Hanslope

transcribed by Ingrid Neale

January 1894 Hanslope

On November 24, two Concerts were given in the Feoffe School, Hanslope. The first concert was in the afternoon at 3 p.m., the attendance being somewhat thin. Mrs. Muirhead Gould, who had kindly promised to give a Dramatic Sketch, entitled the “Silent Woman,” was unable, at the last moment, to take part, through indisposition. Owing to various reasons we were disappointed in several other quarters, through no fault, however, of those who had the getting up of the entertainment. We owe a warm debt of gratitude to Miss Downes and Mr. C. Fiennes, who though both suffering from colds, came to the rescue in the most generous manner and rendered most effective help, their rendering of a Photographic Sketch in dumb show being much appreciated. Two excellent violin solos were contributed by the Rev. J. P. Frend, an amusing reading by the Rev. H. Jollye, two songs by Miss. Reynolds and a concert solo by Mr. J. Herbert. In the evening there was a large audience, the room being almost full. The entertainment was a very good one. The programme was as follows: - songs, “Poor thing,” and “The niggardly nigger,” Mr. Brambley; two violin solos, “Romance and Bolero,” and “Fantasies Mignonnes,” Rev. J. P. Frend; songs, “The garden of sleep,” and “Private Tommy Atkins,” Mr. Salmons; songs, “Under the circumstances,” “I borrowed it,” and “The breach of promise,” Mr. C. Fiennes; songs, “Stars of Normandy,” and “Home, dearie, home,” Miss. C. Whiting; reading “The charity dinner,” Rev. H. Jollye; song, old English ballad, Miss Downes; cornet solo “The song that reached by heart.” Mr. Herbert; songs, “There’s time enough yet,” and “I don’t exactly know,” Miss. Reynolds. The entertainment closed with a highly amusing Photographic Sketch by Mr. C. Fiennes and Miss. Downes, which caused much merriment. Our warmest thanks are due to Mr. H. Cox and Mr. G. Whitbread for the very effective help they rendered in getting the room ready. We must not forget all those kind friends who so willingly lent chairs, curtains and other necessary articles. The help thus rendered contributed very largely to the success of the entertainment. Although there is a great deal to be done in Hanslope, we shall never despair as long as we have so many kind friends to rally round us. The takings amounted to nearly £7, and £5 10s. has been cleared. This sum will be devoted towards procuring new lights for Hanslope Church.

Both the Vicar and Mr. Corder have been suffering from the epidemic, which has prevailed so widely in this district during the last few weeks; consequently, they have not been able to have the customary week night services in each parish during the first two weeks of Advent.

On Friday evening, January 5 at 7 p.m., the annual Sunday School Prize Giving will be held in the Feoffee School. Mrs. Watts has very kindly consented to give away the prizes. There will be recitations, dialogues and songs during the evening. We hope that as many parents of the scholars as possible will attend.

We are glad to announce that it has been decided to take two large rooms belonging to Mr. Crick, in Castlethorpe road, for our Village Club. The rooms have to be got ready. But we hope that a start will soon be able to be made. We hope also that all the Villagers will rally round us and make the Club a through success. Mr. Corder is acting as secretary, and the following gentlemen have kindly consented to serve as a committee: - Messrs. Pater, Smart, Rose, Shrimpton, Hopkins, Cook, Neale, Quixley, and the Rev. W. J. Harkness.

It is proposed to hold our second winter entertainment on Thursday evening, January 25. We hope our friends will make a note of this date. We shall announce fuller particulars later on.

The old year which has been so bright and beautiful is closing amid sickness and sorrow. We hope that with the new year, the cloud will roll away.

Baptism Hanslope 1894

Nov. 30 Minnie, daughter of Emma Maria Nichols

Nov. 30 Margaret Eliza and Lizzie May, daughters of Frederick and Mary Ann Lane

Nov. 30 Nellie and Herbert Charles, daughter and son of Walter and Emily Ellen White

Nov. 30 Florence Mary and Edith Annie, daughters of William and Emily Jane Mills.

Burials Hanslope 1894

Nov. 30 Thomas Brownsell, aged 65 years

Dec. 9 Esther Rainbow, aged 78 years

Dec. 16 Harriet Rainbow, aged 50 years.

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February 1894 Hanslope,

We have just lost a humble but true-hearted communicant, Mary Geary, the wife of our respected Sunday School teacher, James Geary. She succumbed to influenza. She was one of those brave Christian women who bore a heavy burden uncomplainingly and shrank from advertising herself, as so many do in these days. She may truly be said to have laid down her life for her family. Thinking of her, we think of Christ’s words. “Many that are last shall be first.”

On Sunday evening, December 24, a funeral service was held in memory of the late Vicar. The pulpit and lectern were draped in black. The Vicar preached from psalm xxx. 5.

Christmas Day dawned mild and genial. Owing to the prevailing sickness, we had few decorators. There was a strange blending of funeral emblems with those of the festive season, showing how in this life sorrow and joy are blended together. We had a bright morning service and 28 communicants.

On December 26, Mr. Corder kindly invited the members of his Bible Class and of the Guild to his rooms for tea. A very enjoyable evening was spent.

On Wednesday, December 27, the annual Sale of Work was held in the Feoffee School. The tree was kindly given by Mrs. Watts. Owing to sickness and shortness of work, we had fears of the result, but although the afternoon attendance was limited, this was amply made up in the evening. In addition to the work stall, Miss Sawbridge conducted a jumble stall. Four magic lantern exhibitions by the Vicar and Mr. Corder added variety to the proceedings and about a guinea to the exchequer. The magic lantern was very kindly lent by Mr. Quixley. The total receipts were £11 10s. 3d., which, after deducting £1 3s. 0½d. for expenses, leaves a net profit of £10 7s. 2½d. It is proposed to spend £10 on the improvement of the Vestry, the remaining 7s. 2¼d. to go towards the re-table in the Chancel. We must warmly congratulate our Hanslope friends for their pluck and spirit in making this event, in spite of difficulties, a thorough success.

On Saturday evening, December 30, the Band kindly gave a good entertainment in the Board School; the proceeds were devoted towards the furnishing of the village club.

The elder girls’ Missionary Working Party had tea at the Vicarage, on Tuesday evening, January 2, and a very pleasant evening was spent. The party numbered 15.

On Thursday evening, January 4, the Vicar and Mrs. Harkness entertained the Choir to supper at the Vicarage, and a thoroughly happy evening was spent in singing and amusements of various kinds. We all felt sorry when the church clock struck 11 and reminded us that the time of departure had come.

On January 5, the annual distribution of the Sunday School Prizes was held in the Feoffe School. In spite of the severe weather a goodly number of parents and friends assembled. The programme was an exceptionally good one; Mary Shrimpton a pianoforte solo, Nellie Crick and Nellie Eakins a duet, a song by Lucy Payne, and a recitation by Hilda Hutchins; a short dialogue “After Harvest,” by the three ads, Alfred Paybody, William Quixley and Harry Rainbow was well performed. But the chief attraction was a dialogue called “The Training Home,” in which Eva Branson, Ada Smith, Lucy Payne, Nellie Quick, Emily Newbury, and Nelle Eakins all performed their parts remarkably well. The above girls formed a small choir and sang several carols and glees, which were appreciated. Owing to the absence of Mrs. Watts, the prizes were given away by Mrs. Harkness. Three scholars, William Whitbread, Eva Branson and Mary Shrimpton obtained certificates for not being absent nor late during the year. After a few kindly words by the Vicar and Mr. Corder, the proceedings closed with the Benedicition.

Burials 1894 Hanslope

Dec. 28 Mary Geary, aged 68 years.

Jan. 13 Sarah Brownsell, aged 77 years

Jan. 15 Richard Herbert, aged 65 years

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March 1894 Hanslope

We subjoin Balance Sheet for 1893 of Hanslope Church Poor Fund. Receipts - Balance from previous year, 17s. 7½d.; Communion offertories, £2 16s. 1½d.; part of Advent Sunday offertory, 3s. 1½d.; Churching offerings, 6d.; total, £3 17s. 4d. Expenditure - Invalid wine, £1 4s. 5d.; meat, £1; groceries, 6s.; given in money, 1s.; total, £2 11s. 5d; balance in hand, £1 5s. 11d.

On January 26, a very enjoyable entertainment was given in the Feoffe School. There was an excellent attendance. The first part, which was musical, was as follows: - Miss Parnill Brown, piano solo; Miss A. Gregory, “Sweet Kildare” and “In the early spring”; Mrs. Bramley, “Call me back again”; Mr. Gibson, “Mary of Argyle” and “The death of Nelson”; Mr. Manning, “The cricket on the hearth” and “Tom Bowling”; Mr. Gibson gave as an encore “Annie Laurie”; the Vicar gave a reading. The second part consisted of a farce, “The Coming Woman” which is an amusing take-off of what society will be like when men and women exchange their respective positions and woman reigns supreme. The parts were as follows; - Tom Carberry, Mr. Courtman; Mr. Wigfall, Mr. Brambley; Judge Wigfall, Miss Gregory, Miss Victorine Wigfall, Miss M. Sawbridge, and Miss Wolverine Griffin, Miss. Paybody. Although the piece was a difficult one, the performers entered into their parts with intelligence and spirit, the result being highly creditable to all concerned. The entertainment was repeated on the following night. After paying expenses, we have been able to devote about £3 7s. towards the re-lighting. of the Church. We warmly thank all the good friends who so willingly helped us, not only in the entertainment itself, but also in lending articles for the decoration of the room. We owe special thanks to Mr. Foster, who worked so hard to get the room ready. A parishioner said sometime since - “There is plenty of talent in Hanslope, it only wants bringing out,” He spoke the truth.

Six very handsome lamps of 65 candle power each, have now been placed in our church. The proceeds of the last two entertainments, together with a kind donation of 5s. from Mr. Odell, of Newport Pagnell, did not wholly defray the expense. We are still £1 in debt. This sum has been generously presented to us by a parishioner, so now our lamps are our own.

We have also to acknowledge a kind donation of 10s. from Mrs. Watts, for the late Christmas Tree Fund; 10s, from Mr. Squires, of Woolwich, for the Bazaar Fund; and 10s. 6d. from Mr. Lockwood, of Woolwich, towards the Church Restoration Fund.

On Sunday morning, February 4, and Sunday evening, February 11, collections were made for the Oxford Diocesan Spiritual Help Society, and amounted to £1 11s. 7d.

On Tuesday evening, January 23, Mr. Brearley, of Castlethorpe, read a thoughtful paper to the members of the Church Guild on “The things we see around us.” He pointed out the order, unity, and adaptation we see in nature, and as a practical deduction recommended every lad to have some hobby, and as he went about his work to have his eyes wide open. This good advice we warmly endorse; if our youths would more generally follow it, there would be far less drinking, and there would be far fewer failures in life.

We earnestly hope and pray that Holy Week, Good Friday, and Easter Day may be well observed, and that the services of that week may bring a blessing to many.

No baptisms, marriages, or burials printed for Hanslope 1894

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Hanslope April 1894

On Monday, February 5th, the Church Choir, under the leadership of Mr. Brumbley, gave a good entertainment in the Board School. There was a large audience. Songs were given by Mrs. Brumbley, the Misses Taylor, Payne, Herbert and Messrs. Brumbley, Herbert, Tebbey, and Sawbridge. Miss Payne gave a piano solo, and Misses Payne and Herbert a pianoforte duet. Mr. Herbert gave a cornet solo, and the Vicar contributed two readings. The proceeds, which amounted to about £1, were devoted towards the furnishing of our proposed Village Club.

