An abbreviated version taken from the Diary
1900

G & H COMPANY Volunteers: 35 Volunteered: 7 for Active Service, 18 Garrison Duties abroad, 10
for Duty at Home
Mr C CLIFTON, railway booking clerk, joined Lord Compton’s Mounted Infantry for Active Service

1900
1900

ISOLATION  HOSPITAL:  William  Elliott  offerred  a  piece  of  land  on  the  Ellough  Road  for  an
Isolation Hospital [This did not seem to have happened]
WAR FUND: Collections in the Parish Church raised £61 10s

1900
1900

SUPPORT  BECCLES  INDUSTRIES  by  wearing  corsets  made  by  the  Corset  Factory  in  Hungate
Lane (Womack Brooks)
MAYOR’S PARTY to aged inhabitants in Town Hall.

1900
1900

DIED: Mrs C Buck, aged 101
NATIONAL SCHOOL: Mrs Anderson retired as Headmistress after 36 years. She is given a purse of
£20 by Managers & Friends.

1900
1900

LAND COMMITTEE: To Let Land in GROVE ROAD on building Leases
DEATH of Mrs TA LAWS, widow of Thomas Laws, 4 times Mayor in 1861/62, 1862/63, 1871/72,
1872/73;  Activbe in Temperance Movement, established with her husband first Band of Hope, ... one

of  the  Founders  of  the  Dorcas  Society  &  for  half  a  century  held  office  of  President  ...  will  be
especially missed by many  of the aged poor to whom  she  did  many  acts  of  kindness. Died at the

Nurseries, aged 92
INSPECTOR LINGLEY promoted to Superintendent, after 23 years service, 7 at Beccles.

1900
1900
1900

CO-OP sales for quarter £4181, an increase of £288. 760 members.
CHURCH:  Canon  Rousell  preached  on  the  War  ...”We  believe  our  soldiershad  gone  forth  as

champions of liberty & fair dealing.”
WM CROWFOOT & JP  Larkman  elected to represent Parish  at Ruri Deaconal Meetings for next
three years
BRITISH WOMEN’S TEMPERANCE ASSOCIATION, Beccles Branch, Mrs Heather, President

1900
1900

DEATH  of  Mrs  FLOWER,  widow  of  late  John  Flower  (who  died  in  1881),  died  at  her  son’s
residence  in  [11] Newmarket., aged  86. Became a member of the Beccles Church by transfer from
Titchfield,  Hants  in  1841.  Conducted  for  many  years  the  Yung  Men’s  Bible  Class  ...  opened  her

House to help them in secular subjects as Maths, Geography & even Botany, were taught by her to
those who wished to learn. One of the founders of the Clothing Club. Strove to encourage thrift & to
make the most of small savings. Had 3 sons.

SUPERINTENDENT LINGLEY  goes to  Framlingham;  Inspector  William Reeve  of Ipswich takes
over at Beccles.
VICTORIES in SOUTH AFRICA celebrated in the Parish Church.

1900
1900

NATIONAL PROTESTANT FEDERATION: Rev A Rogers gave three anti Roman Catholic lantern
lectures at the Town Hall: “Some black Popes & their subtle satelites... Convent life, its customs &
cruelties” etc. The Mayor (Mr E Masters) presided at two of them.

1900
1900

DEATH of Mr George Durrant
LAW:  William  Barker  of  Ringsfield  found  guilty  of  causing  3  horses  to  be  cruelly  ill-treated  by
exposing them during inclement weather & neglecting to provide them with proper & sufficient food

(They were on Shipmeadow Marshes) 14 days hard labour, Costs £1 6s 11d, if not paid 14 more days.
GROVE ROAD Leases for 75 years. Cost of laying out the land £300

1900
1900

ALEXANDRA ROAD: Cost of making up the road £336; Owners to pay £223.
NEW HOUSES: Tenders from Arthur Pells for erection of a House in Station Road.

1900
1900

TOWN  HALL:  Feoffees  to  lease  part  of  White  Lion  for  85  years  to  Council  at  rent  of  £2  pa.
Corporation to spend £200 on improvements.

CHURCHWARDENS:   WM  Crowfoot  resigns  as  Churchwarden  after  17  years.  Mr  Parker  as
Rector’s Warden. AR Clatworthy elected Parish Warden.
CONCERT: Free School Concert in aid of Waifs & Strays £7 6s

1900
1900

WAR: Frequent supplements “Beccles Men at he Front”, with photographs.
CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH: Reopened after renovation, painting & improved ventilation
WAR: Entertainment at Town Hall in aid of Transvaal War Fund.

1900
1900

1900
1900
1900

CO-OP: 768 Members
PLAN APPROVED: Meadow on Grove Road laid out as Building Plot.
DEATHS: Mr Benjamin Ward, late Innkeeper, aged 78. ALSO JM Brundell, painter & plumber

1900
1900

WAR: RELIEF OF MAFEKING:  All Schools closed. Thanksgiving in all Churches.
WAR:  Womack  Brooks  Advertising:  National  Rejoicing  1900;  Relief  of  Mafeking  &  Queen’s
Birthday. Flags of every description from 1d to 4s 11d each.

STRIKE of 30 BUILDERS demanding 1/4d an hour on to 3d & 1/4d an hour. No alteration obtained,
but payment of extra to individuals may be extended.

1900
1900

GAS INCREASED greatly in price owing to cost of Coal. Gas 4s 8d per 1000 ft. Paid 10% Dividend
CO-OP: Bakery to be built in Gosford Road.

