1923 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1920-1929
06 Jan 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield and District Nursing Association
"The committee has appointed a second nurse for the district, which now includes Darenth, in addition to Hartley, part of Fawkham, Longfield, Green Street Green. The address of the nurses are: Mrs Weaver, Kent Road, Longfield, and Miss Breman c/o Mrs Mannings 1 Watchgate, Green Street Green. Applications for either nursse (who will work as colleagues) may be made to either address."
Women's Hour
"Women of Longfield have every reason to be delighted at the institution of a 'Women's Hour' at the Free Church, Essex Road. In a locality somewhat isolated from the life and activities of the present day, Longfield women have long felt the need of bright, social and spiritual intercourse. Happily this need has now been met, and every Thursday afternoon the women meet under the able supervision of Mrs Coote of Gravesend. Bright and helpful intercourse is the keynote of the meetings, and the ever alluring cup of tea, which gives the social and homely atmosphere, is greatly enjoyed. A club run for the benefit of the members is much appreciated. The organisers and members will be delighted to welcome any women to this social hour."
13 Jan 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Chickens for Sale
"Two high class White Wyandotte breeding pens for disposal, 6 hens and unrelated cockerel, £4 carriage paid - Campkin Bros, Cherry Orchard Farm, Hartley, Longfield."
For Sale
"Inlaid rosewood china cabinet - Ellerby, Woodcote, Hartley."
20 Jan 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Poultry Advert
"Ernest J Gee, The Grange, Hartley, Longfield, Light Sussex specialist. Sittings 10s per 15 unreplaced."
27 Jan 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Eggs for Hatching
"Fertile eggs from high grade utility Light Sussex. Healthy and vigorous birds. Proved heavy winter layers. 8s per dozen. T F Tate, Hartley, Longfield" (advert)
03 Feb 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Gilbert and Ellerby
(Advert) "Sawn logs for Burning. Price, delivered in Gravesend and Dartford 37/6 per ton (ton lots), 35/- per ton (4 ton lots). Hartley and Longfield - 30/- per ton. Ash fencing stakes. Prices on application. Cash with order. Gilbert & Ellerby, Hartley, Longfield."
10 Feb 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Chickens for Sale
"1922 Barron Strain white leghorn pullets, 10s each, £5 10s dozen; 1921 Barron direct White Leghorn Pullets, 6s each, £3 dozen - Wise, Appledore, Hartley, Longfield."
16 Feb 1923 Dartford Chronicle
Barlow v Symons
Barlow v Symons, 30 shillings damages for trespass by defendant's horses. Plaintiff said to be squatter.
17 Feb 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Ash Road Widening
Due to commence soon since given go ahead by Unemployment Grants Committee.
Longfield Fire Brigade
G T Lynds of Longfield Hill writes that recent statements about the Longfield Brigade being abolished in 1914 were not quite correct. He said the vote then was not on the agenda, and therefore was not lawful.
Fire
Furniture in downstairs room of New Barn House, residence of Mr F G McIntosh, destroyed by fire. Locals put fire out before Gravesend Fire Brigade arrived.
24 Feb 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Poultry Success
"A pen of Buff Plymouth Rocks, entered in the Wye College Laying Tests by Messrs Campkin Bros, of Cherry Orchard Farm, finished second in their section, and 5th in the whole test, outpointing all pens of Wyandottes, Light Sussex, Leghorns and Any Other Variety Light Breeds."
Presentation to Police Sergeant
After several years at Wye, Sgt Nicholls is transferring to Longfield. He was presented with silver mounted ebony walking stick.
03 Mar 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Property Sale Results
Porter Putt and Fletcher auction of 28 February, plots on Fawkham Park Estate realised £50. [advert in paper of 17 February says they were plots 114-123 and 332-338, at £3 a plot a considerable loss for the seller. Plots were sited in Bramledown and Church Road]
Return of the Rector
Rev Bancks has returned to Hartley after long illness. Hopes to resume duties on Sunday.
10 Mar 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Dartford RDC to repair broken stiles on footpath from Station Road to Fawkham Church. (2) Mr Wright said he had got DRDC to write to the Railway Company about the state of the steps from Hartley Road to the Station.
Advert: Missing's Wireless Department
// Wireless Concerts. Complete receiving sets, 1 to 7 valves or parts supplied. Buradept, Marconi, Western Electric and GEC. Sets from £14 10s. Expert advice. Estimates free. Demonstrations given within 30 miles of Gravesend. Accumulators recharged. Demonstration at the School, Longfield, next Friday 5pm and 7pm. 5-10 New Road, Gravesend."
07 Apr 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Farm for Sale at Hartley
"Kent. Valuable Small Poultry Farm. Situate in the village of Hartley, one mile from Fawkham Station, and 5 minutes from Church etc. The cottage residence standing some 250ft above sea level, in picturesque position, contains 2 reception, 3 bedrooms, kitchen, offices etc. Co's water. Modern drainage. The buildings include brick incubator house and incubators, large poultry houses, several other houses , brooders, coops etc. The land is in good heart, and comprises meadowland, with the exception of a stretch of valuable woodland running along one side of the property, extending to an area of about 13 acres. Price Freehold £2,200 (or near offer). Harrods Ltd, 62-64 Brompton Road SW1."
[This is probably Fairhaven in Manor Drive and would have included the site of the future Springcroft]
Football: Longfield's Runaway Victory
"The first final of the Longfield Hospital Charity Challenge Cup was contested at Longfield on Saturday, the finalists being Hoo Green and Longfield. Hoo Green won the toss and elected to kick up the slope and face the sun.
From the commencement Hoo Green began to press, and had the better of the exchanges, bu the effort of kicking up the slope gradually began to tell on the players and eventually Longfield showed their superiority. After 25 minutes Walker received a pass from Elcombe, who beat the Green's centre half and backs and netted with a terrific low drive. Strive as Hoo Green would, the equalising point could not be obtained, not even when they were awarded a penalty. S Rich saving it in grand style, and sending the ball to the right wing for Elcome to carry alomost to the corner flag before centering for Kent to add to the Longfield score. During the next 6 minutes a furhter three goals were added by Elcome, who made an individual run from the half way line. Walker, whose superior ball control had been noticed by the whole of the spectators, and Kent, who headed in from an almost impossible angle. From the kick off after the 5th goal, Callum made a solo run and scored Hoo Green's only point, while with 2 minutes to go for half time, Elcombe added Longfield's 6th.
