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Great Linford

transcribed by Ingrid Neale

January 1894 Great Linford

Our village is suffering from a severe visitation of the now dreaded influenza, which attacks old and young alike. The school average has been reduced by about 20 per cent., and the congregations in Church have been greatly thinned. It is now many years since our usually healthy hamlet has been visited with so much sickness. Notwithstanding this drawback the members of the choir are busy preparing for a concert and “musical sketch,” which is to take place on the 23rd. Mr. and Mrs. Wills are also arranging for an entertainment in which the school children will be the principal performers. Before the Magazine reaches its readers, however, these will be things of the past, and let us hope the scourge of influenza will also have run its course.

The charity left by the late Miss. M. B. Cape, and also that left by Lady Pritchard, will be distributed as usual on the day after Christmas. Possible the Rector and the Churchwardens would by no means regret handing over the distribution of the doles to the Parish Council, should that embryonic body be permitted to survive its birth, and enter upon its duties next year.

Baptism Linford (Great)

Dec. 10 Mary Constance Julia, daughter of Arthur and Sarah Martha Watwick

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February 1894 Great Linford

The Children’s Entertainment, foreshadowed in the last month’s Magazine, was most happily carried out by the Schoolmaster and Mistress (Mr. and Mrs. Wills) on Thursday evening, December 21. It consisted of songs, carols, recitations and dialogues, in which children of all ages took part. Among the most popular features of the entertainment was the dialogue “Management,” in which four girls sustained their parts capitally; the duet “Angels’ Whispers” was very pleasingly rendered by two of the elder girls. Some of the recitations were given with considerable feeling and spirit.

On Friday evening, December 22, the members of the Choir gave a concert in the Schoolroom. With the exception of Mr. Petts and Mr. Bonstead, from Newport Pagnell, and one or two from Wolverton, the performers were local. Miss Williams contributed two songs as did Misses Hall and Kemp. Messrs. Wills, Hall, H Mapley and E. Sapwell each gave songs, which were well received. The second part of the programme consisted of a musical sketch, in which Messrs. G. Hall, and Miss Hall appeared. The piece went well throughout, and caused much amusement. Miss Ada Wills acted as accompanist to the songs, and played the Ghost Music with much effect. Altogether the concert was fairly successful although the room was not so full as usual, owing to illness and other causes.

Christmas morning was ushered in with a peal on the church bells. The morning service was choral, and the anthem “Make a joyful noise,” very well rendered by the choir. There were 29 communicants at the midday celebrations. The anthem was repeated on the Sunday after Christmas.

A very successful women’s tea and entertainment, under the management of a committee, was held in the schoolroom on Wednesday, December 27, the sterner sex being admitted to the entertainment on payment of the small charge of 3d. Miss Williams, Miss Hall and Miss Kemp contributed songs, as did Messrs Boustead, Nottingham, G Hall and H. Mapley. After which, an exhibition of the renowned Mrs. Jarley’s Waxworks caused much amusement. Miss Jarley was represented with great drollery by Miss Evelyn Williams, her “get up” being quite sufficient to set the audience in a roar, while the by-play of the man “John” (Mr. G. Hall) when introducing the models, elicited peals of laughter. The way in which the figures preserved their stolid expression of countenance under such an ordeal was beyond praise. The following were amongst Mrs. Jarley’s most valuable “properties”:- Mary Queen of Scots (Mrs. A. J. Shepherd), Her Executioner (Mr. Gerard Uthwatt), Queen Eleanor (Miss Williams), Fair Rosamond (Miss Bird), the Princes in the Tower (Master G. and C. Shepherd). the Wicked Uncle (Mr. Gerard Uthwatt), Jack Sprat (Master G. Shepherd), His Wife (Mr.S Coulton), Mother Seigel’s Soothing Syrup (Mrs. Wain), the Three Old Maids of Lee (Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Shepherd, Miss M Wills), the Three Young Maids of Lee (Miss Bird, Miss Williams and Miss Ada Willes), “Where are you going to my pretty maid “Miss Williams and Colonel Gaselee, C.B.).

On December 29, the Rector entertained the members of the choir at supper in the Schoolroom. About 30 sat down to a substantial spread, after which they were joined by a few relatives and friends, and dancing was indulged in until 12 o’clock.

We regret to record the death of Mrs. Ariss, from pneumonia, following upon influenza. Much sympathy is felt for the family, Mr. Ariss himself being confined to bed with the influenza and bronchitis at the time of his wife’s death. He is now, we are glad to say, making good progress towards recovery.

