Zoe Sool
10 December, 2024
News

Never before seen images from 1950s to today of society's teenagers partying, including a teenage Tom Parker Bowles, ahead of the 70th ball this week at London's Ministry of Sound

The Feathers Ball, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary this December, launches Online Gallery featuring over 100 images to commemorate the 70th Anniversary.

Tom Parker Bowles attends Feathers Ball December 1989

To celebrate the 70th year of society event, The Feathers Winter Ball, the charity behind the event, Feathers Association, has released a fascinating collection of archival photographs, offering a never before seen look at the events, and the rich and storied history of the event.

The images span from the 1950s and 1980s to today, offering a striking visual journey through seven decades of late teenage life, in the midst of a party - highlighting changes in fashion, appearances, social norms, and the unique atmosphere of each era.  

The Ball very quickly became, and still remains, a rite of passage for many young people in London’s independent school scene, which the images clearly show.  

Among the archival treasures are a teenage Tom Parker Bowles. The collection features many more intriguing faces whose stories the charity is eager to uncover, and they’re hoping that the Gallery will serve as a way of finding them and hearing their memories of the Ball. 

Feathers Ball 1989
Feathers Ball 1989 Credit: Dan Stevens

Over 100 images can be seen in an online gallery at httsp://feathersball.gallery  to celebrate this momentous anniversary.

A little history of the Ball:  Generating funds and creating lasting memories, The Feathers Charity Ball has been part of the social fabric of London’s High Society for nearly 70 years - in that time we’ve generated millions of pounds for youth projects in the capital.

The Feathers Charity Ball began in the 1950s as a way for young people to meet up and generate funds in aid of The Feathers Association.

Feathers Ball 1989
Feathers Ball 1989 Credit: Dan Stevens

The Feathers Charity Balls have since become established events in the society social calendar for thousands. Generating millions of pounds for youth projects across London it’s become a long-time family tradition and an essential right of passage for many.

The Christmas Ball now named the Winter Ball to be more inclusive (for young people aged 14 – 16) takes place at one of London’s most renowned clubs, the Ministry of Sound.  

Through the years many other famous venues have played host to the Ball including the Lyceum Ballroom, Hammersmith Palais, The Tabernacle, Notting Hill  and last year the Junior Ball took place at London’s The Landmark Hotel. 

Feathers Ball 1989
Feathers Ball 1989 Credit: Dan Stevens

The ball raises money for Feathers Association which was founded in 1934, at the behest of the then Prince of Wales, The Feathers Association has been dedicated to supporting communities across England and Wales for 90 years. 

The charity's mission is to provide inclusive and enriching opportunities for children, young people, and families, fostering a sense of community and empowerment.   www.feathers.charity 

 

Feathers Ball December 1957
Feathers Ball December 1957 Credit: Desmond O'Neill
Catherine Garrow at Feathers Ball December 1958
Catherine Garrow at Feathers Ball December 1958 Credit: Desmond O'Neill
Teens dance at Feathers Ball Seymour Hall 1958
Teens dance at Feathers Ball Seymour Hall 1958 Credit: Desmond O'Neill
Jessica Kitson & Friend, Feathers Ball Seymour Hall 1958
Jessica Kitson & Friend, Feathers Ball Seymour Hall 1958 Credit: Desmond O'Neill