Early History of The Gay Meadow
Centuries before Shrewsbury Town were to occupy the site, Gay Meadow was known locally as a recreational site, with fairs, carnivals and circuses often taking place on the site. The origins of the name 'Gay Meadow' are not entirely clear, although it is widely believed to be related to the site's continuing use for entertainment purposes. An alternative origin of the name exists, stating that the land was originally owned by the 'Gay' family in centuries gone by.
The site had already played a part in Shrewsbury history, when in February 1740, stuntman Robert Cadman, a 'steeple-flyer' attempted to 'fly' across the River Severn using a rope attached to St.Mary's Church at one side and a tree at Gay Meadow (some two hundred feet below). Tragically for Cadman, the rope broke, and he plunged to his death.
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