1900
1900

COL WILSON celebrated 25 years as Manager of Caxton Printing Works. Presentation made.
GARDEN FETE at the Grove organised by Mrs Masters in aid of Indian Famine Relief.

1900
1900
1900

Rev F Fells leaving Baptist Church after 3 & 1/2 years
NW PELLS to rent the Granary at £5 pa
PLAN for Stables approved by Council in part of Garden in Grove Road near the Railway Crossing.

The cost would be £400
LEMAN  SCHOOL:  Escutcheon  in  Stone  of  Sir  John  Leman  given  by  Dr  Aldis  Wright  over  the
doorway.

1900
 
1900

SALE: Horsley & Sons, Carriage Works in Hungate for Sale.
[24 June: Bought by JE Crisp for £600]
FAUCONBERGE PRIZE DAY:  Physics & Chemistry  Lab  added to premises. All to  have weekly

lesson in elements of Natural Science.
CO-OP: Sales £4326, an increase of £428 over corresponding quarter. 22 new members.
SALE of KILBRACK in Blyburgate & adjoining meadow in Ingate [Grove] Road: 46 building sites.

1900
1900

 
1900

House & Grounds bought by CH Durrant £1,375. (under Will of Sir ES Gooch.)
EDUCATION: BOARD SCHOOL: Entertainment & Prizes in Town Hall: WM Crowfoot’s address:
“They  talked  about  railways  &  electric  telegraphs  &  all  the  various  inventions  &  improvements

introduced during the present  century,  but he  did  not in  anything   had the  advance been  greater or
more far-reaching in its influence on the whole nation than the improvement & advance in education.
But - average attendance was only 80%.”

 
1900
1900

SALE: THE GROVE: withdrawn at £2,200 (after death of JK Garrod)
OUTINGS: Nobbs & Goate, printers; FJ Allen, builders

1900
1900

SALE of HORSES: Read, Stanford & Gayford: Michaelmas Sale: 446 Horses, Colts & Foals.
AGRICULTURAL SHOW, Ashman’s Hall

1900
1900

EXCURSION TRAIN to Dairy Show. & Brewers’ Exhibition
LAW:  Benjamin  Farrow  &  James  Riches  of  Beccles,  drunk  &  disorderly  &  refusing  to  quit  the

Falcon. Farrow worst & abused Mr F Hall; Fined 5s & 5s 6d costs or 7 days.
BECCLES GOLF CLUB: Ladies & Gents copetitions.
WOMBELL’S MENAGERIE at Beccles Stock Market on Thursday 29 November 3.30 pm & 7 pm.

1900
1900

1900
1900
1900

CMS MEETING in Rectory Room, WM Crowfoot in Chair.
CO-OP “Coming of Age” celebrated. Delegates from Norwich.
DENTISTS MEET to consider Pension Scheme. None approve.

ADVERTISEMENT: William Robinson: Practical  Engineer & Cycl Manufacturer.  Station Road  &
Newgate: Cycles, Motors, Gas & Steam Engines, Sewing Machines, Invalid Chairs, Mail Carts, etc.
ADVERTISEMENT: Arthur Haddingham: Carriage Builder & Coach Wheeler. 14 years at Horsley’s

1900
1900

CHORAL SOCIETY: Mendelssohn’s “Elijah”.
EXHIBITION at Town Hall: Society for the Propogation of the Gospel:
Boys & Girls of National School dressed in cotumes worn in India, Africa, North America, China &

1900
 

Japan, sang Telegu melodies, African Hymns & Chinese Funeral Dirge & Baddley’s Chant. Trained
in schools & conducted by RC Dent, who was dressed in a mixed Chinese costume.
CHARITY: Mayor distributes tickets for Groceries & Meat to Widows & Old People & sick poor.

EDUCATION: Head Teachers’ Association:  Speaker  on teaching  of History: “There was no  other
country in the civilised world in which history history was not an obligatory subject.”

1901
1901

DEATH OF QUEEN VICTORIA
ADVERTISEMENT:  McQueen:  Mourning  Orders  of   all  kinds   executed  with  promptitude   &

exactness. ”Long Live Edward VII”
The wearing of some sort of Mourning was almost universal.

 
1901

QUEEN VICTORIA’S DEATH - The Proclamation; - Letter to  the Editor.
I think it shows how slow and unbusiness-like the Beccles Town Council are when it is known that

though the Proclamation was received on Saturday at 10 a.m. the Council did not meet till seven in the
evening. Nine hours to call a meeting, and yet all living in the town. Where was the delay? Were they

all playing golf? And what an hour to hold it, eight o’clock!  Why not have delayed it a trifle longer
and  had  a torchlight procession  at midnight? And with all the delay what  a hurried unseemly affair
instead of the importance which should have accompanied such a unique function.

In nearly every town the Proclamation was read on or near the site where stood the old Market Cross.
Needless to  say this was not  done  at Beccles. Too much  hurry  evidently. Nine  or ten  hours were
insufficient time; Beccles wanted a month to think it over. And then in the address of condolence only

the  Mayor  and  Burgesses  were  mentioned  as  the  loyal  subjects;  what  about  the  Aldermen  and
Councillors?  In  the   address  of  Allegiance  the  Councillors   in  were  omitted.  Whoever   had  the

arrangements  in  hand,  and  I  have not the  least idea who had,  carried them  out in  a very slipshod
manner. The occasion warranted  dress suitable for such  an  event,  but the Town Clerk was the only

gentleman I noticed wearing a silk hat, the others appearing in chummies and caps! Oh lor!
Yours truly, H. Smith. Beccles, 29th January, 1901.

