2nd March 1928 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

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Buntingford Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room on Thursday morning, when there were present Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Messrs. F.B. Cannon (Vice-Chairman), Claud Fraser, W.J. May, G. Graves, A.J. Hayes, T.J. Stick, H.H. Williams, A.W. Page, and G.C. Wilson, with the Master (Mr F.B. Butler), the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), and the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin).

Master's Report

The Master presented his monthly report, which showed that 2 inmates had been admitted, 2 discharged, and one had died. The number now in the Institution was 45.

During the month 388 casuals had been admitted, against 189 for the corresponding period last year.

The Master reported that the copper in the laundry was worn out, and a new one was needed.

The Rev. Howard is holding a service at the Institution on Sunday next, and the Master asked for sanction to purchase some chairs and hassocks, which a tradesman is willing to supply at cost price.

The Master also reported the receipt of the following gifts: Books from Mrs Brian Laing and Mrs Clark, and cakes from Miss Lushington and the secretary of the Buntingford Football Club.

House Committee Report

The House Committee reported that they had considered the suggestion of furnishing one of the rooms as a chapel, but had left the matter over for a month.

A new copper was essential in the wash-house, as also was a wire cage for the stove and pipe, which had been recommended by the Insurance Company.

The Committee also stated that the milk supplied to the Institution had not been of a good quality, and the sanitary inspector had submitted a report thereon.

The patients in the hospital and the inmates of the House were visited, and found to be comfortable and proceeding satisfactorily.

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The Chairman said he was sure the Board was very grateful to those who had sent gifts to the Institution.

With regard to the equipping of a room for the religious services, the matter was left in Mr Thody's hands to enable him to find out that amount of money would be required to meet the cost. The Board thought £5 or £6 would pay for the chairs and hassocks.

Mr Hayes asked whether it would not be possible to use the chairs of other rooms, but the Master replied the only ones available were those in the Board Room, and he thought some difficulty would be experienced in carrying the chairs about.

A tender for the provision of a new copper was received, but it was agreed to invite other tenders before carrying out the work.

The Clerk read Mr Thody's report of his inspection of the milk supplied to the Institution, in which he stated the reason for the milk turning sour was lack of cleanliness. The Contractor (Mr Smith) sent a letter to the Board, stating that he could not understand what caused the milk to curdle in so short a time.

Mr Page said that new milk supplied at 5 o'clock in the evening should remain fresh for twenty-four hours, and the Clerk was instructed to write to Mr Smith.

Relief

Several cases were dealt with, and instructions issued.

Appointment of Relieving Officers

The Clerk read a letter from the Ministry of Health, stating that the Ministry had assented to the appointment of Mr B.E. Thody as successor to Mr Macklin.

The Clerk also read a letter from the Ministry agreeing to allow two years to be added to the late Relieving Officer's actual years of service for the purposes of superannuation.

The Clerk read copies of resolutions which had been passed by other unions in the country.

Estimates

The Clerk presented his estimates for the half-year ending 30th September, from which is appeared that the amount required for Common Fund Charges would be £2144, as against £2073 for the corresponding period last year.

The Clerk stated that the increase was accounted for by the increased cost of in-maintenance due to the large number of casuals.

A Guardian's Resignation

A letter was read from Capt. E.T. Morris, tendering his resignation as a Guardian and Rural District Councillor. 

Capt. Morris stated that his other engagements did not allow him to attend the meetings, and he sincerely thanked the members of the Board and their officers for the help they had given him in the past.

The Chairman, in moving that a letter be sent Capt. Morris expressing the Board's regret at his resignation, said Capt. Morris had done a great amount of work in the past and his services would be greatly missed.

Capt. Williams, the Chairman of the Rural District Council, endorsed Mr Hummerstone's remarks, and this concluded the business.

28th December 1928 - Festivities at the Poor Law Institution

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Festivities at the Poor Law Institution

Through the untiring efforts of the Master and Matron (Mr and Mrs F.W. Butler), who neglect nothing that will prevent the inmates from spending a merry Christmas, and to the generosity of many kindly donors, all the inmates spent a happy time in the Institution one of the happiest in the real sense of the adjective.

On the 16th inst. Miss E.N. Davies sent sponge sandwiches for tea.

On the 18th inst. Miss Lushington provided cake for tea and distributed sweets and tobacco, for which, one leaving, she was loudly cheered.

On the same day Miss Baker took her pupils to the sick wards, where they sang carols, and these were greatly appreciated by the sick inmates.

On the 21st inst. the Rev. and Miss Shepherd, of Great Hormead, visited the wards, and left parcels for the inmates from that parish.

The wards and dining hall had been tastefully decorated by the staff with evergreens and paper chains, which gave a festive appearance. Breakfast on Christmas Day consisted of ham, and each inmate received a new shilling as a gift from Mr Claud Fraser, a member of the Board of Guardians. Parcels and other gifts were handed round, the kindly donors of which are below mentioned.