Hoo Green, with three quarters of an hour of hill climbing, an dthe consciousness of a heavy deficit, seemed to be imbued with insufficient spirit to try to turn defeat into victory. Longfield continued to press, and a 7th goal was soon added by Kent, and Couchman the Longfield veteran, who had been playing his usual effective game, took the ball from the half way line and finished off by crashing number 8 into the net. The total was brought to double figures by G Rich and Walker.
S Rich, in the Longfield goal, played a magnificent game, and his wonderful saves from two penalties were warmly applauded. It was felt that Hoo Green made a grave mistake in electing to kick up hill in the first half. Both sides went out with fixed intentions of winning, but the polish and stamina of Longfield showed them to be the better class side. The referee was Mr S Lamb of Northfleet, and the linesmen Messrs F Bentley (Fawkham) and S Curtiss (Kingsdown).
There was very little to choose between the Hoo Green players, but the shining lights in the Longfield defence were Longhurst at Centre Half, S Rich in goal and A Rich at left back, while Saxton, Robinson and Lines played their usual sterling game. After the game the Hoo Green captain drew the winning number for the match ball, which was won by G Rich the Longfield captain.
As president of the competition Mr J W Woodward voiced the thanks of the committee to Mrs Hickmott who so kindly lent the ground forthe game, and thanked Mr Hollands for his sporting spirit in presenting the trophy, a solid silver cup for competition. The cup and medals were then presented by Mrs Woodward."
08 Apr 2023 Country Life
Chicks with Credentials
"Hatch pedigreed chicks now for winter egg production. Our pen of Buff, Plymouth Rocks led all pens of Wyandottes, Leghorns and Sussex in the Wye College laying test just concluded. Sittings, fifteen eggs 12/6. White Wyandottes - Pen headed by Barron registered cockerel (No 2672) from 282 large egg hen. Sittings, fifteen eggs 12/6; carriage paid. Campkin Bros, Cherry Orchard Farm, Longfield, Kent."
12 Apr 1923 Dudley Chronicle
Cherry Orchard Farm Advert
(Advert) "Buff Plymouth Rocks. Our Pen led all pens of Wyandottes, Leghorns and Sussex in the Wye College Laying Test, just concluded. Sittings, 15 eggs 12/6, carriage paid - Campkin brothers, Cherry Orchard Farm, Hartley, Longfield, Kent."
14 Apr 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Jehovah's Witnesses Advert
"International Bible Students Association - Satan's Empire Falling - Millions now living will never die - Striking lecture, Sunday April 15th - Gravesend…Bexleyheath… Longfield at Mr John Foster's Coach House, Station Road at 3pm, Hartley at the Bible Students' Hut, at 6.30pm. Speaker Mr W Ingram......" [The IBSA split in 1931, the dominant faction renaming themselves Jehovah's Witnesses]
Dartford RDC
Hartley Parish meeting had said 3 footpaths were blocked, surveyor will deal with this. They also asked for widening of St John's Lane, but DRDC say it is not in their estimates. DRDC also discussed the worn steps leading from Hartley Road to the Station, Railway Company and adjoining landowners disclaim responsibility, DRDC reackon Longfield PC should pay.
Longfield Churchyard
At annual parish meeting "the Rector explained that the Churchyard was not capable of providing more than about half a dozen further graves. He could not obtain land to extend the churchyard eastwards, and when he endeavoured some years ago to obtain land on the other side of the road, the excessive cost of the restrictions raised by the land agents made the plan impossible. He did not see any plan than to ask the parish to provide the necessary burial ground. After some discussion, the meeting authorised the Rector to obtain advice as to all methods of procedure and to act in the best interests of the parish. If any plan could be arranged to keep the burial ground adjoining the church it was the unanimous feeling of the meeting that it would be the most popular course."
[Paper of 16.6.1923 contains an advert from their local agent F C Harris of Hartley Wood [=2 Hartley Wood Corner]. to send him postcard to be sent a leaflet. Earlier advert in KM 25.2.1922, talks at The Hut by Fairby Grange and Mr J Foster's Coach House, Longfield, speaker Mr J Chapman]
21 Apr 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Thomas Coulson
of Fairby Cottage, Hartley. Funeral at Longfield Church April 4th.
Longfield Rectory Lawn Tennis Club
Will open for play May 5th. Mrs Fitch has donated 2 prizes for the coming season.
16 Jun 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Room to Let
"Furnished bedroom to let for lady - Bungalette, Hartley, Longfield."
Ye Countrie Fayre: Mr R C Nesbitt MP at Fawkham
"Amid picturesque surroundings, Mr R C Newbitt, MP, opened Ye Olde Countrie Fayre on Saturday at Scudders Farm, Fawkham (lent by Mr T B Hohler CB CMG), in aid of the Church Restoration Fund, one of the main objects being the repair of the tower.
Mr Nesbitt, who was introduces by the Rector (the Rev J Trevor Matchett), said he thought church-people were inclined to rely too much on what their forefathers had done for them, and he explained the need for the present generation to provide funds for work required for the church in their time. Referring to church finance, he said that there was now an opportunity for all, both rich and poor, to contribute according to their means to the work of the church generally.... Mr Nesbitt visited all the stalls, indulged in some lucky dips, fished in the fish pond, went in for a raffle, and made some purchases, but lamentably failed to guess either the age of a cockerel or the weight of a cake...." (list of stalls, judges and entertainers followed).
23 Jun 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Tithe
At a public meeting in Hartley in the schoolroom, the majority decided not to pay for the tithe to be reapportioned.
Cherry Orchard Farm Advert
"We have a limited number of Pure Canadian White Wyandotte Cockerels surplus to our requirements of rthe 1924 breeding season. Bred from pens imported by us in 1922 from Martin, Ontario, the world's greatest Wyandotte specialist and originator of the Regal Dorcas strain, in which the combination of type with utility has been proved at all the premier shows and laying trials in Canada and USA, these birds should prive invaluable for increasing vitality, improving type, and ensuring the standard egg... Cherry Orchard Farm (Capkin Bros), Hartley, Longfield, Kent.
Prepare for 1924 - 6 pedigree White Wyandotte Hens (1922) and unrelated cockerel (1923), carrying with them our usual guarantee of satisfaction, £3 carriage paid (see also our offer of Buff Plymouth Rocks and Canadian Wyandottes in this issue - Campkin Bros etc..."