Other Linford news must stand over until next month.

Baptism Linford (Great)

Dec. 23 Raymond, son of Joseph and Elizabeth Hartup (privately)

Dec. 24 Annie, daughter of George and Charlotte Becket

Marriages Linford (Great)

Dec. 26 Joseph Stewart and Flora Love.

Burials Linford (Great)

Dec. 23 Jane Ariss, aged 59 years.

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March 1894 Great Linford

The children attending the Church Sunday School were invited by the Rector and Mrs. Williams to tea, in the schoolroom, on the 20th of January, and afterwards the long expected Christmas Tree was lighted up in the class - room. The work of dismantling took some time, upwards of 70 children receiving three presents, each , varying from knives, work boxes, inkstands, picture frames, and dolls, down to packets of sweets. Mrs. Williams and the Misses Williams were ably assisted by Mrs. Samuel, the Misses Tayler, and Miss Bird in decking and also stripping, the tree of its contents. During the evening the children sang some songs, under the direction of Mr. Wills. Before leaving, the Rector addressed the children, regretting the absence of Mrs. Uthwatt, whose health was not sufficiently restored to permit her being present. She had, however, sent a contribution towards the tree, and hoped the children would enjoy their treat.

It is hoped that the Thursday afternoon service will be as well attended throughout Lent as its commencement. The hour (4.30 p.m) should be convenient for a good many mothers and daughters who would be prevented by distance, and household cares, from attending an evening service.

On Good Friday there will be morning prayer at 11 a.m and evening prayer, with sermon, at 6 p.m.

There will be two celebrations of the Holy Communion on Easter Day, viz at 8.30 a.m., and at midday.

During Easter week it is contemplated having vocal and dramatic entertainments in the schoolroom on behalf of the Schools Funds. On Tuesday and Wednesday, March 27th and 28th, there will be Afternoon Concerts concluding with the comedietta “Petticoat Perfidy,” and on Thursday evening some members of the choir will give a Musical Sketch, and the entertainment will conclude with Mrs. Jarley’s waxworks.

GREAT LINFORD CLOTHING CLUB 1893

Receipts

£
s
d
Balance in hand from 1892
5
8
Subscriptions, Mrs. Uthwatt
1
0
0
" " Mrs. Willaims
10
0
" " Mrs Samuel
5
0
" " Mrs. Finnis
2
6
Members payments
27
4
11
£29
8
1

Expenditure
To Simpson and Son, printing
4
6
To Members cards paid off
1
13
0
To Mr. Braggins
11
19
8
To Mr. Holliday
6
5
0
To Mr. Kentish
2
16
0
To Mr. Bromwich
3
6
6
To Mr. Steele
1
12
0
To Mr. Middleton
14
0
£28
10
8
Balance in hand
17
5
£29
8
1

GREAT LINFORD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PENNY BANK 1893
£
s
d
Total deposits including interest (intr. 8/2)
23
19
11½
Total Withdrawals
10
7
10
To credit Post Office Savings
13
12

We have to record in another column the death of an old and respected parishioner, who passed quietly away on Friday evening, February 16. In September last he had a stroke of paralysis which deprived him of the power of even turning in bed; his mind, however, remained clear to the last, and as his bodily strength grew weaker, the more earnest and constant did he become in preparing for his final summons.

Marriages Linford (Great)

Jan. 29 David Barker and Mary Matilda Elliott

Burials Linford (Great)

Feb. 20 Henry Fennimore, aged 79

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April 1894 Great Linford

No article or baptisms, marriages and burials printed for Great Linford this month.

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May 1894 Great Linford

During Easter week three very successful entertainments were given in the Schoolroom, on behalf of the School Funds. On Tuesday, March 27th, the programme attracted a large and fashionable audience from the neighbourhood. The first part consisted of vocal and instrumental music. The platform was fitted up as a drawing room, and tastefully arranged with Indian draperies and Liberty muslins, the general effect being very pleasing. The entertainment concluded with the amusing comedietta. “Petticoat Perfidy,” and the whole was repeated on the following day.

