Hobby Horses (2)
Many morris sides now have a hobby horse or similar ‘animal’ – from dragons to unicorns to sheep – as one of the characters in the side.
Many are based on the hooden horses of East Kent, which have long snapping jaws made of wood.
In the morris, such beasts (dancers in disguise) collect money and playfully interact with the audience. Sometimes they join in the dances too.
The most famous traditional British hobby horses are those of the May Day ’Obby ’Oss festival in Padstow, Cornwall.
There are two rival horses: the Old Oss and its supporters wear red sashes and kerchiefs, whereas the Peace ’Oss or Blue Ribbon followers wear appropriate blue – all are dressed in white.
Old ‘Oss
Padstow, Cornwall, 2004
Photo: Doc Rowe
