Today (28th June) in 1859, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, the world’s first officially recognized dog show took place. Or perhaps more correctly, the first modern conformation dog show was held in Newcastle Town Hall.

The event was apparently organized by Mr. Thomas Pearce, a local sportsman and dog enthusiast, and was an add-on to the annual poultry show. At this first dog show, there were 27 Setters, 23 Pointers, which were exhibited to show off their best features.

The top prize was a pair of custom-made double-barrelled shotguns made by the firm W.R. Pape gunsmiths of Newcastle, William Pape was also one of the promoters of the show.