On March 30th , by special request, Mrs. Jarley again gave her wonderful show of waxworks. Miss Evelyn Williams, as Mrsl Jarley, was excellent, and kept her audience in roars of laughter. The man “John” (Mr G. Hall) made an ideal showman, both in his get- up and the way he worked and moved the valuable waxworks. The entertainment concluded with an amusing charade, called “The Hat - box.” Statement of accounts - Money taken at doors, £10 4s 6d.; special donations, C. C. Bailey, Esq., £!, W F.E.A. Uthwatt, Esq., 10s., J. Baily, Esq 13s., Rev. S. H. Williams, 10s.; total £12 17s 6d. Expenditure - County Council for licence, 2s 6d.; Messrs French and Co., £2 2s.; piano, 14s.; programmes and stamps, 9s.; platform, £2 14 6d.; total, £6 2s.; balance £6 15 6d.

A meeting was held on Thursday, April 12 for the purpose of forming a branch of the National Agricultural Union. Colonel Purefoy Fitzgerald attended on behalf of the Union, and explained its objects. At the close of the meeting 60 members were enrolled. W. F. E. A. Uthwatt, Esq., was elected president, and the Rector vice - president.

A special meeting of the Great Linford Branch of the Union was held on Saturday, April 14, for the purpose of forming a committee, when eighteen members were chosen to act, and all Classes interested in Agriculture are thoroughly well represented. The secretary is W. J. Samuel, Esq.

At the annual vestry meeting, held March 24th, the Rector nominated Mr. Joseph Baily as churchwarden, in the place of Mr. John Clode, who, owing to failing health, was obliged to resign, after holding the office for upwards of half a century. The vestry expressed a vote of thanks to Mr. Clode for his services in the past.

Baptism Linford (Great)

April 15 John son of Harry and Mary Atkinson

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June 1894 Great Linford

No article or baptisms, marriages and burials printed for Great Linford this month

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July 1894 Great Linford

The Rev. E. Templeman, organising secretary for the S. P. G., preached on Sunday morning, May 27,in our Church, on behalf of the funds of the Society A collection was also made in the afternoon. The total amounted to £2 12s 9d.

The Infant School was examined by H. M. Inspector, E. M. Kenney Herbert, Esq., on the 10th of May and the Mixed School on May 25. The report has not yet come to hand. The Drawing is certified “Good.” The following is a copy of the report from H.M. Inspector upon the Evening School, dated June 5, 1894 :- The Evening Continuation School is in excellent order, and has done some useful work during the session.”

The Rev. W. Harkness, vicar of Hanslope, the newly appointed Local Diocesan Inspector, visited our School and examined the children on Friday, May 30. The following is an epitome of his report : - “The work in the Infant Division was uneven; some knew their subjects well, while others did not. In Group 11, there were a large number who answered satisfactorily. In Group 111. The Bible Subjects, which had been taken up,, were well known, and good answers were given to questions on the Church Catechism. Repetition throughout the School was well said. Written work was good, and there were only a few mistakes in spelling. Singing was good, and the discipline very satisfactory. The Diocesan Prize awarded to Ethel Hendrey” The following were commended - Infants - Christopher Sapwell. William Percival, Frederick Kemp. Middle Group - William Walters, Lizzie Mills, Sidney Ellis, William Ellis. Upper Group - Edith Walters (received prize last year ), Edith Sapwell, Louie Walters, and Frank Mills. Frank Mills was awarded a Special Prize by the Rector.

Baptism Linford (Great) 1894

June 10 Edmund, son of Frederick and Emily Morby Seamarks.

June 17 Frederick George, son of Thomas and Edith Riley.

Burials Linford Great 1894

June 5 Tom Stanley Hobbs, aged 5

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August 1894 Great Linford

On Thursday July 5, by kind invitation of Mrs. Uthwatt, the children attending the Church Sunday School with their mothers, were entertained in the garden of the Manor House. Tea tables were arranged for the elders under the trees, while the tea table was presided over by Mrs. Uthwatt on the lawn. Several ladies assisted in distributing the good things and after tea, readily gave their services attending to the numerous swings, and starting games for the amusement of the little ones. Cricket was, of course the chief attraction for the boys. The weather was most delightful, and a very pleasant party was brought to a close about 7.30, hearty cheers being accorded to Mrs. Uthwatt for her kindness.

