The Wakeman was appointed by King Alfred the Great to blow the horn each night and watch over Ripon’s streets from dusk until dawn - now known as the Ripon’s Hornblower.
Information on the Hornblowers pictured is mostly unavailable or has been lost over time.
However, the Gazette wanted to share these incredible images and briefly relive the Wakeman’s fascinating tale.
If anyone has any information on any of the photographs featured, please comment and share on the social media post.
13. Ripon's Hornblowers
The Wakeman would once again blow the horn in the four corners but would now have to report to the Mayor each night of his duty. Photo: Ripon Old Images
14. Ripon's Hornblower
The ritual of the Hornblower continues to this day but instead has a team of Hornblower's all contributing to keep the tradition alive. The Hornblower is now a popular tourist attraction which gives Ripon city its own distinctive character. Photo: Ripon Old Images