29 Jun 1923 Bromley & West Kent Mercury
House for Sale
"Kent. Freehold 5 roomed bungalow, bathroom and scullery, company's water, nearly ¾ acre, 150 fruit trees, vacant possession, £975 or near offer. Owner - Malva, Hartley, Near Longfield, Kent". [=Danson, Ash Road]
18 Jul 1923 N/A
Fairby Grange Mother and Baby Home
Fairby Grange given to Bermondsey Council as home for mothers and babies, Neville Chamberlain, health secretary approves scheme provided no government money is used
20 Jul 1923 Southwark & Bermondsey Recorder
Beautification Committee
Bermondsey Borough Council. Lengthy report of discussions with the Ministry of Health. The Ministry rejected the original scheme for a Convalescent Home. Alderman Dr Salter discussed this with the Minister Neville Chamberlain. They agreed the council would get permission for a recovery home for ante- and post-natal women. But the minister said the council would get no grant from the Ministry. Committee agreed 26-13 to proceed.
Beautification Committee
"Councillor Llewellyn, on behalf of the Beautification and Public Amenities Committee, presented the following report with reference to the cultivation of the Fairby Grange Estate:
General - Adverting to our report to the Council of 3rd May, we have given further consideration to the question of taking over the grounds of this property for the purpose of propagating and cultivating plants, trees and shrubs for the beautification of the open spaces, streets and buldings in this borough, and on the 27th ult we conferred with the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee in regard thereto. The following report has been submitted to us by the Gardens Superintendent.
Grounds - the grounds attached to the property are extensive an quite suitable, both as regards soil and facilities, for the propagation and cultivation of many of th plants, trees and shrubs wihch might be used in Bermondsey for the beautification of the open spaces, streets and buildings.
Extent - th ground available for cultivation, consisting of 2 fields, with a combined area of about 8 acres, a kitchen garden of about 1½ acres, large orchard and spinney with other odd plots, should prove adequate for the needs of the Committee for some time to come. In addition to which there should be sufficiet ground to supply the necessary vegetables and fruits for, and in preserving the amenities of, the proposed 'Convalescent Home.'
Equipment - There are 3 small (adjoining) greenhouses and side frames; these are fitted up with heating apparatus and boiler house in working order. These greenhouses and frames are well suited for raising seedlings and in the propagation of plants (an extension to these would be desirable). The property is well equipped with sheds which would be suitale for use as store houses, tool house, potting shed and garage etc.
Spinney - the spinney shoudl provide a useful supply of leaf mould, and it should also be possible to obtain from it (in the future) supplies of stakes such as are used to support the street trees.
Turf and Grass Plots etc - the turf is in fairly good condition, and would serve for renovating the grass plots in open spaces at Bermondsey (on which there is considerable annual expenditure); some of the turf could also be used for the supply of loam, as per the scheme now being carried out, and would also prove useful of rthe potting of plants an din the provision of soil for window boxes etc.
Extent of grounds to be cultivated - all the grounds attached to the property, with the possible exception of one of the fields, which would gradually come into cultivation, would be utilised in connection with the general scheme set out.
General requirements of gardens and open spaces department - The annual purchase of plants for the department, at Bermondsey and Rotherhithe, such as could easily be grown at Fairby Grange, would be approximately as follows - Spring bedding plants (excluding bulbs) £200; summer bedding plants (excluding bulbs) £200; window box plants (excluding bulbs) £100; renewals of trees and shrubs £100; supply of turf for renewal of grass plots £50; cut flowers and shrubs for decoration of town halls £25; supply of loam and leaf for renewal of soil in window boxes £15. Total £690. NB. These items would increase with the addition of further spaces and plots for decorative schemes.
Conclusion - The acquisition of a site such as is to be found at Fairy Grange is necessary for the efficient working and development of the ~Bermondsey Gardens and Open Spaces Department, and should result in the production of a greater display of flowering and foliage plants that is at present practicable. The removal of the present propagation corner from 'Old Bermondsey' Churchyard should also result in an improvement in the amenities of that open space.
Subject to the necessary arrangements being made with the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee, an to a supplemental estimate of £75 to cover wages, plants etc, up to 30th September being submitted by the Finance Committee, we recommend (i) That we be empowered to take over the care and upkeep of the whole of the grounds, vegetable gardens etc, with the exception of the pleasure grounds surrounding the house. (ii) That we be authorised to supply the Convalescent Home with fruit, vegetables etc, at charges to be agreed upon between ourselves and the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee.
Staff - With regard to the staff required, we recommend: (i) That Mr Thomas Rose, who is at present employed on the estate, be appointed as gardener for the portion retained by the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee at his present wage (£2 17s 6d per week, with cottage), subject to his passing satisfactorily a medical examination. Note: in addition to his work in the general upkeep of the pleasure grounds, etc, Mr Rose will be in charge of the electrical plant installed in the buildings. He will be under the supervision of the Gardens Superintendent. (ii) That Mr Daniel Rose, who is at present employed on the estate, be appointed garden labourer at a wage of £2 per week, subject to his passing satisfactorily a medical examination. (iii) That advertisements be issued for the undermentioned: Foreman propagator, at a wage of £3 per week. Under gardener, at a wage of £2 10s per week.
Alderman Dr Salter pointed out the benefits that would accrue to the borough from the estate through being able to supply all the plants neccessary for window boxes and the open spaces in Bermondsey. The revenue from hay, walnuts and fruit would amount to about £667, and the expenditure to £620. The plants to the value of at least £500 would be raised on the estate. He understood that 166 window boxes had been made and installed, and they would require at least 2,500 plants. These would all come from Fairby Grange.
The Doubters and Dampers
Alderman Bustin was the first to throw cold water on the scheme. He did not like to look a gift horse in the mouth, but he was afraid this would turn out to be a white elephant. (oh!) He thought they would find it would be better to give their mothers £10 each and tell them to take their babies down to Southend and spend it rather than send them to Fairby Grange. Councillor Clark said he was suspicious that any saving from the estate would be swallowed up in salaries. Councillor Gledhill said, if the Progressives did not want to make the whole scheme a white elephant there were many doubters among them.
This scheme was adopted, and the figures given by Alderman Dr Salter were ordered to be printed in the minutes."
21 Jul 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
The Funeral of Mrs S Caddel
"took place on Friday, the deceased lady being interred in the family grave in Hartley Churchyard. The officiating clergy were the Revs E Ffinch and S J Poole…." Long list of mourners and flowers.
