Mummering on Trial: Custom and Controversy
Date: Dec 7
2:30 pm
- 3:30 pm
Where: Theatre
Mummers Festival
In the 1800s, mummers in Newfoundland had a reputation for rowdy and violent behaviour that threw the custom into controversy. Local men regularly appeared in court accused of committing assaults and other offences while disguised as mummers. Commentators hotly debated the custom’s role in society, how it influenced Newfoundland’s reputation in the world, and what should be done about it—the kind of questions that still spark discussion around mummering today!
The Rooms Provincial Archives holds records of more than 30 criminal cases involving mummers, most dating from the 1830s to the 1870s. In this presentation, Joy Fraser explores the stories they tell about the custom and the controversy it created.
This is a free event but a ticket is required. Please reserve your free ticket online or by calling (709)757-8090.
This program is in collaboration with The Mummer’s Festival.
Today's Events & Programs
Step into a world of family fun at The Rooms! Experience an afternoon of creativity and connection for the whole family. Free with admission to The Rooms, this program features a different exhibition theme and an activity every month.
Celebrating biodiversity! Get Hands on with our Province’s plants, animals and wild spaces at The Rooms with Nature NL!
Nature Nook is a monthly hands-on session to interact with real specimens like seal pelts, skulls, whale baleen, antlers, moose fur, and a variety of rocks and minerals. Join us to learn more about nature and ask our volunteers all your questions about Newfoundland and Labrador’s wildlife!
Included with cost of admission. Free for Rooms members.
Beaumont-Hamel and the Trail of the Caribou
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Each tour is approximately 30 – 40 minutes and is included in the cost of admission. Free for Rooms members.