For dinner there was a liberal supply of roast beef, roast pork, chicken, parsnips and potatoes, plum pudding, ale and minerals, and after Grace had been said by Rev. A. Howard, Hon. Chaplain to the Institution, the inmates did full justice to these viands, and ate and drank to their hearts' content. The Master was assisted with the carving by Mr B. Thody (Relieving Officer), Mr H.H. Macklin, Mr W. Bonness and Mr F.J. Butler. Mr H.C. Marshall, another Guardian, provided nuts and fruit for dessert.

During the meal the Misses Olive and Marion Macklin rendered pianoforte selections, and visitors to the wards included Mrs A. Dixon, Dr., Mrs and Miss Fell and Master S. Howard. Capt. and Mrs H.H. Williams provided iced and fruit cake for tea, and also distributed sweets. Cheers by the inmates followed, and in replying Mrs Williams wished all a happy time. She also referred to the King's health, and afterwards all sang the National Anthem.

In the evening an entertainment was held, the inmates being chief performers. The Matron and Master R. Butler were at the piano.

It is impossible to single out any performer, as all showed fine talent for the music hall. Sweets, nuts, cake and tobacco were again handed round, also coffee and ale, and all went well until 10 p.m., when the merry day was brought to a close.

The Master called for cheers for the Guardians and other kind donors of gifts, and cheers were also given, with musical honours, for the Master, Matron and staff. The National Anthem followed.

The following are gifts, together with the kindly donors, besides those already mentioned:

Mr F.B. Cannon (Vice-Chairman of the Guardians), 10s;

Hertford Board of Guardians - per Dimsdale Fund - 3/- each Hertford inmate;

Mrs and Mr E.C. Clarke (Clerk to the Guardians), sweets and tobacco;

Miss Lushington, Christmas cards;

Mrs A. Dixon, parcels for women, tobacco for men;

Mrs Goode, parcels for Cottered women;

Mrs Fell, sweets for sick women;

Mrs F.R. Williams (Standon), biscuits for sick women;

Miss E.N. Davies, sweets for inmates and casuals;

Messrs. Moss & Sons - per Mr Daniels - bon-bons;

Mr and Mrs A.G. Day, bon-bons;

Mrs Joobins (Reigate), Xmas greetings;

Mrs H. Clarke (Newtown), books;

Mrs Wheeler (Ware), books;

Captain Salvation Army, books;

National Institute for Blind - per Mrs Scarborough Taylor - parcel of groceries, sweets, &c.

28th December 1928 - Sausage Dinner to Inmates of Poor Law Institution

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Sausage Dinner to Inmates of Poor Law Institution

On enquiries we find that the Master has not been approached in this matter.

It will be remembered that the late Mrs F.J. Robinson, until her death, followed the custom of her husband and provided the dinner which has been held for upwards of 35 years.

Might we suggest that one of our local philanthropists will come forward and keep the ball rolling so the inmates may continue to enjoy this long-looked-for treat.

6th August 1926 - Inquest at the Poor Law Institution

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Inquest at the Poor Law Institution

The District Coroner (H.F.J. Banham, Esq.) held an inquest, without a jury, at the Poor Law Institution on Saturday, July 30th, touching the death of Walter Benstead, 60 years of age, a labourer, who died as the result of a fall whilst window cleaning.

Stephen Baker, labourer, of Buntingford, stated: "I lived with Walter Benstead for about eight months. I have known him 20 years. He has an uncle in Buntingford, who is his nearest relative. I saw him in the morning before he went to work, and soon after he was brought home by Mr Postle. I have known him to be giddy at times. He would not see a doctor. The body I saw in the mortuary is that of Walter Benstead."

Mr Harry Postle, dairyman, of Salisbury House, Buntingford, stated: "Deceased has been in my employ for about seven years, doing odd jobs about the place. On Saturday last in the afternoon he was cleaning windows, which he has done several times before. My house is in the main street. He used a 20 round ladder with a 56lb weight at the foot to keep it from slipping.

I saw him at 11 o'clock when I gave him a pint of beer. He was quite sober. I saw him again about 4.30 p.m., when my brother brought deceased to me in the yard. He was being carried. His faced was grazed and his right-hand knuckles were bleeding. I bathed his face with cold water, gave him some tea and sent for the doctor. Dr Dixon came at once. Deceased soon came round and told the doctor he came over giddy. Deceased then walked round and went home with assistance."

Frank Postle, brother of the last witness, stated: "I was sweeping up the front near the deceased. I saw the ladder slip on one side - the weight was at the bottom of the ladder. As the ladder came down the weight remained in an upright position at the bottom, but was pushed out into the gutter with the ladder. Deceased came down and hit his head on the doorstep. When I saw him he was about 10ft. from the ground cleaning the window over the porch. His pail and clothes were on the porch. He came down the side of the door post rather sharp."

Mrs Julia Conyard, of Buntingford, stated: "I was standing in the High Street near Mr Postle's house on the opposite side of the street. I knew deceased. I saw him up the ladder; his pail was on the verandah. I saw the ladder slip out. There was a weight at the bottom. The ladder came down straight. Deceased fell upon his face and struck the doorstep. He came down with the ladder."

