The Season
Posted by SuzanneR on July 27, 1998 at 20:07:50:
In response to A question for Caroline, et al about "The Season", written by Woodhouse on July 27, 1998 at 07:04:24
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] When, precisely, did "The Season" occur? I have several conflicting sources on this and wish to take a poll of our well-read members.
] I always thought that the "little season" came in the spring, when the cold weather ended and Parliament opened. Then, as the summer months approached, "The Season" began in earnest, approximately mid-May through mid-August. Pool says (as I was always given to believe) that the season then ended in August, linked to the adjournment of Parliament, at which time everyone in Town would retire to their country homes for the hunting and then the holiday seasons.
] However, I have found many well informed people who will argue with this, and feel strongly that London was considered too hot in the summer, and that that is the time when folks retired to the country. I was interested to hear this. Anyone have a reliable source on this?
According to "The Regency Companion" by Laudermilk and Hamlin, the Season began in March or April and ended sometime in June. At that point the aristocracy adjourned to the country or to somewhere like Brighton. The Little Season, which attracted significantly less people, was in the fall. By November everyone had left again, but those in government circles returned in January for the opening of Parliament.
Hope this helps.
- Same source... Peg 12:00:56 7/28/98
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