17th September 1926 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

Original image on Facebook

Buntingford Board of Guardians

Tributes To The Late Mr Edward Pigg

The monthly meeting of the above board was held at the Board Room yesterday (Thursday).

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

The Late Mr Edward Pigg

The Chairman said that before proceeding with the business of the meeting he had to refer with deep regret to the passing of one, who for many years was an active and honoured member of the Buntingford Board of Guardians.

Mr Edward Pigg was Chairman of the Board up to the time of his retirement, and his unfailing kindness and courtesy to all would be long remembered. He (the Chairman) felt sure it would be the wish of the Board that the Clerk convey to Mrs Pigg and family the deepest symapthy of the Board in their sad bereavement.

The motion was carried in silence.

Master's Report

The Master reported as follows:

Number of inmates - men 17, women 16, children 2. Total 35.

Number admitted to Casual Wards during past week - men 24.

During the month gifts of books have been received from Mr Leake, Sunny Hill, Buntingford, and Mrs Laird, Coles Hill, Westmill.

During the past month 89 casuals have been admitted, against 19 last year.

---

The House Committee reported as follows:

The House Committee visited the House today, and found all in order, the contract work was completed and was very satisfactory.

We recommended the sale of old iron by the Master, we also recommend that the two children now in the house be sent to the National Children's Home.

Signed - G.C. Wilson, L.W. Wright.

---

The Board decided to send the two children to the National Children's Home. The Chairman said he understood the thanks of the Board had been conveyed to the donors of the gifts to the inmates. The Board were very grateful for their kindness.

Half-Yearly Estimates

The Clerk presented the half-yearly estimates for the period ending 31st March 1927.

The estimated receipts were £2,093 and expenditure £5,880.

£4,387 was required to ensure a working balance which was a decrease od £180 compared with the corresponding period last year.

The Chairman said he thought the figures were very satisfactory, and the Clerk added that it represented a decease in the rates of 2d. in the £ as compared with the corresponding period of last year.

In reply to a question from the Chairman, the Clerk stated that there was a number of calls still outstanding, and approximately £600 was due from one parish alone.

Tenders

Tenders for the supply of goods to the Institution were opened, and the following accepted:

Groceries - Messrs. Forrest Stores.

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

Coffins - Mr G. Saggers.

Haircutting and shaving - Mr C. Miles.

Milk - Mr C.H. Poulton, 1/4 per gallon.

There was no tender for bread, and the matter was left over.

Rating and Valuation Act

Capt. H.H. Williams gave a very lucid explanation of the amended scheme for the constitution of assessment areas under the New Act.

He said it was previously arranged that Buntingford should amalgamate with Royston and Ashwell, but as the county was to be divided into seven areas instead of 12 it was proposed to amalgamate Buntingford with Bishops Stortford, Sawbridgeworth, and Hadham.

Under the old scheme there were 15 representatives appointed, Buntingford having three representatives from the Council and two from the Guardians. The new scheme provided for 20 representatives and allowed the Buntingford Union one representative only, but the Council's representation of three remained unaltered.

The Chairman said they were very grateful to Capt. Williams for attending the meeting in London and for his explanation of the new scheme. He (the Chairman) thought it would be appropriate if the Board appointed their representatives forthwith.

The following were appointed:

Mr C. Hummerstone (representing the Board of Guardians); Captain H.H. Williams, Mr G.C. Wilson and Mr F.B. Cannon (representing the Rural District Council).

Relief

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

Other Business

The remaining business was of a formal nature.

10th December 1926 - Board of Guardians Monthly Meeting

Original image on Facebook

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.

14th January 1927 - Funeral of Mr T. Saggers

Original image on Facebook

Funeral of Mr T. Saggers

The funeral of Mr Thomas Saggers, whose death we announced last week, took place at Layston Church on Saturday afternoon.

The service was conducted by the Rev. A. Howard, the lesson being read by the Revd. John Cole.

The coffin, which was of plain oak, with brass furniture, was inscribed - Thomas Saggers, Died 2nd January, 1927. Aged 76 years.

The immediate mourners were: Messrs Charles and Arthur Saggers (sons), Messrs G. and S. Saggers (brothers), Mrs G. Saggers (sister-in-law), Mrs A. Saggers (daughter-in-law).

A number of deceased's old friends and neighbours were at the Churchyard, and there were upwards of 20 floral tributes.