Local Builder Avert
"Note - for bungalows, houses etc, wood or brick, built to order, at reasonable prices, repairs, alterations etc, apply Ilott, Builder etc, Hartley Longfield Kent and Lewisham SE."
03 Aug 1923 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)
County Cricket Trial
"A county trial was held on the Angel cricket ground yesterday (Thursday) when 20 youngsters of varying ages batted, bowled and kept wicket at the nets under the surveillance of Mr Tom Pawley, Mr Middleton Kemp, Capt Tylden, Mr HM Maybrooke and Alec Hearne. The general standard of the boys' play was criticised by Mr Hearne as being fair, and taking into consideration the many opportunities boys now get for playing cricket, their play might reasonably have been expected to have been better. One the best among the bowlers was G Beslee [George Beslee, 1904-75, played for Kent 1925-30], a fast right hander with a good delivery.
[one of the other triallists, who never got to play for Kent was L J Dunmall of Longfield, bowler. Indeed it seems possibly only one other out of the 20 got to play for the county]
04 Aug 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
The Roads
"At Dartford RDC on Tuesday, it was reported that letters had been received from the Longfield Parish Council asking for the road running through Longfield Hill towards Holly Bush Bridge to be repaired and tarred, and calling attention to the unfinished state of the bank and path in front of the council's houses at Whitehill [7-25 Main Road]. It was reported that Longfield Hill is coated with flints and therefore not suitable for tarring, but the council have adopted the policy of putting ragstone on flint roads, and thus a gradual extension of roads that can be tarred will be made."
11 Aug 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
(1) Longfield Parish Council (2) Fiction Library
(1) Dartford RDC to look at state of Main Road and bank and path by Pondowne Villas. (2) Longfield Hill allotment holders to be told they have to stop selling their produce as it's against the law. (3) Steps leading from Hartley Road to Longfield Station have been repaired by DRDC.
A T Smith Newsagent
(Advert) "Residents of Longfield and District. Notice. At the request of a number of our clients of Longfield and district arrangements have been made with Mr A T Smith, Newsagent, Main Road, Longfield to conduct a branch of our poplar fiction library. Newest books. Constant change. Bryant & Rackstraw Ltd. Tel: 16 Gravesend. Branch of library at Miss Langford, Bank? Office, Meopham."
18 Aug 1923 Yorkshire Post
Land for Sale
"Freehold - 4 acres well matured orchard, suitable for anyone about to retire, and wishing to build in a beauty spot of Kent, 23 miles from London; present crop will return good portion of purchase money; price £160 per acre. Also house, with possession, and 5 acres of land, £1,650. Several 1 acre plots at £80 per acre, and 5 acres of orchard £110 per acre - Gray, Bank Buildings, Hartley, Longfield, Kent."
[Highfields, Manor Drive]
18 Aug 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Poultry for Sale
"To poultry farmers. The Poultry Farm, Hartley, 1½ miles from Fawkham Station. 1,000 pure bred Leghorns, including 600 April and May hatched pullets and 50 selected cockerels (Cam, Barron and Collinson strains). Bay Cob Gelding, Seven 150 egg incubators. 28 poultry houses (the majority built by J Halsall, Kirkham, Lancs), Brooder house (60ft x 15ft, 17 Foster Mothers. Chaff cutter, harness, market cart, light trap, hen coops, egg boxes, iron corn bins, large quantity wire netting, timber etc. Mr E J Parker is instructed by Mr J W Harwood to sell the above by auction on Friday September 7th 1923 at 12 o'clock..."
Longfield Ratepayers' Protest
"At a meeting of the Executive Committee of the New Barn and District Ratepayers' Protection Association the following resolutions were passed, and the Hon Sec, Mr Marshall Jackman was instructed to forward them to the proper quarters and to the press.
'That the Association desire to call the serious attention of the police authorities to the dangers of the heavy traffic along the narrow road from Southfleet village to Longfield Hill, through New Barn. The road in many parts is not more than 13ft wide and footpaths are provided along a very short portion of its length. Large lorries, mainly carting stones, and, at time, charabancs frequently render the road extremely dangerous to pedestrians and cyclists. The lorries are often driven in a most reckless manner and have become a source of terror to the inhabitants, particularly women and children......"
Two on One Bicycle - Meopham Fatality
Gravesend Inquest on Frederick Benjamin Selling of The Street, Meopham, who was knocked down while delivering evening newspapers. "Charles Wickenden, labourer, Red Cow Farm, Longfield, said that on Wednesday evening he was returning to Longfield from Meopham Green, where he had picked up his brother at 10.15pm. Witness was riding on the saddle of the bicycle, and his brother was sitting sideways on the crossbar. Just after he left the Green, witness saw deceased walking on the left hand side of the road, about 5 yards in front. Witness die not have time to ring his bell, but he pulled both brakes up sharp, bringing the bicycle nearly to a standstill. Deceased walked across to the right hand side of the road, and witness turned sharply to the left. The handlebar ofthe bicycle struck deceased in the back. Witness jumped off the bicycle, letting it go, and dragged the deceased to the side of the road, as there was a car behind. The car did not stop." He told coroner he was doing 7mph. His brother George said he didn't see anything because he was facing the other way, and lost consciousness after the accident, but then managed to walk home. Hospital doctor said Mr Selling had fractured skull and ribs, while the fall may have caused the skull fracture it would not have accounted for the damage to the ribs. Agreed with coroner that collision must have been fairly violent. Coroner recorded verdict of Accidental Death but criticised the Wickendens and told them this habit of riding on the handlebars has got to stop.
21 Aug 1923 Pall Mall Gazette
Beautified Bermondsey
"Floral supplied from own estate: Bermondsey Borough Council has acquired Fairby Grange, Fawkham, Kent, as a convalescent home for mothers, and the Beautification Committee of the Council will draw from the property supplies of trees, shrubs, plants and cut flowers to adorn the streets, open spaces, and buildings in the borough. Fields of about 8 acres are available for cultivation, and there is also a kitchen garden of 1½ acres, a large orchard, and a spinney."
01 Sep 1923 Folkestone Herald
Fairby Lane, Land for Sale
"4 acres planted orchard land; about 900 trees; part of gentleman's smallholding; mile Fawkham Station; in charming village abutting on main road; frontage 340 ft on private road; water supply; most suitable erection bungalow; only wants seeing; low price; including crop apples if sold immediately - Apply, The Limit, Hartley, Kent."