 
1901

QUEEN VICTORIA’S DEATH - The Proclamation; - Letter to  the Editor
The  question  is  being  asked  all  over  the  town,  “Who  was  the  strange  elderly  gentleman  in  the
waggonette with the Mayor [Alderman Masters] on Saturday night last when the King’s Proclamation
was read in the Market place?” Surely it was strictly an official proceeding and on such an important

occasion no one not officially connected with the town ought to have been allowed to mix up with it.
We  almost  all  know  the  members  of  our  Town  Council  and  we  all  know  the  Rector,  and  these
gentlemen were  in their proper positions with the Mayor, but why a stranger should thrust his  nose

forward is a question that is puzzling more than one BURGESS.
QUEEN VICTORIA’S DEATH - The Proclamation; - Letter to  the Editor
THE MEMORIAL SERVICE.

1901
 

Good  gracious,  Mr.  Editor,  whatever  is  our  Mayor  thinking  about.  He  has  actually  issued  a  bill
inviting the inhabitants to accompany him to a Memorial service, upon the occasion of the Funeral of
the  late  Queen,  without  a  black  border.  It  will  jar  upon  the  feelings  of  many.  And  what  class  of

inhabitants has the Mayor the impertinence to ask to attend at the Old Market and bring up the tail of
the procession?
Yours faithfully,

MOURNER. Beccles, 31st January, 1 1901.
QUEEN VICTORIA’S DEATH - The Proclamation; - Letter to  the Editor
CHURCH CEREMONY,

1901
 

Sir—As a  new resident in Beccles I was  greatly astonished  at the, to me, peculiar  behaviour  of the
congregation at Beccles Church on Sunday last. At the church I have been attending it is the custom

upon the entry of the  clergy and choir for the congregation to stand up. Doing  so on  Sunday, I was
surprised to find I was almost the only person standing, and sat down, needless to say feeling much

confused and abashed. At the end of the service the Dead March was played when, of course everyone
stood,  but at  its  close,  upon the clergy  and  choir quitting their seats,  everybody either sat down  or

hastened out This appears to me very unseemly and, to say the least, discourteous to the clergy and
choir who are certainly leaders  of the service, I am wondering whether this stupid and disrespectful
behaviour will again be repeated on Saturday next.

1901
 
 

SALE: “Stafford House”, Smallgate, & Business Premises in rear occupied by GA Stanford
[sold to WT Youngman for £700.]
Adjoining it “Bedford Cottage” occupied by WE Dove

 
1901
1901

[Sold to WT Youngman £280]
CONCERT: Second & Third part of “The Messiah” in Parish Church on Tuesday at 8 pm.
ADVERTISEMENT:  PJ  Gibbons,  Annual  Cycle  Show  in  Town  Hall,  2  Days.  Included  Tricycle

Carrier: should prove very serviceable in conveyance of fish & poultry.
CHURCH of ENGLAND in the 19th CENTURY: Between 1857 & 1875 500 churches enlarged or
restored & 20 new ones built. Nearly 100 Parsonage Houses provided

ADVERTISEMENT:  W  Robinson,  5th  Annual  Cycle   Show.  (Cycle  Manufacturer  &   general
Engineer)

EDUCATION:  Fauconberge  School:  Rev  JH  Raven  [aged  58]  to  resign  as  Headmaster  of  the
Fauconberge  School. Appointed to  living of Thornby, 9 miles from Rugby. Income £300  a year &

House.
YOUNG MEN’S INSTITUTE: Hockey leads deputation to the Mayor on proposal for Young Men’s

Instiute, raises question of suitable building - could it be a Memorial to Queen Victoria?
CONCERT : Church of England School for Waifs & Strays in the Rectory Room.
NEW  SOCIAL CLUB MEETING: Concert at College. Meetings to  be held in room  above Coffee

1901
1901

Room in Station Road
MAYOR’S JUVENILE FANCY DRESS BALL . 150
NEW POST OFFICE: Moves from the Walk to Exchange Square (formerly WF Spaull’s Drapery)

1901
1901

1901
1901

CONGREGATIONAL ATHLETICS CLUB in Gymnasium. 46 Members.
DEATH of Mrs Boyce, wife of Henry Boyce of the Leman School. Funeral; (Sons: Rev William, Rev
Walter & Frank)

1901
1901
1901

DEATH of Stephen Thompson, Post Master. He succeeded Miss Ottey in 1883.
EDUCATION: School Attendance: New Bye-Laws: increased penalty: from 5s to £1.
WAR:  Enthusiastic  welcome  to  Sergt  Daley,  L-Cpl  Moore  &  Pte  Tillett  returning  from  the  War.

Large crowd at the Station, etc. Mayor speaks from waggonette.
HOUSES: Notice by Arthur Pells: Tenders for pulling down three cottages & erecting a new Infants’
School in Peddar’s Lane.

HOSPITAL:  much  in  need of funds. Amateur Theatricals  in Town Hall  for Hospital  organised  by
Miss Garden of Redisham Hall.
SUFFOLK SHOW at Beccles (also here in 1871 & 1883)

1901
1901

HOSPITAL INCOME: £576 including annual Subs £264; Collections in Churches & Chapels £120;
Donations £79. Balance £21. 