7th January 1927 - Births, Marriages and Deaths

Original image on Facebook

Births, Marriages and Deaths

Death

Saggers - On Sunday, January 2nd, 1927, Thomas Saggers, of High Street, Buntingford, aged 77 years.

Mrs and Miss Woodley wish to return thanks for the many expressions of symapthy shown to them in their sad bereavement; also for flowers sent.

7th January 1927 - Death of Mr T. Saggers

Original image on Facebook

Death of Mr T. Saggers

Buntingford has lost another of its old inhabitants by the death of Mr Thomas Saggers, of High Street.

The deceased, who was in his 77th year, has been suffering from a very painful illness for some weeks. It was found necessary to remove him to Tottenham Hospital where he died on Sunday evening.

Mr Saggers was well-known and greatly respected in the town, having lived in Buntingford all his life.

He was the eldest son of the late Mr Benjamin Saggers, who carried on a builder's business in the town.

The funeral takes place at Layston Church on Saturday (tomorrow).

---

Read about the funeral.

25th February 1927 - Congregational Church Sunday School Prize-Giving

Original image on Facebook

Congregational Church

Sunday School Prize-Giving

On Thursday, February 17th, a very happy evening was spent in the Congregational Schoolroom, the occasion being the annual Prize Distribution in connection with the Sunday School.

Early in the evening the scholars assembled for games and refreshments, and teachers and scholars enjoyed a social hour-and-a-half.

Parents and friends of the scholars having joined the company, the Minister proceeded at once to distribute a number of book prizes gained by scholars for regular attendance during the past year.

After the distribution, he urged the young people to win not only book prizes, but also the greatest prize - Jesus Christ.

A lengthy programme was next carried through, consisting of a number of miscellaneous items:

Songs (by Miss Blanche Langham, Miss Dorothy Howard); pianoforte solos (Miss Langham, Miss Kathleen Smith); dialogue (Miss Dorothy Saunders, Miss Minnie Ashton); recitations (Miss Winning Conyard, Miss Dorothy Saunders, Miss Gertrude Howard, Miss Minnie Ashton, Miss Freda Howard, the Minister); whilst other contributors to the programme were Mrs G. Saggers (humourous readings) and Mr B.E. Thody.

During an interval a collection was taken for the Sunday School, and the scholars joined in the singing of a number of hymns from their School Hymnary.

The Benediction and Doxology concluded a very enjoyable evening.

18th March 1927 - Congregational Church Social

Original image on Facebook

Congregational Church Social

A very pleasant time was spent in the Congregational Schoolroom on Thursday in last week, the occasion being a social.

There was a very good gathering, and in an opening remark or two, the Minister referred to the various phases of Church life, including the devotional or spiritual and the social sides. The room had been attractively decorated by Mr H. Cutts.

A lengthy programme of miscellaneous items was carried through, consisting of - pianoforte solos (Miss Blanche Langham, Miss M. Ashton); solos (Miss Emily Benstead, Miss Langham, Miss Dorothy Howard); recitations and humourous readings (Mrs G. Saggers, Miss Langham, the Minister).

A sketch entitled "Our at-home day" caused much amusement, the various parts being taken by Miss Benstead, Miss Edith Careless and Miss Kitty Camp, and the item being very well performed. The introduction of Community singing marked a change in the usual programme, whilst two competitions were provocative of much fun.

The response to the appeal for refreshments was splendid, and during an interval these were now served.

At the close there was an announcement of the competition result together with an expression of thanks to all who had helped to make the evening a success. Best thanks are certainly due to the many who kindly contributed towards the refreshments; to the members of the Ladies' Committee, and other lady helpers who in many ways rendered splendid service in connection with the social; to those who assisted in the entertainment and sketch and duties relevant; to those who had worked "behind the scenes," and to all who helped to make the social so successful.

The proceeds of the evening were on behalf of the Church funds.

The singing of Auld Lang Syne brought the social to a conclusion.

11th March 1927 - Death and Funeral of Mr F. Cowtan Furness

Original image on Facebook

Death and Funeral of Mr F. Cowtan Furness

We sincerely regret to record the death of Mr F.C. Furness, who was well and popularly known in the town. He was taken ill with influenza about a fortnight ago, and died from cerebral haemorrhage on Friday last.

Mr Furness, who was 66 years of age, was born in Holborn, his parents owning a large confectioner's business on the site of the new West Central Post Office. He spent many years in Cornwall, and came to live at Buntingford about three years ago. During the war he served in the Irish Fusiliers. His cheery face and happy disposition will be greatly missed by a large number of friends.

