Illustrated Sporting News, Hackney Wick Whit wrestling report (1862)

PEDESTRIANISM. METROPOLITAN RACE GROUNDS, HACKNEY WICK. THE CORNWALL AND DEVON WRESTLING SOCIETY’S ANNUAL MEETING. The customary annual meeting of the above-named society was held at the popular grounds of Mr. J. C. Baum, at the White Lion, Hackney Wick, on Whit-Monday and Tuesday; and terminated in a complete success, the enclosure being absolutely crammed with spectators.

The sports were this year also varied by the introduction of wrestling in the Cumberland and Westmoreland style, in order to gratify the amusement-seeking public. Mr. George Rooke, India Arms, Trinity-street, Rotherhithe, was referee; and the umpireship rested with Mr. Stephen Roberts and Mr. T. Bartley, the latter of whom gained belts at the Brecknock Arms, in 1849, and at the Scottish fetes at Holland Park, in 1851.

A liberal collection was made for the widow of the late Mr. Hake, who for so long officiated as the respected referee at this meeting.