Shocking accident - Yesterday a man named John Chater, an engine driver, in the employ of Mr Meyer, brewer, was engaged in oiling his machine, when by some means or other his right hand was caught by some cog wheels and was so severely crushed that it was deemed necessary to take him to Addenbrooke's Hospital, where the injured limb was amputated above the wrist.
7 August 1885
Orwell - Accident with a Fossil Cart - A man named Daniel Gill, living at Orwell, was admitted to Addenbrooke's Hospital on Monday, suffering from a broken leg, sustained while driving a truck loaded with fossils.
4 September 1885
New Orwell - Inquest - An inquest was held at the 'Fox and Hounds', Orwell, on Wednesday last, Mr C W J Palmer, county coroner, touching the death of John Whitby, aged 57 years. It appeared from the evidence of a veterinary surgeon, that he found the deceased lying on the ground beside a horse and cart on the New Road, leading to Bassingbourn. He drew the man to the side of the road and saw he was quite dead. The deceased was then removed to the 'Fox and Hounds' public house. The evidence of the medical man who saw the body showed that the cause of death was syncope, consequent upon the failure of the action of the heart. The jury found a verdict accordingly.
25 September 1885
Orwell - Address by Mr C Hall - Mr Charles Hall QC, the Conservative candidate for the Chesterton division of this county, addressed a meeting of electors in Mr Burnford's barn, on Tuesday evening last. There were present - Rev H C A Tayler, Rev E W Cory, and Messrs J G Mortlock, E Wayman, (Conservative agent for the division) Woodham, Hoskins, R O Fellowes, H M Gew, Barker, Beaumont. (2), A H and P Meyer, Merry (2), W A Palmer, A Palmer, Russell (2), J Smoothy, A Day, W Taylor, Hagar, Smith, Horsfield, Humphreys, Lane, and others. Rev E L Fellowes presided, and introduced Mr. Hall in a very appropriate speech.
Mr Hall then addressed the meeting, occupying some three quarters of an hour, and in a very lucid and convincing manner exposed the fallacy of the Radical policy, if it could be said they had any policy, "For", said the speaker, "the Radicals are rushing about and screaming in a wild and incoherent way for a policy on which to catch the votes of the new electors". Mr Hall then showed up the wretched way in which the late government carried out their programme of peace and retrenchment. Five years of Radical misrule involving the country in no less than six wars and retrenchment during the six years showing an increase in our national expenditure of over fifty millions. There were between 250 and 300 new voters present, and Mr Hall was well received and listened to, beyond a few noisy interruptions from a sprinkling of Mr Goodman's followers. Altogether the meeting was a great success.
20 October 1885
Cambridgeshire - Conservatism - A meeting of the electors was held on Friday, chiefly to hear an address from Mr R Atkins, the Conservative working man who has delivered several lectures in Cambridgeshire during the past eight or ten days. Mr G H Griffin, of Cambridge, presided, and, in introducing Mr Atkins, embraced the opportunity of arousing the Conservative electors here to a sense of their duty at the present time. Mr Atkins delivered a comprehensive and practical address, in the course of which he impressed upon his hearers that it would be to their benefit to follow the Conservative leaders. At the conclusion of his address, cheers were given for the Queen and Lord Salisbury. Notwithstanding the fact that the meeting was held in a Radical district, it was well attended; and the frequent applause showed that the remarks of the speakers went home to the minds of their hearers.
20 November 1885
Orwell - Mr Hall's Candidature - A great meeting was held in this village last (Thursday) night, in support of Mr Charles Hall QC, the Conservative candidate. The chair was taken by Mr O Newell; and, in addition to many electors from Orwell, there were others from Wimpole and Arrington. Mr Horace Browne made a spirited address to them, which was listened to with great attention, and cheered vociferously. Mr Gilbert Ainslie also delivered a most happy and appropriate speech, which was warmly applauded. Three cheers were given at the close of the meeting for the Queen and Mr Hall, which were repeated until the two speakers drove away from the village. It was stated that 34 men who are on the register in Orwell parish, who were supposed to be Liberals, had during the last week promised to support Mr C Hall.
25 June 1886
Orwell - Strange Occurrence - On Saturday last, Mr C W Palmer, county coroner, held an inquest at the 'Chequers', Orwell, to inquire into the circumstances of the death of a young man named Benjamin Breed. aged 28 years. The coroner said, upon examination of the body, a serious wound was found on the back of the head, which was evidently a fresh one. When the deceased was removed from the pond in which he was found, after it had been pumped dry, his left arm was found tied to his right leg. Shortly before the inquest commenced the widow was taken ill, and it was impossible for her evidence to be taken. Therefore he should adjourn the inquiry for ten days, and in the meantime order a post mortem examination to be made.
25 June 1886
Orwell - Found Drowned - Mr C W Palmer, the coroner for the county, held an inquest, by adjournment, at the 'Chequers' , Orwell, on Monday last, touching the death of Benjamin Breed, aged 28 years. Evidence was given to the effect that the body was found drowned in a well, and a verdict to that effect was recorded.
14 January 1887
Orwell - Accident to the Rev H C A Tayler - This gentleman, while walking in the village on New Year's Day, had the misfortune to slip and break his leg, the roads at the time being covered with frozen snow. All will be glad to learn, however, that Mr Tayler is progressing towards recovery, under the care of Dr L M Earle, of Melbourn.
17 August 1888
Orwell - Sale of Public House Property - The old licenced country inn, known as the 'White Hart', situate at Orwell, Cambs, with carpenter's shop, yard, cart lodge, stable, piggery, barn, wheelwright's shop, paint shop and other outbuildings, small plantation and garden, containing in all about half an acre, in tenure of Mr William Potts, brewer, Cambridge, and his subtenant Mr Joseph Merry, at rentals amounting to £23 per annum (copyhold of the manor of Orwell), was sold by auction, by Messrs. Catlin and Mann, at their rooms, Corn Exchange St., Cambridge, on Tuesday, 14th. inst., by the direction of the executor of the late Mr John Merry. The growing timber and all fixtures belonging to the vendor were included in the purchase. The bidding commenced at £300, and were very spirited, rapidly rising to £600, at which sum the property was knocked down to Messrs P and A H Meyer, brewers, of Orwell. There was a good attendance at the sale. Messrs. Eaden and Knowles were the vendor's solicitors.
31 August 1888
Orwell - Choir Excursion - The children belonging to the church choir were taken to Yarmouth, on Monday. The weather was everything that could be desired, and all most thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The best thanks are due to the kind friends who contributed towards the expenses of the undertaking.
31 August 1888
Orwell - Sudden Death - On Monday afternoon, the village was thrown into a state of sadness by the news that William Parcell had fallen down dead while picking oats on Mr Wilkerson's farm. No inquest was thought necessary, as the deceased was known to suffer from heart disease.
21 September 1888
Orwell - Accident - On Wednesday afternoon, a lad, named Arthur Sell, was riding upon a reaping machine, in the Parish of Orwell, when he slipped, and fell to the ground. He was removed to Addenbrooke's Hospital, where it was found he had sustained a fractured thigh, and his injuries were attended to. He is progressing favourably.