He was buried at Layston Church on Wednesday afternoon, amidst general signs of regret. There was a large number of floral tributes, including a wreath from the Buntingford British Legion Club, of which the deceased was a member.

The immediate mourners were:

Mr R.G. Furness, Amersham (brother), Mr H.G. Bustard, Forest Gate (nephew), Mrs Davies, Miss Davies, Mr T. Wilson, Kennington; Mr F. French, Chelmsford; Mr Reed, Hertford; and Mr J. Horner, Ware.

Among others present were Revd. John Cole; Mr H. Clarke and Mr E.C. Clarke (representing the British Legion), Messrs G. Smith, E.P. Borsberry, A. Wilson, S. Saggers, H.A. Thody, S. Waters, E. Southgate, M. Corp, Mr and Mrs J. Wilson and Mrs Houlden.

Wreaths were as follows:

From Miss Davies

Mrs Davies and Girls

Mr Furness, Mrs Bustard & Family

Ex-Service Men's Club

Mr and Mrs French

Mrs Hone, Albe and Ede

Wilder and Patsy

Will, Gert and his Godchild Ronald

Ina and Billy

Mr and Mrs C. Clark

Mr and Mrs G.B. Medland

Mr and Mrs Wilson, sen.

Mr and Mrs Wilson, jun.

Mr and Mrs Corp

Messrs Houlden

Mr and Mrs H. Handy

Mr and Mrs Plumb

Mr M. Reid

Mr and Mrs Pledger

Mrs C. Rand and Mrs Parker

Doris and Stan

Tony

"Pip"

8th April 1927 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

Original image on Facebook

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 (Chairman), Mr F.B. Cannon (Vice-Chairman), Mrs Dimsdale, Rev. L.W. Wright, Captain H.H. Williams, Meesrs. H.C. Marshall, G. Graves, E. Bygrave, H.E. Dudley, W.J. May, G.C. Wilson, A.J. Hayes, with the Master (Mr F.W. Butler), the Relieving Officer (Mr H.H. Macklin), and the Clerk (Mr E.C. Clarke).

Master's Report

The Master reported that the number of inmates was 36, compared with 33 for corresponding period last year. During the month one inmate had died, 5 had been admitted and 8 discharged. The number of casuals admitted during the month was 188 against 55 for the same period last year.

The Hertford Visiting Committee visited the Institution on 16th March.

Gifts of books had been received from Mrs Greg, Mr C. Hummerstone, and Mrs Ashford, and cake from Miss Lushington. During the year the amount received from the disposal of firewood was £26 4s.

The Clerk reported that the average weekly cost of inamtes for the past year was 11/-, against 10/1 and three quarters last year. The Chairman reviewed the prices of fuel, clothing, &c., and said that the figure given by the Clerk compared very favourably with other unions.

Mr G.C. Wilson said the question of the Chairmanship would come before the next meeting. About four years ago it was decided to elect a new Chairman each year, and he (Mr Wilson) wondered whether the time had come when they should review the position and considered whether it would not be wise to re-elect the Chairman for at least four years.

Mr F.B. Cannon (Vice-Chairman) spoke in support of Mr Wilson, "There was," he said, "a great deal to be said for the re-appointment of a Chairman, especially when they had such an efficient Chairman of both the Council and the Guardians."

Mr H.C. Marshall, who was Chairman of the Council for a period of seven years running, said he thought seven years was too long to be Chairman, after three years someone else should have the honour and the responsibility.

Captain H.H. Williams, the Chairman of the Council, said he had got through his year of office well, and he thought it would be better to fade away at the end of his term. There was, however, something to be said in favour of a longer period, as when one got into the workings it was time to re-elect a fresh Chairman.

Tenders

The following tenders were accepted:

Bread and flour - C.S. Coates.

Meat - H.W. Piggott.

Coal and coke - E.J. Sparkes.

Milk - C.H. Poulton.

Groceries - Messrs. Forrest Stores.

Haircutting - C. Miles.

Coffins - G. Saggers.

Relief

Several cases were dealt with by the Board and instructions given to the Relieving Officer.

16th November 1923 - Buntingford Women's Institute

Original image on Facebook

Buntingford Women's Institute

A meeting of the Buntingford Women's Institute was held at the Assembly Room, George Hotel, on Wednesday evening last.

