Geneva Place, Bideford, “Rose;” Miss Davis, Bath Terrace, Instow, “Pinkie.”
Class 3. - Tortoiseshells, male or female, any age, first prize 10s, second 5s. – 1, Alfred Nutt, Bear-street, Barnstaple, “Mina.” Other competitors: Mrs M J Carter, Mill-street, Bideford, “Dottie;” J Frayne, North-street, Bideford, “Kittie;” H Tucker, Mill-street, Bideford, “Cairo.”
Class 4.– Any variety, or colour, not before mentioned, female, any age, first prize 10s; second 5s. - 1, A Kier, Fordlands, Bideford, “Tom;” 2, G Paddon, Meddon-street, Bideford, “Topsy.” Other competitors: William Ivey, Mill-stree, Bideford, “Dick;” Mrs Sweet, Allhalland-street, Bideford, “Kitty;” Miss Wills, Royal Hotel, Westward Ho, “The Shah;” William Ackland, Church Gate House, Barnstaple “Dick.”
Class 5. – Litters of Kittens, any variety, not exceeding six months, first prize 10s; second 5s. – 1, Miss Betsy Hearn, Northam, “Sharper;” 2, Miss Lock, Royal Hotel, Westward Ho, “Jack,” Jill,” “Jethro,” and “Jessie.” Other competitors: Mrs Carter, Mill-street, Bideford, “Buff” and “Tib.”

1877 CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW

[CRYSTAL PALACE SHOW] Birmingham Mail, 17th October 1877
The annual cat show is being held at the Crystal Palace. In the collection, we are told, there are short-haired cats and long-haired cats, tortoise-shell cats and white cats, brown tabby cats and blue tabby cats, red tabby cats and spotted tabby cats, black cats and white cats, and that almost nondescript animal, an “unusual” colour cat. These varied feline attractions were visited yesterday by 4,119 persons.

THE CAT SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE The Magnet, 22nd October 1877
The ninth annual cat show has been held. It is principally the aristocracy of the feline race which enter into competition at these shows. The present show contained some admirable specimens of Persian and Angora cats. A curiosity among the abnormally formed was a kitten, seven weeks old, with seven toes on each fore foot, six on the right hind foot, and five on the other. There were also short-haired cats and long-haired cats, in all the varieties of tortoiseshell and white, brown tabby, blue or silver tabby, red tabby, spotted tabby, black, white, “unusual” colour, etc.

[CRYSTAL PALACE SHOW] Clare Freeman and Ennis Gazette, 31st October 1877
The cat show at the Crystal Palace is a very good one, some of the animals look like intantine tigers. At this show there is always a goodly collection of ladies, who look as if this event was their only outing in the year, to judge of the careful way in which they are wrapped up, and the unique style of their garments. I have made up my mind that a large number of these cats, appertained to these gentlewomen from the intense interest they were able to take in every “mew.”

CRYSTAL PALACE CAT SHOW Norwood News, 20th October 1877
During the past week the ninth exhibition of cats has been the chief attraction. Again the feline family appeared in solemn and demure state in their cages in the north nave, exhibiting, for the most part, a haughty indifference to the admiration of the general public. It is principally the aristocracy of the race which enter into competition at these shows, The ordinary domestic cat was but sparsely represented. The show, which, if not quite up to the average in quantity, reached the quality of previous ones, containing admirable specimens of Persian and Angora cats. A curiosity among the abnormally formed was a kitten, seven weeks old, with seven toes on each fore foot, six on the right hind foot, and five on the other. In the collection were to be found short-haired cats and long-haired cats, in all the varieties of tortoiseshell and white, brown tabby, blue or silver tabby, red tabby, spotted tabby, black, white, "unusual" colour, &c. Prizes were also offered to working-men for successful exhibits of shorthaired cats. Among the successful exhibitors were the following local names:
Mr. Ackermann, Beckenham-road, Penge; Miss S. Arliss, Anerley; Miss E. Ashby, Anerley; Mr. R. Bailey, Streatham; Miss Blagden, West Hill, Sydenham; Mrs. Bourne, Westwood, Forest Hill; Mr. Brooker, Crystal Palace; Mrs. Caddington, Anerley; Mrs. Couldry, Lower Norwood; Mrs. Dieseldorff, Laurie Park, Sydenham; Miss Dunhill, Upper Norwood; Mrs. Durman, Upper Norwood; Miss Fasken, The Avenue, Upper Norwood; Mrs. Fossett, Gipsy Hill; Mrs. Hargrave, Sydenham Park; Mr. Henty, Union-road, Thornton Heath; Miss Minnie Howard, The Firs, Streatham; Mr. C. Johnston, Sydenham; Mrs. Lambeson, Upper Sydenham; Miss Ulia Linden, Versailles-road, Anerley; Miss Matthie, Gloucester Lodge, Penge; Mrs. Moon, St. Aubyn's-road, Upper Norwood; Miss C. Moore, College-road, Upper Norwood; Mr. H. Neary, Upper Norwood; Mrs. Newton, Woolsthorpe, Gipsy Hill; Mrs. M. A. Noakes, Ringwood Lodge, Beckenham; Mr. R. Norris, Sydenham Hill; Mr. A. Peacock, Beckenham; Mrs. Powell, Lansdowne-road, East Croydon; Mr. A. R. Smith, Hamilton-road, Lower Norwood; Mrs. C. Smith, Hamilton-road, Lower Norwood; Mrs. 'T. Sweeting, Sydenham; Mrs. Trusson , 85, Cemetery- road, Croydon; Miss Tullett, Weston Hill; Miss Warren, Crystal Palace-road, Dulwich; and Miss Young, Central Hill.