28 September 1888
Orwell - Harvest - The farmers in this parish have finished harvesting the crops, except that of beans, some of which will require another month to ripen. Very little wheat has been threshed out, and the yield of what has is disappointing. The late carried wheat is in better condition for the miller, but it is generally thought that the yield will not fulfil expectations. while standing the wheat could not have looked better, but the cold wet weather of August brought on mildew, which prevented the full maturing of the grain. Barley is a good crop, but the colour is not the best for malting purposes. As to potatoes, on the heavy soil of this parish, the disease has affected them to a very large extent, the variety suffering most being the Beauty of Hebron. As a rule, the coloured potatoes have suffered more from disease than the white; and potatoes that have been stored away as sound are now diseased. The old favourite Magnum Bonum shows least sign of disease at present.
5 October 1888
Orwell - School Board - The usual monthly meeting of the Board was held in the Infants school on Monday. The accounts for the financial year, ending September 29th, were audited by the board; and the balance sheets signed by the chairman (Mr P Meyer) and the clerk (Mr W Law). The total expenditure for the year in connection with the Infants school was £139 lls.8d., including £16 repayment of loan and £23 8s. 10d. interest on loan, and towards this expenditure the parish contributed in the form of a School Board rate of 4 5/8 d. in the pound, the sum of £65. A precept was issued for the overseers for the payment of £25 on or before the 1st December, to carry on the Infants school up to the 31st day of January next.
19 October 1888
Orwell - Harvest Thanksgiving - This was celebrated at the church on Sunday last. The services consisted of celebration of Holy Communion at 8 o'clock; Morning prayer and sermon, at 11 o'clock; Litany and sermon, at 3 o'clock; Evening prayer and sermon, at half past six. The preacher at the evening service was Rev E B Birks of Cambridge. The church was prettily decorated with corn, fruit, vegetables and flowers. The amount of the collection at each service was £5, the sum of which will be given to Addenbrooke's Hospital.
2 November 1888
Orwell - The Endowed School - A meeting of the ratepayers, called together by the Rector, church wardens, and overseers, was held in the vestry, yesterday week, to consider the inadvisability of transferring the Endowed school to the School Board, for by so doing a heavy burden would be thrown upon the ratepayers. It was agreed to support the Endowed school by a voluntary rate of 3d. in the pound, and that three of the ratepayers present and Rev H C A Tayler form the school management committee.
17 December 1888
Orwell - School Board - The ordinary school board meeting was held on Monday, when there were present Rev H C A Tayler, and Messrs P Meyer, Huddlestone, Palmer and Law. The treasurer reported the receipt of £25 from the overseers in response to a precept issued on October 1st.
28 December 1888
Cambridgeshire - Swine Fever - This fever has broken out in the neighbourhood.
4 January 1889
Orwell - Endowed School - An entertainment, consisting of songs, recitations and the Christmas masque, "Blue Beard" was given by the teachers and scholars in the schoolroom, on Thursday evening in last week.
The following children also gave recitations:
F Wilsher, G Pearce, E Carter, A Parcell, W Sell, J Collis, C Huckle, B Gentle, R (or K) Merry, W Giddings, L Lane, G Lane, L Bailey, J Breed, M Day, E Wright, L Pell, A Watts, M Breed, S Pell, F Welch, A Gentle, E Gentle, and S Miller.
Solos were sung by L Lane, H Lane, G Lane, and Emilie Pearce; the singing of the last named, especially in the song "Please Give me a Penny", was most excellent.
The caste [sic] in "Blue Beard" was as follows:
Blue Beard, Mr W O Lane,
Fatima, Esther Merry,
Sister Ann, Laura Aslin,
the Mother, Annie Anderson,
the brothers, Leo, Geoffrey, Harry and George Lane,
Blue Beard's page, George Pearce,
Father Christmas, Agnes Merry.
Miss Pearce presided at the piano. The room was crowded and everyone was delighted.
11 January 1889
Orwell - Children's Treat - A tea was given in the schoolroom, last evening week, to the members of the Sunday School, and also to those who gave recitations at the entertainment on December 22nd, an account of which appeared in our last issue. The children had tea at 5 o'clock and were afterwards amused in various ways. A magic lantern, kindly lent by Mr P Meyer, was shown by Mr Lane, in which views were given of the different objects that might be seen in a voyage from London to the Falls of Niagara. These views, which were supplied by Mr R Clark, of Royston, were very good and the children were delighted with them. After this there were various games, in which the teachers and some friends, who were invited to tea, gladly joined. The Rev H C A Tayler wished all a 'Happy New Year'.
8 February 1889
Orwell - School Board - The ordinary monthly meeting of the board was held in the Board school on Monday, all members were present; and the clerk reported that the accounts for the year ending September 29th last were examined by the district auditor on January 21st, and found correct.
8 March 1889
Orwell - School Board - The ordinary meeting of the Board was held in the Board school on Monday, when there were present Rev H C A Tayler, Messrs P Meyer, Huddlestone and Law. The treasurer reported the receipt of £35 from overseers in response to the precept of January 7th. Cheques in payment of salaries were signed and two cases of irregular attendance were considered by the board.
5 April 1889
Orwell - School Board - The ordinary meeting of the Board took place on Monday, when there were present Rev H C A Taylor and Messrs P Meyer, Huddlestone and Law. The business was unimportant.
12 April 1889
Parishes - Confirmation - The Bishop of the diocese held a confirmation in the Parish church, on Monday afternoon for the parishes of Barrington, Eversden, Harlton, and Orwell; and 63 candidates were presented for confirmation.
26 April 1889
Orwell - Good Friday - This day was observed here in various ways. At the parish church there were services at 11am and 7pm. After the morning service the school children, to the number of 200, assembled in their schools, and each child, through the liberality of Mr P Meyer, received a large hot cross bun. The Wesleyans and Salvationists had public teas.
7 June 1889
Orwell - School Board - The ordinary monthly meeting was held in the Board School, on Monday. The chief business before the meeting was the auditing of the school accounts for the year ending May 31 1889. This being the last meeting of the present Board, as the three years for which they were elected expires this month, a public meeting was held in the school room for the purpose of nominating candidates for the election. The chairman, Mr P Meyer, elicited from each old member that he was willing to serve for another three years, and as no one else sought election the old members were again nominated, viz, Rev H C A Tayler, Mr P Meyer, Mr G Huddlestone, Mr W Law, and Mr A Palmer.
5 July 1889
Orwell - School Board - The following gentlemen, who were nominated as candidates for election on the Orwell school board, have been returned unopposed:- Rev H C A Tayler, and Messrs P Meyer, Huddlestone, Law and Palmer. The first meeting of this new Board took place on Monday, when Mr P Meyer was elected chairman, Mr Law vice-chairman. and clerk, and Rev H C A Tayler treasurer. The government report of the Board's infant school was read, showing that the school was classed excellent, and the grant payable on average attendance of 75 children was £61 17s.6d.
27 September 1882
Orwell - Thanksgiving - Harvest thanksgiving services were held in the Parish church, on Sunday; and, at Evening prayer, the preacher was the Venerable Archdeacon Lower. Rarely has the church looked so well as it did in the evening; in addition to the ordinary lamps, numerous candles were lighted in the chancel, where a large quantity of rich coloured flowers were displayed in the windows. These decorations in the chancel had been undertaken by Mrs Bonnett, Mrs Rhodes, Mrs Gurrier, Mrs Russell, and Mr Arthur; the font had been in the hands of Miss Smith and Mr A Smith; and the body of the church had been adorned by Miss Oliver, Mrs Scruby, Mr Humphries and Mr Lane. As a result of the services the funds of Addenbrooke's Hospital will receive more than £6.