1901
1901

CHURCH: Annual Sale of Work of Church Missionary Society in the Rectory Garden
VESTRY MEETING: Possible re-assessment of Rates

1901
1901

ATHLETICS MEETING: 21st Annual Athletics & Cycling Meeting. Caxton AMG
MEMORIAL for Queen Victoria  Fund: 3  Suggestions:  1.) Market Cross  2.) Drinking Fountain  3.)

Statue
TELEPHONE installed at Police Station
EDUCATION:  Farewell  Dinner  &  Presentation  to  Rev  &  Mrs  Raven.  Rev  PE  Bateman  present.

1901
1901

Letter of appreciation in musical work of Raven in Beccles eg. especially Beccles Choral Society.
ADVERTISEMENT: SF Field & Sons, Hungate, sole makers of Harper’s Chaff Cutters, Horsepower
water carts, ploughs, harrows, cultivators, etc.

1901
1901
1901

HOSPITAL GARDEN FETE: in JE Crisp’s Garden. 2 Days. c £71.
EDUCATION: Fauconberge School Prize Day: Bishop of Norwich presents prizes & speaks.
EDUCATION: Sunday School Treat: Church to Castle Farm c 800

1901
1901
1901

EDUCATION: Sunday School Treat: St Benet’s on Kessingland Beach
EDUCATION: Sunday School Treat: Baptists to Buckenham’s Meadow on Weson Road
EDUCATION: Sunday School Treat: Congregational to Ashford’s Meadow at Gillingham

1901
1901
1901

EDUCATION: Sunday School Treat: Primitive Methodists on Gibben’s Meadow at Swine’s Green
CO-OP: Trade £4,677; increase of £371
ROWDYISM at Beccles: Letter: Teachers & Children of Primitive Methodist Sunday School annual

meeting  at  Lowestoft. On  return  journey 10-12 youths  followed the  conveyance  at some  distance
throwing stones & using at some distance throwing stones & abusive language near the Black Boy;
stopped, several tried to pull writer off vehicle. Several men came out & prevented lads from further

annoyance. 
ADVERTISEMENT: Hermitage Inn: EH Hockey; Good Accommodation for riverside lodgings.

1901
1901

MENS’  SOCIAL INSTITUTE: Fete  in the  grounds of the Grove  (FF Garrood) to raise money for
furnishing rooms which it is hoped will soon be erected in Men’s Social Institute.

 
1901

Organiser: AH Hockey.
SALE OF Building LAND in Ingate [Grove] Road: Buyers: Colchester Brewery Co, A McQueen, EJ

Hindes, J Aldous, etc
PRESENTATION to Rev JH Raven from Choir & Choral  Society: Grove’s Directory  of Music  &
Musicians (4 Vols)

1901
1901
1901

OPENING of St BENET’S on 29 August 1901: -  PAGE MISSING 
DEATH of Mrs Catherine Arnold, widow of Rev FM Arnold, Rector of Ringsfield.
LETTER of THANKS from Mr Raven, referring to successful resistance to the introduction into the

ALDERMAN MASTERS leaves Beccles for Birmingham. He came to Beccles 35 years ago. He tok
business  of Mullenger. He was  also  a farmer &  brick manufacturer. When Horsley &  Son  got  into

difficulties he kept the works going for some long time. Councillor 1871; Mayor 1873-75; Alderman
1877; Mayor 1886,  1887, 1900. County Councillor  etc & many Committees.  [see Funeral  15 Jan

1907]
NEW CLUBHOUSE  for Beccles  Social Club  erected  on Bowling Green  ground. Frontage of 62ft.

Arthur Pells, the architect
DRAWING of TOWN HALL with proposed alterations. Side & Front elevations.
SUNDAY PUB CLOSING: Poll at Beccles: FOR: 794; AGAINST: 78; NO OPINION: 294

1901
1901

SHIPMEADOW  WORKHOUSE  Annual  Treat:   Visit   by  Mrs  Crisp,  Miss   Edith  Crisp,  Miss
Robinson,  &  Mrs  Janet  Combe  (for  Miss  Harvey);  Distributed   buns,  sausage   rolls,  biscuits,
gingerbread, apples, oranges, bags of sweets & money. Parcels of books

1901
1901
1901

PRESENTATION to Mr Hockey from Committee of Mens’ Social Club.
CHORAL SOCIETY: Standale Bennet’s “The May Queen” at Town Hall.
SOUP KITCHEN: To open Tuesday, 8 January

EDUCATION:  Fauconberge  School:  Breaking-up  Party:  Parents  &  others  inspect  the  buildings
(about 140) - Gymnasium restored. Display in Laboratory: large display of Chemicals & apparatus.

Bateman  had  for  3  years  Assistant  Demonstratorat at Cavendish  Laboratory  &  then  2  years  as
Science Master at old Schol, Tonbridge. Experiments.

1901
 

CHRISTMAS AT THE WORKHOUSE: 126 Inmates, only 45 able  to sit down in the Hall.
Shipmeadow Church Choir (rev & Mrs Youngs) visit & sing Carold in different parts of the building.

Roast Beef & Plumb Pudding “as much as you please.” Fruit, nuts, etc.
WHEN HARVEST ENDED IN JULY: EXPERIENCES OF 86-YEAR-OLD FARMER
Mr. Humphrey,  aged  86,  a retired farmer, who lives  in Northgate, Hunstanton,  commenting on  an

article  in  the  “Eastern  Daily  Press”  of  Saturday,  where  it  was  stated  that  a  farmer  completed  his
harvest in July,  1868,  corroborates the statement and states that in that year  his  father, farming  at
Smeeth Road,  completed the  harvest of 300 acres in July. He  added that he  knew of other Norfolk

farmers who  did the same. The summer was  very hot, and the men  had to wade  in the mud of the
rivers to cut reeds for the cattle to eat, as there was no green food.