Mrs Ethel Milton, of Buntingford, stated: "I saw Benstead on the top of the ladder. I saw the ladder slipper - the foot into the road. Deceased was coming down with the ladder. He fell and struck his face on the doorstep. I saw the weight at the bottom of the ladder. It had rolled over on to its side."

Dr Richard Wm. Fell, Medical Officer at the Institution, stated: "I saw deceased on Sunday after he had been admitted. He was unconscious. He roused a little when spoken to. He had a slight abrasion on the nose and bruise on his right arm. The left side of the face was paralysed. He had a strong pulse.

There was every evidence of a cerebral haemorrhage. The caused would be a diseased artery of the brain. It would not required any violence to bring on the haemorrhage, probably carrying the pail up the ladder would be sufficient exertion to cause it. There was no injury to the body of any importance. The paralysis of the face was characteristic of cerebral haemmorhage."

The Coroner summed up after inspecting the weight, and stated that the evidence was not conclusive as to whether the ladder slipped and caused deceased to fall, or whether he pushed the ladder away and then fell. He would return a verdict of "Death by Misadventure."

15th October 1926 - Board of Guardians Monthly Meeting

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Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held on Thursday (yesterday).

Present: Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mrs Dimsdale, Capt. E.T. Morris, Capt. H.H. Williams, The Rev. L.W. Wright, Messrs G. Graves, A.J. Hayes, G.C. Wilson, H.E. Dudley, T.J. Stick, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Master (Mr F.W. Butler) and the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin).

House Committee

The following report was submitted.

The House Committee visited the House today, the work of distempering the male casual ward has been completed, and the condition of the building is very satisfactory.

The committee have no suggests to make involving further expenditure.

Katherine J. Dimsdale, Harold H. Williams, G.C. Wilson.

Master's Report

The Master reported as follows:

Number of inmates - men 15, women 15, children 2. Total 32.

Number admitted to casual wards 16.

Corresponding figures for last year - men 20, women 16, children 2. Total 38.

Tramps 2.

Two females, aged 70 and 92 respectively, have been admitted during the month.

A committee of the Hertford Guardians paid a visit on September 5th, and left a report in the visitors book.

Gifts

The following gifts have been received and much appreciated by the inmates.

Cheque £2 - Hertford Guardians.

Eggs - Salvation Army.

Papers - Mrs Dixon

Fruit and vegetables - Westmill Harvest Thanksgiving per Rev. A.G. King.

Fruit, vegetables and eggs - Meesden Harvest Thanksgiving per Rev. W. McKerr

Grapes and fruit - Layston Harvest Thanksgiving, per Mrs Howard

Daily Mail for past year - Mrs Anderson

Weekly Mail for Blind - Mr H.C. Marshall

Books and magazines - British Red Cross Library

Mrs L.M. Baker brought her pupils and sang Harvest Hymns in the sick wards and distributed tea, eggs, fruit &c.

Casuals

During the past month 78 have been relieved, against 13 last year.

Labour Master

Mr R. Budd, the labour master, has been appointed porter at Luton. Would the Board kindly give Mr Budd a testimonial.

The Chairman said it was pleasing to note the number of gifts received during the month. The Board were very grateful to the donors and especially to Miss Baker and her pupils for giving the aged inmates a share in the thanksgiving of Harvest.

It was decided to give Mr Budd a testimonial and the Chairman was authorised to sign it.

Fire Protection

The Minimax Co. reported that the fire extinguishers at the Institution had been recently inspected and found to be in order.

Books

Mrs Dimsdale stated that the Hormead School Library Committee had several books which they would be pleased to hand over to the Guardians for the use of the inmates of the Institution.

The Chairman said he thought the books would be very acceptable, and no doubt the Master could put up some shelves.

Captain Williams and the Rev. Wright expressed their thanks to Mrs Dimsdale for the offer.

The Late Mr E. Pigg

The Clerk read a letter from the family of the late Mr Edward Pigg expressing their thanks for the expression of sympathy passed at the last Board meeting and for the wreath sent.

Hertford Boarders

A letter was read from the Hetford Union authorising the continuance of relief to persons resident in the Buntingford Union and relieved on behalf of the Hertford Union, for a further period of 14 weeks.

Visitors

The following remarks were entered in the House Committee register by visitors from the Hertford House Committee:

"We visited the Institution and found the inmates most comfortable and happy.

The Master and Matron are particularly patient and kind to all. The Box girls are greatly improved. With regard to the Dimsdale Charity, any surplus money might be used on 'bus rides or little outings in any way the Matron and Master think best."

10th December 1926 - Board of Guardians Monthly Meeting

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Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room yesterday (Thursday).

Present: Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mrs Dimsdale, Capt. H.H. Williams, Rev. L.W. Wright, Messrs. Claud Fraser, F.B. Cannon, G. Graves, H.C. Marshall, H.E. Dudley, W.J. May, A.J. Hayes and G.C. Wilson, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Master (Mr F.W. Butler), and the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin).