8 November 1889
Orwell - School Board - The usual monthly meeting of the Board was held in the Infants school, on Monday, when the following members were present:- Rev H C A Tayler, Messrs P Meyer, Huddlestone and Law. The financial statement of the Board for the year ending September 29th was considered, and signed by the chairman and clerk. The total receipts had been £157 16s 1d. and the expenditure £153 19s 9d., leaving a balance in hand £3 16s.4d. Of the receipts £60 was received from the rating authorities, by a rate of 4 5/8d. in the pound. The government grant was £61 17s.6d.
27 December 1889
Orwell - Sudden death - A gloom was cast over the village last (Thursday) morning, by the sudden death of one of its most respected members, Mr W Law. He and a few other friends were going towards Mr Ellis Miller's house, when the deceased fell down and expired. As a tradesman and a friend to the poor his loss is greatly deplored. He was known to suffer from disease of the heart, and no inquest will be necessary.
3 January 1890
Orwell - The late Mr Law - On Tuesday afternoon last, the funeral of Mr Law, whose sudden death from heart disease was reported in last week's issue, took place. Nearly every family in this place sent its representative to pay its last respects to deceased at the grave side. As a business man the deceased had few equals while at the same time he was very generous and kindhearted. As a public man his loss too will be much felt. He was a member of the School Board, and also acted as clerk to the Board, treasurer of the new benefit society, which he was chiefly instrumental in starting, and also one of the secretaries of the Barrington, Foxton, Orwell and Shepreth Horticultural Society. The funeral arrangements were under the supervision of Messrs G Huddlestone and Sons, of Orwell.
10 January 1890
Orwell - School Board - At a meeting of the Board held on Monday, there were present Rev H C A Tayler, Messrs Meyer, Huddlestone and Palmer. As this was the first meeting since the death of Mr Law, it was agreed "that the Board desire to express their sense of the value of Mr Law's services as member, and Clerk of the School Board, and of the loss they have sustained by his sudden removal from them by death", and further they desire also to "express their sincere sympathy with Mrs Law in her affliction". The Rev H Tayler, having consented to act as Clerk until further arrangements can be made, the Board proceeded to the appointment of a mistress. It was decided to offer the post to Miss Nugent, of Leeds, at a salary of £55 per year.
7 February 1890
Orwell - Entertainment - The entertainment, consisting of school songs, solos and recitations, was given on Tuesday evening, February 4th. There was a very large audience, and judging from the way each item of the programme was received, the entertainment was a decided success. The two songs which met with most favour were "The Japanese Fan" and "John Brown" . Solos were sung by Mary A Pearce, Emily Pearce, Lilie Lane and George Lane. Miss Oliver and Mr Lane and Masters H Lane and G Lane alternately presided at the piano, which was kindly lent for the occasion by Rev H Tayler. Recitations were given by the following children:- Esther Merry, Rosa Merry, May Breed, Laura Aslin, Agnes Watts, Edith Cook, Louisa Pell, Bertha Gentle, Sarah Day, Fred Welch, Arthur Gentle, John Collis, Alfred Watts, Edwin Aslin and George Pearce.
The finale was Mr Jarley's Waxworks, and considering that all the figures were children, the highest praise is due to them. The following characters were presented:- The Chinese Giant (Harry Lane),
Blue Beard (Arthur Sell),
The celebrated Welsh Dwarf (Edwin Aslin),
Captain Kidd (George Pearce),
His victim (Mary Breed),
Mr Gladstone (George Lane),
Horatius (Arthur Gentle),
The Siamese Twins (Fred Welch and J Collis),
Fiji Mermaid (Laura Aslin),
'Mrs Winslow' (Fanny Breed),
Martha Bangs (Agnes Watts),
Little Nell (Emily Pearce).
Mr Lane acted as Showman.
The singing of 'God save the Queen' brought the enjoyable evening to a close.
4 July 1890
New Orwell - A Fatal Fall - On Saturday, Mr C W Palmer, county coroner, held an inquest at the "Queen Victoria", [New] Orwell, on the body of William Bullen, 68, labourer, of Wimpole. The evidence showed that on the previous Monday he was at work on a haystack belonging to Mr Gifford in company with two men, named Parcell and Whitby. He was working at the edge of the stack and fell to the ground, a distance of 18 feet. Mr Hubert Reynolds, a surgeon, residing at Melbourn, stated that he was called to see the deceased on the day of the accident. He found him lying in bed suffering from shock and complaining of great pain in his abdomen. He examined him and discovered crepitation. He suspected fracture of the pelvis. He continued to attend him until he died and did all he could to ease the pain. Peritonitis set in and deceased died on Friday. The cause of death was peritonitis consequent on fracture of the pelvis. A verdict of 'accidental death' was returned.
25 July 1890
Orwell - Death of Son - The greatest sympathy is felt here for the Rev HC A and Mrs Tayler, who have been suddenly bereaved of their son, Archdale. Mr Tayler received a letter, on July 11th, from America, saying that his son was ill with typhoid fever, but that nothing serious was anticipated; letters received afterwards gave hopeful accounts of the progress of the patient, but on Sunday morning a cablegram was received containing the sad news of his death on Friday afternoon, July 18th. In response to an invitation from the pulpit on Sunday evening, a large number of parishioners of all classes assembled in the parish church on Tuesday evening, at 7 o'clock, when the Burial Service of the Church of England was most impressively read by Rev H G Whittington, Vicar of Foxton, and Rev E W Cory, Vicar of Meldreth. The well-known hymn,"Brief Life is here our Portion", was sung by the choir, after which Rev E.W Cory pronounced the Benediction.
15 August 1890
Orwell - School Treat - With the kind help of friends in the village, the children attending the two schools were enabled to have their annual school treat on Friday last.
26 September 1890
Orwell - Harvest Thanksgiving - Harvest thanksgiving services were held in the parish church on Sunday. The fine old church was very tastefully decorated with flowers and fruit from the gardens of Mr Meyer and Mr Rhodes. Over the altar was the text "Be Thankful unto Him", worked in ears of wheat by Mrs and Miss Russell. The chancel pulpit was decorated by Mr Arthur and Mr Albert Smith, the font by Miss Smith and Miss Rhodes, while the body of the church was in the hands of Mrs Beisley, Mrs R Oliver, Miss Oliver and Mr Lane. At the base of the font was a fine display of vegetables arranged by Mr Webb. The services commenced with Holy Communion at 8 o'clock am which was well attended; Morning service and sermon at 11 o'clock, Litany and sermon at 3 o'clock, Preacher the Vicar, and Evensong and sermon at 6.30, Preacher Rev L Fisher, curate of Harlton. The collection for the day amounted to £5 17s.6d. which will be added to the Funds of Addenbrooke's Hospital.
10 October 1890
Orwell - School Board - The ordinary monthly meeting of this board took place on Monday, when the members present were the Rev H C A Tayler, Messrs Meyer, Rhodes and Palmer. The accounts of the Board for the year ending September 29 1890, were duly audited and passed. The balance sheet shows a total receipt of £161 17s 5d. including a balance in hand on September 29 1889 of £3 16s 4d Total expenditure £137 4s 6d. To meet this expenditure the government grant contributed £50 Os.6d. and the rates £90. There is now a balance in hand of £24 12s 11d.
