It seems at present that Thames has never seen so many
fireworks - shops popped up selling tempting products; that have been set alight both day and night.
Perhaps nothing has changed after all - except the restrictions. A review of the early papers gives countless reports of firework celebrations. They were used all year round, and Thamesites needed little excuse to have a firework display. They were used at the wharf to send off boats, along with at random celebrations/meetings and Anniversaries. Along with being let off on the 5th of November, each year.
 |
| Thames Star 6 Nov 1874 |
Over the years there were countless accidents from fireworks and the bonfires that littered the hills around the town. In 1880, the builders of several bonfires couldn't wait and lit theirs on the 4th November - leading many to think there was a terrible fire up at
Upper Albert Street.
 |
| Thames Star 5 Nov 1880 |
Later in 1919
Christchurch City Council were lobbying to have fireworks subject to the same restrictions as firearms - due to their dangerous nature.