On Wednesday evening, February 28th, a pleasing entertainment was given by the children of the Feoffe School. We regret that owing to unavoidable reasons this entertainment had to be held in Lent. There was a good attendance of parents and friends. The first part of the programme consisted of songs and recitations by our young friends, closing with an action song, by the scholars of the First Standard, which was very well rendered. The second part consisted of a cantata, called “The white Garland.” this was very nicely performed and warmly appreciated by those present. At the conclusion, the Vicar spoke a few words on the importance of regularity, punctuality, perseverance and politeness, and asked the parents to co-operate with the teachers in trying to foster these valuable qualities, always having the fear of God as the foundation of all. Our warmest thanks are due to Mr. and Mrs. Brumbley for all the trouble they took in getting up the entertainment. The profits, which amounted to £1 10s., have been devoted towards the purchase of books for the School Library.

During the past month death has again cast its shadow over our parish. We lament the premature loss of Harry Cox, who passed away on March 7th. He had been exhausted by over work, and in this state he unfortunately caught the influenza. Before long, symptoms of typhoid fever appeared. For several weeks it seemed as though everything was going on well. Unhappily when the crisis of the disease arrived, a change for the worse took place. On Sunday evening he was manifestly sinking, and the words of the psalm for that evening, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,” seemed happily appropriate. He lingered two more days and then quietly breathed his last. Though constitutionally far from strong, he nevertheless was enabled to do good useful work for his Church, both as a Sunday School Teacher and a Bell Ringer. He was also a regular Communicant, and in this respect has set an excellent example to the young men of the parish. He was of a modest, unassuming disposition, every ready to oblige, and possessed a good deal of quiet humour. Many here will miss him. We are sure that the sympathy of all our parishioners will be with his father and with his sister, who nursed him so well during his illness. He was committed to his rest in Hanslope Churchyard on Saturday, March 10th, with every mark of respect and affection.

We take this opportunity of offering our sincerest sympathy to Mr. and Mrs. Shrimpton in the sad trouble which has befallen them through the loss of their little daughter. We know that this feeling is very widely shared in the parish. We hope that Mrs. Shrimpton’s health may before long be completely re-established, and that they and their family may realise how full and deep are the compensations which God gives to those who love and trust Him.

We are greatly indebted to the Rev. W. Miller for the very valuable series of addresses which he has given during four Friday evenings in Lent. The fifth and closing address was given on Palm Sunday evening. The subjects were - “Whose am I?” “What am I doing?” “Where am I going?” “What hindrances have I ?” “What helps have I Momentous questions these ! They are questions which we must all face, if we wish to dwell with Christ hereafter, Alas ! What petty enquirers many people substitute for them ! How can I make myself important ? How can I amuse myself ? How can I get money ? How can I make myself comfortable ? We earnestly trust that Mr. Miller‘s thoughtful, searching words may go home to many hearts and exert a lasting influence for good ?

We would offer our most deep and respectful sympathy with Mr. and Mrs. Carlile in the terrible trouble which has befallen them.

Baptism Hanslope 1894

March 8 Daisy, daughter of Septimus and Elizabeth Shrimpton, (Privately).

March 18 Jessie Annie, daughter of William and Clara Denton

March 19 Elsie Selina, daughter of Alfred and Sarah Ann Burbidge. (Privately).

Burials Hanslope 1894

March 14 Daisy Shrimpton, aged 3

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May Hanslope 1894

On Monday, March 5th, the annual opening of Church Missionary Society boxes took place with the following result: Miss L. Shrimpton, 16s. 2¼ Working Party, 8s. 9½d.; Miss Smart, 8s. 7¾d.; Sunday School Box, 7s. 3¼d.; Miss E. Newbury, 6s. 1½d.; Miss Cox, 3s 1½d.; Master Rainbow, 2s. 8¼d. The total £2 13s. 5d. has been sent up to the Society. Though we have had no meeting this year yet we exceeded last year’s contributions by 5s 3½.

There were nice little congregations on the first four evenings of Holy Week. The morning and evening services on Good Friday were fairly attended, there were between 30 and 40 devout worshippers at the Three Hours’ Service. On Easter Eve Mrs. Watts very kindly sent us some growing plants, flowers and evergreens, while Mrs. Harkness, the Misses Cox, Smart, Wright and Sawbridge did their utmost to make the Church look worthy of the great Easter Festival. Easter Day dawned bright and beautiful. There were 24 communicants at 7 a.m. and 28 at 11 a.m. The services were very hearty, but the evening congregation was not what it should have been. Church people should not allow outside attractions to keep them from the House of God on such an occasion. The offertories amounted to £2 8s. 7d.

Easter Tuesday was our Congregational Tea Party. The weather was again beautiful; 88 sat down to tea at 4.30 and we could scarcely find room for them. Everyone seemed full of happiness of the Easter season. At 7 p.m., our friends again assembled in the schoolroom, which was crowded. The Vicar reviewed the work of the past year, showing how much cause there was for thankfulness. He then introduced the Rev. D. Elsdale, rector of Moulsoe, who at very short notice most kindly consented to supply the place on Cannon Wood, who was prevented from being with us by indisposition. In a very helpful address Mr. Elsdale dwelt upon the importance of neighbourliness in regard to our Country, our Village, our Home, and our Church. For instance, he advised brothers and sisters to be more attentive towards one another. He also pointed out that the Church was a teaching as well as a converting institution. Miss Scowlar’s recitation, “The Pied Piper of Hamelin” was so very warmly received, that she had to re-appear. Mr. Buckell kindly gave us two songs. The dialogue, entitled “The training home,” and several musical pieces by the Girls’ Working Party were much appreciated. A hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Elsdale, the Easter Hymn and Benediction brought to a close one of the happiest gatherings we have ever had at Hanslope. There was a balance from the tea of 14s. 10¼ d., of this 10s. 5d. Has been spent on some red cloth for chancel, and the rest will go to the Sunday School Fund.

On Easter Thursday, the annual vestry meeting was held, there was a moderate attendance. The Vicar again appointed Mr. Whitbread as his Warden and Mr. Shrimpton as his sidesman. The parishioners re-appointed Mr. Smart as their Warden and chose Mr. J. Branson as their sidesman. The Vicar would again acknowledge his indebtedness to Mr. Smart and Mr. Whitbread for their kind help during the past year. We subjoin the annual statement of accounts for last year. Receipts. - Pew rents £22 15s. 6d.; Church Collections, £8 16s. 10d.; Total, £31 12s. 4d. Expenditure. Sexton, £11 2s. Od.; Organist, £5,; Organ Tuning, £2 10s.; Lighting, £4 14s. 4d.; Coal and Coke, £3 19s. 8d.; Sacramental Wine, £1; Miscellaneous Expenses £3 5s. 2d.; Total £32 11s. 2d.; Balance in hand, £1 1s. 2d.

On Easter Friday, a special Vestry Meeting was held, at which Messrs. Hopkins, Pater, G. Whitbread, and J. Neale were elected as representative Trustees of the Feoffee Charity.

Baptism Hanslope 1894

March 25 Arnold Alfred, and Gertrude Sarah, son and daughter of Thomas Burt and Sarah Ann Evans

March 25 Frederick William, son of Henry and Elizabeth Sarah Houghton.

March 25 Arthur Henry, son of Benjamin and Lucy Hannah Lane.

March 25 Edith May, daughter of Thomas and Mary Smith

March 25 Lucy Minnie, daughter of Albert and Emily Gibbs/

March 25 Mabel Emily, daughter of Charles and Helen Louisa Cook

Burials Hanslope 1894

April 13 Jane Dakin, aged 31 years.

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Hanslope June 1894

We must express our warmest thanks to a generous friend, who has presented us with a very handsome brass cross; also to the Rev. Canon Wood for the kind gift of a number of hassocks; also to a very kind Woolwich friend for a donation of £1 towards the Church Restoration Fund; also to Moulsoe friends for a cheque for £1 3s., to be spent on some article for the Communion Table. We have not yet finally decided what this article shall be; also to Mrs. Watts for a very handsome kneeler for the altar rails, Struggling Hanslope has many well wishers.

The Annual Long Street Tea was held in the Mission Room, on Tuesday, April 3rd. Forty persons did full justice to the good things provided. The tables were presided over by Mesdames Checkley, Harkness, and Wilson, and the Misses Smart and Swingler. An entertainment as afterwards held, consisting of two parts, vocal music and a magic lantern. The following girls formed a small choir: - Lizzie Woodland, Alic Hillyer, Ada Webb, Annie Stimson, Sarah Hillyer, Agnes Woodland, Clara and Emilly Bates, Gertie Agers, Florence Merry, Kate Robins, and Lottie Stimson. The Vicar afterwards said a few encouraging words, and specially thanked Mr. Gregory and Miss Lucy Stones for all their valuable assistance. The lantern was kindly exhibited by Mr. Corder, the subjects being “The Tabernacle” and “The Life of David.” The little Mission Room was quite full, and after singing a hymn, a very happy evening closed with the Benediction.

On Friday, April 13th, a good Concert was given in the Feoffee School by the Church Choir, under the leadership of Mr. Brambley. In addition to various songs, several glees, vocal duets, and a violin solo, were well rendered. The Vicar, at the close, thanked the Choir for all the good work they had done in helping to make the Church services bright and efficient. The printing of the tickets and programmes, and the glee music, were given free of cost, which ---led the sum of £1 14s. 11d. to be cleared. This sum will be devoted towards a Choir excursion.

Ascension Day, was very fairly observed here. There was a bright Children’s Service at 9 a.m. There were 7 Communicants at 11 a.m., and a nice little congregation in the evening, when a very helpful sermon was preached by the Rev. G. Chappel, of S. Andrews, Northampton.

On Whit Sunday there were 16 Communicants at 7 a.m., and 11 more at 9 a.m. There was good congregation in the evening, the service being very hearty. The offertories throughout the day were give to the Additional Curates’ Society, and amounted to £2 1s. 9d., and increase of about 10s. Over the preceding year. Mrs. Watts kindly sent us some handsome flowers for the vases.

On Whit Wednesday, a Sale of Work was held in the Vicarage Gardens, and, in spite of the gloomy weather, was attended by over 100 persons. The Hanslope Band helped to enliven the proceeding of the evening. A Jumble Sale was held on the following afternoon. The proceeds of the two days amounted to £6 9s. 10½d. which, after deducting £1 8s. 2d. For expenses, leaves us a nice little balance of £5 1s. 8½d. Most of this will be devoted to the Vestry improvements. Let no one say that Hanslope is not trying to help itself.

The Annual Flower Service will be held on Sunday, June 24th.

The Sermon on our Dedication Festival, Wednesday July 25th, will be preached by the Right Rev. Bishop Anson.

Baptism Hanslope 1894

May 13 Ambrose William, son of William and Emily Jane Mills.

Burials Hanslope 1894

April 28 Lizzie May Lane, aged 5 months.

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July Hanslope 1894

On Tuesday evening, May 8, a meeting was held in the Feoffee School to organise a Curate Fund £15 7s. has to be raised by Hanslope for the current year. Towards this £5 was raised at Christmas, 1892, Sale of Work. The following subscriptions have so far been paid or promised: Mr. Smart £1, Mr. J. Checkley £1, Mr. Shrimpton 10s. 6d., Mr. Sawbridge 10s. 6d., Mr. Tompkins 10s., Mr. H. Cox 10s., Mr. Wilson 10s., Mr. T. Courtman 7s. 6d.., Mr. J. Whitbread 5s., Mr. G. Whitbread 5s., Mr. Quixley 5s., Mr. Kerridge 5s., Mr. Paybody 5s., Miss. E. Cox 5s., Miss. Crick 5s., Mrs D. Sawbridge 5s., Mr. T. Slade 4s 6d., Mrs Higgins 2s. 6d., Miss. Woodland 2s. 6d., Miss A. Denton 2s., Mr. H. Rainbow 1s., Mrs. H. Nichols 1s., Mr. W. Geary 1s., and Mr. Watson 1s. These amount to £7 15s., leaving £2 12s. Still to be raised. Further subscriptions, however small, will be gladly received. Our best thanks are due to those who have so kindly given.