[The Limit was a smallholding sold by Small Owners Limited, the house is now called Ambleside. The road referred to is probably Fairby Lane.]
10 Sep 1923 Times
Land for Sale in Longfield
Sale of The Retreat, Longfield and 1-6 Mabel Cottages (let at £130.12 pa) and 4 Court Villas [20 Hartley Road]
22 Sep 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Pig for Sale
"For sale - Good bacon pig, half ton meadow hay, small trolley, good secondhand wood and large manure guards, or will exchange. Jones, Homefield, Hartley, Longfield [Homefield was on the corner of Stack Lane and Ash Road]
28 Sep 1923 Daily Mirror
Letter to the Editor
Frederick Welch writes to say birdsong is best when heard in the wild
29 Sep 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Improving District Roads
"With reference to the suggested improvement works on district roads, for which grants are to be made by the Road Board, the Highways Committee of the Dartford RDC have received the plans and estimates prepared as under: …. Longfield to Longfield Hill (2 improvements) £729 16s; Longfield to Hartley Road (adjoining Longfield Station) £351 6s; New Barn Road, Southfleet £619 10s. The committee recommended that the whole of these schemes be submitted to the Ministry of Transport with a view of their being carried out as unemployment works, and of obtaining the full grant in aid of the expenditure....."
Improving Station Road
"At the Dartford RDC on Tuesday, the Highways Committee reported they had received a letter from Mr J J Perry, calling attention to the nuisance caused by noises arising from the Council's depot, and to the smoke from the engines, the fires of which were burning all night. The Committee had ordered trees to be planted along the front of the depot to help to lessen the noise and to screen the smoke. The Sub-committee appointed to consider the erection of the new shed at the Longfield depot reported that new square posts were required, as the bent chestnut posts would require straightening, and, in consequence, would not be strong enough to bear the weight of the shed. the committee instructed the Surveyor to inspect the timber at Messrs Harber Bros, and report.
The Sub-committee appointed to consider the improvement of Station Road, reported that they had negotiated with Mr Rich, who was prepared to allow part of his yard to be taken for the widening, on payment of £40 compensation, and in consideration of the council having a fence put back, renewing such parts as were unfit for use. The Committee recommend that the improvement be carried out on these terms.
At a cost of £85 a concrete retaining wall is to be erected against the gardens of the Council's houses, and a footpath formed and kerbed." [7-25 Main Road]
04 Oct 1923 The Stage
Theatrical Agent Advertisement
"Edward W Wemyss, having mutually relinquished his position as General Manager of Messrs Heslop & Sons Ltd, is starting business on his own account as Variety, Concert Party and Theatrical Agent, will be pleased to hear from all concert artists and proprietors with their full date sheet at the undermentioned address pending an office in the West End.
Wanted Concert Parties, South, October 22 on. Musical Comedies and Revues playing smalls. Artists for Panto and Revue.
Hartley Court Cottage, Longfield, Kent."
05 Oct 1923 Southwark & Bermondsey Recorder
Eulogies on Fairby Grange
Bermondsey Borough Council. "Alderman Ada Broughton presented the following exhaustive report on Fairby Grange, Fawkham, by Dr Connan, Acting Medical Officer.
Short Description of House and Estate
Fairby Grange is a charming old world country house. The house, together with 3 cottages and an estate of nearly 20 acres, was offered to the council by Dr Salter for the purpose of the establishment of a convalescent home for mothers and babies. The Council accepted the gift with gratitude, and instructed the Medical officer to prepare a scheme.
The house contains 25 rooms, including a lounge and 3 bathrooms.
Ground Floor - the lounge gives access to two short corridors arranged a right angles. Two reception rooms, the billiard room and a cloak room open onto one corridor. The other corridor leads to the dining room and to the kitchen and sculleries.
First Floor - The main staircase opens onto the lounge below; above; it leads to two corridors arranged at right angles as on the ground floor. One of these corridors gives access to the nursery, 2 bedrooms, the linen room and 2 bathrooms. The second corridor leads to 2 large bedrooms, 2 smaller bedrooms and a bathroom. At the end of each of these corridors, a smaller staircase leads up to 2 bedrooms which have evidently been designed for the use of domestic servants.
In addition to the house, there is an open estate of approximately 20 acres, upn which is situated 3 cottages. By arrangement with the Beautification Committee, the pleasure grounds will be for the use of patients; the remaining part of the grounds will be let on a rental to the Beautification Committee.
Method of Adapting Fairby Grange for use as a convalescent home
Ground Floor - the dining room will seat comfortably 21 persons, i.e. 15 adults and 6 toddlers, so that all the patients will be able to sit down to each meal at the same time when the house is full. A hatch has been constructed between the dining room and kitchen, thus facilitating the service of meals and avoiding the necessity of extra kitchen staff. The kitchen is large and well lit and ample for the purpose of the home A recess from the kitchel has been fitted as a small sitting room for the kitchen staff. Adjoining the kitchen is a scullery and a wash house, together with a butler's pantry, which will be used as a store room. The wash house is fitted with a copper and two special washing places, which will be utilised for the washing of baby clothes. At the end of the second corridor on the ground floor is a billiard room. This is a large room and will be used as a day room for mothers and babies and toddlers. Next to the billiard room there is a smaller room, which will be shared by the matron and nurse as a sitting room and office. Like the billiard room, this room has a separate door opening onto the garden. The last room in this corridor is a reception room eminently suitable as a quiet room for the mothers. This room has a door opening onto a verandah, so that it will be possible for mothers to rest in this room while their babies sleep in prams in the open air on the verandah opposite.
First Floor - The nursery on this floor will be used as a room in which the babies will be dried and clothed. This room is opposite the two bathrooms in which the babies will be washed. After their bath the babies will be wrapped in towels and taken into the nursery. The first bedroom on this floor will accommodate three mothers and their babies and three toddlers. The second bedroom will take three mothers and babies and one toddler. On the same floor along the other corridor four mothers will sleep in the best bedroom. The small bedroom adjoining the bathroom is the matron's bedroom. Of the remaining two bedrooms on this floor, the larger one will accommodate three mothers and babies and two toddlers and the smaller room two mothers and babies. The bathroom on this floor will be for the use of the staff. Above this corridor on the second floor the nurse will sleep in one room, the second room being kept empty as an isolation or emergency bedroom. The cook and two domestic servants will sleep on the second floor above the linen room and bathroom at the end of the other corridor.