Following the minutes, the House Committee's Report as follows, was submitted:

The House Committee visited the House today and found everything in good order, and the inmates very comfortable and happy.

The gas-pipe leading to the Isolation Ward became blocked, but has been put right again.

Master's Report

The Master reported as follows:

Number of inmates - men 21, women 18, children 2. Total 41.

Casuals relieved during the month 72. Corresponding period last year 8.

Gifts

The following gifts have been received and much appreciated -

Anonymous Lady - chocolates.

Capt. Salvation Army - books.

Mrs Coleman - books.

Mrs Laing - books.

Mrs Greg - books.

Mrs Veasey - books.

Tenders

The following tenders for the supply of goods to the Institution were accepted.

Milk - Mr C. Smith (1/4 per gall.)

Groceries - Mr W.B. Moss & Son.

Meat - Mr H.W. Piggott.

Bread - Mr C.S. Coates.

Coal - Mr E.J. Sparkes (hard cobbles £2 4s. 6d., Portland hards £2 9s. 6d.)

Coffins - Mr G. Saggers.

Boots - Messrs. Wilkins.

Clothing - Messrs. Hurst and Kettewell.

Three tenders were received for renewing the kitchen floor. The amounts were as follows:

C.H. Poulton - £20 9s. 0d.

J. Aylott - £20 15s. 0d.

C.E. Harradence - £21 0s. 0d.

On the proposition of Mr Claud Fraser it was agreed to accept Mr Poulton's tender.

Relief

Several cases of relief were dealt with by the Board, and instructions given to the Relieving Officer. It was decided to allow the extra 1/- per week for coals for the period of another month.

The remaining business was of a formal nature.

3rd December 1926 - Meeting of Farmers at Buntingford

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Meeting of Farmers at Buntingford

The Cost of Farm Cultivation

A meeting of local farmers was held at the Poor Law Institution on Wednesday in last week, when the question of the cost of farm cultivation was discussed.

The chair was taken by Captain E.T. Morris J.P., and between 40 and 50 farmers were present.

The chairman gave a very interesting address on the cost of cultivations, his figures being based on the records taken at the Herts Agricultural Institution at "Oakland." A discussion followed when several questions were asked and answered.

The meeting was a very successful one, and resulted in the formation of a Buntingford and District Agricultural Debating Society. Capt. E.T. Morris was elected President, with Mr G. Scarborough-Taylor as Hon. Sec., and Mr A. Macarthur as Hon. Treas. 

The committee of ten elected were all local farmers. The subscription to the society was fixed at 2/6 per year, and meetings for discussion on important farming questions will be held from time to time.

A hearty vote of thanks to the chairman concluded the business of the meeting.

7th January 1927 - New Year's Treat

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New Year's Treat

Following her annual custom, Mrs F.J. Robinson, of the Manor House gave a sausage dinner on New Year's Day to the whole of the Poor Law Institution. She also supplied minerals, beer, and tobacco.

In the large dining hall assistance was given at the tables by Mr E.C. Clarke (Clerk to the Guardians), Mr H.H. Macklin, Mr F.W. Butler (the Master) and Mrs Butler (the Matron). The treat delighted all and was thoroughly enjoyed.

After dinner the Master passed a hearty vote of thanks, and called for cheers for Mrs Robinson for her kindness, and on behalf of the inmates sent a message wishing her a Happy New Year.

Later a few songs were contributed by some of the inmates, after which comfortable chairs were drawn round the fire, pipes were filled, and the afternoon was spent in rest.

7th January 1927 - Notes of the Week

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Notes of the Week

The custom of giving treats is still maintained in Buntingford.

During the past week, two treats - one to the old folks and one to the young - gave untold pleasure.

On Saturday - New Year's Day - Mrs F.J. Robinson, with her customary kindness and thoughtfulness gave a sausage dinner to the inmates of the Poor Law Institution.

There was still a festive appearance about the place, the decorations for Xmas still adorning the large dining hall with its beautifully scrubbed floor. On spotless white table cloths, plates, knives and forks were laid ready for the annual sausage dinner.

Punctually at 1 p.m., the inamtes filed into the room, the women and children sitting at one table and the men at another. Large white enamelled pots of hot sausages and vegetables were carried in by attendants, and soon the inmates were enjoying a meal that is not on the official menu of the Institution.

Beer and minerals - a very generous helping too - were served during the meal, at the close of which the entire company stood up and drank to the health of Mrs Robinson.

The came the distribution of an ounce of tobacco to the men, who filled their pipes while one of the inmates sang a very old song about a "White Part-i-ridge." Another inmate, an old soldier, also sang, but it was difficult to catch words other than "The Ship that never returned." Most of the company seemed to know the chorus for they joined in heartily.

Then the women went back to their quarters and left the men to their pipes and "forty winks."

The other party was at the Ex-Service Men's Club on Monday last, where everything went jolly from 4 o'clock to 7.30.

A feature of the party seemed to be the excellent manner in which the children behaved. There was no snobishness as is sometimes seen when adults gather for tea and games, and but for one sturdy little fellow, who wanted Dad near him during tea, the entire company did justice to a very sumptuous tea.