2 January 1891
Orwell - Christmas Tree - The children attending the Infants school were provided with a Christmas tree on Wednesday week. Each child received a toy. The Rev H C A Tayler, on behalf of the children, parents and members of the School Board, presented Miss Huddlestone, who has just left the school, with a silver tea-pot.
2 January 1891
Orwell - Miss Huddlestone's Wedding - This event took place on the afternoon of Christmas Day, when, in spite of the weather, nearly the whole parish turned out to witness the event.
2 January 1891
Orwell - Entertainment - On the evening of Boxing Day, the children attending the Endowed School gave their annual entertainment. Every year appears to add to the popularity of these entertainments. On the present occasion many were unable to gain admission. The 'novelty' introduced this year consisted of jokes, conundrums, solos and instrumental pieces by the Juvenile Christy Minstrels, whose performances caused a great amount of fun and laughter, and very great praise is due to the troupe for the admirable way in which each maintained his separate part.
The characters were as follows -
Caesar - Mr Lane;
Pompey - H. Lane;
Miss Christabel - E Merry;
Massa Scrape - G Pearce;
Sings Reeves - A Gentle;
Skylark - E Aslin;
Tootles - J Collis;
Tingle - S Lane;
and the Interlocutor - G Lane.
Miss Oliver presided at the piano. The proceeds will be given towards establishing a soup kitchen during severe weather.
30 January 1891
Orwell - Entertainment - An entertainment was given in the school room on Tuesday evening, in aid of a fund for relieving the present distress in the village caused by the want of employment and the severe weather. Many families have earned scarcely anything since last harvest time. The room was well filled and the audience were well satisfied with the entertainment. This first part of the programme was of a miscellaneous character, and in the second part the Juvenile Christy Minstrels contributed instrumental pieces, songs, solos, speeches, jokes, conundrums, &c. This was more or less a repetition of the entertainment of December 26th. last, but was just as popular as the first entertainment.
3 April 1891
Orwell - Good Friday - The day was observed here by both church people and Wesleyans. The latter body had a public tea, at which about 150 sat down. Trays were given by Mrs Huddlestone, Mrs Palmer, Mrs Oakes, Mrs Oliver, Mrs Arthur, Mrs Raynor, Mrs Webb and friends, Mrs Ellis and Mrs Edmund Miller, Mrs Wilsher, Mrs Swan, Miss Walden, Mr Sheldrick Miller, and Mr J Huddlestone. Chairman, Mr Parsons. After the tea the meeting was addressed by Rev T H Banks, B.A., Messrs Arthur, Hewson, Charter, Naylor, Neal and J Huddlestone. As a result of the day nearly £7 will be added to the fund for re-seating the chapel.
3 April 1891
Orwell - Concert - On Monday evening a concert was given in the Endowed School, which was very largely patronised, many corning from a distance, no doubt drawn by the attractive programme. Encores were frequent and in nearly every case responded to. The following took part in the programme: - Mesdames Fletton and Margrie, Mrs. Russell, L Lane, Smith, Wakefield and Custerson, Messrs H Lane, Turner, M R Beales, W C Lane and Margrie.
24 July 1891
New Orwell - Severe storm - About 5 o'clock on Friday afternoon last, a very heavy thunderstorm passed over this village. The lightning was very vivid, several trees being struck. The rain and hail which accompanied did a great deal of damage to the produce of the fields and gardens. New Orwell and Wimpole appear to have been in the centre of the storm and consequently suffered most severely, especially the farms of Rev R Bendyshe, and Messrs Meyer and J Hagar.
Hailstones, many of the an inch in diameter, broke a large amount of glass at Wimpole, hardly a house in that village escaping. In one house alone 37 panes of glass were broken. A horse standing outside the 'Fox and Hounds' was so stunned by the hailstones that it fell over. The beautiful gardens of Messrs Meyer also suffered terribly, much glass being broken and the flowers, plants, &c, literally cut to pieces. These gardens were just at their best. Indeed, extra trouble had been taken with them this year in view of the corning horticultural show, on which occasion they are to be thrown open to the public. Therefore it must be very disappointing to both owners and gardener to see the fruits of their labour so suddenly destroyed. Equally disappointing it must be to those cottagers and amateurs who had made preparations for the corning show.
7 August 1891
Compiler's note. More than a column of the 'Chronicle' is taken up with a list of prize winners at the 8th Annual Flower Show for the parishes of Barrington, Shepreth, Foxton and Orwell, held in the grounds of Rev R Bendyshe. The weather being fine, 1000 people turned up to see the show, which included altogether 558 entries.
1 January 1892
Orwell - Children's Entertainment - The 5th annual entertainment took place in the schoolroom on Tuesday evening. The room was filled to overflowing. The entertainment, which consisted of songs, solos, vocal and instrumental, recitations and dialogues was in every way a success.
The following children took part:- Lillie Lane, Martha Day, Mary Breed, Rose Merry, Eliza Breed, Jean Breed, Annie Breed, Annie Pearce, Florence Miller, John Collis, Arthur Gentle, George Pearce, Edwin Aslin, Ernest Aslin, Arthur Miller, Edmund Breed, Albert Gentle, George Lane. Miss E Merry and Miss Breed ably assisted. Miss Smith, Miss Oliver and Mr Lane presided in turn at the piano.
15 January 1892
Orwell - Plough Monday - Instead of the noisy cracking of whips which is generally heard in the village on Plough Monday, Rev H C A Tayler found the plough boys something better to do. He invited them all to a substantial meat tea, which, it is needless to say, the guests, to the number of 50, greatly appreciated. After tea, a magic lantern, kindly lent for the occasion by Mr P Meyer, added greatly to the pleasure of the evening. Hearty cheers for Rev H C A Tay1er, and to those who had assisted at the pleasant gathering, brought an enjoyable evening to a close.
29 April 1892
Orwell - The Parish Church - The total offertories at the Parish Church for Easter 1891 to Easter 1892 were £32 12s 11d. or £7 more than the previous year. Of the offertories this year, £14 1s 2 1/2d was applied to the church wardens' expenses for coal, fuel, light and heating; £6 6s 3d to Addenbrooke's Hospital, £5 6s 3d. to home and foreign missions, £4. 6s 6d to the relief of the sick and poor, £1 11s 5d. to the Ely Diocesan Fund and £1 1s 4d. to the Church of England Temperance Society. There was a balance on March 14th, 1891 of £3 3s 8d from the special relief fund raised by subscription during the severe winter of 1891. This balance has now been distributed among the poor and sick of the parish.
1 July 1892
Orwell - Suicide - Mr C Palmer, county coroner, held an inquest at the house of Westwood Minett, at Malton cottages, on Monday evening, regarding the death of Hy. Sole, aged 50, horse keeper to Mr Harper Rhodes, farmer, of Orwell. Sarah Sole, the widow, said that the deceased became ill last Thursday, and was attended by Mr Middelton of Harston, for influenza. She missed the deceased between 3 and 4 o'clock on Sunday morning. Westwood Minett, labourer, living next door to the deceased's residence, said that at half past four o'clock on Sunday morning he was called by Mrs Sole and in consequence of what she said he went in search of the deceased. He went down to the River Rhea, and found the deceased lying face downwards in about 18 inches of water. Mr W Middelton, M.D. of Harston, deposed that the cause of death was asphyxia from drowning.
A verdict was returned to the effect that the deceased committed suicide whilst in an unsound state of mind.