A lantern lecture on "Flowers" was given by Mr W. Graveson, of Hertford, and was much enjoyed by all present. The lecturer spoke of the various legends connected with our English flowers, and many of the beautiful pictures were taken by Mr Graveson himself. At the close a very hearty vote of thanks was carried with acclamation by all present.

The lantern was manipulated by Mr B.E. Thody.

Following the lantern lecture musical items were rendered by Miss Baker's pupils. The programme for the ensuing year was also discussed, and it was resolved to have an Institute outing next summer.

Bulbs for the Bulb Competition were sold at the meeting.

Two new members were co-opted on the committee, namely Mrs W.J. May and Mrs G. Saggers. It was also announced that tickets were now on sale for the Whist Drive, which will be held at the George Hotel on Tuesday next, Nov. 20th.

A special feature will be a prize for a lucky ticket, which must be purchased before Tuesday. The whole of the prizes to be offered will be on view in Mr Sharp's window on Monday.

Tea was provided by Miss Boniwell, and the meeting closed with the singing of Auld Lang Syne.

16th November 1923 - Death of Esther Grumble

Original image on Facebook

Hare Street

Death

On Saturday last a caravan dweller, named Esther Grumble, died after a long and painful illness.

The deceased's family are well known, having had connections with this district for over fifty years.

The remains were laid to rest in Great Hormead Churchyard on Monday last. There were forty followers, most of whom were caravan dwellers.

The deceased, who is [sic] 65 years of age, leaves a husband and a large family.

Mr George Saggers was the undertaker.

2nd November 1923 - Death and Funeral of Mrs E.J. Crane

Original image on Facebook

Death and Funeral of Mrs E.J. Crane

It is with much regret that we record the death of Mrs Ernest J. Crane, of Buntingford.

Mrs Crane, before her marriage was an assistant mistress in the Barkway Council Schools, a post she held with some distinction until her marriage in 1917. She was much esteemed by all her pupils on account of her kind disposition, and was greatly respected by a large circle of friends in Barkway and Buntingford.

After a short illness the end came on Sunday last, and much sympathy is felt for her sorrowing husband and her six months' old child.

On Wednesday afternoon the remains were conveyed by motor hearse to the deceased's old home at Barkway, where she was born. The funeral took place at Barkway yesterday (Thursday).

The Rev. W.T. Stubbs very impressively officiated at the service, and a large number of friends were present to pay their last respects.

Mrs Bowman presided at the organ, and the hymn sung was "On the Resurrection Morning." As the cortege left the church the organist played Mendelssohn's "Oh Rest in the Lord."

The plain oak coffin bore a breast plated inscribed:

Jessie R. Crane, Died October 28th, 1923, Aged 36 years.

The immediate mourners were Mr E.J. Crane (husband), Mr and Mrs Copeland (father and mother), Mr and Mrs C. Copeland (brother and sister-in-law), Mrs J. Crane (mother-in-law), Mrs H. Beeton (sister-in-law), Mr H. Beeton, Mrs E. Martin and Mrs Knife (cousins), Mrs F.G. Crane (aunt), Mrs Gray and the seven employees of the firm.

Amongst the 54 beautiful floral tokens were the following:

To dear Jessie, from her loving husband and little John - "A devoted wife and loving mother."

To our loving daughter, from her affectionate father and mother.

In loving memory, from Mother and Mary.

In loving remembrance, from the old Barkway scholars.

With heartfelt sympathy, from the Organist and Choir of Barkway Church.

With deepest sympathy, from the Buntingford Ex-Service Men's Club.

With deepest sympathy, from the Buntingford Women's Institute.

With deepest sympathy, from the tradesmen of Buntingford.

With sincere sympathy, from the teachers of Barkway School.

In loving remembrance from Harold and Millie.

In affectionate remembrance, from uncle, aunt and Cyril.

With deepest sympathy, from Harry.

With loving sympathy, from auntie Gray.

With sincere sympathy, from Barney, Bert and Harry.

With deepest sympathy from Castle, Clark, Parker and Clark sen.

The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr George Saggers.

25th June 1926 - Buntingford Board of Guardians

Original image on Facebook

Buntingford Board of Guardians

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

Present: Mr C. Hummerstone (in the chair), Mr F.B. Cannon (Vice Chairman), the Rev. L.W. Wright, Captain H.H. Williams, Messrs. A.W. Page, T.J. Stick, W.J. May, A.J. Hayes, W.H. Kittow, H.C. Marshall, C. Fraser, G.C. Wilson and H.E. Dudley, 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 15, women 13, children 2. Total 31. Corresponding period last year - 35.