The sum of £5 received from, Lady Pritchard’s Charity, under the Charity Commissioners Scheme, has been paid to the Post Office Savings Bank for the benefit of the scholars attending the Day School. Scholars in all standards above Standard 1 have sums of money placed to their credit in their Bank Books; the amounts varying according to the attendances made and the Standards, good conduct being essential also. The sum of 10s, was awarded to Edith Walters, ex-Standard V1, for 384 attendances, and for assisting in the work of the School. In Standards V1 and V Edith Tompkins received the highest sum, 5s., for 352 attendances. Percy Tompkins was highest in Standard 1V, with 372 attendances, and received 3s 6d.. In Standard 111, Carrie Kemp was highest, receiving 2s 6d. for 371 attendances. Standard 11 furnished the highest record throughout the School, Willie Hyde having made 386 attendances out of a possible 387. He received, therefore, 2s. For the highest number of attendances in his Standard, and 1s for the highest number throughout the Standards. It should be mentioned that owing to the epidemics of measles and whooping cough, the School was closed for a month during the year. There are now more than 70 depositors in the School Savings Bank.

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September 1894 Great Linford

The east wall of the chancel in the church of S. Andrew, Great Linford, is now being decorated by Mr. B. Wilford from the design of Mr. Victor Milner, and it is hoped that the work will be completed for our Harvest Festival. Some nine years ago the late Mr. Uthwatt of Maidsmorton, bequeathed the sum of £300 for a memorial to her husband and herself. The executors under her will placed a handsome stained glass east window and reredos in the Church about four years ago, and are now expending the balance in ornamenting the east wall.

Mr. George Smith, a leading member of the choir, has recently taken to himself a wife, but as he intends to reside in Great Linford we hope we shall not lose his services. Among the wedding presents was a minature Grandfather’s Clock, in satin wood case, given by the Rector and Mrs. Williams. The members of the Choir also made Mr. Smith a presentation on the occasion of his marriage.

No baptisms, marriages or burials for Great Linford published this month.

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October 1894 Great Linford

Thanks to the liberality of the subscribers to the Church Choir Fund, the members were enabled to take advantage of the London and North-Western Railway excursion to Margate, on Monday, September 10. Leaving Great Linford at 4.30 a.m., the party reached Margate between 9 and 10 o’clock, and, after a short rest, some of the excursionists went by the tram to Ramsgate, while other more adventurous spirits preferred the sea. The weather proved all that could be desired, and altogether our party thoroughly enjoyed their day. The return journey commenced at 8.30 p.m., and Linford was not reached until the small hours of the morning. By the courtesy of the Traffic Superintendent at Euston, a saloon carriage was attached to the excursion train for the use of the Great Linford Choir, which greatly added to their comfort and enjoyment.

Baptism Linford (Great)

Sep. 9 Winifred Ada, daughter of Frank and Emily Frances Darby

Marriages Linford (Great)

Sept. 10 Ralph Simons to Sarah Jane Stewart.

Burials Linford (Great)

Sep. 8 Sarah Nichols, aged 73

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November 1894 Great Linford

The Annual Treat to the children attending the Great Linford Church of England School was given in the Rectory Grounds on the 1st of October. Both day and Sunday Scholars were invited, and the party numbered over 100. Fortunately the day was fine and bright, and a very pleasant afternoon was spent. The elder boys had an exciting football match and afterwards joined in the racing; while the girls played the time-honoured game of “drop-handkerchief.” or waited patiently for their turn on the ever popular swings. Tea was provided in the Rectory Barn, which had been fitted up with benches, &c., for the occasion, and after thorough justice had been done to the cake, bread and butter, and other good things, the children sang some of their school songs very nicely. The party broke up shortly after 6 o’clock.

The Harvest Thanksgiving Services were held on Sunday, Oct 7. The Church looked even . brighter than usual this year, thanks to the kindness of so many friends in contributing flowers, fruit, &c., and the ladies who carried out the decorations so tastefully and elaborately. The recently painted east wall also greatly enhanced the appearance of the chancel, the work having been completed by Mr. B. Wilford just prior to the festival. The day was ushered in with joyful peal of bells. There were two celebrations of the Holy Communion, viz., 8.30 a.m,. and at mid-day. The morning and afternoon services were choral, the choir rendering the anthem. “The earth is the Lord’s” very nicely the solo being taken by Mr. Wills .The offertories throughout the day amounted to £4 11s 6d., and were apportioned as follows: Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution £” 11s 6d., Northampton Infirmary £2.

No baptisms, marriages or burials for Great Linford published this month.

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December 1894 Great Linford

No articles baptisms, marriages or burials for any parish published this month.

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January 1895 Great Linford

Advent Sunday was observed as a day of Special Intercession on behalf of Missionary Work. The offertory at the Holy Communion, and the collection after the afternoon sermon, were divided between the Diocesan Spiritual Help Society and the Corean Mission, the total amount being £2 13s 6d.