Our Rural Dean, the Rev. B. G. Goodrich, very kindly came over on Wednesday, May 23, and inspected our Feoffe School. The following is his report: “Infant School - The little ones said hymns and Catechism well. Their Bible answering was rather weak, and they require to answer rather more audibly, Miss Lee has only had charge of them about seven weeks. They should be much improved by another year. William White, Harry Gregory, and Minnie Burbage did the best. - Mixed School - Group I, Standard I were rather slow in answering, and not up to the rest of the school. George Keeves was best. Group 2, Standards II. and III. Knew old and new Testament work well - rather wanting in Catechism. Charles Kingston, Frances Gearey and Thomas Ditum were best. Group 3, Standards lV., V., VI., knew their work well, and answered satisfactorily; they also showed good papers and well written. Louis Gardiner gained the Diocesan prize. Alfred Foster and Edith Rainbow were good. The recitation throughout the School was good, and the discipline excellent. The writing was very neat and generally accurate, and signing good. Great pains appeared to have been taken to work up the syllabus. Some specially applicable form of prayer should be adopted, and the whole school would be greatly improved by answering more quickly and audibly.”

A pretty Cathedral glass window has just been placed in the vestry, and two side of that sadly neglected portion of the church have been greatly improved by oak match-boarding. The cost of these alterations amounts to £18, towards which we have paid £12 10s. The chancel cocoanut matting will be placed in the vestry and some new matting will be laid down in its place.

We would again call attention to the fact that the Right Rev., the Hon. Bishop Anson, late Bishop of Qu’ Appelle, Canada, is coming to preach on our Dedication Festival, St James’ Day, July 25. The service in the evening is at 7.30 p.m. and we hope there will be a large congregation. We are also looking forwards to the choirs of Hanslope and Castlethorpe being combined for this important occasion.

Baptism Hanslope 1894

June 11 William Henry, Daisy Maud, and Albert Edward, children of George and Naomi Grisbrooke.

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August Hanslope 1894

On Saturday, June 23, a party of nine went over from Hanslope to the ‘Quiet Day,’ which is held every year at S. Mary’s Wolverton, in order to deepen the spiritual life of the Day and Sunday School teachers of this neighbourhood. Very earnest and helpful addresses were given from the prophet Ezekiel by the Rev. I. Lester, Vicar of Shifnal, Shropshire. The services were much enjoyed by those who came from Hanslope, and we are very much indebted to the Rev. G. P. Trevelyan for giving them the opportunity of being present.

Our Annual Flower Service took place on Sunday June 24, Midsummer Day. The service was an exceeding bright and happy one. We do not remember ever seeing so many people before at a Children’s Service in Hanslope. We were glad also to see so many parents present. The flowers, which were both numerous and beautiful, were sent to the Northampton Infirmary.

During the past month we have received the following fresh subscriptions towards our Curate’s Fund - Dr. Rutherford 5s., Mr. Thomas Whitbread 5s., Miss Ellen Cox 5s., Mrs. Northrop 2s. 6d., a well wisher Mr. James Herbert 1s., Mr. Henry Cook 1s. Mr. Carvell 6d., Mr. George Gregory 6d., Mr. C. Garratt 6., Mr. John Nichols 6d., Mr. George Tebbey 6d. Mr. W. Ditum 6d., Mr. T. Evans 6d. Mr. Shrimpton, the Treasurer, will be glad if all those who kindly promised subscriptions, but who have not paid will send them to him at their earlier convenience.

We have had so few weddings in Hanslope in time past, that possibly some people were to forget what the ‘Happy knot’ meant. During the last month, however, our young folks have been busy. Our heartiest wishes for their future happiness and prosperity follow the two young couples who have just started life on their own account under such favourable auspices. Our young friends, who have had one great advantage; they have all had the blessing of a Christian home, so that wherever their lot may be cast in the great world, they will carry with them pure and happy memories.

Musical distinctions do not come very often to Hanslope, all the more glad are we to observe that Miss Parnill Brown, grand-daughter to our neighbour Mr. Rose, has been successful at the recent examination in practical music held at Wolverton, in connection with Trinity College, London. She was prepared by Mr. Brumbley.

On Tuesday afternoon, July 10, ‘an excellent lecture on “The Church in Wales” was given in the Vicarage Garden by W. Anthony, Esq., of London. More that 50 people were present. When the lecture was half-way through, an interruption was caused by rain, and we had to beat a retreat into the house. The lecture, first of all, spoke of the work of the Welsh Church in ancient days, shewing how British Christians, after being driven out of England by the heathen Saxons, had founded a Church in Wales, with our dioceses, which continues to exist still. He also alluded to the valuable missionary work which was accomplished in those early days by that church and the part it played in regard to the conversion of Scotland and the re-conversion of the North of England. He then described the excellent work which the Church in Wales is doing at the present time. He pointed out that during the last 40 years £117,000 had been spent on the Welsh Cathedrals by Welsh Churchmen, and that a considerable number of Non - Conformist Ministers were applying to the Welsh bishops for ordination, although this involved a heavy pecuniary sacrifice on their part. He also mentioned that out of 1050 parishes in Wales, there were 471 at least which had no resident Dissenting Minister, and pointed out the injury these would suffer if the Church was crippled by Disendowment. A resolution was unanimously carried protesting against the Bill and earnestly inviting all Churchmen, without distinction of political party, to express to their parliamentary representatives, and to her Majesty’s Government, their strong sense of the great injury which the ---ion would suffer in the event of the Bill being carried.” 13s. 4d., was collected, and, after deducting ------- for hire of conveyance, was forwarded to the Church Defence Society.

An examination for Sunday School Scholars will be ----December on the first 12 chapters of the Acts and the Catechism, as far as the Duty to Neighbours, together with certain collects. Three special prizes to be given.

Marriages Hanslope 1894

June 28 Edward Whitbread and Charlotte Newbury

July 16 James Brockless and Annie Foster

Burials Hanslope 1894

June 25 John Page, aged 77

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September Hanslope 1894

This year our Dedication Festival was one that will long be remembered by us owing to the very kind visit of Bishop Anson. The weather on the two preceding days had been unfavourable, and there was heavy rain on the night preceding, but on the Festival itself we were favoured with bright sunshine. The Church had been prettily decorated with evergreens and flowers, which had been kindly sent to us by Mrs. Watts and other good friends from Hanslope and Castlethorpe. There were 13 communicants at 10 a.m. At 3 o’clock the bells rang out to welcome the Bishop on his arrival. At 4.30 a gathering of friends was held in the Vicarage Garden. At 7.30 a Festival Service was held in the church. The choirs of Hanslope and Castlethorpe were united for this occasion, and the very hearty way in which they led the service fully justified the experiment. Most of the music was the same as that used at the Northampton Choral Festival in June. The lessons were read by the Rev. H. Barnard and the Rev. G. Trevelyan, the latter of whom very kindly lent surplices for the Hanslope Choir boys. The Bishop preached a very earnest and forcible sermon from Psalm lxix., 9. He showed the importance in these days of division and self-will, when the right of private judgment had run wild, of labouring in season and out of season for the unity and spiritual welfare of the great Catholic Church. He closed with a beautiful description of what Christ intended his Church to be, viz., like a bride adorned for her husband, all glorious within and without spot or blemish, and bade all present hasten this happy time, by dedicating themselves more entirely to their Master’s service. The congregation was a very good one for a week-day service. £3 4s. 8d. was collected for the Church Restoration Fund, which has now reached £100. We must return our warmest thanks to Bishop Anson for preaching for us, also to Mr. Grant for his kindness in training the united choirs, and to Mr. Brumbley and Miss A. Gregory for their help at the practices. The Dedication Services were continued on the following Sunday, the congregation at the evening service being an excellent one. £1 9s. being collected for the Northampton Infirmary.

On Thursday, August 2, our Annual Sunday School Treat was held. The weather throughout the afternoon was bright and sunny. The scholars met at the school at 1.30 p.m., and at 2 p.m. marched round the parish, headed by their handsome banner, the singing as they marched along being very hearty. At 2.30 a bright little service was held at the church. At 3.30 our young folk, to the number of 120, did very ample justice to a good tea. At 4.30 p.m. 57 visitors and about 23 teachers, elder scholars, and choir members followed suit. All then proceeded to the field in front of the Rectory Farm, which Mr. Warwick had very kindly placed at their disposal. Before the sports were finished, the rain unhappily began to come steadily down and brought the proceedings to a premature and unpleasant conclusion. Before returning to the school, three very hearty cheers were given for Mr. and Mrs. Warwick. Each child received a bun on leaving the school. We ought to be thankful that the rain did not come till nearly the end of the day. Our thanks are due to all who worked to make it a success.

We accidentally omitted to mention in last month’s issue a subscription of 5s. from the Misses Newbury towards the Curate’s Fund. We have also received this month the following extra subscriptions: - A friend 10s; Mr. Oram 10s. 6d.; Mrs. Gibson 2s. 6d.

We have also to acknowledge with thanks a donation of £2 2s. From the Rev. S. G. Scott, rector of Havant, and of £1 from Mrs. Corder, of Woolwich, towards the Church Restoration Fund. Also a donation of 30s. From a friend of one of the members of our church towards the lighting of the chancel. This kind gift is the result of small sums placed in a box from time to time during the last 9 months.

We predicted last month that if only fine weather were granted, our Hanslope and Castlethorpe Sunday Schools and choirs would have a most enjoyable time on Saturday afternoon. August 11, at the Park, to which Mrs. Watts had most kindly invited them. In spite of an ominous thunder cloud, , about 2 p.m., the weather behaved well, and our prediction was fully realised. The happy procession of young folk, with its flags and banners reached the Lodge at 3 p.m., where it was joined by the Castlethorpe contingent, the infants of both schools being provided for by a couple of wagons very kindly lent to us by Mr. Whiting and Mr. Warwick, the whole party mustering over 200 strong. On their arrival, tea was at once provided for the children on a a very pretty side lawn, and when they had finished, very generous provision was made for the wants of our teachers and adult choir members. All then repaired to the Park, where a variety of amusements kept everyone fully employed till 7 p.m., when the procession was re-formed, and, after singing an evening hymn, and giving three very hearty cheers for Mr., Mrs., and Miss Watts for their kindness, all returned home in excellent spirits, feeling that they had spent a most happy afternoon.

We deeply regret to hear of Mr. Pater’s very serious illness. We earnestly trust that his good constitution will enable him to overcome the malady from which he is now suffering.

Baptism Hanslope 1894

Aug. 5 Margaret Sarah Ann, daughter of Thomas and Eliza Keeves

Aug. 5 Frederic Arthur, son of Charles and Flora Crick

Aug. 5 Clara Ann, daughter of Joseph and Levina Gable

Burials Hanslope 1894

August 17 Mary Stones, aged 82

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October Hanslope 1894

On August 10, the annual congregational excursions took place. The spot selected this year was Woburn. The party, which numbered 21, started from the Feoffee School at 10 a.m., in brakes, and reached Woburn shortly before 1 o’clock, after a very enjoyable drive. We were at once conducted through the Sculpture Gallery and the beautiful gardens of the Abbey. The house itself was unfortunately closed for cleaning and repairs. About 2 p.m. we again got into our conveyances, and shortly afterwards arrived at Fuller’s Earth Lodge. After a stroll through the woods, we were quite ready for the excellent tea prepared for us. After tea, we made our way through the woods to Bow Brickhill, but had no sooner emerged into the open, than, alas ! We behold distant Hanslope enveloped in black thunder clouds, which speedily made their way towards us. Half of our party hurried back to Woburn Sands; the more prudent portion sheltered in the picturesque little church of Bow Brickhill, till the storm subsided. At 7.30 p.m. we all met for a short service in Woburn Sands Church, and at 8 p.m started on our return journey, reaching home at 10 p.m.