During the month one inmate has died and one has been discharged.

The number of tramps admitted during the month is 94, against 13 for the corresponding period last year.

Gifts

The following gifts have been received and were much appreciated: Miss E. Porter, books; Mrs T. Law, books; Mrs Greg, rhubard; Miss Lushingtons, balls for children and cake for tea on Thursday evening.

------

The Chairman said the Board was very grateful to the donors of the gifts.

The Board discussed the matter regarding the increase in tramps. It was stated that the Surveyor had a scheme for finding more accommodation, and it was resolved that the matter be left to the House Committee for action.

The Chairman stated that in view of the large increase he thought the matter of additional accommodation was of an urgent nature.

Tenders

The following tenders were received by the Board, and accepted:

Shaving - C. Miles

Groceries and Oilmen's Goods - Forrest Stores.

Milk (1/- gallon) - C. Smith.

Coffins - G. Saggers.

Meat - Clark (Ware).

Bread and flour - C.S. Coates.

Assessment Committee

The following were appointed to serve on the Assessment Committee under the new Rating and Valuation Act: Captain H.H. Williams and Mr F.B. Cannon.

Audit

The Clerk reported that the annual audit would be held on July 4th.

County Rate

The Clerk stated that the precept for the County Rate amounted to £2942 3s. 1d.

21st May 1926 - Women's Institute

Original image on Facebook

Women's Institute

A very large and successful meeting took place at the George Room on Wednesday evening of last week. The members not on the Committee gave a free tea, and themselves provided the tiems of entertainment. The chair was taken by Miss Woods as a non-Committee member.

Mention was made by the President and Chairman of the joy at the conclusion of the strike, and of the desirability of avoiding all bitterness or sarcasm, fostering a spirit in every quarter of Buntingford of goodwill and good fellowship.

Mrs Houlden jun., was the accompanist and gave a piano solo; Mrs Thwaites and Miss Howard sang; and delightful recitations and readings were given by Mesdames Howard, Saggers, Horth, the Misses Beadle and Nurse Davies; amusing stories were told by Mrs Baker and Miss Lushington; two dances were delightfully performed by Miss Poulton, accompanied by Miss Macklin; and the competition glees were well sung under the able conductorship of Miss Baker.

Two interesting competitions were arranged by Mrs Warren and Miss Doris Camp, and prizes were won by Miss Leslie, Miss Boniwell and Mrs M. Miles. The prizes consisted of eggs, sugar, tea and butter, given respectively by Mrs Warren, Mrs David Baker, Mrs Geaves and Miss Woods.

19th Nov 1926 - British and Foreign Bible Society

Original image on Facebook

British and Foreign Bible Society

Buntingford Auxiliary

The Annual Buntingford Meeting, which was one of 14 meetings being held in the district between November 8th and November 26th, was held on Wednesday in the Congregational School, and was considered by many who have attended them year after year to be one of the best ever held here.

The deputation was Mr Gracie, Sec. in Ceylon. The meeting was as usual preceded by a social hour, with tea arranged and given by the ladies of the Buntingford Committee and other friends.

After tea, Mr and Mrs H. May sang two sacred duets. Mrs Saggers kindly recited twice, and at the commencement of the meeting the anthem "O taste and see" was sung by a special choir, all the items being much appreciated.

In the unavoidable absence of Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis, through indisposition, the chair was taken by Rev. A. Howard. Mr H. May read a portion of scripture, and Rev. John Cole offered prayer.

Mr Gracie, who has worked in Ceylon for 33 years, gave a deeply interesting and instructive address on "the island of spicy breezes," and the wonderful progress which has been made there, and which would have been impossible without the work of the Bible Society.

He related the remarkable way in which the Bible Society had first taken up work there, before any missionary had arrived, through the labours of a young Indian civilian of wonderful linguistic powers and Christian zeal, who was the first translator of the Singhalese New Testament.

Now the Bible is being read and studied by tens of thousands of students, many of whom, though not bapized Christians, are framing their lives by the teaching of Christ. Here at home people are decrying and neglecting their Bibles, but in India and Ceylon it is becoming more and more the one Book worth studying.

The meeting closed with a hymn and prayer. The collection amounted to £2 12s. and the proceeds of the tea to nearly £2.

Appended is last year's report:

[Transcriber note - There is a list of accounts at the end of this report, the layout of which didn't entirely make sense. Please see the original image if you want to see the accounts].