CAT SHOW AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE London Evening Standard, 17th October 1877
The ninth annual cat show commenced yesterday at the Crystal Palace, and will be continued to-day and to-morrow. Again the fertile family appear in solemn and demure state in their cages in the north nave, exhibiting, for the most part, a haughty indifference to the admiration of the general public. [. . .] Whether for beauty of colour, or weight of the animals, these collections well repay a visit. The number of visitors yesterday was 4119, of whom 2515 were season ticket holders.

1877 OTHER REGIONAL CAT SHOWS

[1877] JERSEY SHOWS. The Star, 21st March 1876
At a meeting of the committee held in the Town-hall, St. Heiier's, on Friday afternoon, it was decided that the Jersey Dog, Rabbit and Cat Show is to be held on the 23rd and 24th of August, and that the Show of Poultry, Pigeons, and Cage-birds will take place on the 30th of December and on the 1st of January, 1877, when several silver cups and other valuable prizes will be given

THE WANSBECK POULTRY, PIGEON, CAGE BIRD AND CAT SHOW. Morpeth Herald, 21 April 1877
The third annual exhibition of the above was held on Saturday last, in two spacious tents erected in the Terrace, Morpeth, which the Mayor (G. B. Grey, Esq.) kindly placed at the disposal of the committee. The show continues to improve, and the number of entries were 419 in all, or about 109 over those of 1876, a circumstance which speaks most favourably for those who are engaged in its management. The quality of the occupants of the several pens and cages was, also, superior to those shown on any former occasion. [. . .]The cats, which are a great feature in the Wansbeck Show, were represented by some good specimens of 44 Toms" and " Queens," which appeared to excite a deal of admiration among the large number of visitors who so keenly inspected them [Prizes] for cats a cruet stand or butter cooler for first, and for second. In addition to these there were three silver cups and two gold medals given as special prizes. The whole of the above articles were exhibited at the entrance to the show, and formed a very handsome auxiliary thereto, coming in for a good deal of attention. Mr. Enoch Hutton, of Pudsey, Leeds, discharged the very onerous duties of judge in a careful manner.

Cats.—Toms, 1 and gold medal given by Mr. Wright Almond, for best cat in the show; Thomas Weightman, London ; 2, W. G. Bolam, Newcastle hc, Thomas Mofatt, Morpeth; c, William Almond, Sale, Cheshire ; T. Pinkey, Newcastle ; c, Thomas Marshall, Mitford; R. E. Frew; 14 entries.
Queens, 1, M. Nichol, Morpeth; 2, Miss Taylor, Bedlington Colliery; Miss J. Moradue, Bedlington ; 4 entries.
Any other variety, 1, George Owen, London; 2, Thomas Weightman.

WHARFEDALE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. Leeds Mercury, 14th May 1877
The attendance was much better on Saturday than on the previous day [. . .] In entries for cats not classed, the first prize was given to one shown by Mr. Horner, Harewood. It was a tortoiseshell, and has taken several prizes at the Sydenham. Cat Shows. The second place was given to a large grey-line marked cat, shown by Mr. J. Armstrong, Leeds.