After grace, led by Mr E.E. Dennis, had been sung, the long tables were cleared away, and community singing on a small scale started the evening's enjoyment. "This old man came rolling home" was taken up by everybody.

"Spinning the tray," "musical stick" (with Mr Dennis at the piano), "family coach" and "passing the pennies" were other games which all (including the adults) enjoyed.

The arrival of "Father Christmas" was the signal for more cheering, and the intimation that the gifts were about to be distributed from the huge Christmas tree.

Before toys were handed out, each child received a National Savings' Card bearing two sixpenny stamps - an excellent idea considering that last year's gift of a similar nature has led to a good deal of saving.

There was really an excellent assortment of toys &c., and a box of puzzles given to one little girl caused a good deal of perplexity amongst the grown-ups.

Before leaving, oranges, chocolate, weets and cakes were distributed, and one noticed that the National Anthem was sung none too lustily.

7th January 1927 - Board of Guardians Monthly Meeting

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Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room yesterday.

Present: Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mr F.B. Cannon (Vice-Chairman), Mrs Dimsdale, Captain H.H. Williams, Messrs. C. Fraser, G. Graves, E. Bygrave, W.H. Kittow, W.J. May, A.H. Hayes, A.W. Page, G.C. Wilson, with the Master (Mr F.W. Butler), the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin) and the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke).

House Committee

The House Committee reported as follows:

"The House Committee visited the House today and found everything in a satisfactory condition.

"The inmates expressed their pleasure in having spent a very Happy Christmas.

"The work required to be done in renewing kitchen floor has not been commenced, and we suggest that the contractor should be written to to put this work in hand immediately."

Master's Report

The Master reported as follows:

Number of inmates - men 20, women 15, children 3. Total 38.

Corresponding period last year - 41.

During the month 1 male and 1 female have been admitted.

The Christmas Festivities passed off well and all had a happy time. The inmates wish me to thank the Board for the liberal fare provided.

Through the kindness of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, I do not ask for a collection from the Board, as there is no deficit to meet on the Christmas party. Of the £2 sent by Hertford, I handed 10 of their inmates 2/6 each.

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The Chairman expressed the thanks of the Board to all those who had sent gifts, &c., to the Institution.

Mr W.J. May, in associating himself with the Chairman's remarks said that the as there was no necessity for a collection amongst the Guardians towards the Christmas festivities, he would like to say that there was an old lady, an inmate of the Institution, who would attain the age of 93 years next Monday, and he thought that if any of the members chose to give a small donation it would be handed to her for the purpose of holding a birthday party in the Sick Ward.

This was agreed.

Several cases of relief were dealt with, and instructions given to the Relieving Officer.

A letter was received from the Rev. L.W. Wright, stating that he was unable to attend the meeting owing to illness.

The Chairman expressed a hope that the Rev. Wright would soon be better.

important letters regarding the payment of National Health Insurance benefits to persons while inames of a Poor Law Institution were read, and these will appear in our next issue.

The remaining business was of a formal nature.

18th March 1927 - Correspondence - Increase of Vagrants and Tramps to the Buntingford District

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Correspondence

To the Editor, Buntingford Gazette.

Increase of Vagrants and Tramps to the Buntingford District.

Sir, Many of the townspeople of Buntingford view with concern the report in your last issue of the large number of casuals admitted to the Buntingford Poor Law Institution.

Not content with two meals and a comfortable night's rest at our expense, some of these "Gentlemen of the Road" make a habit of begging at several doors before they leave us in the morning. Recently I have had two tramps call at my house for food or clothing, and I learn that many householders living on the outskirts of the town are troubled every day by tramps.

It is perhaps not realised that good and bad news spread amongest tramps very quickly, and tramps meeting each other on the road will exchange information of the town each are making for, with the result that a household who gives a pair of old boots to a tramp today is almost sure to receive a call from another tramp tomorrow.

I have taken the trouble to ascertain what food the casuals receive on admission to the Buntingford Union, and the following dietary is of interest:

On admission - 8 oz. bread, half an ounce butter, 1 pint tea.

Breakfast - 8 oz bread, half an ounce butter, 1 pint tea, coffee or cocoa.

On leaving - 8 oz bread, 2 oz cheese.

Dinner (for those who are retained) - 8 oz bread, 2 oz cheese, half an ounce butter, 4 oz. potatoes.

In addition to this, each casual is provided with a warm bed, an unlimited supply of hot water for washing and, if the weather is wet, facilities for drying his clothes and boots.

All casuals who are in possession of an army paper or insurance card or anything to show that they are endeavouring to obtain work are allowed to leave the Union without being given any task whatever.

It will be seen by the above that the Buntingford Guardians are dealing with the casuals in a humane manner, and that it is quite unnecessary for any casual to beg for food on leaving the Institution. None of us like to see a fellow countryman down and out, and in these times, when unemployment is so rife, it is a difficult matter to know whether the tramp to whom we gave an old coat is really grateful, or whether he will sell it at the next town.

