The first May Ball was planned for 1910 but was cancelled following the death of King Edward VII who died on 6 May 1910. The first ball went ahead the following year and was held on 12 June 1911. An account of the ball which appeared in the College Magazine, vol. II, No. 1, December 1911 reads as follows:
"A ball was held in the College on Monday, June 12th. This was the first time such an experiment had been tried, and it proved a great success. A marquee, gaily bedecked with streamers of green and white, was erected for the purpose in the second court. We must congratulate everyone connected with the organisation on the excellence of their work; and the stewards deserve much praise for the way in which they fulfilled their arduous task of being interpreters of abstruse hieroglyphics, walking Who's Who's, and yet maintaining an ornamental appearance. Herr Moritz Wur's band supplied the music, to the complete satisfaction of the company, some of whom were inspired to demonstrate certain of the items, including the 'Burglar's Prowl,' and the 'Bogie Walk'. We must compliment the secretary on his excellent idea of providing shawls for protection against the dewy morn, and we have also to thank the Master and Fellows for their kindness in allowing us to roam in the garden - a privilege that was much enjoyed'.