In 1880 the frost on Christmas Day was the sharpest Mr Humphrey had ever known. He remembered
on May 4th. 1862 the Middle Level sluice gates giving way and the tide rushing up the aqueduct at

Upwell. On Monday 12th the bank gave way and flooded 5000 acres of fen to the depth of five feet.
Many houses were flooded,  and some  houses  in the  district still show the level reached  by the salt

water. Seventy acres of his father’s land was flooded. In 1865 rinderpest killed many hundreds head
of cattle. His father lost several cattle, and it was pitiful to see the animals dying with it.
Mr Humphrey  gives instances of animals suffering from foot and mouth  disease  being  cured in the

CATHOLIC CHURCH: A Catholic Re-union takes place  in the Town Hall, which was tastefully
decorated for the occasion. Dancing was one of the features of the evening.

WEDDING: The wedding of Mr. Charles E. Dunn, son of Mr. G. A Dunn, of Beccles, to Miss Alice
Pye, of Woolwich, takes place. The happy couple were the recipients of numerous presents.

1902
1902

CHAPEL: The members of the Congregational Church have their annual tea meeting.
SOCIETY: Messrs. H. Copeman and Son secure first prize in the open class for Bantam Rosecombs
at Sheringham Fanciers’ Annual Show.

CHAPEL:  The  members  of  the  Wesleyan  Band  of  Hope  have  their  New  Year’s  Treat  in  the
Schoolroom. The tea was followed by an entertainment.
POST OFFICE: Miss Thompson, late of Beccles Post Office, is presented with a silver-mounted oak

inkstand by the postmen and messengers.
CHAPEL: Covenant Sunday observed at the Wesleyan Church, a good number being present.
EDUCATION: Schools re-open after the Christmas holidays.

1902
1902

CHILDREN’S PARTY: Mrs. J. R. Crisp’s Children’s Invitation Party takes place at the Town Hall; a
large company was present
VOUNTEERS:  The  first  Annual  N.C.O.’s  Dinner  in  connection  with  the  G  &  H  Companies

(Beccles) 2nd V.B.N.R. held at the Railway Hotel
CHURCH: A Tea and Entertainment in connection with the Beccles branch of the Church of England

Temperance Society held in the Ingate Mission Room.
CHAPEL: A week of United Prayer of the Beccles Free Churches commence. The opening meeting

held at the Primitive Methodist Chapel.
ACCIDENT: An  employee named Benns meets with  an  accident at Messrs.  Elliott and Garrood’s

Ironworks, his foot being badly crushed.
BALL: A Golf Club Ball is held at the Town Hall.
WORKHOUSE:  Annual  Christmas  tea  and  entertainment  to  the  inmates  of  the  Wangford  Union
Workhouse, at Shipmeadow takes place.

1902
1902

CHURCH: Annual Tea and Entertainment in connection with the C.E.T.S. Band of Hope held at the
Town Hall. 180 persons being present.
CHURCH: The members of the Parish Church Choir take part in the Norwich Cathedral Festival.

1902
1902

WATERWORKS: Annual Meeting  of the shareholders of the Beccles  Waterworks Company held,
when a dividend at the rate of 2 per cent, is recommended.
DEATH:  The  death  takes  place  at  the  ripe  age  of  89  years,  of  Mr.  G.  Woolnough,  an  old  and

respected inhabitant of Beccles.
EDUCATION:  Annual  Tea  and  Distribution  of  Prizes  take  place  at  the  Henham  and  Wangford
Schools.

DEATH: The death takes place of Mr. Edward Shiplee. the oldest member of the Beccles Post Office
staff. In his capacity as rural messenger for forty years he is accredited with having walked 190,280
miles.

WEDDING: The wedding takes place at the Parish Church of Miss Florence Maria Merrells and Mr.
James Cutler, both well known in the town.
SOCIETY: Messrs. H. Copeman  and  Son are  awarded second  and third prizes for their Rosecomb

Bantams at the Bury and District Fanciers’ Society.
DEATH: Death of Mrs. M. Pells at the age of 90 years. Deceased was a sister of the late Mr. Geo.

1902
 

Woolnough, who died on the 10th inst.
FUNERAL: The funeral takes place of Mr. Edward Shiplee, members of the two Courts of Foresters

being present.
CHAPEL: Rev. A. Legatt, of Yarmouth, preaches at the Congregational Church.

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VOLUNTEERS: The Rifle volunteers have a route drill along the Gillingham road.
CHAPEL: Beecles P.S.A . Society have a social evening, the schoolroom being nicely decorated for
the occasion.

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1902

CHAPEL: Annual Entertainment of the Congregational Band of Hope.
CHAPEL:  A  meeting  arranged  by  the  Wesleyan  Sunday  School  and  Band  of  hope  in  aid  of  Dr.
Stephenson’s homes, held in the Schoolroom. Rev. J. Sanger presides, and a total contribution from

the school of £4 12s. 1d. is announced.
SOCIETY: Second Annual general meeting of the Beccles Golf Club held at the Club House, Mr. J.
E. Crisp  in the  chair. A favourable  balance sheet was produced by the hon.  sec.  (Mr.  E. Hewer).