Since 1st January 1927, nearly 500 casuals have been admitted to the Buntingford Union; the total for the same period last year was less than 60, and while many of the householders continue to encourage tramps the numbers will increase until there is insufficient accommodation at the Union, and the Ministry of Health compel the Guardians to provide additional wards at the ratepayers' expense.

With apologies for taking up so much of your space,

Yours faithfully,

Ratepayer.

Buntingford, Herts, 16th March, 1927.

11th March 1927 - Buntingford Board of Guardians Monthly Meeting

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Buntingford Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room on Thursday in last week.

Present: Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mr F.B. Cannon (Vice-Chairman), Mrs Dimsdale, The Rev. L.W. Wright, Captain H.H. Williams, Messrs. G. Graves, E. Bygrave, A.W. Page, E.J. Marchal, A.J. Hayes, W.J. May, F. Prime, G.C. Wilson and H.E. Dudley, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin) and the Master (Mr F.W. Butler).

Master's Report

The Master reported that there were 39 inmates in the Institution. During the month five had been admitted and four discharged; one had died. There was again an increase in casuals, 189 being admitted during the past month, again 19 for the corresponding period last year.

The Master also reported that on Wednesday, 1st March, two casuals - Albert Smith and J. Brown - were set a task of woodchipping in one of the cells. When the Master entered at 11.30 a.m., Smith picked up a chopper and threatened him; Brown also became abusive, and the Master entered the cell and tried to eject Brown; in doing so Smith picked up a log of wood and again threatened the Master, who overpowered both men, and later had Smith locked up in another cell for the night.

The man again became abusive, and smashed all the panes of glass in the window. The following morning he was set to pick oakum, and was visited by members of the House Committee.

Mr Butler stated that he had engaged the services of an ex-Police Sergt. to watch the man until his discharge from the casual ward.

The Chairman said he was glad the Master came through his experience unhurt. The question has been raised as to whether the Master should engaged additional assistance when cases such as this arose.

Mr G.C. Wilson said the event was quite a serious matter, and he was of the opinion that the matter of engaging extra help with the casuals should be left to the Master.

This was agreed, the rate of pay per hour or day being fixed.

House Committee

The House Committee reported that they had visited the Institution and had found everything in a satisfactory condition.

It was reported that the night nurse at the Institution had secured another appointment, and the matter of filling the post left to the Matron.

Estimates

The Clerk submitted the estimates for the half-year. The net amount required for common fund charges was £1323 against £1385 for the corresponding period last year.

The produce of a penny rate was £85 10s. - the amount required would therefore mean a rate of approximately 1/4 in the £.

Relief

Several relief cases were dealt with, and instructions given to the Relieving Officer.

9th July 1926 - Cake Tea to Inmates

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Buntingford

Cake Tea to Inmates

Through the kindness of Miss Lushington, of Buntingford, all the inmates of the Poor Law Institution had the pleasure of sitting down to a cake tea on the 24th ult.

They thoroughly enjoyed it, and cordially thanked the donor for her generosity.

30th November 1923 - Death of Miss Sarah King

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Death

Miss Sarah King, aged 81 years, passed away at the Infirmary of the Buntingford Poor Law Institution on Saturday last.

The deceased was an eccentric person. She always dressed in white from her boots to her hat, she having sometime or other contracted an illness whilst nursing, and ever after she wore white, and was known as the "White Woman."

She had several times been transferred to her native place at Chatham, but would return to Buntingford again, stating that she preferred the Buntingford air.

18th June 1926 - Buntingford Union

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Buntingford Union

Tenders are invited for the supply of provisions, necessaries, meat, bread, flour, milk, coal, boots and shoes, clothing, oil-men's goods and other articles for the Union Workhouse; also for furnishing coffins and conducting funerals, and hair-cutting and shaving from the 1st July, 1926, to 30th September 1926; also bread for the Outrelief District for the same period.

Tenders will be opened at 10 a.m. on the 24th June, 1926.

Forms of Tender and particulars will be supplied on application to the Master (Mr F.W. Butler) enclosing stamped addressed envelope.

E.C. Clarke, Clerk to the Guardians.

Buntingford, Herts.

14th June, 1926.

9th April 1926 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

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Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

Big Increase in Tramps

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room on Thursday of last week.

Present - Mr W.J. May (in the chair), Capt. H.H. Williams, Capt. E.T. Morris, the Rev. L.W. Wright, Messrs. H.C. Marshall, C. Hummerstone, H.E. Dudley, G. Graves, E. Bygrave, F.B. Cannon, A.J. Hayes and G.C Wilson, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Master (Mr F.W. Butler), and the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin).

MASTER'S REPORT

The Master reported as follows:

Number of inmates - men 18, women 14, children 2. Total 34. Corresponding period last year 40.

TRAMPS

During the past month 56 casuals have been received, as against 13 for the corresponding period last year. On some nights we have had 12, although we have only accommodation for 10.

