Else Beekman
Huelva will host its inaugural British Legacy Fair from September 16 to 22 as a tribute to the historical British presence in the region. This event, a first of its kind, aims to shed light on the significant British influence in Huelva. An influence, particularly dominant in the mining sector during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The British Legacy Fair is organised to celebrate this often-overlooked aspect of Huelva’s past. During the mining boom, British companies brought not only advanced technologies but also their culture. This established British-style neighbourhoods and introduced sports like football and rugby to the local community.
British influence on Huelva’s identity
One of the most notable contributions from British workers was the founding of Spain’s oldest football club. Recreativo de Huelva, founded in 1889, remains a symbol of Huelva’s deep-rooted British connection.
Pilar Miranda, the Mayor of Huelva, described the upcoming fair as an “ambitious initiative” that seeks to highlight the city’s rich British legacy. The event will take place across several historic locations, including the Queen Victoria District, Rio Tinto Pier, Casa Colón, and the Recreativo football club’s headquarters. These landmarks, deeply intertwined with British heritage, will serve as the backdrop for various events throughout the week.
A week of activities and historical reenactments
The British Legacy Fair will feature over 30 themed activities, blending history, sports, and culture. Attendees can enjoy open-air exhibitions, guided tours of key British sites, and historical reenactments. Highlights include a documentary on Huelva’s mining history, guided visits to the Real Club Recreativo, and performances, such as a Queen tribute concert and a 1920s-themed gala.
For sports enthusiasts, a traditional British rugby exhibition and a Mile Run will add a lively touch. Additionally, children can participate in daily workshops titled The British Footprint in Huelva, fostering a deeper understanding of the region’s shared history.
Also read: Las Minas de Riotinto: Rich history in a surreal landscape