"...the greatest novelty in connection with the fireworks was the iron ring of a cart wheel, dressed up with canvas, well saturated with highly flammable matter, which, on a signal being given, was ignited and sent down the Law with amazing velocity, presenting one of the most brilliant spectacles ever witnessed in the shape of fireworks. As it dashed down it left behind it a train of fire several hundred yards in length, completely illuminating the west side of the hill."
It sounds brilliant and I'd have loved to have seen it, but there may be a few health and safety issues to overcome before this type of celebration is re-enacted!