The Annual Feoffee School Prize Giving took place on the breaking-up day, August 17. There was a nice little gathering of parents. In the unavoidable absence of Mr. and Mrs. Watts, the Vicar gave away the prizes, and afterwards spoke a few words of encouragement and counsel. The following gained prizes for good attendance - Parnill Brown, Annie Webb, Albert Simons, Emily Simons, James Cook, Annie Young, Alice Crick, Annie Simons, Fred Young, Florence Brumbley, Elizabeth Simons, Francis Crick, Gertie Nicholls, Ethel Caves. Infants - Eva Brumbley, Herbert Evans, Susan Young, Charles Simons, Henry Simons, Arthur Caves. For Progress - Alfred Foster, Edith Rainbow, Albert Simons, Frances Geary, Eleanor Gardiner. Infants - Maggie Gray, Harry Chilton, Gresham Whiting. For Good Conduct - Cissie Wills, Ethel Feasey, Elizabeth White, Clara Whitbread, Sarah Gregory. Special Prizes for Scripture given by the Vicar and Mr. Brumbley - Edith Rainbow, Alfred Foster, Special Prize for Geography given by the Vicar - Albert Geary.

Our readers will be pleased to hear that the school has earned this year a Government grant of £84 2s. This is about £3 more than last year. We subjoin the annual report: - Mixed School - “The order is satisfactory, and the results of the examination show very fair reading, good writing and spelling, and very good arithmetic. It is in intelligence that the weakness still lies. It is very difficult to coax answers from the children to simple questions on general subjects, or in explanation of their recitation exercises. The answering in geography, of the Third Standard especially, is not very satisfactory, but a grant may be recommended on the understanding that great improvement will be expected next year. The needlework is satisfactory, and note-singing is very fair. Infants’ School - The Infants’ department has again been unfortunate. It was not until April last that a qualified teacher took charge of it, and of course she found it in a completely disorganised state. She has improved its condition to some extent, and will, I think, make something of it, but there is a great deal to be done, both regards order and attainments, before it can be spoken of as being really satisfactory.”

The time is drawing near for the election of a Parish Council. As regards himself, the Vicar has decided to leave himself in the hands of the parish. If the parishioners think he can be of any service, and would like him to be a candidate for election, he will place himself at their disposal. If they prefer that he should not stand, he will be equally willing to accept their decision. He earnestly hopes that the deliberations of their Council may be marked by wisdom, courtesy, forbearance, and moderation. It is a good thing for men of different shades of opinion be brought together; they often find that they have much more in common than they imagined. We ought all to take an honest pride in the welfare of our village, and to try our best to improve it in every way, morally, socially, and spiritually.

The Vicar and Churchwardens have decided that after the end of this year a charge of 3d. shall be made for everyone who wishes to ascent the Church Tower. Of this sum 1d. will be given to the Sexton and 2d. to the Church Restoration Fund. We have to thank our kind friend, Mrs. Sawbridge, sen., for the gift of a pretty glass for our vestry.

We hope to have our Annual Autumn Entertainment on Friday, October 12. The proceeds will be devolved towards the paying off the debt on our chancel steps.

Baptism Hanslope 1894

Aug. 20 James Alexander, son of George and Robina Oram.

Aug. 26 Sarah Ann, Harry and Alfred, sons and daughter of Charles and Elizabeth Brownsell.

Aug. 26 Maude Rose, daughter of Willizm and Rosina Rainbow.

Aug. 26 Jessie Eliza Fanny, daughter of Edwin and Laura Ann Yorke

Burials Hanslope 1894

Aug. 20 Sarah Denton, aged 78 years.

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Hanslope November 1894

Our Harvest Festival commenced on Thursday evening, September 20. Thanks to the generosity of many kind friends, a great quantity of flowers were forthcoming this year. A large number of lovely dahlias were sent to us by Mrs. Watts, and our good friend, Mr. Smith Wickens, of Hartwell. Several kind Castlethorpe friends also remembered us. Mrs. Watts also kindly lent us some beautiful growing plants for the Sunday services. We are much indebted to many our farmers for the liberal supplies of wheat and oats which they contributed. Several kind Castlethorpe friends also remembered us. Mrs. Watts also kindly lent us some beautifully growing plants for the Sunday services. We are much indebted to many of our farmers for the liberal supplies of wheat and oats which they contributed. Several of our parishioners said that the church had never looked more beautiful than it did this year. The Thursday evening service was exceedingly hearty and bright, the congregation being very good for a week night. The sermon, which was preached by the Vicar’s old friend and former fellow curate, the Rev. F. H. Stock, vicar of Kimberworth, Yorkshire, was excellent alike in matter and tone. Mr. Stock took his text from S. Luke vi. 35 - 36, and said that as Jesus, who though the Divine Son of God and equal with His Father in majesty and glory, yet freely gave Himself for us, so we ought both to cherish grateful feelings towards Him, and also to minister to each other needs. The services were continued on the following Sunday, when there were 10 communicants at 8 a.m., a good congregation at 11 a.m., a largely attended Children’s Service at 3, and a capital congregation at 6.30. The anthem on the Thursday and Sunday evenings was Stainer’s “Ye shall dwell in the *and, “the solo being nicely rendered by Miss Taylor. (* this was printed this way and was not a destroyed piece.”)

The offertories throughout the Festival amounted to £4 15s. 2d., and were devoted to the Church Restoration Fund. We must tender our heartiest thanks to those ladies who worked so hard to decorate the church. Our four new lamps greatly brightened the chancel.

The parish has sustained a severe loss in the premature death of Mr. J. F. Pater. We say premature, because, until a few months ago, he seemed so full of energy and vigour that it might fairly have been thought he had many years of usefulness before him. He has fallen a victim to that scourge of recent years - influenza - which has deprived our country of so many valued citizens. His illness commenced in May last, but he partially recovered and although he had one or two later attacks. He managed to attend fairly well to business till a few weeks ago, when alarming symptoms developed themselves; his case became hopeless, and on Friday morning, October 5, he quietly breathed his last. He was 64 years of age. He has left his mark both as a County Councillor and as a Guardian, and we should imagine that as a financier he had but few equals in the county. He took a strong interest in parish affairs, and the much needed footpath along the Castlethorpe road, which is now nearly completed, was, we believe, mainly due to his persevering efforts. He was conspicuous alike for his untiring industry and self - reliance. We would tender our respectful sympathy both to his daughter, who nursed him so devotedly during his last illness, and to the rest of the family.

On Friday evening, October 12, a capital concert was given in the Board School. The weather, which so often proves a stumbling block on these occasions, was most propitious, the moon shining brightly. The room was comfortably filled. The first part commenced with a skilfuly executed pianoforte solo by Miss Mascall, entitled “Polonaise” by Chopin. Next came a song, “London Bridge,” which was nicely rendered by Miss. Lee, Miss Scouler then recited a piece called “Becalmed,” with a considerable amount of dramatic power. Then came a song by Miss Maxted. “The songs that children sing.” Mr. F. Turner was loudly applauded for his violin solo “Fantasia Norma.” Mr. Astley Cooper’s song “Mona,” and Miss Whiting’s song “The mission of a rose,” were both well rendered. Dr Ryan then sang “My dearest heart” with his usual taste and feeling. Next came a vocal duet by Miss Field and Mr. Cooper the first part being brought to a conclusion with “The arrow and the song,” which Miss Mascall sang with taste and precision. The second part began with a capital pianoforte duet by Dr. Rutherford and Miss Mascall. The song “Angus Macdonald,” was sung with much feeling by Miss Maxted. A recitation from “The old lieutenant and his son, “given by Miss Scouler with a most happy mixture of pathos and humour fairly brought down the house. Dr. Ryan’s song, “The wearing of the green,” was so well received that he had to re-appear, The song “Asthor,” was nicely rendered by Miss Whiting. The Rev. G. Chappell, who had missed his train and could not appear in the first part of the programme, then sang “The death of Nelson,” in a most effective style. Mr. Turner was loudly and deservedly encored for his violin solo, “Blue bells of Scotland,” and had to reappear. Miss Mascall’s song “Across the blue sea,” was much appreciated, as was also a vocal duet by Miss Field and Mr. Cooper. “The Chorister,” was feelingly sung by Miss Lee. The concert closed with another song by Mr. Chappell. “The holy City,” which was warmly received. A very hearty vote of thanks to the performers for their kindness in giving their services was proposed by the Vicar and responded to by the Rev. G. Chappell, who said that they were glad to help on the work which was going on at Hanslope. The proceedings closed with the national Anthem. The proceeds of the concert, after deducting expenses, amounted to £3 12s. 10d., which will be devoted towards the paying off of the debt on the new lamps in the chancel.

No baptisms, marriages or burials printed for Hanslope for November.

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Hanslope December 1894

Want of room prevented us last month from recording a highly successful social gathering of churchmen, which was held at the Board School, on Monday, October 1. Great praise is due to our Ladies Committee, who not only decorated the room, but also supplied us gratis with excellent refreshments, and were most attentive in looking after the wants of those present. Nearly 100 men came, and the different classes in the parish were all represented. During the evening an excellent address was given by the Rev. G. P. Trevelyan, who impressed upon churchmen the importance of having the courage of their convictions, and of not being ashamed of their colours. He said that they would find in the church a sphere for all sorts of work, and hoped those present would unite in supporting the clergy in the work they were trying to carry out. The Vicar and Mr. Corder also spoke briefly. Some of our friends entertained us during the evening with music and songs. We are much indebted to Mr. Quixley for kind service rendered to us on this and on several previous occasions.

On Saturday afternoon, October 13, through the kind permission of Mr. G. Whiting, our Church Guild made a nutting expedition to Stoke Wood. Although the nutting season was far advanced, our quick eyed young friends managed to fill their pockets and handkerchiefs with ample trophies. The weather was most propitious. On our arrival home, our good secretary, Mr. Courtman, entertained the Guild with an excellent tea, which was prepared for us in a room kindly lent to us by Miss Crick. A hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Courtman and Miss Crick concluded a most enjoyable afternoon's holiday.

The Ladies Working Party commenced their meetings at the Vicarage, on Tuesday, October 2. Mrs. Harkness will gladly welcome any new members, who can spare a couple of hours every fortnight. The contribution (which goes towards providing materials) is 2s. 6d. for each member. The Annual Sale of Work will be held on Thursday, December 27.

A Church Missionary Society Meeting was held in the Feoffee School, on Thursday evening, October 25, when an interesting address on China and Japan was given by the Rev. J. G. Watson, of Leamington, here was a fair attendance. The collection was 10s.

On Friday evening, October 26, an excellent entertainment was given in the Board School by Mrs. Watts. In spite of the pouring rain there was a very fair attendance. The following took part in the proceedings Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher, Miss F. Watts, the Rev. C. J. Blundell, Mr. Rutherford and Mr. Wingfield. The dramatic portion of the programme caused great merriment, especially the historic love scene between Bumble and Mrs. Corney, which was admirably performed by Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher

At a meeting of the congregation, held last month, the following were appointed a Church Defence Committee for Hanslope:—Messrs. Smart, Shrimpton and Rainbow, Mrs. Checkley and Miss E. Cox. All Churchmen should acquaint themselves with the past history of the Welsh Church, dating from about the 5th century, as well as with the splendid work which that church is doing at the present time.

