About Lewes Borough Bonfire Society
Lewes Borough Bonfire Society is one of the historic bonfire societies at the heart of the famous Lewes Bonfire celebrations in East Sussex. With a history stretching back into the nineteenth century, the society plays an important role in preserving the traditions, ceremonies and community spirit associated with the Fifth of November in Lewes.
Borough is particularly recognisable for its traditional blue and white striped guernseys and its historic Monster Iron Key. First carried through the streets in the nineteenth century, the key has become one of the society’s most distinctive symbols and represents Borough’s traditional claim to the freedom of the streets.
Today, the society brings together members of all ages who work throughout the year to organise events, raise funds and prepare for the annual celebrations.
The Fifth of November
The Fifth is the highlight of Borough’s year and the culmination of months of preparation by members and volunteers.
On Bonfire Night, Borough members take part in torchlit processions through Lewes alongside visiting societies from across Sussex. Flaming torches, banners, costumes, music and ceremonial pieces combine to create the extraordinary atmosphere for which Lewes has become famous.
The celebrations commemorate the failure of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 while also remembering the 17 Protestant martyrs burned in Lewes during the Marian persecutions of the sixteenth century.
Borough’s Pioneer groups add further colour and historical character to the evening, with elaborate costumes forming an important part of the society’s identity.
The Monster Iron Key
One of the best-known symbols associated with Lewes Borough Bonfire Society is the Monster Iron Key.
The enormous ceremonial key was first carried through Lewes in 1863 and has remained an important part of Borough tradition ever since. It symbolises the society’s traditional freedom of the streets and provides a direct link with generations of Borough members who have taken part in the Fifth before them.
Alongside the society’s banners, costumes and striped guernseys, the key helps give Borough an identity that is immediately recognisable within the wider Lewes celebrations.
Community and Membership
Although the Fifth is the society’s most visible event, Borough is active throughout the year.
Members support fundraising activities, social events and the extensive preparations required for November. They also represent Borough at celebrations organised by other bonfire societies across Sussex.
New members help ensure that the knowledge, traditions and community spirit surrounding Borough continue to be passed from one generation to the next.
Supporting Lewes Borough
Staging bonfire celebrations requires considerable organisation and financial support. Fundraising, membership and the efforts of volunteers all contribute towards keeping the society active.
Through the dedication of its members and supporters, Lewes Borough Bonfire Society continues to preserve a distinctive part of the town’s heritage and play its part in keeping the traditions of the Fifth alive.