Within the grounds of Boston Park stands the shooting lodge built for Thomas Howard, 3rd Earl of Effingham, in 1776. He named it Boston Castle in support of the American Colonists who demonstrated their opposition to taxation on tea imposed by the British Government by the event known as the Boston Tea Party.
Lord Effingham resigned his Commission as Captain of the 22nd Regiment of Foot when his Regiment was ordered overseas to fight the American Colonists.
Guests were forbidden to drink tea at the shooting parties given by the Earl. However, we are told gallons of port was consumed.
One hundred years later, on 4th July 1876 amid great pomp and ceremony, Rotherham’s first park was opened and called ‘The People’s Park’. The park became famous for its carpet bedding and floral displays. Upwards of 40,000 plants were laid out, including two special varieties of lobelia named Boston Castle and Rotherham Park.
The Friends of Boston Castle and Parklands are also celebrating 25 years since their formation, initially to support Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council’s heritage lottery bid. This ultimately was successful and saw the restoration of Boston Castle in 2012.
To celebrate these two important events, the Friends, together with Rotherham District Civic Society and the Council, are holding a special Heritage Day in the park on Saturday 4th July.
Two special guests are flying over from New York as part of the entertainment. David Shenton, a past pupil of Thomas Rotherham College, will be performing together with his wife Erin. Joining them will be Rotherham’s young talented harpist, Alejandro Barnett, who also studies at Thomas Rotherham College.
In addition, there will be drama, children’s activities, stalls and the South Yorkshire Police Brass Band will also be performing.
The event starts at 10.00am with an official opening ceremony by the mayor at 11.00am which will include a special unveiling.
This is a free event and all are welcome. The organisers hope to see you there.