A very nice, bright, new west window has just been placed in the Church. It consists of cathedral glass of a green tint, with red margin.

The Bishop of Oxford intends holding a Confirmation at Hanslope on Tuesday, February 19. Classes have commenced. There are many adults who have never been confirmed. We hope that no false shyness will prevent these from coming forward to put on their Christian armour. Those who take this step in simple obedient trust in their Saviour, will look back upon it with joy through time and eternity. The Vicar and Mr. Corder will do their best to arrange the hours of classes to suit the convenience of candidates. Let this Confirmation Season be a time of much earnest prayer on the part of our Communicants for those who are coming forward. All should read Acts viii., 5 to 17., xix., 1 to 7. Hebrews vi., 1 to 2.

On Thursday evening, December 13, the preacher will be the Rev. H. Mawson, rector of Astwood, and on December 23, the Rev. F. F. Field, rector of Woughton.

Mr. Thomas Whitbread will hold a Carpentering Class at 7 p.m., on Tuesdays and Fridays, in Mr. Rose's malting house.

Baptism Hanslope 1894

Nov. 4 William Charles Walter and Ernest Edward, sons of Joseph Edward and Annie Marie Evans.

Nov. 4 Emily Ethel, daughter of Thomas and Mary Jane Boswell.

Burials Hanslope 1894

Nov. 3 Margaret Eliza Lane, aged 11 months.

Nov. 5 John Latimer, aged 73

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January 1895 Hanslope

The Vicar takes the opportunity, through the pages of the magazine, of wishing his Hanslope and Castlethorpe parishioners a very happy and prosperous new year. May the Christmas strains of peace and goodwill find an echo in our hearts all the year through ! May it be a year also of Church unity and progress ! The Vicar offers his warmest thanks to his parishioners for the very hearty way in which they have rallied round him throughout the year and helped on good works. When all pull together with a long pull and a strong pull, it is astonishing how much good can be done, and, after all, we have far more in common than we imagine. If we would be a happy, united people, let us away with discord, strife, petty jealousy and envy, which are the cankerworms that eat out the heart of Christian brotherhood, and let us cultivate mutual forbearance and kindliness. Let us seek first the honour of God, together with obedience to His command, and then the happiness of those around us, and then we may expect still larger blessings in the future.

Our Happy Home Union for the promotion of Temperance, thrift, purity, and the better observance of the Sunday, has made an excellent start. We have 30 on the books Hanslope, and nearly 30 at Long-street. The subscription is 1d. per month, which entitles the members to a monthly magazine called “The young Crusader.” We are hoping to have a united tea about Whitsuntide for all the branches.

Our Church Guild has also made a good start. We had our first monthly meeting on November 20th. About 60 were present. The first part of the meeting was devotional, consisting of hymns, prayers, and an address by Mr. Corder. After this refreshments were handed round, and a short lecture was given by the Vicar, on the Life of John Howard. Songs were sung by Messrs. T. Nichols, A. Sawbridge, and the Rev. B. Corder. The collection amounted to 4s. 6d.

The second monthly meeting was held on December 11. The Vicar gave a brief devotional address. Later on, a thoughtful and interesting paper was read by Mr. Brearley, of Castlethorpe, on “Who is the greatest benefit to his country, the statesman, warrior, or poet ?” Mr. Brearley favoured the claims of the poet. The audience, however, on a show of hands being taken, were led away by the glamour of the red coat. The collection amounted to 4s.1½d. we are indebted to Mr. Corder, Mr. Checkley, and Mr. Shrimpton for kindly providing refreshments for the two evenings.

The Confirmation Classes have now fully commenced. The Vicar and Mr. Corder will gladly welcome any who have not yet come forward.

The Sunday School prize giving will take place on Thursday evening, January 3.

The Hanslope Parish Meeting was held on Tuesday December 4, 123 persons being present. Mr. Smart was unanimously voted to the chair. Eighteen persons were nominated for the nine seats. On a show of hands being taken, the following obtained the largest number of votes: - Messrs. Hopkins, Kerridge, Carvell, J. Neale, Simpson, Rose, Ansell, Long and Amos. A poll was demanded and fixed for the 18th, when all the above were elected, except Mr. Simpson, his place being taken by Mr. Adams. The new Parish Council will deserve well of the parish, if it can act with such wisdom, judgment, and good sense, as to advance the real well-being of the village, with the least possible friction. It is a good old proverb that “slow and steady wins the race.”

Baptism Hanslope 1895

Dec. 6 Mary Elizabeth, daughter of William james and Sarah Ann Geary

Dec. 6 Herbert Samuel, son of George and Emily Clark.

Dec. 6 Charlie, son of William and Ann Clark

Dec. 6 James Ralph, son of Samuel John and Emily Denton.

Dec. 6 Thomas Richard, son of Thomas and Emma Young.

Dec. 6 Annie Louisa and John Joseph, daughter and son of John Eden and Sarah Ellen Ansell

Burials Hanslope1895

Dec. 5 Mary Ann Mullinder, aged 79

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February 1895 Hanslope

The Christmas Festival passed off very happily, owing to the festival falling on a Tuesday, we had only a small number of decorators, and consequently our decorations were not equal to those of the previous years. Those who did help, however, worked with a will and made the best of difficulties. We had 21 Communicants at 8 a.m., and 25 at mid-day, making 46 in all, which is a very marked improvement on previous years. The morning service was bright and hearty, a contrast to the dull, cheerless weather without.

On Wednesday evening, December 26, a Dramatic Entertainment was given by Mr. Courtman and friends, in the Board School. The entertainment was free. There was a very good audience.

On Thursday, December 27, the annual Sale of Work was held in the Feoffee School. The tree was kindly given by Mrs. Watts, who also opened the sale. Owing to our chapel friends having a sale on the previous day, and also owing to our Ladies Working Party having been somewhat smaller than previously, fears were entertained by many that the proceeds would be smaller this year. The unexpected, however, happened, and the takings of the two nights amounted to £16 3s. 6d., which, after deducting £1 14s. 8d. For expenses, leaves a net profit of £14 8s. 10d., an admirable result. Out of this £4 15s. 10½d. was paid to Mr. G. Whitbread, which sum, together with 14s. 1½d. left over from the Whitsuntide Garden Sale, wipes off the balance of £5 10s. 0d. owing to him for match-boarding a portion of our vestry last May. Well done ! S. James’, Hanslope !

Still they come ! This being interpreted means that a very nice oak inkstand, together with an oak stand for penholders, and blotting book, have just been presented to our vestry by some very kind person, when lo ! One fine morning as if brought by a magician’s wand, he beholds it on the vestry table. He offers his best thanks to the kind donors.

At 11.15 p.m. on the last night of the old year a midnight service was held. There was a nice little number present. The new year was ushered in by singing the Te Deum.

On Thursday evening, January 3, the annual distribution of the Sunday School Prizes was held in the Feoffee School. The room was quite crowded with children and parents. The proceedings opened with a hymn; then followed a duet by H. Hutchings and E. Sawbridge. The Annual Report was then read by the Vicar. A small choir sang very nicely several carols and songs. Three religious knowledge prizes, the result of a previous examination, were then awarded to Mary Shrimpton, Ethel Sawbridge, and Edith Rainbow. Illuminated certificates for never being absent nor late through the year were gained by Eva Branson and Edith Rainbow. Prizes for good conduct and regular attendance were awarded to Harry Rainbow, John Smith, Alfred Moss, Albert Stanton, William Whitbread, George Lorton, George Nichols, Albert Geary, Harry Geary, Fred Whitbread, Fred Rainbow, Harry Nichols, Eva Branson, Emily Newbury, Mary Shrimpton, Ada Stanton, Annie Moss, Ethel Sawbridge, Edith Rainbow, Olive Denton, and Florence Geary, also to 26 Infants. Nine scholars gained prizes also for regular attendance and good conduct at Church. A short address was given by Mr. Corder, and then came a dialogue, entitled “Queen Industry,” in which the following took part - Queen Industry, Eva Branson; electricity, Ethel Sawbridge, activity, Mary Shrimpton; queen laziness, Nellie Crick; indolence, Emily Newbury; drowsy head, Hilda Hutchings; attendants, Cissie Wills and Louisa Shrimpton: two school children -Ellie Eakins and Harry Nichols. The fairies were dressed to suit their parts, and all acquitted themselves exceedingly well. The evening closed with a hymn and the Benediction.

The elder girls Missionary Working Party had tea at the Vicarage on Monday evening, January 7, and a pleasant evening was spent.

On Thursday evening, January 10, the Vicar and Mrs. Harkness entertained the choir to supper at the Vicarage, and a most genial and enjoyable evening was spent in singing and amusements of different kinds. The chief toast of the evening. “The Choir,” was proposed by the Vicar, and responded to by Mr. F. Nichols.

The choir boys of Hanslope and Castlethorpe had tea at the Vicarage on Saturday, January 12.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

Dec. 30 George Henry, son of Josiah and Elizabeth Stimson

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Hanslope 1895 March

We subjoin balance sheet for 1894 o5 ¼ for Hanslope Church poor Fund. Receipts - Balance from previous year £1 5s. 11d., communion offertories £2 16s. 4½d., private communion offering 6d., sundries 9d. Total £4 3s. 6½d. Expenditure - Invalid wine £1 1s. 3d., meat £1 7s., groceries 18s., coals 1s., given in money 3s. 6d., total £3 10s. 9d. Balance in hand 12s. 9½d.

We subjoin balance sheet from August 1, 1893, to December 31, 1994, of Hanslope Church Sunday School Fund. In future our Sunday School year will be co-terminus with the ordinary year. Receipts - Balance in hand from treat (1893) 15s. 8¾d., offertories £2 6s. 4d., from Mr. Luing for registers, labels attendance cards, &c., 4s. 8d., donationss 2s 10d., profit from Easter tea 4s. 5¼d., Sunday School Treat (1894) subscriptions £4 3s. 6d., visitors’ tea £1 8s. 6d., provision sold after treat 10s. 10 ½d., total £9 16s. 10½d. Expenditure --re- Registers 7s. 3d., prize labels 8s. 4d., certificates----3d., attendance cards 7s. 10d., prizes (December 1893) £1 12s., prizes (December 1894) £1 18s. 3d., Sunday School treat expenses £4 11s. 5d., total £9 6s. 4d. Balance in hand 10s. 6½d.

We are glad to say that the improvements required by the Education Department for the Feoffe School have been completed and paid for. The cost has been about £68. Of this £31 2s. was raised by private subscriptions as follows: Oxford Diocesan Education Board £15, the Bishop of Reading £10, the Rev. Canon Wood £2 2s., and the Rev. W. J. Harkness £4. It has been a hard struggle, but the kindliness and forbearance of all parties have enabled the various difficulties to be surmounted. We trust that the two schools of the parish will work together side by side in mutual friendliness, and that there will be just sufficient rivalry to keep them both in a healthy condition.

On Tuesday evening, January 15, our generous friend, Mrs. Shrimpton, very kindly invited about 20 hard-worked mothers of her district to tea at her house, and very much they all enjoyed themselves. Towards the close the Vicar dropped in and said a few words about the good influence those present might exert both in their homes, in the parish, and in the church. We are sure nothing but good can come from such a gathering. The Church here owes much to Mr. and Mrs. Shrimpton’s inspiring energy.