Accommodation
Accommodation will thus be provided for 15 mothers, 12 babies and 6 toddlers. This estimate of the accommodation is conservative and provisional. The number of births in the Borough last year was 3,167. It is impossible to say what proportion of the mothers require convalescent treatment, but, in my opinion, at least 50% of them would benefit greatly by such treatment. The accommodation at Fairby Grange will allow for treatment of approximately 350 to 400 mothers annually, so that, even if the convalescent home is full all the year round, the need will only partially be met. It cannot, of course, be assumed that all those who need treatment will be able to avail themselves of the opportunity offered at Fairby Grange. Probably those whose need is greatest will be the least able to go away, either on account of the expense or because of the impossibility of leaving other young children at home. To meet this obstacle it has been decided to assess the charges to be ade according to the circumstances of hte family and to allow a mother to take one toddler in addition to her infant.. The health visitors have been instructed to make known the home known to all their mothers, and to give every assistance to the applicants. The success of the scheme will be, to a large extent, dependent on their efforts.
Cost of Furnishing
The estimated cost of furnishing and equipping Fairby Grange as a convalescent home was £1,000. At the time of reporting hte home has been furnished and equipped at a cost of £740. There remains some items of furniture to purchase and minor alterations to carry out. The furnishing of the home has een carried out with a view to the comfort and happiness of the patients, and while nothing has been done to lessen the amenities of what is a beautiful house, strict regard has been paid to economy.
Staff
(1) Matron - Miss Sewell, matron of the lying in hostel, has been appointed temporarily as matron at her present salary of £140 per annum. (2) Nurse - Mrs Barham has been appointed at a salary of £70 per annum. (3) Cook - Miss Boutcher of the lying in hostel has been appointed cook temporarily at her present salary of £60 per annum. (4) One housemaid, at £30 per annum, not appointed at time of writing. (5) One between maid at £26 per annum. Dorothy Francis, age 20, appointed on one month's trial. (6) On gardener, at £2 17s per week, with a cottage on the estate.
Estimated expenditure for the next 7 months
Rates, taxes, insurances, telephone etc, £140; water, fuel, lighting £104; laundry £100; repairs and maintenance, £50; furniture and equipment (renewals), nil; salaries and wages, £280; medical requisites, £10. Total £1,284. Less Income - Patients' Fees, £100; rent from cottages and grounds, £77 - £177. Total £1,107.
Method of admission; fees; transport of patients
Provisional rules to govern the admission of patients, charges to be made etc, have been drawn up as follows:
(1) The Home is open for the reception of mothers and babies.
(2) Babies must be at least 3 weeks old, and not more than 12 months old.
(3) In addition to the baby, the mother may, in exceptional circumstances, be accompanied by one other child, which must not be more than 5 years of age.
(4) A mother may be admitted unaccompanied provided she is the mother of a child under 5 years of age, or when convalescent treatment is necessary following miscarriage, or a confinement where the infant has died.
(5) Expectant mothers in need of convalescent treatment will also be admitted, but admission will, in general, not be allowed after the 6th month of pregnancy. An expectant mother may be accompanied by one child under the age of 5.
(6) Application for admission is to be made on a form which can be obtained from the Public Health Department, Town Hall, Spa Road, from any of the Maternity and Child Welfare centres or from any doctor or clergyman in the borough.
(7) The form, when filled in, should be taken by the applicant personally to Dr MIldred Thynne at 98 Rotherhithe New Road, on Friday at 10am. // (8) The length of stay at the Home shall be a period not less than 14 days, recommended by the Medical Officer.
(9) A weekly charge will be made which will be assessed according to the financial circumstances of the family. The standard charge will be 10s per week. In special cases admission may be free. Payments shall be made weekly to the Matron at Fairby Grange.
(10) Patients must pay their own railway fares to and from Fawkham Kent. The return fare from Holborn Viaduct is 6s.
(11) Mothers must come provided with suitable clothing, and will require a pair of slippers, a change of underclothing, a brush and comb and toothbrush.
(12) A complete outfit of baby clothing will be suppied by the Home for each infant, which shall be for the use that particular infant during its stay in the Home. Care will be taken to ensure that the clothing for each infant is kept separate. // (13) Where an additional child under 5 accompanies mother and baby, the child must come provided with suitable clothing - a change of underclothing, a pair of slippers and a toothbrush.
(14) Mothers will be expected to make their own beds, and take full charge of their own infants.
(15) All patients are required to agreed to abide by the rules of the Home, and to carry out the instructions of the Matron. The Borough Council does not hold itself liable in any way whatever for any accident or mishap which may occur to any patient while in the Home.
A supply of application forms has been sent to every Centre, and to every doctor, clergyman and Mission in the Borough, togehter with copies of the provisional Rules and a covering letter. With regard to Section 9, the assessment will be made by the Medical Officer of Health, using the same scale as that laid down by the same scale as that laid down fby the council fo rthe supply of milk. Patients entitled to free milk under the scale will pay 5s a week. Patients entitled to milk at half price will pay 7s 6d per week. Patients above these scales will pay 10s or more per week according to circumstances. All cases where the assessment is below 5s per week or above 10s per week will be referred to the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee in the near future. This scale is provisional and will be reported upon to the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee in the near future.
Section 10 - with regard to this section, those patients who have already been admitted to Fairby Grange were given careful verbal instructions, reinforced by a typewritten sheet containing full directions for the journey. The generous offer of a motor car has since been made by Mr Norden, and, if the committee accepts this offer, the problem of the transport of the patients will be simplified. Local rules for the orderly running of the home e.g. fixing bedtime, mealtimes etc, have been drawn up by the Matron.
Treatment While in the Home
Patients will be expected to make their own beds and tidy their bedrooms, and to wash, dress and feed their own babies. Any other help which they give in the Home will be entirely voluntary and at the discretion of the Matron. A certain amount of prejudice exists against convalescent homes on account of the restrictions usually imposed, and at Fairby Grange as great a measure of freedom as is compatible with order and comfort will be allowed. At the same time, the Matron and her assistant will be expected to instruct mothers, individually and tactfully as opportunity occurs, in the general hygiene of pregnancy, of infant life e.g. feeding, exercise, sleep etc. It is hoped that a considerable proportion of ante-natal cases will be admitted, and there is no doubt that sympathetic and judicious instruction will be valuable in these cases.
Medical Supervision
The Medical Officer of Health will exercise general supervision and visit the convalescent home as oftenr as may be necessary. In case of emergency, arrangements have been made to call in a local practitioner. Patients will be expected to pay their owne medical fees.
