A whimsical proposal emerged during the early planning stages of Southampton's Festival of Britain: a towering, illuminated Statue of Liberty perched atop the old South Western Hotel. While the idea was undoubtedly audacious, it ultimately proved to be too ambitious to realise.

In the early 1950s, Southampton, like many British cities, was gearing up to celebrate the Festival of Britain. 

This national event, designed to boost morale and showcase the country's achievements, was a time of great anticipation and creativity.

Rachel the peigree Jersey cow from Botley with two handlers.Rachel the peigree Jersey cow from Botley with two handlers. (Image: Echo)

One of the more unusual proposals put forward for Southampton was the installation of a giant, illuminated Statue of Liberty on the roof of the old South Western Hotel. 

While this idea ultimately proved too ambitious, it did highlight the town's enthusiasm for the festival and its desire to create something truly memorable.

A project that did come to fruition was the spectacular "Pageant of Womanhood," a stage show presented at Southampton Guildhall. 

A70ft flagstaff made from a New Forest tree began its journey from Hampshire to London. (Image: Echo)

This ambitious production featured a cast of 100 amateur actors and 120 dancers and was notable for the fact that it was entirely produced and staged by women, with the exception of a single six-year-old boy.

Written by the local historian Elsie Sandell, the pageant was a two-and-a-half-hour exploration of women's roles in Southampton's history. 

The production was a significant financial gamble for the team behind it, with the cost of costumes alone amounting to £300. 

A scene frm the Pageant of Womanhood staged in Southampton in 1951.A scene frm the Pageant of Womanhood staged in Southampton in 1951. (Image: Echo)

Despite this, the show proved to be a popular success, drawing large audiences and garnering positive reviews.

Southampton's contribution to the Festival of Britain extended beyond its local events. 

The city's New Forest provided trees for more than 50 festival flagstaffs, including the largest one, a 70-foot-tall larch from Puckpits Inclosure.

Taking part in the Pageant of Womanhood were Audrey Gardner, Betty Haggar, Thelma Heal, Joan Kemish and June Hobbs.Taking part in the Pageant of Womanhood were Audrey Gardner, Betty Haggar, Thelma Heal, Joan Kemish and June Hobbs. (Image: Echo)

In Winchester, another tree was being prepared for its journey to London. 

A 44-year-old Japanese elm, known as Zelkova, was carefully lifted from Hillier's nursery and transported to the South Bank. This delicate operation took a team of workmen an entire weekend to complete.

Even the livestock of Southampton played a role in the festival. 

At Uplands Farm, Botley, a pedigree Jersey cow named Rachael was being groomed for her starring appearance in the "Land of Britain" exhibition on the South Bank.

The Festival of Britain was a time of celebration, creativity, and community spirit.

 Southampton's participation in the event showcased the town's enthusiasm and commitment to making a lasting impression.