Payment on the shares for 1901 of 4 per cent, was agreed to.
HOSPITAL: Meeting  of the Beccles Hospital  Saturday Fund held  in the Council Chamber, Mr. H.
Hopson presiding. Collecting Boxes were opened, the net proceeds from all sources amounting to £95

2s. 8d. - about £10 less than the previous year.
SPORT: Mr. A. K Hockey, President of the North Suffolk Football League, presents Bungay with the

Allerton Cup.
EDUCATION:  Offertories  are  taken  at  the  Parish  Church  on  behalf  of  the  National   Schools

amounting to £13 2s.
SOCIETY:  Annual  meeting  of  the  Loyal  “Temple  of  Friendship”  held  at  the  King’s  Head,  the

secretary announcing the saving on the year’s transactions amounted to about £400.
CHAPEL:  Bible  Classes  at  the  Congregational  Church  have   a  tea   and  social  evening   in  the
Schoolroom, a pleasant time being spent.

COUNCIL: Beccles Town Council decide at a special meeting to erect an Isolation Hospital, at a cost
of £252 l0s. for use in case of smallpox outbreak.
CHAPEL: Annual business meeting of Congregational Church Choir held when Mr. Geo. Hector is

appointed secretary.
ACCIDENT: A little girl named Cox, living on the Grange Estate falls from an upper window and is
severely injured.

NURSE’S HOME: A Concert in  aid  of the Nurses’ Home  is held at the College  Schoolroom. The
programme was arranged by Mr. A. K. Hockey.
CHAPEL: Anniversary services held at the Primitive Methodist Chapel, the Rev. E. Ball preaching.

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1902

VOLUNTEERS: Rifle Volunteers headed by the bugle band have a march out.
CHURCH: A meeting of the C.E.T.S. held, when Rev.  P. Oakley Hill,  Vicar  of Upton, Norwich,
gave an address.

EDUCATION: Mrs.  Hayes,  Gresham  House  School,  is  presented  with  handsome  clock,  suitably
inscribed, from the adult members of the dancing class.
CHAPEL: Mr. H. W. Cocks of Bungay. gives an interesting paper on “What, when and how to read “

to the members of the Wesley Guild.
SOCIETY: A Dance arranged by Mr. W. Hall, takes place in the Town Hall, about 70 being present.

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1902

CHAPEL: About 50 persons attend a Social Evening given by the Congregational Church Choir.
CO-OP: Annual meeting of the Beccles Co-operative Society held, when a dividend to members of 1s

10d in the £ was recommended. Sales of £4,861. MF Buck, President; W lee, Hon Treasurer; O Aldis,
Secretary.

SOCIETY:  Members  of  the  Girl’s  Friendly  Society  have  tea  at  the  Town  Hall  after  which  the
company were entertained by Mrs. Rogers, of Littleport.
SOCIETY: Mrs. .J. K. Barney, a lady from America. gives an interesting address entitled “Round the

world with the White Ribbon” in the Town Hall. There was a large attendance.
WEDDING: Miss Hannah Pleasants is the recipient of wedding presents from the  firm  and young
women  employed  in  the  Binding  Department  of  the  Caxton  Press,  in  acknowledgment  of  a  long

period of service.
SOCIETY: A meeting of the subscribers of the Chrysanthemum Society held in the Rectory Room,
Canon Rowsell presiding.

RAILWAY: The G.E R. employees in the Way and Works Department have their Annual Dinner at
the Railway Hotel, Mr. Youell presiding.
EDUCATION: Nomination of Candidates for Beccles School Board, viz. W. M. Crowfoot, surgeon;

W. Heather, Congregational minister; J. P. Larkman. solicitor; W. Read, merchants’ manager; E G.R.
Watson, chemist.
ORCHESTRA: The Beccles Orchestral Society give a successful Concert at the Town Hall, a large

number being present.
BECCLES ORCHESTRAL  SOCIETY CONCERT: 8 violins,  2 violas, 2  cellos, double bass, flute,
clarinet, horn, euphonium, harmonium, piano

RAILWAY: The first of the annual dinners to the railway employees, at Beccles, promoted by public
subscription, held at the King’s Head Hotel, Dr. McComb presiding in the absence of the Mayor. Mr.

Blanden, station master, was in the vice-chair and about 50  members of the staff were present.
FIRE: A slight outbreak of fire occurs at the Convent.

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1902

CHAPEL: The annual tea and Meeting of the members of the Congregational Church takes place, a
good number being present.

VOLUNTEERS: Nos. 8 and 9 Companies 1st N.V.A. inspected by the Adjutant, Capt. Wyatt, at the
Drill Hall.
VOLUNTEERS:  Sergt..Trumpeter  C.  H.  Barkham  is  presented  with  a  long  service  medal,  by

Adjutant, Capt. Wyatt, at an inspection of Nos. 8 and 9 Co’s , 1st N.V.A.
EDUCATION: Annual Meeting of the Waveney Valley Teachers’ Association held, Miss Robinson
presiding over a good attendance.

White Lion, the Mayor presiding.
CHAPEL: The members of the Wesley Guild hold a “Social” in the Wesleyan Schoolroom. A large

number present and a capital programme provided.
VOLUNTEERS:  Corporal  W.  Upcraft,  Rifle  Volunteers,  is  presented  with  pair  of  field  glasses,

tobacco and pipe on his leaving for South  
ACCIDENT: A man  named Alfred Turner, while  unloading sleepers near Beccles Railway  Station

has his foot badly crushed.
CHAPEL:  At  the  Wesleyan  Schoolroom  a  paper  is  read  by  Mr.  R.  E.  Adams  before  the  Wesley
Guild, on “The conduct and Ritual of Divine Service.’

