Hobby Horses (Part 2)
There are various kinds of hobby horses; they can be two-legged horses or other mock animals.
Many morris sides have a hobby horse or similar ‘animal’ – from dragons to unicorns to sheep – as one of the characters in the side. They are often based on the hooden horses of East Kent, which have long snapping jaws made of wood.
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