7 October 1892
Orwell - Harvest Thanksgiving - The Harvest thanksgiving service at the Parish Church was held on Friday evening last, the Rev A Caldecott, of St John's College, Cambridge, being the preacher. The church was very tastefully decorated with flowers, fruit and vegetables, the latter being arranged around the base of the font. The services were continued on Sunday, the sermons being preached by the Vicar, who made an earnest appeal for help towards the support of Addenbrooke's Hospital. The total sum collected at all the services was £6 19s 2d. The fruit and vegetables, much of which was brought by cottagers, was also sent to the hospital.
10 March 1893
Orwell - Accident - On Tuesday afternoon Isaac Gill, aged 27, of Orwell, was engaged in drilling peas for Mr Meyer, of this place, and in trying to remove a piece of grass from one of the drills while the machine was in motion, his left hand was badly lacerated. He was afterwards admitted to Addenbrooke's Hospital, and is now progressing favourably.
31 March 1893
Orwell - Co-operative Bread Society - There is a movement started for forming a co-operative society at Shepreth, which will embrace the parishes of Meldreth, Shepreth, Foxton and Orwell, and for furthering the work of the society, a meeting of working men was held at Orwell on Saturday evening, March 25. Mr H Hart, one of the chief supporters, spoke at considerable length upon the question. The shares do not appear to have been taken up very briskly, as Mr Hart said there was money wanted before they could start. The lack of the needful may be accounted for in two ways. The working man here has earned but little during the winter, and he feels he owes a debt of gratitude to the tradesmen who have supplied him with bread when money was scarce; secondly, the price of bread is now four pence for a four pound loaf, instead of 4 1/2d.
28 April 1893
New Orwell - Fatal Fall - The county coroner (Mr A J Lyon) held an inquest on Saturday concerning the death of the landlord of the 'Fox and Hounds', Orwell, who died on the previous day from a result of a fall downstairs on Thursday night, compression of the brain being caused by an extravasation of blood. A verdict of 'accidental death' was returned.
14 July 1893
Orwell - Royal Wedding - To commemorate the royal wedding on the 6th inst., all the children in the parish, together with the widows and other poor, were entertained to tea in the vicarage close. After the adults had finished tea the Rev H C A Tayler said a few well chosen words appropriate to the occasion, his hearers responded by singing "God save the Queen". Games were then indulged in in an adjoining field, lent by the Rev R Bendyshe.
22 September 1893
Orwell - Harvest Thanksgiving - Harvest thanksgiving services were held in the Parish Church on Sunday last. As usual the church was very prettily decorated by Mrs Bonnett, Miss Oliver, Miss Breed, Miss Merry, Mr Arthur and Mr Lane. The services were well attended, especially in the evening. The rector, the Rev H C A Tayler, preached at each service and collections were made for Addenbrooke's Hospital, the sum of £5 6s 8d being collected. This sum, with the vegetables and fruit used in the decorations, was sent to the hospital.
13 October 1893
Orwell - Technical Education - Miss Willis commenced a series of 'Home Talks' here on Monday afternoon. There was not a very large audience, but those who were present felt that they had something to learn and that Miss Willis had the power of imparting her own knowledge to others.
13 October 1893
Orwell - Evening School - An evening continuation school, under the code of March 1893, has been started here, the subjects taught being reading, writing, arithmetic, drawing, life and duties of a citizen, chemistry as applied to agriculture, and the laws of health, the master having had special training in the latter subject under the Cambs. County Council. Nearly 30 boys have enrolled themselves as scholars.
15 December 1893
Orwell - Local Honours - Mr Albert Smith, youngest son of Mr James Smith, of this parish, was, at a meeting of the council of the Linnean Society of London, on Tuesday, 17th inst., elected a fellow. Mr Smith was apprenticed to Messrs Beall and Son, chemists, Cambridge. From here he proceeded at once to the Pharmaceutical College, Bloomsbury Square, where he successfully passed both the minor and major examinations.
9 February 1894
New Orwell - Incendiary fire - Two valuable oat stacks, the property of Messrs Meyer, standing in a field adjoining the Wimpole Road, were burnt down early on Sunday morning. A young man, named Frederick Arthur, was brought before the Melbourn bench of magistrates, on Monday, charged with the offence, and committed for trial at the Cambridge assizes.
8 June 1894
Orwell - Double Wedding - On Tuesday morning a double Wedding took place in the Parish church, when the only daughter of Mr Oliver was united to Mr James, while his son, Mr S Oliver, was married to Miss A Johnson, daughter of Mr M Johnson.
Both brides were dressed alike in cream fancy cloth, trimmed with lace, pearls, and moire ribbon, and each wore a veil and spray of orange blossoms in the hair.
Miss Oliver's bridesmaids were her two cousins, Miss Oliver and Miss Pryor, dressed in blue grey cheviot, trimmed with silk and lace to match, and wearing black hats, trimmed with tips and pink roses. Miss Johnson's bridesmaids were her sister and Miss Cull, her cousin.
The former was dressed exactly as the other two bridesmaids. while Miss Cull wore a terracotta dress trimmed with silk and lace. The presents were numerous and useful.
12 October 1894
Orwell - Serious Accident - On Saturday afternoon, Mr Sheldrick Miller, who was returning from Cambridge in a pony and cart, met with a serious accident when coming down Orwell Hill, the pony, which was a young one, took fright at something and bolted. Mr Miller was thrown out of the cart and hurt very much about the head and face. Help was soon at hand and medical aid summoned. Mr Miller has been confined to his bed since the accident, lying more or less insensible, so that his condition is a critical one.
23 November 1894
Orwell - Proposed Councillors - On Monday evening a well attended meeting of parochial electors took place in the school room, under the chairmanship of the Vicar (Rev H C A Taylor). The chairman said that they had met together in an informal way to try and find out what persons would be likely to be called upon to act as parish councillors. It was necessary to have some understanding on this point so that the business on 4th. December might proceed smoothly. On the motion of Mr. A. Meyer, a representative committee of 15 was chosen whose business will be to report to another general meeting of electors the names of seven persons who will best carry out the provisions of the Parish Councils Act.
7 December 1894
Orwell - [Parish Council?] - The [first?] meeting was held in the school room; Chairman, Rev H C A Tayler.
The following persons were nominated:- Arthur Allen, gardener; George Everett, publican; George Huddlestone, wheelwright; Philip Meyer, brewer; Charles Miller, labourer; Ellis Miller, farmer; Alexander Watts, labourer.
As the council consists of 7 members, these were declared by the chairman to be duly elected. The meeting was very harmonious.
8 March 1895
Orwell - Funeral of Mr Oliver - On Tuesday afternoon the funeral of Mr Oliver took place in the churchyard amidst many signs of sympathy and respect. Deceased, who had been in business many years in the village, was honoured and respected. On Thursday, 2lst. ult., he was suddenly seized with apoplexy, from which he never rallied, dying on Friday
Messrs. E and A Merry acted as undertakers.
16 August 1895
Orwell - Funeral of Mr Russell - The remains of Mr Russell, who was well known and respected and who died somewhat suddenly, were interred in the parish churchyard beside his daughter on Tuesday last. The coffin, covered with beautiful wreaths, was of polished oak with brass fittings, and bore the inscription: "Thomas Russell, died August 8, 1895, aged 63 years". Deceased had been churchwarden since 1880, and in that capacity as well as in many other ways his active presence and ready help will be much missed.