By the kindness of Mrs. Uthwatt, a Drawing Room Meeting was held at the Manor House, in aid of the Corean Mission, on Monday, December 10. The Rev. M. N. Trollope, who has just returned from Corea, gave a most interesting account of the country and its inhabitants, and of the patient work carried on by the Mission, which is under the direction of Bishop Corfe. The meeting was largely attended by residents of the neighbourhood, and the sum of £3 19s 6d. was collected at its close, towards the funds of the Mission.

The chancel of our Church has been enriched by the gift of a 3 handsome (50 candle power) Belge lamps on brass, and two standards, presented by Mrs. Williams, who has devoted some of her leisure to painting in oil various designs, the sale of which realised sufficient to purchase the lamps. It is hoped that in course of time the Church may be thus lighted throughout.

On Sunday, the 16th, the sermons were preached by the Rev. L. Wickham, who most kindly undertook the whole of the morning service, thus relieving the Rector who has been suffering from a bronchial attack.

The Bishop of Oxford will hold a Confirmation on Monday, February 18, at Newport Pagnell, at 3 p.m., where the candidates from Great Linford are to be presented. The Rector will be glad to receive the names of any candidates for Confirmation who have not already notified their wish to join the classes.

Burial Linford (Great)

Nov. 22 Rosanna Coales, aged 73

Dec. 10 Harry Kimble, aged 14 months

Dec. 17 Charlotte Brook, aged 73. From New Bradwell

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February 1895 Great Linford

On Thursday, Dec. 20, a Children’s Entertainment was held in the Schoolroom, when there was a large gathering of parents and friends, in fact the room was “packed.” the children went through the programme with much credit, the infants’ pretty Flag Drill being loudly encored. Some of the elder girls acted a piece entitled “Mayflower,” the chief characters being taken by Edith Walters, Edith Sapwell, and Ethel Hendrey, who thoroughly entered into their parts. Edith Tompkins played a pianoforte solo very creditably. The programme was concluded with some nigger songs, given by the “Linford Smuts,” a troupe of 13 of the schoolboys. Frank Mills, as “Brother Bones,” gave a capital stump speech, which much amused the audience. The Rector proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Wills for the trouble they had taken in getting up such a successful entertainment. - Mr. Wills thanked them on behalf of Mrs. Wills and himself, and said it was always a pleasure to them to do what they could to advance the interests of the parents and children.

On December 21, a successful choir concert was given in the School. The Members of the Choir were kindly assisted in carrying out a god programme by the following : - Mrs. A. T. Bailey, Mrs. Maxwell, Miss Williams, Miss Bird , Miss Wills, Miss Anthill, Miss Henson, and Messrs, Wills, Petts, Boustead, and G. Pearce. The second part of the programme consisted of an amusing play called “Mrs. White,” the parts being taken by Members of the Choir :- Mrs. White, Mr. G. Hall ; Widow White, Miss K. Kemp; Kitty (nurse), Miss Hall ; Mr. White, Mr. H. Mapley; Capt. Brown, Mr. F. Tompkins; Mr. Brown, Mr. H. Hall.

The village was rather sad at Christmas time, owing to the death of Mr. John Clode, who passed quietly to rest on Saturday, December 22, at the ripe age of 84. The deceased gentleman had resided in Great Linford for upwards of 55 years, and for half a century performed the office of Rector’s Churchwarden. He was much beloved and esteemed. The Funeral took place on December 26, and was largely attended. Amongst the many beautiful wreaths crosses was one sent as “A token of esteem and regard from the parishioners.” Considerably more was contributed towards this floral memento than it was deemed advisable to expend, so a sum of money has been retained to purchase some shrubs for the churchyard as a more lasting memorial of the deceased.

On the 11th of January, the members of the choir numbering 25, were entertained at supper by the Rector and Mrs. Williams. A very pleasant evening was passed, and the party broke up shortly after 11 o’clock.

On the 12th of January, the Rectory party also invited the Sunday scholars, numbering 95, to tea in the Schoolroom, after which a gigantic Christmas Tree was lighted up, and the scholars received rewards, apportioned according to the marks gained in the past year, the elders being first allowed to choose in turn what they liked best. Mrs. Uthwatt very kindly contributed towards the expenses of the tree, which, owing to the increase of children, have become heavy.

