1925 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1920-1929
03 Jan 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Carol Service
"A Carol Service was held in the Parish Church on Sunday Evening. A specially interesting feature was the participation of the Hartley and District Band in the rendering of the carols. The Rector (Rev G W Bancks) welcomed th presence of the Band as being in keeping with the ancient association of instrumental music with divine service. Congregation, choir and band were uniting in an act of worship, celebrating the most joyous festival of the Christian year."
17 Jan 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Road Widening
(Dartford RDC) "The surveyor reported to Dartford Council on Tuesday that, with respect to Hartley road widening (opposite St John's Lane) the owners have made an offer of the necessary forntage required for purposes of road widening for passing places in consideration of a chestnut fence being erected to replace the existing hedge boundary."
Advert. Accumulator Service
"Start the Year Well by joining our accumulator service. Routes: Monday - New Barn, Longfield, Darenth, Swanley....Enquiries to Missing's Wireless Depot (Capt J C de Wardt, AMIEE), 5-10 New Road, Gravesend."
29 Jan 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hoselands Hill
"The Railway Co is allowing the widening of Hoselands Hill, as a result of a petition from Longfield and Hartley."
04 Feb 1925 Daily Express
Grocery Business for Sale
At Southend, contact Ball of Church Road, Hartley [in 1939 George Ball of Hasleholt Ash Road was described as "retired grocer"]
14 Feb 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Three Feet Flood
"In his report to the Highways Committee of the Dartford RDC, the surveyor stated that during the past 6 months the road from the Green Man, Longfield to Hartley Bottom, has been flooded to a depth of 3 feet owing to surface water near the railway bridge. Surface water drains were laid through a field into a ditch with the owner's permission, and the road raised sufficient to prevent a repitition of the flooding. The section of the road has been resurfaced with flint and rag, and drainage improvements completed."Poultry for Sale
"February and March Cockerels, extra good, White Wyandotte, 15s; Indian Game, [...]orca - Watson, Wayside, Hartley, Longfield
21 Feb 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Development of Hartley
"The growth of the village continues. Neat little bungalows and pretty villas, with picturesque views over undulating country are now quite numerous. Hartley has 'caught the eye' of many men with business in the city, and as the train service is good, Hartley should still forge ahead as time passes."
28 Feb 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Hall - Goods for Sale
"Hartley Hall [Social Club] adjoining Hartley Post Office and about 10 minutes' walk from Fawkham Station. Messrs Porter Putt and Fletcher are instructed by the tenant of 'The Nutshell', Hartley, to offer for sale by Public Auction on Wednesday March 4th 1925 at 2 o'clock precisely, the whole of the Household furniture.
Comprising oak dresser; 2 wheel back and other chairs; inlaid table with 2 leaves and drawer; walnut china cabinet; 2 Jacobean pattern bedroom suites; several carpets in new condition; dinner and tea ware; kitchen utensils; numerous garden tools and mower; garden wheelbarrow. About 70 head of poultry.
Also plant of a small jam factory. Consisting of Aluminium Preserve pans; scales; sieve; primus stoves and other articles.
The goods will be removed to Lower Hartley Hall for Convenience of Sale..."
[The Nutshell was where Culvey Close is today. As for 10 minutes to walk to the station, all I can say is people must have walked much faster in those days!]
Local Correspondent
Send items for Longfield to Walter Wright of Melbourne [12 Main Road], Longfield.
The late Mr Thomas Gear
Died King Edward Hospital [West Hill, Dartford] aged 27. "He saw much active service overseas with the 50th Division, 3rd London Royal Fusiliers, and at the end of the war resumed his occupation with Messrs J & B Martin of Pinden. Two years ago he was taken ill, and did not recover." Undertakers were Robson & Holman of Hartley.
Shaw's Laundries Limited
Gravesend, collect Tuesday, deliver Friday in this district [Longfield].
07 Mar 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
A Bill for Timber
(Gravesend County Court) "W R Barton & Sons Ltd, timber merchants, of Milton Road, Gravesend, sued Leo A Wanstall, of Southview [Church Road], Hartley, Longfield for £4 11s for timber supplied. Mr H L Tatham for the plaintiffs, called Mr Summers in their employ, who stated that defendant admitted owing £2 17s 1d, but said they had not given him credit for £1 13s 11d for goods returned. As a matter of fact, credit was given on May 21st. His honour gave judgement for the amount claimed, at £1 a month."
Servant wanted
"Lady daily, afternoons, light household duties; pianist and good reader aloud. Barfield, Westfield, Hartley, Longfield."
