East Midlands
Boston
Event Organiser
Ian Dunn
Council Officer
Information
Boston Market operates in the Market Place every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the year.Boston market is a recognised tourist attraction in its' own right; with a large number of stalls offering a diverse and attractive range of goods, services and fresh local produce such as fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, cheese, plants and flowers, toys, gadgets, fabrics, sweets, cakes, cards, household goods and clothing. There's also an opportunity to have a drink and a tasty snack from one of the outdoor catering vendors.
Trading fairs or "marts" have been held in Boston since at least the 12th Century - the earliest historic record of a fair or "mart" is in 1132. It ran from St. Botolph's Day (12th June) to 24th June. In 1218 a Patent was granted for Boston's Fair. The earliest maps of Boston date from that time and the "Market Place" is indicated on them in its current location. Once a year the London courts would close so that everyone would have the opportunity to visit Boston during the May Fair, at that time goods which were rare, such as spices and wines, could be bought fresh from the port. The town flourished and Boston Port was recognised as second only to London.
In 1545 Boston obtained its Charter of Incorporation from Henry VIII, via his son Edward VI. On 1st June, John Robinson took office as the first Mayor of Boston. The 12 aldermen were sworn in and the Recorder and Town Clerk appointed. Amongst his other roles the Mayor was declared "Clerk of the Market".
The original document, beautifully illustrated and with its impressive royal seal, is kept in the Guildhall in South Street.
