The Hampshire Hunt is proud to be one of the oldest hunts in England, having come into existence in 1749 with Thomas Ridge's hounds, and the first formal Club was formed as a Dining Club, "The HH Society", whose members enjoyed various entertainments and pursuits, including hunting. In due course the name was changed to "The Gentlemen of the Hampshire Hunt" and members wore blue coats with large silver buttons engraved with “HH". King George IV, when still HRH Prince of Wales in 1795, in remembrance of happy days spent with hounds in Hampshire, granted permission for Members to wear the Prince of Wales' feathers embossed onto their Club buttons.
Celebrated former Masters include not just the found of the Hunt, Thomas Ridge (1749-1795), but also Mr Villebois (1803-1837), who was Master for over thirty seasons, and Mr Henry Deacon (1862-1884) who hunted the country for 22 seasons. Probably the name which is most indelibly linked with the history of the HH is the legendary George Evans who first became Master and amateur huntsman in 1909 and was not only an outstanding Master but one of the greatest hound-breeders of his day. His wedding, in full hunting dress, drew 5000 well-wishers to Ropley Church in 1929.
During its 274 years, the HH has overcome many challenges; from barbed wire, railways, roads, two World Wars, disease and disaster, but is very proud to continue serving the community under the 2004 Hunting Act.
For more information about the history of the HH, copies of The Hampshire Hunt 1749-2022 by Adrian Dangar, are available through the Secretary.