14 Mar 2025 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Road
"Mr C H Webb, surveyor, reported to the Dartford RDC on Tuesday that, with respect to the proposed maining of the second class road, Dartford to Longfield Hill, after an inspection, the County surveyor recommended that the following improvements be carried out, before the County Council took it over: Tarmacadam surfact the entire length of 6 miles; footpath 6 feet 6 inches width on one side; kerbing of footpaths; improved drainage; improved batters to certain banks; concrete retaining walls to prevent surface water ponds flooding road; super elevation of road at certain points; and road widenings to 26 feet 6 inches, for carriageway 20 feet, footpath 6 feet 6 inches at Grubb Street, Pinden, Pescot, Longfield School and Longfield Hill. The estimated cost was £31,238 3s nett and £34,890 14s 7d gross. Mr Webb considered the work could be carried out by direct labour for the nett amount, if the item for compensation was not exceeded (This is an estimated sum of £365). The Highways Committee recommended the adoption of the minute, and that the work be carried out by direct labour under the Surveyor." Committee also approved new tarmacadam surface for Ash Road between War Memorial and St John's Lane at cost of £6,744.
21 Mar 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
New Instruments for Hartley and District Band
"A large gathering of friends and supporters of the…. band assembled at Fairby Hall on the 11th inst, to witness the formal presentation of new instruments. The conductor, Mr T F Tate, said the band had only been established a little more than a year, and it was gratifying that, owing to the generosity of friends, they had in such a comparatively short time been able to purchase a complete set of new instruments. He specially thanked Mr E J Cuff for his gift of uniforms; the Hartley WI for a handsome donation; and Mrs Hicks of Longfield, for a loan of £100, which had enabled the instruments to be bought outright, by which the Band had saved £55 in cash discount. Mrs Hicks handed the instruments to the members and said she thought too much importance had been attached to her loan. Mrs Benson, treasurer, in proposing a vote of thanks to Mrs Hicks, said that her action was a very sporting one and in some respects better than a gift, as the Band now had an incentive to work hard and raise funds to pay off the loan. Mr J Wells Thatcher in seconding, suggested that a collection should be taken. This was done, and realised £2 10s 8d. The Musical Society, under Mr T F Tate, gave part songs, and Miss Bancks some humerous recitations. The Band played several selections in a manner which reflected great credit upon its energetic conductor."
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Elections held at Parish meeting, 10 candidates for 7 seats. Walter Wright topped the poll with 30 votes. Among those not elected was the rector Rev E Smith with 19 votes. (2) PC to ask Dartford RDC to take over Station Road and make an outlet into Hartley Road.
28 Mar 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
Good attendance. (1) Chief Constable replied that economy cuts mean he can't station a man at Hartley but will rearrange duties of neighbouring policemen to cover Hartley as much as possible. (2) Meeting had wanted Hartley designated an agricultural parish to get greater subsidy on cottage building. But Minister replied that as agricultural land in parish is less than 25% by rateable value, they "cannot regard Hartley as an agricultural parish". (3) Resolution passed to protest at use of Hartley Green to dump road stone. Mr Chisholm said heaps of stone frequently left at road junctions and was hazardous to motorists. (4) Meeting not satisfied with recent repairs to Church Road which was said to still be in a poor state. (5) "The need for a new cross road between the Parish Church and Ash Road was urged by Mr Gray, whose motion that the Rural Council be asked to inquire into the matter, was seconded by Mr Chisholm. The making of a firm footpath was suggested as an alternative. Ultimately the resolution was carried."
01 Apr 1925 Sheffield Daily Telegraph
House for Sale in Hartley
6 room bungalow for sale with 1 acre £940. Apply Parkin
11 Apr 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Farm for Sale
Kent Hills. 1 mile of Fawkham Station and 6 miles of the towns of Dartford and Gravesend. Sale by Auction of the Valuable Freehold Smallholding known as Hartley Poultry Farm, Hartley. Comprising well built bungalow residence of brick and rough cast with tiled roof, and containing hall, 3 bedrooms, sitting room, living room, scullery, larder, WC, outhouse. Company's water. Modern drainage. Capital incubator house, exceptionally well built of brick (cavity walls) with tiled roof, measuring about 28ft by 14 ft and suitable for conversion into 3 roomed cottage. Kitchen garden and fruit trees. Excellent grass land in all about 13 acres. Admirably adapted for fruit, poultry and pig farming. Vacant possession on completion of purchase. Messrs Geering and Colyer are instructed to sell the above by auction, as a whole or in 2 lots (unless previously disposed of by private treaty) at the London Auction Mart, 155 Queen Victoria Street, EC on Thursday April 16th 1925 at 1pm."
