Conservative History Journal

Some time ago there was a review on this site of Alistair Cooke's (now Lord Lexden) excellent book on the Primrose League, the country's first and largest popular political movement. (Those who point to the Chartists ignore the fact that these had no time for women members.)

Today is the anniversary of the death of Benjamin Disraeli, the Earl of Beaconsfield, whose favourite flower the primrose was alleged to be and in whose honour both Primrose Day and the Primrose League were established.

The National Trust maintains the tradition of celebrating Primrose Day at Hughenden though the advertised event does not sound as inspiring as the old League events were but TH does not think that the laying of primroses at the Disraeli statue in Parliament Square happens any more. Admittedly, the weather today is not conducive to outdoor celebrations but rain is not unknown in London in April. Perhaps the Conservative Party should consider reviving both the League and the laying of primroses at the great Prime Minister's feet.

To inspire them, here is the Pathe newsreel of Primrose Day in London in 1916.

PRIMROSE DAY IN LONDON