The majority of the tramps are young men under 40 years of age, who find tramping no hardship since the regulations have been altered. They are insolent, and make it known that they will not work two days for one night's lodging, and as each tramps is supplied with a chopper I do not think it safe to enforce the order. It is only those Unions that have proper constructed cells who can keep tramps for two days.

The blankets (24), which has been more than sufficient for our requirements in the past, are not enough now, and tenders for a further supply, also nightshirts, are before the Board today. It is not long ago since the Board were called upon to relieve 3595 tramps a year, which at the present cost of diet would mean a big charge upon the rates. The first year I was appointed we had 43 tramps, and I have been able to keep them somewhere near that number until the recent new regulations came into force.

After 20 years' experience with tramps, it is my opinion that the majority (with few exceptions) do not respond to kindly treatment, but look upon it as weakness on the part of the officers in dealing with them. Would the Board kindly consider the telephone being fixed in my office so that I am in close touch with the police?

GIFTS

Gifts of books have been receiving from the following and have been much appreciated: Mrs Greg, Mr C. Hummerstone, Mrs H. May, Miss Bowers, Mrs Hamilton and Miss Lushington.

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The Chairman said he was sure the members felt that the Master ought to be supported, and it was agreed to install the telephone at once.

TENDERS

The following tenders were accepted for the current half year:

Meat - Messrs. W.G. Clark, Ware.

Bread - Mr C.S. Coates, 8 1/2d. and 9d.

Coal - Mr E.J. Sparkes, £1 15s. and £1 17s. 6d.

Milk - C. Smith, 1/- per gallon.

Haircutting - Mr C. Miles.

Coffins - Mr G. Saggers.

Groceries and Oilman's Goods - Messrs. Forrest Stores.

Clothing - Messrs. Hirst, Kettlewell & Co.

Soaps - Messrs. McDoughall and Robertson.

Boots - Messrs. Wilkins & Denton.

Mr Hayes: I notice that no tenders have been received from Buntingford butchers. Were the tender forms submitted to them?

The Clerk: Yes.

Mr Hayes: I think the meat supplied to the Institution should be inspected from time to time. I saw some recently and it struck me that it was not English.

The Master said Messrs. Clark's contract was satisfactory. It was only during the summer months that the meat was ever discoloured, and on any occasion when it had arrived in that condition Messrs. Clark always changed it.

The Rev. L.W. Wright asked if there were any other tenders for the supply of coals, and the Chairman said there was one from Messrs. Nash, of Royston.

16th Dec 1927 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

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Buntingford Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room on Thursday in last week. In the absence through illness of the Chairman, Mr C. Hummerstone, the Vice-Chairman, Mr F.B. Cannon, presided, and expressed the hope that the Chairman would soon be well again.

Others present were Mrs Dimsdale, Captain H.H. Williams, Messrs. C. Fraser, G. Graves, A.W. Page, W.J. May, T.J. Stick, A.J. Hayes, G.C. Wilson, and Herbert Ward, with the Master (Mr F.W. Butler), the Relieving Officers (Mr H.H. Macklin) and the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke).

MASTER'S REPORT

The Master presented his monthly report, which was as follows: Number of inmates - men 26, women 18, total 44. Number for corresponding period last year, 37.

Since the last meeting five persons had been admitted and one discharged. The following gifts had been received and much appreciated: Mrs Vasey, books; Miss Thody, magazines; Mrs Searing, books; Mrs Law, books. During the month, 293 casuals have been relieved, against 91 for the corresponding period of last year.

The Master also reported that he had received some subscriptions towards the fund for provided a loud speaker for the men's ward, and he hoped to get enough to meet the cost.

Mr May reported that he had, on behalf of the House Committee, visited that Institution that morning and found everywhere in clean and good order. The new stove had been fixed in the lying-in ward and was satisfactory. The electric light installation was well in hand.

Several cases of relief were dealt with, and a proposition allowing the usual extra Christmas relief (1/6 for adults and 1/- for children) was unanimously carried.

TENDERS

Tenders were received for the supply of goods, &c., to the institution, and the following accepted:

Groceries - Messrs. W.B. Moss & Sons.

Meat - Mr H.A. Jackson.

Milk - Mr C. Smith.

Coffins - Mr G. Saggers.

Hair-cutting - Mr C. Miles.

Bread and flour - Mr G.J. Pearce.

The remaining business, which lasted less than twenty minutes, was of a formal nature.

3rd Feb 1928 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

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Buntingford Board of Guardians

Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room on Thursday (yesterday).

Present: Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mr F.B. Cannon (Vice-Chairman), Mrs Dimsdale, Captain H.H. Williams, Messrs. H.C. Marshall, C. Fraser, H.S. Ward, A.W. Page, T.J. Stick, A.J. Hayes, G.C. Wilson, and W.J. May, with the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke), the Master (Mr F.W. Butler), and the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin).

MASTER'S REPORT

The Master presented his monthly report, which was as follows: Number of inmages - men 26, women 18. Casuals admitted - men 77, women 5, children 2. During the month 5 males were admitted, and 2 males and 1 female discharged.

CASUALS

Since the last meeting 310 casuals have been admitted, against 174 for the corresponding period last year.

