6/2023: Fair in the 70s
This time, the exhibit of the month presents a rare glimpse into the past of the Železný Brod Fair in the 1970s. The fair carries with it a rich tradition that is tied to fair law, and is thus an inseparable part of local history.
The exhibit of the month of June consists of a set of four black-and-white photographs that capture authentic moments from the Železný Brod Fair. Each of them opens a window to the past and allows us to walk through the streets and atmosphere of this specific period.
The first photo takes us to the walls of the streem Žernovník, where an elderly woman appears in front of us in a dress and with a scarf on her head. She poses with a smile at the stand. Behind it stands house No. 143, which no longer exists today.
The second photo takes us to the bridge over Žernovník, where the same elderly woman is among the crowd. She looks curiously towards the photographer, while behind her a view of Knopovsko No. 45 is captured.
The third photo shows a family on the sidewalk of the bridge over the Jizera. Parents and three children are squatting on the sidewalk and carefully watching the events around them. In the background stretches a row of houses crowned by Paříkovsko.
The last, fourth photo draws us into the lives of local residents. A group of three men sit outside at a table, leaning on each other's shoulders and holding cups of beer. Their smiling faces and informal well-being immediately remind us of the distinctive atmosphere of the fair.
Fairs have a long tradition in Železný Brod. Nowadays, it is opened by the mayor handing over the key to the city to the fairgoers. This symbolic act refers to ancient rituals that were practiced to purify society. Once a year, order was symbolically overthrown and chaos reigned. These festivities were called Bacchanalia in the ancient world. During the festivities, people indulged in alcohol and other intoxicants. This ritual served to purify society, restore harmony and restore order.
The Železný Brod Fair is an important part of the local cultural heritage. Over the years, it has evolved from a traditional market to a large-scale event that attracts visitors from all over the region. During the fair, the streets of the city are lined with stalls full of various goods, handicrafts, traditional delicacies and other tempting offers. The atmosphere is filled with vivid colors, smells and noise.
The photos were donated to the museum by collector Jaroslav Mašek. Thanks!