EDUCATION: David Honeywood, wherryman, summoned for irregular  attendance of his son aged
12. He had 14 children, wife thought 7 should be attending school.
VOLUNTEERS: Adjutant V. T. Worship inspects the Rifle Volunteer recruits at the Drill hall, Old

Market Place.
CHAPEL: A successful meeting of the Temperance Society held in the Congregational Schoolroom,
Rev. W. Heather presiding.

FIRE: Disastrous fire occurs  at Bungay resulting  in total destruction of Mr. C. Marston’s  corn mill
near the Staithe. Estimated damage £2000.
DEATH of Lord John Hervey occurs at Bungay, causing universal regret.

1902
1902

PUBLIC  LIBRARY:  Annual  Meeting  in  connection  with  Public  Library  held.  Canon  Rowsell
presiding,  when  question  of  taking  over  adjoining  Reading  Room  is  discussed,  and  a  committee
appointed to go into the matter.

ACCIDENT: A G.E.R fireman is taken to Beccles Hospital, having sustained injuries by falling from
his engine
TRADE: Mr. P. J. Gibbons holds his annual Cycle Show at the Town Hall.

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1902

CHAPEL: C. J. Thorne, missionary from Madigascar preaches  at the Congregational Church in the
morning.

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1902

CHAPEL: A successful Temperance meeting held in Town Hall, Mr. Garwood Ingate presiding.
WAR: Beccles  Volunteers who signed for service  in  South Africa  leave Norwich with the  Service

Company.
CHURCH: The C.E.T.S.  conclude  its winter session by a successful meeting  at the Ingate Mission

Room. Canon Rowsell presides.
ACCIDENT: Capt. Henderson of the Beccles Salvation Army meets with an accident while cycling
to a service at Loddon.

DEATH: The death takes place at Fair Close, of Mr. Joseph Watson, at the age of 59 years. Deceased
was for many years superintendent of the Wesleyan Sunday School.
CHAPEL:  A  Sale  of  Work  in  aid  of  the  Twentieth  Century  Fund  is  held  in  Congregational

Schoolroom £23  being realized.
POLITICS:  A  Smoking  Concert  arranged  by  the  Beccles  Conservative  Association  is  held  in  the
Town  Hall.  Col.  Lucas  M.P.  for  the  division  was  present  and  received  a  hearty  reception  upon

addressing the meeting. The Mayor presided.
CHAPEL:  Meetings  in  connection  with  the  Beccles  and  District  Free  Church  Council  held  at
Halesworth.

SPORT:  Annual  Meeting  of  the  Caxton  Athletic  Club  held  when  a  gratifying  balance  in  hand  is
reported.
SOCIETY: Meeting  of  members  of the Chrysanthemum  and  Floricultural  Society held in Rectory

Room. The Mayor expressed the opinion that the Chrysanthemum Show was appreciated and ought
not to be allowed to lapse.
FUNERAL: Funeral service takes place in the Wesleyan Chapel of the late Mr. J. G. Watson, a large

number being present.
DEATH: At the P.S.A. meeting the Rev. W. Heather pays a touching tribute to the memory of the

late Mr. J. G. Watson.
CHURCH: Confirmation  Service  held in the  Parish Church  conducted  by the  Lord Bishop of the

Diocese.  There  were  132  candidates  [Beccles:  25  males,  46  females]  from  the  various  parishes
present.

CHAPEL: Members  of the British  Women’s Temperance Association have their  annual tea in the
Primitive Methodist Schoolroom, the financial and other reports being rnost encouraging.
EDUCATION: First meeting of the re-elected Beccles  School Board held, when the usual business

was transacted.
EDUCATION: National School: Reduction in deficit of £25. Appeal for subscriptions.
PUBLIC LIBRARY: Meeting of members of Beccles Public Library held, when Committee reported

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1902

PUBLIC LIBRARY  AGM: WM Crowfoot elected President in place of Rev JH Raven.
FIRE BRIGADE: Annual Dinner of the Caxton Press Fire Brigade held at the King’s Head Hotel, the

Mayor presiding.
ENTERTAINMENT: The Annual Tea and Entertainment given to their employees by Messrs. Elliott

and Garrood takes place at the Town Hall and proves a great success.
CHAPEL: The Rev. H. Flemming, of Clacton-on-Sea preaches in the Primitive Methodist Chapel in

connection with the Connexional Home Missions.
CHURCH: In connection with the British  and  Foreign Bible  Society a  lantern lecture upon  ‘China
and the Chinese”  and “Bible work among the Chinese”  is  given  in the Town Hall by the Rev. J.

Thomas, formerly of Shanghai. The collection amounted to £5 13s.
FUNERAL: The funeral  of the  late Mr. Robert Tilney takes place; Canon Rowsell  officiated  and
there were a large number present.

DEATH of Robert Tilney, aged 62; Gun-smith & dealer in game since 1867. Champion Suffolk Rifle
Association; several prizes at WRA meetings.
SOCIETY:  First  general  meeting  of  the  Beceles  Waveney  Angling  Club  held  at  the  Cambridge

Stores, Northgate street. There was a good attendance and Col. Combe was elected president.
ENTERTAINMENT: Two well attended entertainments are given in the Town Hall by the boys from
the Farningham Homes.