Date of Opening
Up to the date of writing over 40 applications for admission have been received. In order that what remains of summer weather should not be wasted, 6 mothers, 5 babies and 2 toddlers were admitted on Saturday 1st September. The number will be gradually increased until the full complement is reached. The date of the official opening has yet to be fixed. In regard to the accommodation, we have not decided what shall be the proportion of mothers and babies and toddlers, but our feeling is that a mother and baby should have the preference over a mother and baby with toddler. With reference to the formal opening, this has not been decided, but we hpoe to be able o arrange this at our next meeting. This was agreed to."
06 Oct 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Honey for Sale
"Finest Kentish Honey - Extracted 7lb tin 10s 6d post free; 1lb jar, 1s 9d, ½lb jar, 1s; comb 1lb section 2s 6d at apiary only - Robertson, Hartley Hill Cottage, Near Longfield, Kent"
13 Oct 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Sale of Stock at Homefield
"Homefield, Hartley, Longfield. About 1 mile from Fawkham Station, sale by auction of live and dead stock including 15 head of swine, 2 goats and kid, 200 head of poultry. Pig troughs, wire netting, coops, lawn mower, tanks, a large quantity of useful timber, quantity of hay. Range of piggeries, 2 sectional poultry houses, 5 useful outbuildings. A few items of household furniture. Mr E J Parker has received instructions from Mr F Jones to sell the above by auction on the premises on Friday 26th October 1923, commencing at 1pm sharp...."
20 Oct 1923 Nottingham and Midland Catholic News
At the Shrine of 'Our Lady of Hartley'
"Prayers Responded To. In the oratory at Hartley, Kent, which is often served by priests from London is to be seen the shrine of Our Lady of Hartley. Prayers have always found a ready response here and the shrine is drawing many worshippers from the Catholics of London and the Home Counties.
Hartley is a district of Northfleet parish in Kent, the county where St Augustine first set foot. Opened just before the war to provide for the spiritual needs of a hundred Catholics scattered throughout the district, the church was converted from a barn in such a manner that the building itself was unaltered. The thatched roof can be seen between the beams.
Most of the sanctuary equipment is of wood. The alter itself is principally of oak. The font, a relic of pre-'Reformation' days, bears numerous traces of a chequered career under various owners, and there are many relics of saints to be seen. The statue of Our Lady of Hartley dates from the latter part of the 18th century and is of Belgian origin. Upon the robes of Our Lady are to be seen shamrock, roses and fleur-de-lis. the rosary that hangs from her hand was blessed by the late Pope, who also granted an indulgence of 100 days to all who said: 'Our lady of Hartley, pray for us.' Besides the shrine, there are statutes of the Sacred Heart, St Joseph, St Peter, St Joan of Arc, St Francis de Sales and St Antony. Many valuable gifts from non-Catholics, as well as Catholics have been made to the church.
[The reference to an indulgence relates to the Roman Catholic doctrine of purgatory, which is a belief in a stage to be undergone before being allowed into heaven. While Popes still offer indulgences, since 1967 they have not offered a tariff off the time spent in purgatory.]
27 Oct 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Road Improvement
"The widening and improvement of the Hartley to Ash Road is now practically completed."
Dartford RDC
They agreed to pay the higher wages to workmen transferred to Longfield Depot where the wages are lower. They also agreed to put up a fence on Mr T C Allchin's property by road improvements.
01 Nov 1923 The Stage
Singer Advert
"Edward Wemyss, Baritone, Hartley Court Cottage, Longfield, Kent."
03 Nov 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Presentation to the Rector and Miss Bancks
"The completion of 21 years as Rector of Hartley by the Rev G W Bancks MA was happily marked on Saturday when parishioners and friends assembled in the Lecture Room of Fairby Stores, to present him and Miss Bancks with tangible evidence of goodwill. Mr S Newcombe presided and tea was provided by a ladies' committee, comprising Mrs Newcombe, Mrs Farrow, Mrs Snow and Mrs T F Tate. A short programme was rendered by Mrs Balchin, Mrs Symons, Mr Chisholm and Mr J Wells Thatcher. The Chairman scored further success with humorous songs, while Mr Chishom jun showed himself the skilled pianist. In making the presentation, Mr Newcombe said it gave him particular pleasure, as the Rector's oldest Hartley friends to ask Mr Bancks to accept a birthday gift from his parishioners. The suggestion of making a practical recognition of the Rector's 'coming of age' came from Mr Gray, and met with an immediate response. The subscription list showed that throughout the parish Mr Bancks was held in the highest esteem. The Chairman then handed Mr Bancks a silver bacon dish and a cheque. Mr Newcombe congratulated Miss Bancks on her recovery from her operation, and handed her a silver mirror, remarking that whenever she looked into it she would see a reflection of health and happiness. Mr Bancks, who was cordially received said he could not find words to express his feelings at the great kindness shown him and his daughter. He remembered well the circumstances of his appointment to the living of Hartley in 1902. Great changes had taken place in the village and many had passed away. The great kindness shown to himthat day relieved the sadness with joy. The handsome dish would have a double value - its practical purpose, and as a means of keeping always for him a warm recollection of the generosity of his neighbours and friends. Miss Bancks said that although she felt unable to say a great deal, she appreciated their kindness very much indeed. A vote of thanks was passed to the Ladies' Committee for their hospitality."
"The Archdeacon of Rochester on Sunday preached at Hartley Church. Referring to the decorations recently carried out in the church, the Archdeacon said he was glad to see that there had been no attempt at 'artistic' decoration. Their ancient parish church had rightly been treated in a simple way in keeping with the building and its traditions."
17 Nov 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Armistice Day
Large congregation at All Saints'. Wreaths laid at War memorial, where Captain Webster had inscribed "Lest We Forget" in white chrysanthemums. Poppy day sales raised £4 19s 3d.
Joseph Leigh
(Longfield) "The funeral took place on Saturday at the Parish Church, of Mr Joseph Leigh, railway signalman at Fawkham, deceased, who was president of the local branch of the National Union of Railwaymen, came to Fawkham in 1911. He passed away after a brief illness. Some 57 railwaymen were present, together with representatives from all stations between Swanley and Sittingbourne, including Southfleet, Gravesend and Chatham. The cortege was headed by Mr Tapsell (stationmaster of Fawkham) and Mr Norman (late of Fawkham), and the bearers were 4 signalmen, friends of the deceased......."