Baptism Linford (Great) 1895

Dec. 30 William Thomas, and Annie, children of William and Elizabeth Randall.

Burials Linford (Great) 1895

Dec. 26 John Clode, in his 84 year.

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March 1895 Great Linford

A meeting of the Parish Council was held in the Schoolroom on Saturday evening, January 26, all the members being present:-

Rev. S. H. Williams (chairman), W. Uthwatt, Esq. (vice-chairman), Councillors Bird, hedges, Samuel, and Tayler. A precept was signed authorising the overseers to pay the Returning Officer’s fee for a non-contested election. It was decided to ask Messrs. Bassett and Co. to act as treasurers for the Parish Council. The Rev. S. H. Williams was appointed Clerk to the Council until the annual meeting, April 15, when overseers and other officers will be appointed. Mr. W. J. Samuel and Mr. W. Hedges are the elected trustees for Sir W. Pritchard’s lady Pritchard’s and Miss M. B. Cape’s Charities which are non-ecclesiastical; but the Rector will continue to act as ex-officio trustee of all the charities, as decided by the Charity Commissioners.

The following statement for the year 1894 of the Great Linford School Penny Bank in connection with the Post Office Savings Bank may be interesting; Number of depositors 73, total deposits and interest £3 13s 5d., withdrawals £18 16s 8d., balance £14 16s 9d. In the year 1893 the depositors numbered 64, the deposits and interest £23 10s 11d, withdrawals 310 7s 10d., balance £13 12s 1d. According to the rules, when a depositor has a credit balance of £1 the amount is transferred to the Post Office Savings Bank, and an account opened in the depositor’s name. During the year 1894 three accounts were thus opened, or added to, and this will account in a measure for the large amount under the head of withdrawals.

On Monday, February 18, thirteen candidates from this parish were confirmed by the Bishop of Oxford in SS. Peter and Paul’s Church, Newport Pagnell. In the evening the newly-confirmed were entertained at tea at the Rectory, and before leaving each received a book and card appropriate to the occasion.

During Lent there will be a short service, with address in S. Andrew’s Church at 4.30 p.m.

On and after Easter Sunday the supplemental hymns to Ancient and Modern, as now published in all the Prayer Books will be used in the Church.

Baptism Linford (Great) 1895

Jan. 27 Eva, daughter of Ralph and Sarah Jane Simons

Burials Linford (Great) 1895

Feb. 18 Henry James Nicholls, aged 32

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April 1895 Great Linford

The Rev. I. Wickham gave an interesting address on the Thursday afternoon service, on the 14th of March.

The services on Good Friday will be as follows :- 11 a.m. Litany and Ante Communion Service, 6 p.m. Evensong and Sermon.

On Easter Sunday there will be two Celebrations, of the Holy Communion, viz., at 8.30 a.m., and at mid-day, the offertories throughout the day will be for Church Expenses (Fire Insurance. &c.)

There will be no Celebration of the Holy Communion on Sunday, April 7.

Miss A. Capes’ Charity, 1894 -Cr. By dividends received from official Turstees, per Messrs. Bassett & Co., £14 17s. Dr. - To Mr. Wills for Sunday School Teaching, &c., £10; to Managers of Great Linford School towards General School Account £2 17s.; to Mr. W. Cole for cake for School Treat, £2: total £14 17s.

Miss M. B. Capes’ Charity, 1894. Cr. -By dividends received from Official Trustees per Messrs Bassett & Co., £10 3s 8d. Dr. - To amount overpaid in 1893, 7s 7d.; December - 26, to old men past work and widows on parish relief (£1 each.) £4: December 26 to payment for 9 pairs of blankets, £3 11s 9d.; to payment of 52 yards of flannel. £! 19s 9d., (distributed to most needy, balance in hand at bank, 4s 7d.; total £10 3s 8d.

Sir. W. Pritchard’s Charity, 1894. Cr,- January 1 balance in hand, 11s 2d.; July 12, by cheque from W. Uthwatt Esq., £17; December 1st, by cheque from W. Uthwatt, Esq. £17; total £34 11s 2d. Dr.- To Managers of Great Linford School towards General Account, £10; January 1st to august 11th, - paid 1s 6d. each per week to five almshouse people (32 weeks). £12; August 12th, to December 31st, - paid 1s 6d. each per week to six almshouse people (20wks.), £9; balance in hand for repairs, £3 11 2d.; total £34 11s 2d.