CHORAL  SOCIETY:  The  Choral  Society  assisted  by  the  choir  perform  at  the  Parish  church
Mendelssohn’s ~‘ Hear my prayer” and Stainer’s “Crucifixion.” A large congregation was present.
SUNDAY OBSERVANCE:  Letter from Cornelius Ingate of Bungay: A Parson  advocated football,

cricket,  golf  etc  on  Sunday afternoons, “Surely such descecration  of the  Sabbath incurs the Divine
Displeasure.”
WEDDING: The marriage of Miss Grace Rankin Wilson, daughter of Col. T. Wilson, Mayor of  of

Beccles, with Mr. Richard Cromwell  Warner, son  of Rev. Canon Warner, [of  Stoke,  Lincolnshire]  
takes place at St. Andrews, Ashley Gardens, Westminister.

CHURCH: The Annual Meeting of the Church of England Central Society for providing homes for
Waifs and Strays held in the Rectory Room. A service was afterwards held in the Parish Church.

COUNCIL: Local Inquiry held in connection with the application by the Beccles Town Council, for a
loan  of  £1,000 for improvements to the Town Hall, before J. C. Pottinger,  Esq., M.1.C.E.,  one  of

Local Government Board Inspectors.
VESTRY MEETING: held when the outgoing overseers, Messrs. A. Pells, C. H. Durrant, H. Hopson,
and L. G. Laws are nominated for the ensuing year.

CHAPEL:  At  the  Wesleyan  Chapel  Rev.  T.  Brian  Castle,  of  Nottingham,  deputation  for  Home
Missionary Society gave a lecture entitled “A Methodist Revival in the Parish Church.”
CHURCH: Offertories at the Parish Church in aid of the Curates Fund realise £16 17s.

1902
1902

COUNCIL: The annual rent audit tea takes place in the Town Hall, the Mayor presiding.
CHURCH: The offertory at the Parish Church in aid of the Jews’ Society realised £5 I5s. 6d.
SALVATION ARMY: Special rejoicings with the Salvation Army on the occasion of the marriage of

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1902

“Capt.” J. Henderson with “Capt.” M. Lamb, being the first Salvation Army officer’s wedding ever
celebrated at Beccles.
CHAPEL: Service of Song given in the Primitive Methodist Chapel entitled “Blind Betty’s Text,’ the

narrative given by Mr. Garwood Ingate.
CHAPEL: Anniversary services held in the Martyrs’ Memorial Chapel, Mr. J. Hunt Lynn preaching
in the afternoon.

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1902

LADIES’ HOCKEY: Beccles XI defeat Halesworth 2 - 0
WEDDING: The marriage takes place of Miss Edith Clark, fourth  daughter of Mr. James Clark, of
Market House. to Mr. Arthur Ashford Waller, second son of Mr. 11. WaIler, Pier Terrace, Lowestoft.

ENTERTAINMENT: The  Town  Hall  is  densely  packed  with  an  audience  to  witness  the  talented
Walford Family’s Entertainment.

CHAPEL: Rev. J. Hunt gives interesting lectures on “Some early American Methodist Preachers” in
the Wesleyan Chapel. There was a good attendance.

A VESTRY MEETING held  at the Parish Church, the Rector presiding, when the parish  accounts
were produced.

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1902

CHAPEL: The PSA. starts its new 13th half.yearly session.
VOLUNTEERS: Adjutant V. T. Worship inspects the Rifle Volunteer recruits in the Drill Hall.
WAIFS & STRAYS SOCIETY: Beccles Branch; WM Crowfoot in Chair: Speaks of State provision

in France. Rev E de M Radoff, founder of Society, speaks on year’s work.
FOOTBALL: Railway Excursion to Cup Final at Crystal Palace & Epsom Spring Races, etc.
EDUCATION: School Board Meeting held, presided over by Mr. Wm. Read.

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1902

There was a good demand.
DEATH: The funeral takes place of the late Mrs. F. S. Rix [aged 71], amid manifestations of respect

and sorrow.
ENTERTAINMENT: A Smoking Concert in connection with the Ancient Order of Shepherds takes

place at the Caxton Arms.
VOLUNTEERS: The Artillery Volunteers have a church parade and march to Barsham Church. Rev.

Allan Coates preached.
MEN’S SOCIAL INSTITUTE: First annual meeting of the Men’s Social Institute held at the College,
Mr. A. K. Hockey presiding.

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1902

LADIES’ HOCKEY: Beccles v “99” Ladies & Mr Hipburn’s XI
HOSPITAL: Theatrical performances by local ladies and gentlemen in aid of the Hospital are given
in the Town Hall.

CHURCH: The 16th  annual Tea  of  members  of Mr. J.  S.  Palmer’s Bible Class takes place in the
Waveney Schoolroom, when the Rector distributes the books subscribed for by the members.
COUNCIL: A town’s meeting to decide what should he done to suitably celebrate the coronation of

the king, is held in the Town Hall. The Mayor presided and there was a good attendance.
CHAPEL: Mr. Adam Adams,  of  Lowestoft, occupies the pulpit  at the Primitive Methodist Chapel
and preaches to good congregations.

LET MARSHES: Messrs. Read, Stanford and Gayford let for the Town Council about 200 acres of
mowing and grazing marshes, realising about 40/- an acre.
EDUCATION: Rev. W. Heather Secretary Beecles and District Free Church Council, who attended

the great meeting held in St. James Hall, London, to protest against the Government’s New Bill on
Education  gives  an interesting  account  of the  bill  and  his  visit, in the Congregational  Schoolroom.
Rev.  E. Ball presided  and there was  a large attendance.  [JS Palmer  deplores NUT support of the

Education Bill]
CO-OP: Mr. W.  S.  Watkins, organising  Secretary of the County Technical Instruction, lectures  on