RUGBY PIGEON, RABBIT AND CAT SHOW Rugby Advertiser, 9th June 1877
The 4th Annual Exhibition will be held at the Workmen’s Club, Castle Street, on Wednesday and Thursday, June 27th and 28th 1877. Entries close on Wednesday June 13th. Local entries received at the Club house as above; and the Secretary will attend for that purpose on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings June 11th, 12th, and 13th, from 8 o’clock till 9:30. Further Particulars and Schedules, on application to B. Robinson, Hon. Sec, The Lodge, Rugby.

WESTMINSTER SHOW Huddersfield Chronicle, 29th June 1877
The “United Kingdom Exhibition of Cats and Ladies' Pet Dogs” opened on Wednesday, at the Westminster Aquarium. There were no less than 38 classes of cats, in which there were 181 entries. There were 131 entries of dogs, divided into 14 classes.

PIGEON, RABBIT AND CAT SHOW. Leicester Chronicle, 30th June 1877
The fourth annual exhibition of the above in connection with the Workmen’s Club took place on Wednesday and Thursday, and there was a fair attendance of visitors. The entries were far more numerous than on former occasions, and comprised pigeons 170, rabbits 106, cats 15, total entries, 291. Among the exhibits were found some of the finest specimens of domestic pets ever shown, and included the celebrated cat “Tigress,” winner of first prizes at Northampton, Boston, etc.

RUGBY. PIGEON, RABBIT, AND CAT SHOW. Coventry Times, 4th July 1877
This annual show, held in connection with the Workmen’s Rest, was opened on Wednesday, when the exhibits were much more numerous than last year, and the quality of very high character. [. . .] The cats were not numerous, but all the animals had very good points.

HORTICULTURAL, DOG, POULTRY, AND CAT SHOW AT BARNSTAPLE. Western Morning News, 6th July 1877
Barnstaple Market-house makes a capital exhibition hall. Nothing could look nicer or more inviting than this did on Wednesday, when the Barnstaple and North Devon Exhibition of Poultry, Dogs, Cats, Flowers, Birds etc – this is the title on the official catalogue – was held in it. [. . .] There were thirty-six entries of our domestic pets, the first class being for long haired “males,” commonly called “Toms.” There were only three of these, one which came from London to take the first prize. He was evidently a travelled cat and experienced in exhibition work for, notwithstanding his exciting position and the terrifying din caused by the howling of dogs and the crowing of cocks, he was quite cool and collected, with not a hair of his smooth white coal ruffled. Mr. W. P. Vile, of Barnstaple, exhibited the only long haired 'female,” and for this he was awarded first. The tabbies were capital, Barnstaple cats off most of the prizes, the first coins to Mr. Samuel Hearn. The tortoiseshells were not particularly striking. Some litters of kittens were much admired.

[NEWTOWNARDS] SHOW OF CATS Northern Whig, 25th July 1877
A show of cats was held in the same field as the dog show. There were seven classes, and some twenty entries. They were regarded with some degree of curiosity on account of the novelty of the exhibition in this neighbourhood. The judges were Mr J S Skidmore, Nantwich, Cheshire; Mr S Handley, Pendleton, Manchester; MrJ J Pim, Lisnagarvey; and Mr T Sinclair, Moy. The following is the prize list.
Tortoise shell, or tortoise shell and white - 1, James Warden.
Tabby or tabby and white - 1, Wm McAlister.
Black 1, Godfrey Collings; highly commended, Miss Mary Devlin.
Manx - 1, Andrew McCutcheon
Angora or Persian 1 and cup, Leonard D Devlin ; 2, Thomas Montgomery; 3, Miss Lizzie Jamison.
Any other variety - No prize
Pair kittens under four months - 2, Miss Lizzie Jamison.

AUGUST 30TH 1877. A DOG AND CAT SHOW. North Devon Journal, 1st September 1927
August 30th 1877. A dog and cat show and sheep dog trials was held at Westward Ho. Arrangements were made by the following committee: Capt. Molesworth, R.N. (president), Messrs. E. A. Bosley, T. D. Gregory, R. R. James, jun., G. N. Molesworth. E. T. Oatway, T. T. Wickham, Capts. C. Keyworth and A. T. Thrup. The secretary was Mr. J. E. Tucker.