Costumes of Yorkshire - Midsummer Eve - stock illustration

Every custom which tends to promote social intercourse and hospitality should be zealouly encouraged. Of this class is the one here represented, which is still observed in some parts of Craven, and other districts of Yorkshire. New settlers in a town or village, on the Midsummer Eve immediately succeeding their arrival, set out a plentiful repast before their doors, of cold beef, bread, cheese, and ale. Those of their neighbors who feel inclinded to cultivate their acquaintance sit down and partake of their hospitable fare, and thus east and drink themselves into intimacy. The Costume of Yorkshire by George Walker. 1815