Lady Pritchard’s Charity, 1894, Cr. - Balance in hand, £5 15s 10d.; by dividends from Official Trustees paid to Messrs. Bassett & Co., £17 15s.; total. £23 10s 10d. Dr. - July 14, to Managers of Great Linford General Account, £5: July 14, to rewards to scholars in Day School paid to Bank Book, Post Office Savings Bank Account, £5; December 26, to 6 almshouse people, £6; December 26, to Sexton £1; December 26, to Rector £1; balance to credit of Charity at Bank, £5 10s 10d,; total £23 10s 10d.

Baptisms Linford (Great) 1895

March 10 Elvina May, daughter of James William and Ethel Jane Ager

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May 1895 Great Linford

At St. Andrew’s Church, on Good Friday Litany was said at 11.30 a.m., followed by the ante-Communion Service, and evensong with sermon, at 6 p.m. The services were well attended.

Eater Day was ushered in with a joyful peal of bells. The church was decorated with spring flowers, primroses, daffodils, violets &c. The altar vases were arranged with white hot-house flowers. The Holy Communion was celebrated at 8.30 a.m., and at midday; there were a good number of communicants at each celebration. The services at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. were fully choral. The anthem “Hallelujah, hallelujah, hearts to heaven and voices raise,” was well-sung by the choir, the solo being taken by Mr. C. T. Willes. The collections which were for Church Expenses, amounted to £3 14s 10d. The Supplemental Hymns to the ancient and Modern Hymn Book were used for the first time. The beautiful hymn (499) “On the Resurrection Morning” was well sung.

A course of Technical Education Lessons in Dress Cutting will be given by Miss Davis, in the Schoolroom, commencing on Tuesday, May 7th, at 6.30 p.m. As the class is limited to 12 persons, those wishing to join are requested to send their names to Mrs. Uthwatt, or Mrs. Williams, at once.

The Annual Meeting of the Parish Council was held in the Schoolroom on Saturday evening, April 20. Mr. J. Bally and Mr. Henry Bird were appointed Overseer, and Mr. Nicholson, of Newport Pagnell, was appointed Assistant Overseer, with a salary of £3. The Rev. S. H. Williams was re-elected Chairman and Clerk to the Parish Council.

At the Easter Vestry (adjourned from the previous evening) held after the Parish Council Meeting. Mr. Joseph Bailey and Mr. William Hedges were again elected Churchwardens. The following statement of the Offertory Accounts for the year 1894 was presented at the meeting. The Churchwardens’ Accounts were also produced. St. Andrew’s Church, Great Linford Offertory Accounts: -1894, Receipts - Balance in hand from 1893, £3 12s 5d.; Special Offertories - Easter Day, Church Expenses 2s. 13s 4 ½ d., May 27 for S.P.G. £2 12s 9d., Oct . 7, Harvest Thanksgiving, £4 11s 4d., Dec. 1st. Diocesan Spiritual Help Society £1 6s 9d., General Offertories £8 6s 3d., Voluntary Offerings (churchings) 7s., Almsbox 1s 9d., Total, £25 8s 4 ½ d. Payments - Mr. W. Hedges towards Church Expenses, fire Insurance &c., &c., Organ Tuner £1 1s., Treasurer of S.P.G. £2 12s 0d., R.A.B. Institution £2 11s 4d., Northampton Infirmary £2, Diocesan Spiritual Help Society £1 6s 9d., Corean Mission £1 6s 9d., Payments to aged Poor and Sick £7 15s 6d., Balance carried forward £4 0s 11d., Total £2 8s 4 ½ d

Baptism Linford (Great) 1895

Mar. 31 Edith Jane, daughter of John Wilcox and Jane Mills

April 21 Frederick George, son of William and Sarah Springs

April 21 Henry Thomas, son of William and Elizabeth Syratt

April 21 Ernest, son of Alfred and Sarah Jane Bartholomew

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June 1895 Great Linford

No article, baptisms, marriages or burials for Great Linford printed this month.