VISITORS

On January 30th, at 6.30 p.m., Mr A.J. Hayes visited the casual wards and signed the visitors book.

On January 31st, four members of the Hertford Board visited the House and signed the visitors book.

GIFT

A gift of apples has been received from Mr E.G. Thody, and much appreciated.

HOUSE COMMITTEE

The House Committee reported as following: "The House Committee visited the House and found all the inmates comfortable and happy. We recommend the estimate for painting the walls of the chapel be accepted, also that the existing fireplace be removed and a radiator installed. With regard to the ironing room, we recommend the flue be covered by wire netting as recommended by the fire insurance inspector."

RELIEVING OFFICER

The question of the appointment of a Relieving Officer in succession to Mr H. Macklin, whose retiremeny dated as from 31st January, 1928, was discussed.

The Chairman read the Sub-Committee's report, and said that although the Committee had put forward certain suggestions he wished to make it quite clear that they were prepared to fall in with any suggestions of the Board, including advertising the post.

Mr Hayes proposed that the post be advertised, and this was seconded by Capt. Williams, and carried.

TENDERS

Three tenders were received for the provision of a bath at the Institution hospital, the tenders being as follows:

Mr G Handy - £5 18s. 0d.

Mr C.H. Poulton - £6 19s. 0d.

Messrs J. Hamilton - £7 4s. 6d.

It was agreed to accept Mr Handy's tender.

FIRE INSURANCE

The Clerk read the report of the Sub-Committee appointed to go into the question of the fire insurance of the Institution, and stated that the entire building had been surveyed by the Sun Insurance Company's Surveyor, who was reporting in due course. The Clerk also reported that a cheque had been received in settlement of the claim lodged in respect of the recent outbreak of fire at the Institution.

OTHER BUSINESS

The other business was of a formal nature.

26th Oct 1928 - Birthday Party

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Birthday Party

The pleasure it gives Mrs Alexandra Dixon to cheer and comfort the sick or needy is well known by many, and the thoughts for the care of others is for ever in her mind.

On Saturday, the 20th inst., which was her birthday, Mrs Dixon entertained the inmates of the Poor Law Institution to a capital tea at the Institution, which was thoroughly enjoyed.

Mrs Dixon, who was accompanied by her neice, Miss Fry, was present during the meal, and also visited the sick wards, where the "hostess" of the afternoon and Miss Fry conversed with their "guests." There was a happy little incident in the dining hall before Mrs Dixon left, when the inmates, to show their appreciation of her kindly thought, accorded the king lady rousing cheers.

12th Oct 1928 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

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Buntingford Board of Guardians

MONTHLY MEETING

ANXIOUS FOR THE CLOSING OF CASUAL WARDS

The monthly meeting of the Buntingford Board of Guardians was held at the Board Room on Thursday (yesterday) morning, when there were present: Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mrs K.J. Dimsdale, Capt H.H. Williams, Messrs. G.C. Wilson, H. Ward, J. Russell, S. Pigg, A.J. Hayes, E.J. Marshal, G. Graves, J. Bygrave, and H.E. Dudley, with the Relieving Officer (Mr B.E. Thody), the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke) and the Master (Mr F.W. Butler).

The House Committee reported that they had visited the wards at the Institution and found them clean and the inmates cheerful. The Committee recommended that several ceilings be white-washed, for which there was no immediate hurry. The Committee also reported that it had been impossible to solicit tenders for the alteration of windows in the dining hall as the sizes required were not standard and it would probably be necessary to cut away the brickwork, which the Committee hoped to avoid, so the matter was left in the hands of the Chairman to arrange with Mr Thody to go into the matter further.

The Master reported that during the month gifts had been received from Mrs F.R. Williams (books), Miss Davies (sponge cakes), the Rev. E. McKerr (produce from Meesden harvest festival and also from the festival at Wyddiall), Rev. W.L. Shepherd (produce from Great Hormead harvest festival), and Rev. A. Howard (grapes). 

Miss L.M. Baker brought her pupils to the Institution and they gave gifts to the inmates and also sang harvest hymns in the sick wards. The Layston Church Choir also assisted with the singing at the harvest service in the dining hall on Sunday evening last. The Master had written to the kindly donors thanking them on behalf of the Board. 

Since the last meeting 494 casuals had been admitted against 257 for the corresponding period last year. The number was made up as follows - First week 101, second week 117, third week 147, fourth week 129. The accommodation was sufficient.

Mrs Dimsdale pointed out that the casual wards at Hatfield and other unions were closed, and this naturally made more seek admission at Buntingford Union. She did not think it was fair for a small union like Buntingford to have to relieve the large number of casuals when the casual wards of much larger unions were closed.

It was resolved that the Clerk enquire into the matter, with a view to obtaining sanction for the closing of the casual wards here.

The Board dealt with several relief cases and issued instructions to the Relieving Officer.

Among the correspondance was a circular from the Ministry of Health authorising the discontinuance of the examination of casuals; and a resolution from the Cockermouth Union with reference to unemployment, which the Board left on the table.