24 Nov 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Poultry for Sale
"For sale - January Cockerels, Minorcas, Indian Game and Buff Rocks; splendid condition - Watson, Wayside, Hartley."
01 Dec 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Brass Band
"Following a public meeting, with the Rector Rev G W Bancks in the chair, a brass band has been established, to be known as the Hartley and District Band. Over 20 men and lads have already joined. Lieut-Col J Waley Cohen DSO has been elected president, and the Conductor will be Mr T F Tate."
(Advert) Logs for Xmas Fires
"Wood logs, cut in 6 to 9 inch lengths, delivered in the Gravesend-Dartford area at 35/- per ton, in 1 ton lots. 32/6 per ton in 4 ton lots. Hartley and Longfield 30/- per ton. Order now to ensure delivery before Xmas. Cash with order. Prices on application for Ash Fencing Stakes and Rustic Wood of all kinds. Gilbert and Ellerby, Hartley, Longfield."
08 Dec 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Funeral at Hartley
"The funeral took place at Hartley, on Monday of Mrs Maria Ray, of Orchard House, Swanscombe, who died on the previous Wednesday. Deceased, who attained the age of 95 was the daughter of Mr William and mrs Eliza Bensted of Longfield Court, and married Mr Martin Ray of Franks Hall, Horton Kirby. Until her husband died in 1882 she lived at Ridley Court, near Wrotham. She had 4 sons, one of whom is Archdeacon Ray, Rector of All Saints' Church, Manchester. After the death of her husband she lived with her son, then Priest in Charge of Swanscombe parish church for 5 years. When her son left Swanscombe, Mrs Ray moved to Coombe Lodge, and afterwards to Orchard House....."
Moving on
"Experienced all round farm worker with 3 sons; one a waggoner; wife used to fruit picking; 5 years' reference; leaving present farm owing to change of ownership - H Wickenden, Middleton Farm, Longfield, near Dartford"
13 Dec 1923 Mitcham Advertiser
Adverts
"Elocution and English - Miss May Bonsall gives lessons: Croydon and district visited - Hartley Hill, Longfield, Kent."
22 Dec 1923 Folkestone Herald
New phone line
New subscriber to Ash (Dartford) exchange - M Roberts, Brandshatch Place, Fawkham. Ash 17.
28 Dec 1923 Bucks Examiner
Poultry Show Success
Ernest Gee of Hartley Grange - success in local poultry show (see article)
29 Dec 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Burning Fatality at Hartley
"Methylated Spirits to Relight a Fire: The extremely sad circumstances of the death of Mrs Anna Maud Edith Harwood, 34, wife of Mr J W Harwood of the Poultry Farm, Hartley, Longfield were investigated by the Gravesend Coroner (Mr G Evans Penman) at the Town Hall on Monday afternoon. In her husband's absence, deceased poured methylated spirits onto the fire to revive it and set light to herself in the kitchn. Badly burned, she ran to a neighbour, and was subsequently brought to the Gravesend Hospital, where she died.
James Wilfred Harwood, the husband, said on the previous Thursday night he went out about 8 o'clock, leaving his wife and their little boy of 3 in the house. Returning later he found the kitchen on fire. He went upstairs and took the boy from his cot. Having put the fire out, he found his wife wrapped in blankets at the house of a neighbour, Mrs Hamilton. At the hospital, where witness stayed with deceased during the night, she made a remark about her usual silly tricks. What he thought happened was that his wife put some methylated spirtis on the fire, that it ignited and that she jumped back and dropped the bottle. The spirits were kept on the mantelpiece for lighting a Primus stove. The Coroner: Have you looked for this bottle of methylated spirits since? Witness: Yes, it was just in front of the fire. Was the bottle broken? - The neck of the bottle was. There were still some spirits in it. How much was in it do you think when you went out? There would not be much because it was near the end of the week. Have you ever known your wife to pour methylated spirits on the fire before? - Not before.
Mrs Lilian Hamilton said deceased came to her house about 11.30 on Thursday night. Her husband opened the door while she got her dressing gown on, as they were in bed at the time. The deceased had very little clothing on and a mackintosh which she had wrapped around herself was still smouldering. Mr Hamilton helped her indoors and she collapsed on a bed. The Coroner: Did she tell you what had happened? Witness: She said 'I was putting some spirits on the fire. What a silly thing to do.' Do I understand her clothing had been burned off her? - Yes. She was in her ordinary day clothing? - Yes. Mr Harwood she continued, came in about 10 minutes afterwards. She treated the deceased's burns with oil, while Mr Hamilton telephoned for Dr Pinching at Gravesend. The doctor said he could do nothing if he came out. He advised them to wrap deceased in blankets and to convey her as quickly as possible to the hospital. Deceased told witness that she wrapped the mackintosh round herself and rolled in mud, adding, 'I hope the house is alright and the boy.'
Mr A Richardson, house surgeon, said that when brought to the hospital at 12.40 am on December 21st, deceased was conscious but very ill. She died at 11.10. She was extensively burned about the front part of the body and the limbs. The cause of death was shock occasioned by the burns. She told witness she had been using methylated spirits to make up the fire.
The Coroner, returning a verdict of 'Accidental Death,' said it was another case of a person losing her life through her own carelessness. It was not many months ago that he held an inquest on a servant girl from the same neighbourhood, who died in similar circumstances. It only showed how careful people ought to be in the use of methylated spirits to light fires. Having elicited that the deceased was wearing partly woollen clothing, Mr Penman said his experience was that the burns were always more extensive in such cases. He expressed regret at the great misfortune that had befallen Mr Harwood, particularly at that time of the year."
29 Dec 1923 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Church
By the Rector, The Rev Gerard W Bancks. Lengthy article, much of the which information would later appear in Hartley Through the Ages. "…..Carpenters and bricklayers were busy in the church in the beginning of the 18th century, and during the first half of the 19th century. The turret was repaired in 1838, and two buttresses built in 1859. Between 1860 and 1862 much alteration and restoration took place. The pews were altered, the roof retiled, the vestry was built and also the present east wall of the chancel. In 1892 the west wall was entirely rebuilt and the gallery removed. And a little later the present porch replaced the old one......" He writes much about the door, the 14th century bell and the "leper window". There are various theories as to what they were used for. "It is thought by some that lights were shown from low side window to keep away evil spirits from the churchyard. If this is so, the goblins must have been exceptionally troublesome here, for there is a second one of these windows, now blocked up, the north side of the church."