On Friday, February 8, an entertainment took place at the Board School to raise funds in order that our Choir may have a good summer excursion. Songs were given by the Misses Taylor, Lee, and A. Gregory; also by Messrs. Gibson, Tebbey, and Brumbley. Piano solos were given by Misses Scouler and Parnill Brown; a cornet solos by Mr. J. Herbert; two part songs by the Feoffe Scholars; a recitation by Miss Scouler, and two readings by the Vicar. After deducting 5s. for printing, 5s. for use of room, and 2s. for getting room ready. There remained a net profit of about 18s. for the fund.

All our parishioners will be glad that the drainage of our Churchyard is now practically completed. Thanks to the watchful care of our two Churchwardens, the work has been done in a very thorough manner. The state of the churchyard has long been a crying evil. We trust that the painful sights at funerals which have been only too common within recent years are now at an end. We must try now to keep the churchyard as nicely as we can, so that it may be no longer a dreary wilderness, but a pleasant place for the eye to rest upon.

On Tuesday, January 29, the monthly meeting of the Guild was held, and a very enjoyable lecture on “Erasmus” given by Rev. W. I. Harnett, vicar of S. George’s, Wolverton. Mrs. Harkness gave the refreshments, and the collections amounted to 6s.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

Feb. 10 Eva Elsie, daughter of James and Julia Sarah Herbert.

Feb. 1 Thomas Edward, son of John and Ann Emma Smith PRIVATE BAPTISM

Feb. 18 Sarah Amelia, daughter of James and Jane Crick ADULT BAPTISM

Marriages Hanslope 1895

Jan. 22 Henry Caves and Ellen Sarah Stanton

Burials Hanslope 1895

Jan. 31 Fanny Calvert, aged 77

Feb. 15 William Rice, aged 75

Feb. 15 William Hardwick, aged 8 months

Feb. 18 William John Webb, aged 23

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April 1895 Hanslope

On Tuesday morning, February 19, the Bishop of Oxford held a Confirmation at S. James’ Church, Hanslope. There was a large congregation. Forty four persons were confirmed in all. Of these 29 belonged to Hanslope and Castlethorpe, viz, 17 males and 12 females, 13 to Haversham, and 2 to Newport. The same afternoon the Bishop privately confirmed a young woman at Tathall End, who has been confined to her bed for four years with rheumatism. We had 21 confirmed two years ago by the Bishop of Reading, so that 51 persons have been confirmed during the last 3 years from these two parishes. The Bishop delivered an impressive address to the candidates. He pointed out that they had come to receive the great gift of the Holy Spirit to strengthen them to overcome the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil. He also reminded them of their vows they were about to make, and how they must seek by the Spirit’s help to walk in the paths of truth, honesty, and purity. Finally, he impressed upon them the immense importance of forming regular habits of coming to the Holy Communion. The whole service was conducted in a very orderly and reverent manner. Most fortunately the day was bright, and, compared with the preceding days, quite warm and spring like.
On the evening of the same day the monthly meeting of the Church Guild was held. There were nearly 100 persons present. At the conclusion of the devotional part of the meeting, a lecture was given by the Vicar on “Early British Christianity” illustrated by excellent magic lantern views. The lantern which was managed by Mr. Corder, was kindly lent by Mr. Quixley. The lecturer explained that the Welsh Church had been in existence about 1400 years, that it was older than the Anglo-Saxons, and that it was founded by the Britons who were driven by the Saxons into Wales. He also pointed out the excellent missionary work done by the Welsh Church, in those early days, work which is being carried on with similar earnestness and self-devotion by the same church at the present time. The collection amounted to 8s. 9d. The refreshments were most generously provided by our good friend, Mrs. Sawbridge.

An exceedingly handsome and very costly altar cloth has just been very generously presented to the church by Mrs. Watts. It consists of cardinal cloth with sacred monogram in gold, on white brocade, surrounded by sprays of lilies beautifully worked in silk, and with white brocade bands on either side. It was placed for the first time on the Holy Table on the morning of the Confirmation. It is a great addition to the beauty of the chancel. It is the least that we can do to offer Mrs. Watts our warmest thanks for her great kindness and generosity.

On Monday evening, February 25, the Hanslope branch of the Happy Home Union gave an entertainment in the Board School, and on the following evening another one was given by the Long-street Branch, at the Mission. Both entertainments were much enjoyed. Our best thanks are due to Mr. Corder for organising them.

The Rev. Chappell, of S. Andrew’s Northampton, is giving addresses every Thursday evening to increasingly large congregations. His subject are “The object of Lent,” “What is sin?” “Conviction of sin.” and “Conversion,” “Self-examination,” “Prayer.” and “Living to God.”

We earnestly hope that there will be a large congregation at the “Three Hours’ Service” on Good Friday, which will be conducted by the Rev. H, Mawson, vicar of Astwood. Come and bring a friend !

The Rev. A. C. Woodhouse, vicar of Stantonbury has kindly promised to be present at our Congregational tea on Easter Tuesday.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

March 16 Walter William, son of Thomas and Mary Jane Grisbrooke. (Privately)

Marriages Hanslope 1895

Feb. 25 Ebenezer Keeves and Mary Ann Jane Elizabeth Stanton.

Burials Hanslope 1895

Feb. 28 Edna Basketfield, aged 64

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May 1895 Hanslope

On Monday evening, March 18, the collectors for the Church Missionary Society had their annual meeting, and the boxes were opened. The following were the amounts collected: - Miss Smart 10s. 6½d., Miss Cox 3s. 2d., Miss Mary Shrimpton 14s. 9¼d., Master H. Rainbow 3s. 3¼d., Girls’ Working Party 6s. 5d., Sunday School box 8s. 10½d., collection at October public meeting 10s., total for year £2 17s. 0½d., which is the largest sum collected for this Society since the Vicar came to the parish. It is a healthy sign when our young people take a warm interest in Missionary Work. Let us remember in our prayers the Rev. Arthur Pike, brother of Joseph Pike, of Castlethorpe, who has recently gone out as a Missionary to Uganda in connection with the Church Missionary Society, We hope when he returns that he may be able to come over to Hanslope and give us an account of his work.

The closing meeting for the season of the Guild was held March 26, when a lucid and instructive lecture on the prayer book was given y the Rev. F. Marshall, curate of Stantonbury. He shewed by some parts of our service are 1400 years old, and that our Communion Service was derived from Liturgies which could be traced back to the Apostle S. John when Bishop of Ephesus. What the Reformation did was not to form a new Church, but to purify the Church which had been already been in existence for centuries, by weeding out the Roman errors and corruptions and bringing it back to the simplicity and purity of the early Christian Church. We were glad to see that Mr. Asquith holds that the Church at the Reformation was not a new Church, but the ancient Church of the Country. If the Church will aim at purity of doctrine, and continue to do increasingly faithful work, we do not believe it will be disestablished. There are, however, dangers from within as well as from without.

The special Lent Service were excellently attended to the close; at the last service there were over 100 present. We are very much indebted to Mr. Chappell for his plain, practical, gospel sermons. We are sure they have done good. We were very glad to see some present, who are not in the habit of coming to Church. Alas ! There are many in this parish, we fear, who are labouring only for the bread which perisheth ! May the services of the past Lent have brought conviction of sin in some of these.

We were also very pleased to see that Good Friday is being more thoughtfully observed here. We are very thankful to Mr. Mawson for so kindly coming over and taking the Three Hours’ Service on that day. We are sure that his simple, heartfelt words went home to all hearts. There were between 60 and 70 present.

Easter Day dawned bright and beautiful. A few kind helpers on the preceding day had made the old church look very bright. There were 32 Communicants at 7 a.m., and 41 at 11 a.m., 73 in all. The morning and evening services were well attended and exceedingly hearty. Surely, however, on Easter Sunday night the Church ought to be full. The collections for Organist’s salary amounted to £- 17s. 1d.

The Annual Congregational Tea came off on Easter Tuesday, 64 sat down to tea. At 7 p.m. a meeting was held. After the Vicar had given a resume of the year’s work, a very thoughtful and helpful address on “Influence” was given by the Rev. A. C. Woodhouse vicar of Stantonbury, who told a very touching -- of the wonderful influence exerted by a potter over his workmates in consequence of his devotion to his son, a poor cripple boy. A very hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Woodhouse for his kindness in coming. Some most amusing songs and recitations were given by Mr. Kingscote, of Astwood. Two duets were given by Mrs. Harkness and Miss Lee, an excellent recitation by Miss Scouler, a song by Miss Lee. And a song and a very good dialogue by the Girls’ Working Party, brought a very pleasant evening to a close. The room was packed, and all seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves.

A member of the congregation has given the Vicar 3s. for the Vestry, as a result of Lent savings. Might not others follow this excellent lead ? One of our Sunday School classes has made a start in the same direction.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

April 14 Joseph Palmer, son of Gershom and Emma Whiting

April 14 Ellis Frederick, son of Thomas and Rachel Ann Nichols.

Marriage Hanslope 1895

April 2 Joseph Belcher and Annie Rainbow

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June 1895 Hanslope

On Thursday evening, April 18, the Annual Easter Vestry was held. There was a fair attendance. As Mr. Whitbread wished to retire, the Vicar appointed Mr. Shrimpton as his warden, and Mr. Whitbread his sidesman. Mr. Smart was unanimously elected parish warden, and he chose Mr. Courtman as his sidesman. The Vicar warmly thanked Mr. Whitbread and Mr. Smart for the excellent service they had rendered during the past year, and the meeting also passed a resolution that they should be cordially thanked for the able way and the assiduous attention with which they had carried to a successful termination the important work of draining the Church and churchyard. We subjoin the annual statement of accounts for last year. Receipts. Balance brought forward £1 1s. 2d., received after books made up last year £1, pew rents £26 10s. 9d., church collections £11 8s. 7d,, total £40 0s. 6d. Expenditure - Sexton £11 2s., organist £5, organ tuning £1 10s., organ blower 12s. 6d., coke and coal bill £6 18s. Lightning £5 15s. 9d., sacramental wine £1, music for choir £1 12s. 9d., ringers for ringing at confirmation 10s., washing of surplices and cloths 13s. 10d., balance of debt on new lamps 14s. 8d., miscellaneous £2 13s. 4d., total £38 3s. 9d., balance in hand £1 16s. 9d. We subjoin also the church yard draining account. Receipts - By poor rate £100 2s. 7d., by house to house collection £15 1s. 8d., by donation from chancel fund £5, proceeds from Mrs. Watts’ sale of work £6, donation from E. H. Watts, Esq. £4, total £139 4s. 3d. Expenditure - Mr. J. Branson as per contract for main drains,&c. £105 1s. 7d. amount spent on drains £28 15s. 7d., claim by Mrs. Carpenter, Messrs. Wheeler, and Warwick for damage to herbage £3, Mr. G. Cox, plan of drains for specification, 7s 6d. Mr. Line, for advertising tenders, 7s. 6d., for digging trial holes 10s., total £139 2s. 2d., balance in hand 2s. 1d.

The Vicar wishes to return his sincere thanks to the Rev. H. Barnacle, the Rev. G. P. Trevelyan, and the Rev. W. L. Harnett, for kind help rendered to him during his absence from home for 18 days.

We have just recently sent up from our parish to the Central Church Defence Institution, to be forwarded by them to Parliament, a document containing over 400 signatures protesting against the injury done to the poor by the Bill to Disestablish and Disendow four dioceses of the English Church in Wales. We are very glad to see that large numbers of earnest, thoughtful Dissenters are signing similar petitions both in England and Wales. They see with increasing clearness the injury which will be inflicted upon true religion by wantonly crippling the all too scanty resources of a church which is bravely trying to do its duty amid great difficulties. Those who will really gain by Disestablishment and Disendowment will be the enemies of Christianity, who are trying to use Dissenters as their tools.

The Triennial School Board Election took place on Monday, May 13. The following were elected Messrs. Hopkins, Adams, Rose, Whiting, and Courtman.