Messrs. Merry were the undertakers.
18 October 1895
Orwell - Death of the Rector - After a painful illness the Rev H C A Tayler, who had been rector of this parish for 36 years, passed peaceful away on Tuesday afternoon. For many months it was seen that his health and strength were failing, but the end was hardly expected so soon. The reverend gentleman was formerly a Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge.
In addition to being a great classical scholar, he was in every respect a true gentleman, ever ready to lend a listening ear and helping hand to relieve the troubles and sorrows of others. His constant aim as a clergyman was to be charitable to everyone. In his home he was a most affectionate husband and kind and indulgent father. His last service in the church was on the occasion of the Harvest Festival on September 29, when he celebrated the Holy Communion at the 8 o'clock service.
The funeral will take place tomorrow (Saturday) at 3 o'clock.
6 December 1895
Orwell - The New Rector - The Rev R W Whiston, M.A, curate of St. Mary's, Bury St. Edmund's, has been appointed to the living, which is in the gift of Trinity College. In 1878 Mr Whiston distinguished himself by gaining a second class in the Historical tripos.
The new rector will not take up his residence here before the end of January next.
31 January 1896
Orwell - The Late Rector - A movement is on foot for placing in the chancel of the church a brass suitably engraved, in memory of the late rector. The Rev H C A Tayler was for 36 years rector of the parish, and it is felt such services should be perpetuated. The treasurer of the fund is Mr P Meyer and the secretary Mr W C Lane.
14 February 1896
Orwell - Death and Funeral of Mrs Tayler - On 15th October last, the Rev H C A Tayler died, and we now have to record the death of his widow, which took place on Friday last, at the age of 67.
Mrs Tayler had been in a delicate state of health for some time, and the shock caused by her husband's death aggravated the disease which ended fatally last week.
Deceased was buried amid many tokens of respect, by the side of her husband in the old churchyard on Tuesday afternoon; the officiating clergyman being Rev W Dawson, curate in charge. The choir were present and sang the hymn "On the Resurrection morning".
Messrs. Merry had charge of the funeral arrangements. The coffin resembled the late rector's and was of polished oak with brass mountings.
Great sympathy is felt for Miss Tayler and her brothers who have been deprived of both their parents in such a short time.
13 March 1896
Orwell - Induction of the New Rector - The public institution and induction of the Rev R W Whiston to the living of Orwell took place on Saturday, before a very large and interested congregation. The Bishop of Ely in very simple language described the office of Institution after which the Induction took place. In the absence of the Archdeacon, Rev E Conybeare conducted the new rector to the church door and read out the mandate of induction, after which they proceeded to the belfry where the new rector rang the bell to signify to the parishioners he had taken possession.
On Sunday morning Rev R W Whiston read himself in, and on the evening preached his first sermon to an Orwell congregation. The church was again crowded by an attentive congregation, who went away more than satisfied by the new rector's address.
13 March 1896
Orwell - Parish Council Elections and Meetings - The parish meeting took place on Monday evening, Mr P Meyer being in the chair. Only 30 electors were present, which indicates little interest in parish councils. There appeared to be very little ambition on the part of any elector to add P.C. to his name, and there was some difficulty in getting the requisite number of councillors.
The following were duly nominated and declared by the chairman to be elected:-
Arthur Allen, Ellis Humphrey Miller, George Everitt, Alexander Watts, George Huddlestone, John Wilsher, and Charles Miller.
17 July 1896
Orwell - The Late Rector - A memorial tablet designed by Rev O
Fisher, of Harlton, has been placed on the South wall of the chancel
of the church, in memory of the late rector. It consists of a beautiful
brass, 33 inches by 18 inches, resting on a splendid polished dove- coloured
marble slab, 36 inches by 22 inches, and surrounded by a deep moulding
of the same material.
The inscription suggested by Rev
R Bendyshe, of Barrington, is a black and vermilion church text easily
read and is as follows:-
'To the glory
of God and in memory of Henry Carr Archdale Tayler, formerly Fellow and
junior dean of Trinity College, Cambridge, and vicar of the parish of
St Mary the Great, then rector of Orwell for 36 years. Born June 9 1826,
died October 15 1895. This tablet has been erected by his parishioners,
friends, and former pupils in testimony of their esteem. "Remember them
who have spoken unto you the word of God, whose faith follow considering
the end of their conversation". Hebrews 13.7.'
The total cost of the memorial is more
than covered by the subscriptions, and the balance in the hands of the
treasurer, Mr P Meyer, will be applied in some way or other to church
purposes.
31 July 1896
Orwell - Technical Success - Eleanor Gertrude Scruby, who was until
quite recently a scholar in the Endowed School here, has been successful
in the minor scholarship offered by the Technical Education Committee
of the Cambs. County Council.
31 July 1896
Orwell - Serious Fire - A serious fire broke out early on Saturday morning
in the grocer's shop occupied by Mr Abbs, which, together with
the house was completely destroyed.
A fire was discovered at 12.30 am
and put out by Mr Lane[the schoolmaster], who had been
aroused. Everything then seemed secure and at 2 o'clock Mr Lane left the
building, leaving the inmates and another neighbour, Mr Parnell,
in charge. At 3 o'clock Mr Parnell left, all appearing safe.
Three quarters of an hour after,
the shop was reported full of fire. The fire could not be subdued. Strenuous
exertions, in which the rector (Rev R W Whiston) took a leading
part, were made to prevent the outlying buildings and school from taking
fire. Fortunately there was no wind, and the flames were confined to the
shop and house. The furniture of one room only was saved.
Mrs Russell only gave up
possession on Tuesday evening. Both stock and buildings were fully insured.
25 September 1896
Orwell - Harvest Thanksgiving - Thanksgiving services were held in the parish
church on Sunday last, the preacher in the evening being Rev J Evans,
of Cambridge. The sum of 5 guineas, the amount of the collections, together
with the fruit and vegetables, were sent to Addenbrooke's Hospital.
15 January 1897
Orwell - Concert - A very successful concert was given in the
school room on Tuesday evening. The programme was a varied one, and encores
were in great demand in the second part. The recitations of Mr Barker,
of Bury St Edmund's, were heartily enjoyed, his inimitable mimicry of
various persons bringing down the house. Ladies and gentlemen from Barrington,
Cambridge, Comberton and Harlton also rendered very valuable services,
which were duly appreciated.
The following is the programme,
the encored pieces being marked with an asterisk:
Part I
Pianoforte duet..... 'Gypsy
Quadrille'..... Miss Hesmondhalgh and Miss Wilkin.
Song..... 'Alone on the raft'..... Rev L Fisher.
Song..... 'Anchored'..... Mr Hesmondhalgh.
Song..... 'You and I'..... Miss Banton.
Recitation..... 'A terrible railway journey'..... Mr Barker.
Vocal duet..... 'O'er the hill, o'er the dale'..... Miss Hesmondhalgh and Miss F Wilkin.
*Comic song..... 'A poetical fellow'..... Mr Froment.
*Song..... 'A too poetical fellow'..... Mr Barker.
*Mandolin solo..... Mr Braid.
Part II
*Recitation..... 'How we
acted a parlour play'..... Mr Barker.
*Trio..... 'Wind's gentle whisper'.... Miss F Wilkin, Miss and
Mr Hesmondhalgh. *Song..... 'The harmonious shoeblack'..... Rev L Fisher. *Song..... 'She wore a wreath of roses'..... Mr E. Shrubbs.