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July 1895 Great Linford

No article printed this month for Great Linford

Baptism Linford (Great) 1895

May 26 Ellen, daughter of Thomas Smith and Lucy Watts

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August 1895 Great Linford

The following is a epitome of the report received from the Rev. W. J. Harkness, Diocesan Inspector, after his examination of our school in religious knowledge. “In the Infant School the answering was chiefly confined to a small number, who did well. The majority seemed somewhat dull and inert. The repetition however was both full and good. In the middle group the answering showed a want of thoroughness and accuracy. The upper group was decidedly the best part of the school. One boy (Frank Mills) did particularly well, there were a few however who were irresponsive. I was very pleased with the singing throughout the school. The repetition in the mixed school was on the whole accurately rendered. Most of the written work was neatly and correctly done. I was pleased with the order and behaviour of the children.” The Diocesan Prize was awarded to Frank Mills. The following were commended: - Upper group - Louisa Walters, Nellie Kemp, Edith Tompkins, and Percy Tompkins, Middle group - William Walters, and Athol Williams, Infants, Grace Austin, Daisy Hedges, and Agnes Wilkinson.

The report of Her Majesty’s Inspector of Schools has also come to hand, and although the total grant including fee grant is £8 more than last year., the report itself is not encouraging. Her Majesty’s Inspector complains that the intelligence of the children is below the mark, both in the mixed and the infant schools: and that concludes with the warning that “much improvement will be looked for at the next inspection in the instruction of the infants.”

On Tuesday, July 9th. Mrs. Uthwatt very kindly entertained the scholars attending the Church Sunday School and their mothers at Tea in the grounds of the Manor. The children, numbering about 100, sat down to a capital spread on the lawn, while their mothers had tea at a long table under the shade of the trees. After tea numerous games were played, in which many of the mothers joined with much energy and spirit. The party broke up about 8 o’clock, after singing the National Anthem and giving hearty cheers for Mrs. Uthwatt.

Baptism Linford (Great) 1895

July 14 Violet Mary, daughter of Joseph and Ellen Elizabeth Ekins Ellis

Burial Linford (Great) 1895

July 12 Annie Elizabeth Jenkins, aged 7 months

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September 1895 Great Linford

No article, baptisms, marriages or burials for Great Linford printed this month.

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October 1895 Great Linford

Harvest Thanksgiving Services were held in St. Andrew’s Church on Sunday, September 15. Owing to the harvest having been gathered in somewhat earlier than usual this season, the ladies, who kindly undertook the decorations, had quite a wealth of flowers at their disposal, and, consequently , the church presented a very striking and bright appearance. Evidently great attention had been paid to the adornment of the super-altar and font, the latter being profusely decorated with white flowers, chiefly asters and roses, mingled with Virginia creeper leaves. There was a celebration of the Holy Communion at 8.30 a.m. the morning and afternoon services were choral. Miss Ada Wills presided at the organ. The sermon in the morning was preached by the rector, and in the afternoon by the Rev. R. H. O. Bankes, vicar of Chicheley, who also intoned the service. The offerings throughout the day amounted to £5 0s 1d., the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution receiving £2 18s 1d., and Miss Marsh ‘s Convalescent Home, Blackrock, Brighton. £2 2s. The ringers, as usual, ushered in the festival with a joyful peal, and also before and after the services the bells were heartily rung.

Burials Linford (Great) 1895

Sept . 18 Mary Ann Fennimore (Stantonbury Parish) aged 58

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November 1895 Great Linford

During the month trouble has fallen upon two households in our small parish. A devoted wife has been left a sorrowing widow after little more than one year and eight months happy wedded life. In the other case the parents of a large family have been suddenly plunged into grief by the death of a daughter while staying with her aunt in London. The mother journeyed to London with the idea of conveying her dear one home to nurse, but found her too ill to be moved, and after only a few days’ illness, she passed peacefully away. Both funerals were largely attended by relatives and friends, and much sympathy is felt in the village for the bereaved families.

Marriage Linford (Great) 1895

Oct. 5 Arthur Thomas Kemp, of this parish, and Constance Louisa West, of Newport Pagnell

Burial Linford (Great) 1895

Oct. 12 David Barker, aged 33

Oct. 16 Charlina Smith, aged 23

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December 1895 Great Linford

The members of the choir have presented a brass and iron standard lamp of 66 candle power to the Church. This with the 3 similar lamps presented last year, makes the lighting of .the chancel complete.

The services on Christmas Day will be as follows ; 11a.m., Morning Prayer and. a celebration of the ,Holy Communion; 3-p.m., short service and address, carols will be sung by the choir Anyone wishing to 'purchase copies of the words arid music (price Id. :each)can procure them at the Rectory the week before Christmas.

Baptism Linford (Great) 1895

Oct. 27 Margery, daughter of Thomas and Kitty Hobbs.

Nov. 10 Dorothy, daughter of Joseph and Flora Stewart

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