We desire to express our sincere sympathy with Mr. and Mrs. Rose in the great trouble which has befallen them. In this feeling we are sure that all classes of parishioners will join.

On Whit Wednesday, the ladies of the Working Party propose holding a Sale of Work in the Vicarage Garden commencing at 3 p.m. Tea and other refreshments will be provided at moderate charges. During the afternoon there will be croquet and other games, and Mr. Kingscote has kindly promised to give some recitations. Dancing in the evening from 7 to 9, a portion of the Hanslope band being in attendance. Contributions of refreshments and fancy or plain work or jumble articles will be gladly received by Mrs. Harkness. Admission 4d., no re-admission.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

May 12 Walter William, son of Thomas and Mary Jane Grisbrooke

Burials Hanslope 1895

April 27 Sarah Tebbur, aged 61

May 9 Richard Neal, aged 89

May 9 Samuel Denton, aged 72.

May 18 Emma Brown, aged 42

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July 1895 Hanslope

The annual Long Street Tea took place on Monday April 22, when 44 persons sat down to tea. At 7 p.m.the little room was packed full. The entertainment consisted mainly of a magic lantern lecture on the Holy Land. The lantern was very kindly lent by Mr. Quixley, and the slides exhibited by Mr. Corder. The profits from the tea amounted to 5s., which will be reserved to help to pay next winter’s expenses.

The collection for the additional Curates Society on Sunday, May 12, was £1 5s. 9½d.

The profit from the Hanslope Easter Tea amounted to 8s. This will be devoted towards the purchase of a tea urn.

On Ascension Day, we had a very bright children’s service at 9 a.m., and at the Celebration of the Holy Communion at 11 a.m. there were 8 communicants.

We were all very pleased to see Mr. Mawson on the Sunday after Ascension Day, when he preached two very helpful sermons, in the morning at Hanslope, and in the evening at Castlethorpe.

On Whit Sunday, we had 9 Communicants at 7 a.m., and a bright service with 28 Communicants at 11 a.m. There was a good children’ service, and a fair evening congregation. The more we drink in the precious lessons of these great Church Festivals, the more we shall love to observe them.

Whit Monday was well observed in our parish. First of all, there was a village fete in Mr. Paybody’s field, over by our village band. Secondly, it was Gala Day of S. James Happy Home Union. Hanslope, Castlethorpe, and Long Street branches of the society, 70 in number, marched in procession to Hanslope Church, where a short service was held at -0 p.m., the Vicar saying a few words on I Cor iii., 16, 17, where we are told that our bodies are the temples of the Holy Ghost, therefore we should keep them pure. After this the children marched to the Board School, where a capital tea was provided, to which 80 members sat down. In the evening an entertainment was held, the first part of which consisted of songs and recitations, in which our good friend Mr. Kingscote of Astwood, caused great merriment. The second part consisted of an operetta, “Cinderella.” which was very well acted, the leading performers being M. Richardson, E. Crick, Ann Mills, E. Sawbridge, Tom Gregory, W. Quixley, M. Shrimpton and W. Checkley. We hope that temperance, soberness and chastity will be the threefold motto of the rising generation of Hanslope men and women. Alas ! Last Whit Monday shewed that we are not a sober village yet. We need not be teetotal fanatics, but let us be sober.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

May 20 William Henry James, son of Harry and Eliza Selina Crick

Marriages Hanslope 1895

June 1 Thomas Percifull and Ellen Mary Evans.

June 3 Willaim James Stonton and Emma Frost.

Burials Hanslope 1895

May 25 William Henry James Crick, aged 1 month

June 3 Ellen Askew, aged 59

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August 1895 Hanslope

On Whit Wednesday and Thursday the annual sale of work was held in the Vicarage Garden. The sun shone brilliantly both days and during the afternoon croquet and other games were engaged in. On Wednesday the proceedings were further enlivened by some capital songs and recitations by Mr. A. F. Kingscote, of Astwood. The Hanslope Band was also in attendance, and played inspiriting music during the evening. The proceeds, which will be devoted to continuing the vestry improvements, amounted to £7 9s. 6d., and this, with 12s. 4d. taken by the girls of the Missionary Working Party for articles made by them during the year, and destined for the Church Missionary Society, makes a total of £8 1s. 10d., which is a most satisfactory result.

On Monday evening, July 1, a gathering of Sunday School Teachers and District Visitors was held in the Feoffee Schools, to bid farewell to our good friends, Mr. and Mrs. Shrimpton, on their leaving the parish. The Vicar said a few words testifying to the excellent work Mr. Shrimpton had done, both as Sunday School teacher, as secretary to the Curate Fund, and in conducting occasional services at Long-street, also to the admirable work done in her district by Mrs. Shrimpton. After this, in the name of those present, he asked Mr. Shrimpton to accept a nicely-bound illustrated copy of Keble’s Christian Year, and he presented Mrs Shrimpton with two volumes entitled “Lives of good women.” Mrs. Shrimpton briefly replied. We are sure that all our parishioners will cordially join in wishing M. Shrimpton and his family a long life, happiness and prosperity in their future career. They will be greatly missed by many, their unsparing, self-sacrificing devotion to the cause of Christ and his Church will not readily be forgot here.

Collections were made on Sunday morning and evening, June 30, for the Oxford Diocesan Education Society, and amounted to £1 2s. 6d. Every year the Bishop of Oxford sends a pastoral letter to each parish in his diocese asking for hearty support of one of the four Diocese Societies. This year it was the turn of the Education Society, which is doing quiet but admirable work in helping struggling Church Schools and Training Colleges. It also pays the salaries of the Head Diocesan Inspector and of the Organising Visitor. Churchmen should make themselves more acquainted with the work the Church is doing in their midst.

The following subscriptions have been given this year to our Curate Fund: - The Vicar £1 1s., M. Smart £1, Mr. Shrimpton 10s. 6d., Mr. Oram 10s. 6d. Mr. Checkley 10s., Mr. Kerridge 5s., Mr. J. Whitbread 5s ., Mr. Sawbridge 5s., Mr. Thomkins 5s., Mr. East 5s., Mr. Thos. Whitbread 5s., Miss Wright 5s., Miss. Crick 5s., Miss Cox, sen., 5s., Miss. Ellen Cox 5s., Miss Newbury 5s., Miss Lee 2s. 6d., Mrs. Higgins 2s. 6d., Mrs. Gibson 2s. 6d., Mr. G. Whitbread 2s., Mr. Thos. Slade 4s. 6d., Mr. Patterson 2s. 6d., Mrs. Moss 2s., Mrs. H. Cox 5s., Mrs. H. Nichols 1s., Mr. Watson 1s., Miss Woodland 1s., Mr. James Herbert 1s., Mr. H. Cook 1s., Mr. Foster 1s., Mr. H. James1s., Mr. Tom Nichols 1s., Mr. E. Carvell 6d., Mr.G. Geary 6d., Mr. C. Garratt 6d., Mr. John Nichols 6d., Mr. O. Tebby 6d., Mr. Joseph Nichols 6d., Mr. W. Ditum 6d., Mr. T. Evans 6d.

We recently received the sum of 10s. from Mrs. Shrimpton, being a free will offering for some Church object from a number of people in her district. It has been decided to purchase with this two handsome bookmarkers for the Bible on the lectern. A lady, who lives at a distance, but who is a well-wisher of the parish, has very kindly consented to work the markers gratis, so that we shall only have to pay for the cost of the material. They will be completed for Christmas Day; it is wonderful how much can be accomplished by small sums. We hope the subscribers will often come to church and see them. This is a happy termination of Mrs. Shrimpton’s work.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

July 14 May Lilian, daughter of Henry and Mary Rainbow

Burials Hanslope 1895

July 5 Sarah Ann Payne, aged 65 years

July 16 William Amos, aged 63 years.

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Hanslope 1895 September

We sub-join the report of the Religious Inspection of our Feoffe School. The Rev. G. P. Trevelyan Rector of St. Mary’s Wolverton, very kindly inspected the school this year. “Mixed school for older scholars. - The religious instruction in this school is carried out systematically, and the whole work of the Diocesan syllabus is undertaken. The results however are unequal. The fifth Standard showed a very good knowledge of their subjects, and were very intelligent and bright. In all the other standards there were a few who showed good knowledge , and a good many were able to answer a little. The first standard is the weakest, but they did their written work well. The written work of Standards II and III was very fair; that of Standard IV and V, good. The repetition of the latter was very good. The discipline and tone of the school are good. The Prayer Book Prayers are unsuited for the children to say every morning and evening at home; they should be taught a simpler form of private prayer. Diocesan Prize -Edith Rainbow. Commended - Standard V.- Louisa Gardner, Ethel Feasey, Parnill Brown, Annie Webb, Albert Geary, and Cissie Wells, Standard IV - Charlie Kingston, and Harry Geary. Standard III - Frances Geary, annie Rainbow, Florence Brumbley, Ernest Nicholson, Albert Rainbow and Clara Whitbread. Standard II - Agnes Powell, Gertrude Nicholls, Fred Rainbow, and Fred Herbert. Standard I - Ethel Nicholls, Eva Brumbley, Emily Yorke, Clara Rainbow, and Maggie Geary. Infant School. - The result of the religious instruction during the past year is only moderate. The syllabus being a small one, the work might have been much better. I should recommend some better pictures than those at present in use for teaching the children. The youngest children should be taught separately, if this is not already done. A simple form of private prayers is needed. The singing is good: discipline and tone very fair.”

Our Dedication Festival, which this year fell on a Thursday was well observed. At 11 a.m., there was a celebration of Holy Communion. From 4.30 to 7.15 p.m., there was a Garden Party at the Vicarage for the church workers of both parishes, at which over 80 were present. Unfortunately, this year the weather proved unkindly, and during the first part of the afternoon there was heavy rain.; this, however, ceased later on, and enabled those of the party who chose to ally out into the garden. At 7.15 p.m., a festival service was held at the church, which had been prettily decorated for the occasion with flowers kindly lent by Mrs. Watts and other parishioners. A very thoughtful and inspiring sermon, and one excellently adapted for the occasion, was preached by the Rev. C. Jerdein, Rector of Stoke Goldington, from Nehemiah vi.. 3. He showed that there were two voices within us, one bidding us to come down to the level of the world, and the other bidding us to come up to higher heights of holiness, and that one of these voices should be resisted and the other gladly obeyed. There was a very fair congregation considering the dampness of the evening. The services were continued on the following Sunday, and were very heartly rendered. The Offertories were as follows: - Thursday evening, 18s. for church chairs. Sunday morning 18s. for church expenses; Sunday evening 10s, for choir excursion.

On Bank Holiday, August 5th, our church choir went for an excursion to Southport. We left Castlethorpe at 2.30 a.m. on Monday, and arrived home about the same time on Tuesday. During 24 hours we travelled about 400 miles; this, considering the hours of starting and returning, was a formidable task. But being on enjoyment bent, like Mark Tapley, we made the best of difficulties. The weather was charming. Our party numbered 19. The pleasures of the ‘briny’ were, of course in great request, but some of the party sallied forth and visited Hesketh Park, The Botanic Gardens and Museum, and the Corporative Art Gallery. At 3.30 p.m. we had a good tea. All enjoyed themselves thoroughly and will look back on August Bank Holiday, 1895, as a Red letter Day. We hope attendance at Practice and Service will improve.

The Vicar received a short time since a kind donation of £1 from the Rev. S. G. Scott, Rector of Havant, his old Rector. This sum was devoted towards the Choir Excursion.