Song..... 'The children's home'..... Miss Banton.
Song..... 'Down in the mine'..... Mr Hesmondhalgh.
*Mandolin solo..... Mr Braid.
*Comic song..... 'Tit bits'..... Mr Froment.
Song..... 'Mrs "Enry" 'Awkins'..... Mr Barker.
God Save the Queen.
11 June 1897
Orwell - The Great Jubilee - It is decided to commemorate the great Jubilee by giving the children attending the day and Sunday schools a tea, followed by sports. Also to do something for all the old people over 60 years of age.
11 June 1897
Orwell - Indian Famine Fund -
Special collections were made in both places
of worship on Sunday last and over £8 was collected.
25 June 1897
Orwell - Jubilee Rejoicing - On Tuesday afternoon the children marched through the village carrying flags, each wearing a medal, and singing 'God save the Queen' and other patriotic songs. The tea and sports following are a great success.
In an adjoining barn, nicely decorated
for the occasion, more than 160 sat down to a meat tea, under the able
management of Mrs Ellis Pearce, Mr and Mrs C Jude, and
Miss Matthew. A word of thanks is due to Mr Page, who so
kindly placed his barns and fields at the disposal of the village.
On the Friday previous, all people of 50 years and upwards who cared to apply received 2lbs. of meat and a quarter of a pound of tea.
12 November 1897
Orwell - Lecture - Mr John De Fraine, of West Wickham, gave one of his popular lectures in the school room on Thursday, 4th. inst. The subject was "Funny Folks, or Sketches of the Grumbler, the Gossip, the Bragger, the Fool, Hasty Folks, People of the Number One Stamp, and the 'World's Big Talkers'".
The School Room was packed with
people who listened with the greatest delight to the intense earnestness
and impassioned eloquence of the lecturer, who, by earnest appeals and
touching pathos, sought to send conviction home to his audience. The Rev
R W Whiston, after heartily thanking Mr De Fraine for so kindly coming
amongst them, expressed the wish, which was equally shared by all the
large audience, that Mr De Fraine would come and see them again.
31 December 1897
Orwell - Entertainment -
On Monday evening the teachers and children
of the Endowed School gave an entertainment consisting of songs, recitations,
dialogues, etc. The School Room was well filled with an appreciative audience,
who heartily applauded the children for the admirable way in which they
performed their several pieces.
While the stage was being prepared
for Part II, Mr George Lane gave two songs, "Her Majesty"
and "Mona", which were received with acclamation. Miss Emily
Breed and Mr. H.A. Lane rendered valuable aid at the piano.
The following was the programme:
Part I
Musical drill..... Children.
Opening speech..... 'Welcome All'..... Eva Lane.
Song (action)..... 'March, March, March'..... Children.
Recitation..... 'Couldn't'..... Chas. Breed.
Recitation..... 'Rover'..... Elizabeth Pell.
Dialogue..... 'The Road to John Smith's'..... A Breed and
A Lane.
Song..... 'The Mariner's song'..... Children.
Recitation..... 'No Joke to be a Baby'..... Emma Miller.
Dialogue..... 'What 'E Won't Be'..... 8 Boys.
Carol (with bells accompaniment)..... 'Ring the Bells'..... ChiIdren. Recitation..... 'Mary'..... Hannah Collis.
Dialogue..... 'The Three Shoemakers'..... H Waldock, E
Flack, E Miller.
Song..... 'The Cobbler!'..... Children.
Recitation..... 'Christmas, Then and Now'..... A Wilsher.
Recitation..... 'The Inventive Boy'..... G Neaves.
Recitation..... 'The Wonderful Musician'..... E Wilsher.
Song..... 'Topsy-turvy'..... 19 Boys.
Part II
Children's Operetta "Santa Claus".
Santa Claus: Mr Lane,
Fairies: S M Day and Clara Breed,
Children: Nellie
Breed, Clara Pearce, Victoria Lane, Eva Lane, Arthur Breed, Arthur Lane,
and Wilfred Pearce.
7 January 1898
Orwell - Church Tea -
The annual church tea took place on Wednesday
evening, 29th. ult. This tea is always looked forward to by subscribers
and the church choir and Sunday school, for not only is a good substantial
meat tea provided, but Christmas games and dances are indulged in, giving
to the younger members especially the heartiest enjoyment. Prizes were
also given by the Rector to the Sunday school scholars.
7 January 1898
Orwell - Magic Lantern -
On Monday evening, Mr John Sinker gave
an address on "The Life of our Lord", illustrated by magic lantern
slices. The school room was well filled and the address was listened to
most attentively. Mr Sinker is an excellent speaker and treated his subject
with the seriousness it deserves, never failing to bring home to the minds
of his bearers the practical lessons set before us by the Saviour.
1 January 1898
Orwell - Conservative Meeting -
A meeting was held in the School Room (kindly
lent for the occasion) on Wednesday evening, the attendance being very
good. Mr P Meyer took the chair supported by Mr Raymond Green,
MP, Mr S Camps, Mr J S French (Conservative agent),
and others. Mr Green addressed the meeting on the political topics of
the day.
During the evening songs were given
by Messrs Crawley, Parish and Piggott (Cambridge)
and recitations by Mr S Camps (Royston), with Mr Braid
(Cambridge) kindly acting as accompanist.
4 March 1898
Orwell - Parish Council - These councils are expected to do something to mark their term of office. In some cases this is not an easy matter, but in this village a very dangerous ditch at the East end of the village has, by order of the council, been protected by a substantial iron and wood fence, the work of Messrs E and A Merry.
22 April l898
Orwell - The Church -
A movement, headed by the rector and Mr
P. Meyer, has been started for placing a two-manual organ in the church.
A better instrument than the worn out harmonium, which has done duty for
so long a time, is sorely needed, and it is hoped before the year is out
this most desirable improvement will be accomplished.
20 May 1898
Orwell - Death of Mr William Taylor - Two inhabitants, Mrs Lydia Hornsby, aged 85, and Mr William Taylor, aged 86, have been laid to rest in the churchyard during this week.
The latter was well known not only
in the village but in the surrounding neighbourhood among the farmers,
who have often sought his advice when sickness has visited their cattle.
Though not a member of the H.C.V.S., he was allowed to exercise his skill
as an old practitioner, practising before the legal qualification came
into force.
He had been suffering for some time
from cancer in the mouth and though his sufferings were great he bore
all with the greatest patience. The end came rather unexpectedly on Sunday
evening.
The Deceased always took an interest
in parochial matters. For very many years he was parish constable when
the office was a much more important one than at present, and he used
to relate some stirring events that happened to him in the discharge of
that office. At the time of his death he was one of the parish council.
17 June 1898
Orwell - School Board Election -
Only four candidates were nominated for the
five seats, namely, Rev R W Whiston, Mr P. Meyer, G
Huddlestone and Palmer. This is the sixth triennial election,
but there has been no contest at any time. The three last-named gentlemen
have been on the Board since its formation in 1883.
24 June 1898
Orwell - Death of Mr Beisley -
Quite a gloom was cast over the village on Monday
afternoon, when it became known that Mr Beisley, who had been seized
while dressing in the morning with an apoplectic fit, was dead. Medical
aid from Harston and Cambridge did all that was possible, but deceased
never recovered consciousness.
Mr Beisley had managed the Manor
Farm very successfully for 17 years. He was a good employer of labour,
and very kindly disposed to those needing assistance, and his loss will
be felt by many.
The Deceased was 54 years of age.
The body, enclosed in a plain oak coffin with brass mounts, was removed
on Thursday morning to Warborough, Oxfordshire, for internment. Messrs. E. and. A. Merry carried out the funeral arrangements as far as
Oxford.
The greatest sympathy is felt for
the widow, who has been a friend in need to many a home in the village.
23 September 1898
Orwell - Local Success -
Mr Stallabrass, of this village, has
been awarded another diploma by the Master Bakers and Confectioners' Society,
London, for cottage bread sent for competition on the 14th. Inst.
23 September 1898
Orwell - Harvest -
Owing to the very heavy crops this year,
the gathering in of the corn has extended much beyond the usual limit.
Gleaning has been delayed through the farmers not clearing the rakings
of corn from the fields until all the chief corn was in.
7 October 1898
Orwell - Harvest Thanksgiving -
Thanksgiving services were held in the church
on Sunday, when collections were made on behalf of Addenbrooke's Hospital,
the sum of £5 13s 8d being realised. The church was prettily decorated
and a large congregation assembled in the evening, when the Rev P
Harvey, vicar of Meldreth, preached from the text, "They that sow
in tears shall reap in joy". The musical part of the service was bright
and cheerful, the congregation joining heartily in the well-known harvest
hymns.
30 December 1898
Orwell - Annual Church Tea -
The annual Christmas gathering of the Sunday School
scholars, choir and subscribers to the tea, took place on Tuesday evening
in the school room. This gathering is always looked forward to with pleasure,
and the old fashioned Christmas games, which never seem to grow old, are
freely indulged in. A certain amount of license is always allowed at Christmas,
and this the young and even the older people took advantage of. The Sunday
scholars also received prizes from the Rector.
13 January 1899
Orwell - Popular Lecture - Two years ago, Mr John De Fraine made
a very favourable impression on an audience who assembled to hear his
popular lecture on "Funny Folks". Consequently when it was announced
that he would give a lecture in the school room, on Thursday evening,
5th. Inst., a very large audience was ready to hear him lecture on "The
Race of Life and How to Win it".
The happy vein of humour that Mr De Fraine contrives to run through his discourse keeps his audience in rapt attention so that when the moral comes, as it always does, even to his most laughable anecdotes, the minds of his hearers are open to receive it. Mr De Fraine always closes his lectures by earnest appeals and touching pathos sending conviction home to his hearers. The chair was taken by the Rector, who heartily thanked the lecturer for coming a second time to interest and instruct them.
10 March 1899
Orwell - Obituary -
Mrs Jane Swan, landlady of the 'Nag's
Head', died on Monday, 6th. Inst., at the age of 78.
7 April 1899
Orwell - Good Friday - Through the kindness of Mr P. Meyer, all the children attending the day school were given a large bun each at the close of the morning service.
7 April 1899
Orwell - Wesleyan Chapel -
There was the usual tea on Good Friday afternoon,
followed by a musical service. Owing to the unsettled weather, many friends
from Cambridge were not able to be present.
7 April 1899
Orwell - Accident - On Thursday evening, as some friends were being driven into the village, the cart collided with the bank near the church, causing the vehicle to overturn. One young man, Mr W. Anderson, of Cambridge, dislocated his elbow and had to be taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital, where the injured limb was put right and he was able to return home.
7 April 1899
Orwell - Easter Sunday - The church was prettily decorated for Easter and the services were bright and attractive. In the afternoon a very pretty Wedding took place, when Miss E. Merry, eldest Daughter of Mr John Merry, was married to Mr H D Warden, of Islington. There were six bridesmaids, three sisters of the bride, and three cousins. The service was partly choral and Mr H. Lane presided at the harmonium.
12 May 1899
Orwell - Children's Entertainment -
A very successful entertainment was given by the older scholars and teachers
attending the Endowed School on Wednesday evening, 3rd. Inst. The piece
chosen was the humorous operetta "Misfits", being the strange adventures
in a wax works show.
Six forsaken wives, Annie Ingrey,
Emmaline Wimott, Sarah Pearce, Blanche Aslin, Elizabeth
Collis and Victoria Lane, under a lady guide, Rosinna Osborne, visit a waxworks show in which their husbands, who have deserted them,
are posing as waxworks models. -
Jack Shepherd: Abram Freestone,
Mrs Grundy: Charles Munns,
Old Lady: Ellis Wilsher,
May
King: Willie Pearce,
Old Fish Wife: A Wilsher,
Jack
and Jill: Wilfred Pearce and Nellie Miller.
Miss Day undertook the part of showman in which she was very successful. Bob, the
boy or clown, needed much originality to make the piece 'go', and this Arthur Lane did very well indeed. The ventriloquial dialogue between
Mr Waxworks and Jack and Jill was well sustained and caused much amusement.
There was a good attendance, £1
10s 9d being taken at the doors, which sum will be used as a prize fund
for the encouragement of regular attendance.
21 July 1889
Orwell - Choral Festival -
The Ely diocesan book of music for the year was
used at a festival of parish choirs at Orwell church, on Thursday evening,
13th. Inst. There was a large congregation.
The choirs of the following parishes,
numbering in all about 90 voices took part:- Orwell, Eversden, Wimpole,
Arrington and Haslingfield. The Rev G D Cartwright (Rector of
Wimpole) conducted, and the two-manual organ was played by the Rev
Laurence Fisher, vicar of Swaffham Prior, and secretary of the Church
Music Society for the Archdeaconry of Ely. The service was sung by the
rector, Rev R W Whiston.
The lessons were read by the Rev
A V Davies (vicar of Haslingfield), and the Rev A H Ellaby (Rector of Eversden). The Right Rev Bishop Macrorie, Canon of Ely, preached
on the subject of the anthem "Awake up my glory, awake lute and harp"
(Ps.lvii.9) Other clergy present were the Rev J Sinker (curate
of Raughton Head, Carlisle) and the Rev E Conybeare (late vicar of Barrington).
4 August 1899
Orwell - Wedding - A very pretty wedding took place in the church
on Thursday, 27th. Ult. between Mr Abbis Collins, of Cambridge,
late of Shepreth, and Miss Bertha Ann Flack, only daughter of Mr
and Mrs G. Flack, of Orwell. Mr Arthur Collins, brother of
the bride-groom, acted as best man, while the bride was given away by
her eldest brother.
The bride wore a grey corded silk
dress, trimmed with white satin and chiffon, and a white hat trimmed with
tips and orange blossoms. Three of the bridegroom's sisters and Miss
Winifred Belcher, a friend of the bride, were bridesmaids, two being
dressed in pale blue and white, and the other two all in white. The bridesmaids'
hats were white straw, trimmed with tips and chiffon.
6 October 1899
Orwell - Harvest Thanksgiving -
The annual festival took place on Sunday last,
but owing to the very wet and stormy day, the evening congregation was
not so large as usual. The preacher at the evening service was the Rev
A V Davies, of Haslingfield. The church was tastefully decorated.
Many sent offerings of potatoes and apples, and the two village bakers
sent designs in bread, suitable for the occasion.
The collections amounting to £5
2s 7d were given to Addenbrooke's Hospital.
High Street, Orwell c1905 Image from a postcard in my collection.
Orwell Parish Church c1905 Image from a postcard in my collection.