The Harvest Festival will be held on September 13, at 7.15 p.m. The preacher will be the Rev. Canon Hulll, Vicar of All Saints’, Northampton. We hope there will be a large congregation.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

July 27 Wisdom, son of Wisdom and Louisa Smith.

July 28 Edith Jane, daughter of Walter and Sarah Gable

July 28 William Thomas, son of Frederick and Emma Golding

Aug. 2 Bertie David, son of John and Elizabeth Umney

Aug. 2 William John, son of Edward John and Lizzie Daniells

Aug. 2 Alice May, daughter of John and Emma King

Aug. 8 Henry Edward, son of George and Eliza Green

Aug. 8 Percy, son of Robert Henry and Ann Barker.

Aug. 9 Edwin Alfred, son of Frederick and mary Ann Prime.

Aug.11 Eva Mary, daughter of Isaac William and Clara Hackett.

Aug.18 Jack Reginald, son of William John and Ellen Louisa Tomkins

Marriages Hanslope 1895

Aug. 3 John William Norton and Emily Herbert

Burials Hanslope 1895

Aug. 9 Richard Branson, aged 78 years.

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October Hanslope 1895

Sunday School Festival was held on August 2. Scholars assembled at the school at 1.30 p.m. and - p.m., headed by the Hanslope band, and, with an imposing array of flags and banners, marched through the village to the Church, where a bright little service was held. At 3.30 p.m., the scholars again formed into procession and marched to the school. Arriving there 105 hungry mouths did justice to a good tea. Next, the teachers, elder scholars and friends to the number of 70 followed suit. All then repaired to a field opposite the school, very kindly lent to us by our friend, Mr. Sawbridge, where various amusements were indulged in. Towards the latter part of the evening, the sports were interrupted by a sharp shower, and opportunity was taken to distribute the prizes in the school. At 8 p.m., all adjourned to the front of the school, where a hymn was sung, three cheers afterwards being given to Mr. and Mrs. Sawbridge, also to Mr. and Mrs. Butcher for their kindness in paying the expenses of the band, and to all the ladies who had assisted in getting the tea. The playing of the national Anthem brought a very successful treat to a conclusion. The weather, until the last hour, was all that could be desired.

The Feoffee School Government Report has come to hand. We give it verbatim. Mixed Schools, - “ The work in the elementary subjects is a rule well done. The children’s intelligence is fair, and their answering in Geography is very fair. Needlework is satisfactorily taught . Note singing is very well taught, and the educational standard reached this year is a good one on the whole. The school staff is quite insufficient. Infant Class. - The Infants are progressing under Miss Lee. The lower classes show promise satisfactorily, and I think that the prospects of the school are good.” The Government Grant amounted to £84 18s., but owing to insufficient staff we only received £81 18s., this is however nearly £14 more than we received last year. Altogether this is the best report and grant which the school has ever had, and it is very satisfactory to the managers as well as to Mr. Brumbley and Miss Lee, who have worked very hard. Miss Kate Gregory is about to join the staff in the Mixed School, so we hope still better things in the future. We would earnestly ask the parents to send their children punctually and regularly to school.

Our Harvest Festival commenced on Friday evening. September 13. The Church had been very nicely decorated and looked very beautiful. We subjoin names of decorators;- Mrs. Harkness and Miss Thomas (pulpit), Miss Smart (pillars), Mrs. Butcher with the Misses Cox and Wright (the chancel), the Misses Paybody and Gregory (the North windows), the Misses Sawbridge, (the South windows), Mrs. Simons (the font), Miss Taylor (the gallery), Mrs. Moss and Miss Payne (the stoves), Mr. H. Butcher (the N.W. windows). Some beautiful flowers and evergreens were kindly sent by Mrs. Watts, and some grapes by Mrs. Walpole. The service was very heartily rendered by the choir and the anthem “The earth is the Lord’s” (Caleb Simper) reflected much credit upon them. An excellent sermon was preached by the Rev. Canon Hull, vicar of All Saints, Northampton, from 2 Kings iv., 31. Speaking of Gehazi’s inability to heal the Shunammite woman’s child, he remarked that people’s character’s were not so much influenced for good by eloquence or cleverness, as by thoughtful kindness and unselfish acts. He said that in agricultural affairs, machinery was more and more taking the place of manual labour, whereas in spiritual affairs, it was the reverse, where the earnest prayerful work of individuals counted for so much. He further said that we mustn’t devolve our duties on others. The services which were continued on the following Sunday, were all well attended. The total offertories amounted to £5 13s. 6d., of which £4 10s. 6d. was devoted to the Church Restoration Fund. We were very pleased to welcome our old friend, Mr. Shrimpton, amongst us again. Our warmest thanks are due to those kind friends who gave corn, flowers and other gifts.
A very pleasant gathering of the Sunday School Teachers of both parishes took place at the Vicarage on Monday, September 9. The lovely weather enabled a few very agreeable hours to be spent in garden amusements. After tea, the Vicar thanked the Teachers for their admirable work during the past year, and added a few words of encouragement with regard to the future.

On Friday evening, October 4, the opening winter concert will be held in the Board School. The proceeds will go towards the completion of the lightning of the Church. We hope it will be largely patronised.

On Thursday evening, October 31, the Rev. W. H. Disney, rector of Winwick, near Rugby, has very kindly consented to come over and give an address to the Communicants of both parishes. We hope all confirmed persons will try and come. Tea will be provided before the meeting at a cheap rate. We are very pleased to see Mr. Adams somewhat improved in health.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

Sept 1 Dorothy, daughter of George Francis and Clara Emily Daniels

Sept 15 Louise Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph and Ann Nicholls

Marriages Hanslope 1895

Sept. 5 John Rainbow and Elizabeth Kilpin.

Burials Hanslope 1895

Aug. 20 Emily Ethel Bull, aged 4

Aug. 22 Stephen Watson, aged 47

Aug. 17 Josiah Mills, aged 73.

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November 1895 Hanslope

We accidentally omitted to mention the name of Mrs. Brumbley in last month’s Magazine as having taken part in the decoration of the Chancel at the Harvest Festival. We also omitted to mention that the Educational Department have exempted the Feoffee School from examination next year. This is a good sign and shows that the school is now making headway, and is in the opinion of Her Majesty’s Inspector in a healthy condition educationally. On Monday afternoon, September 30, the Vicar distributed the prizes to the successful scholars.

We regret to say that the Medical Officer of Health has ordered both our schools to be closed for some weeks to come, owing to the outbreak of scarletina in our village. Although this is a necessary precaution, yet it is very unfortunate that it should happen just when the schools were starting their work after a long holiday. It is melancholy to see how thoughtless and ignorant some people still are in these days of enlightenment and education. For instance, a child was actually sent by its parents to our Feoffee School when it was in process of recovery from scarletina which is the most dangerous time for spreading infection. “Cleanliness is said to be next to godliness” and “Prevention is better than cure.” We heartily wish that many people would take these excellent proverbs to heart. An ounce of common sense shown beforehand in trying to ward off an evil, is better than a bucketful of tears after the evil has already come upon us. Our duty towards our neighbour should teach us that we ought to be careful to avoid spreading infection amongst other people’s children, as we should be in keeping it from our own.

On Monday evening, September 23, a Parish Meeting was held to consider if the Lighting and Watching Act should be adopted by the parish as regards Lighting. After some discussion it was almost unanimously decided by those present in the affirmative. We think that the decision was a right one. The Local Government Act, which called Parish Councils into existence was in its main features agreed upon by both parties in Parliament it being universally felt that, considering the continuous migration of agricultural labourers to our great towns , something should be done to make village life more bright and attractive, and thus help to check their depopulation. Wise, judicious, progress therefore should be our motto and in order to promote this, all classes should be willing to make some little sacrifice and to work in harmony. When this reform is effected our streets of dark nights will be relieved from gloom and winter in Hanslope will become more tolerable.

On Tuesday evening, October 1, the Guild, to the number of 31, commenced its winter meetings with a meatt ea (last two words as printed. obviously an error, could be meat meal.) very kindly given by Messrs Corder and Courtman in a large room belonging to the latter. Afterwards a very pleasant evening was spent in games, songs and short addresses. Vote of thanks to the donors of the tea brought the evening to a close.

On Friday evening, October 4, the opening Winter Entertainment was held at the Board School and was fairly well attended.. The singing of Mr. J. Rutherfood and the Rev. G. Chappell, the violin solo of Mr. F. Turner, and the well executed recitations of Miss Scouler and Mr. Lockwood (an old Woolwich friend of the Vicar’s) were thoroughly appreciated. The songs of the Misses Richards and Hewett and the pianoforte solo of Mr. Jacklin, were also well received. Mr. Butcher being unwell, Mrs. Harkness and Miss Lee kindly gave two duets. The total receipts amounted to £3 18s. 10d., from which after deducting £1 12s. 10d. For expenses, there remained a net profit of £2 6s. 0d. For the completion of the lighting of the Church. Our best thanks are due to the performers and to those who helped to get the room ready.

Baptism Hanslope 1895

Sept. 22 Reginald Joseph Hanslope Scudamore, son of henry Charles and Deborah Mary Bladder

Marriages Hanslope 1895

Oct. 3 John Bennett and Mary Emily Gibson

Burials Hanslope 1895

Oct. 2 Walter William Grisbrook, aged 7 months.

Oct. 10 John Smith, aged 66

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Hanslope 1895 December

Mr. Corder is leaving us on the 16th of December. He will then enter upon the Curacy of Monks Resborough under Canon Evetts. We wish him God speed in his new work. The two Church Guilds and the three branches of the Happy Home Union are mementoes of his work here. We trust that there will be no lack of willing hands and hearts to carry on these useful works.

By the time the December Magazine is in the hands of our readers, the Vicar and Mrs. Harkness expect to be settled down in their new home. We have long felt that the present house was not adequate for the wants and needs of the place, and that if the parish wishes to secure a succession of earnest and efficient clergymen, a more commodious Vicarage must be provided. There is a saying that three flittings are as bad as a fire. The Vicar can truly say that if he had two more flittings attended with as much preliminary labour as he has had for the last twelve months he would be disposed to believe the old adage to be true.

On Sunday, the 3rd of November, the offertories, morning and evening, were devoted to the Oxford Diocesan Poor Benefices Augmentation Society, from which the Vicar has received grants amounting to £200 towards his new Vicarage, and for which, in consequence, he is bound to have an annual offertory. The amount sent up from Hanslope was 18s 4½d.

There is room in the Choir for a couple more tenor and a couple more bass voices. The Vicar will be glad to receive the names of any men or young men wishing to join. Members of a Church Choir ought to be confirmed, or if not, willing to be so when there is an opportunity. We heartily wish the congregation would do their utmost to join in the singing. As it has been remarked to me by more than one person of late, we may take a lesson from our chapel friends, and we would add that the congregational singing at Castlethorpe is particularly hearty and bright.

A meeting of the congregation to consider the question of a surpliced choir was held on the 7th of October. The opinion of those present was, on the whole, favourable, the chief difficulty being that of expense. Mr. Stuart say that it will be impossible to grant anything from the offertories, either towards the initial or towards the future expenses connected with this object. In this we think he is perfectly right, as it is no easy task for the church funds to make ends meet. We must therefore look for outside help. Mr. Lockwood, of Woolwich, has very kindly given us 10s 6d. towards it, and a lady has promised to make two surplices. The Vicar, after three years’ careful consideration, has come to the conclusion that a surpliced choir will tend both to brighten, beautify, and render more reverent, the services of our noble church. Slovenliness in the service of God is a very painful thing. The female members would still be retained.

We hope to have the Sale of Work on December 27th, as we are in urgent need of funds for church purposes.

Burial Hanslope 1895

Nov. 9 Florence Annie Hardwicke, aged 3 months.

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