[Fairhaven, Manor Drive]
Hartley Agricultural Co-operative Society
Annual meeting heard turnover up 50% in 1924.
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Thanked Dartford RDC for filling up holes at Whitehill Road allotments, and from residents of Kent Road for chalk supplied them for repair of road. (2) PC agreed to publicise Dartford RDC scheme for granting loans to build houses for bona fide residents or workers.
Questions and Answers
Dartford RDC considered recent list of requests from Hartley Parish Meeting. The will put a signpost at Hartley Hill road junction. The stone on Hartley Green will be removed when works complete. They won't build a road from Black Lion to Hartley Church. Water can be laid on along Manor Lane but parish will probably have to sign a guarantee to Mid Kent Water.
18 Apr 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Motors Left in the Street
Gravesend Magistrates fine Edith Ethel Hickmott of Longfield Court and Horace Charles Tiffin of The Firs [Manor Drive], Hartley £1 each for causing an obstruction by parking for over 40 minutes in Stone Street. Ms Hickmott was told she should have parked in Wakefield Street. PC Cooper said he thought he saw of a heap of rugs in her car, but it turned out to be a lady sitting in the back.
25 Apr 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Easter Eggs
Hartley WI thanked by Gravesend Hospital for the gift of 22 dozen eggs.
Longfield Parish Church
Annual vestry meeting. (1) Bishop has consecrated new War Memorial, relatives of those named are looking after the flowers in the trough beneath it. (2) Additional part of churchyard has been consecrated. Quick hedge planted and planked together with 91 shrubs by Walter Wright. (3) Sunday School growing. Now 70 at Longfield and 30 at Longfield Hill.
EC Powder Works, Longfield, Kent
"Messrs Philip Champion & Sons have received instructions to sell by auction at the above address on Monday 27th April 1925 at 11.30am, a large quantity of Builders Material. Including Iron and Earthenware piping, Stock and Staffordshire Bricks, Step ladders, galvanised tanks, and Timber, arising from the demolition of the above...."
Ancient Longfield
"Geological discoveries which shed a little light on a past age have been made at Longfield. They include an underground chamber in the chalk. The following report on the find has been made by Messrs G E Hutchings and J H Evans, members of the Rochester District Naturalists' Society, who, accompanied by Mr Alfred Cripps of Mile End Green, have visited the site.
Longfield, which is 4 miles due west of Cobham, occupies a position in the middle reach of a long and deep, dry, chalk valley. This valley has it origin near Coldharbour, just north of Wrotham Hill, and the village of Stansted stands in its uppermost end. From Stansted the valley runs in a straight northerly direction for 4 miles to Longfield Hill, when it is turned sharply, almost at right angles, to the east, in which general direction it keeps until it joins the Darenth Valley, 5 miles further on. As the valley descends through the hills, it floor drops steadily, and its sides widen out; at Stansted the floor lies nearly 500 feet above sea level, at Berrys Maple it has dropped to 360 feet, at Hartley Bottom 280 feet, at Longfield School 200 feet, at Green Street Green 100 feet, until it joins the Darenth at about 40 feet.
Throughout it enire length the floor of the valley is covered by a considerable thickness of alternate beds of gravel and brick earth, both laid down on the original chalk floor by the ancient stream which carved out the valley and helped swell the waters of the Darenth. It is from these deposits that Mr Cripps made the important discovery of fragments of a tooth of an extinct species of elephant, most probably the mammoth (Elephans Primigenius). The tooth was unfortunately broken by the workmen and the remains are too fragmentary to identify with absolute certainty. These gravels and brick earths, we should be careful to point out, are not terrace deposits of the kind familiar in the Thames and Medway valleys, but are true river bed deposits.
We found the object of this report to be situated in a gravel pit, the property of Mr Cripps, opposite Longfield Schools. The brick earths and gravels attain (?) to the lower part of the pit, a thickness of fully 7 feet, and in many places this whole thickness has been removed, thus exposing the chalk valley floor. From such an exposed chalk section, we observed the mouth of a circular shaft; it has a diameter of 4 feet, and has been sunk perpendicuarly into the chalk. At some subsequent period it had been filled up with a chalky soil containing fragments of pottery and other human debris of various ages and character. Mr Cripps has emptied the shaft of the infilling for a depth of 23 feet from the chalk level, and fully 30 feet from the original level of the land. On opposite sides of the shaft notches have been cut at intervals, doubtless by the original diggers, to facilitate descent during the work of excavation. We regret tha tthe condition of the notches do not allow us to express an opinion as to the tools employed in cutting them.
As to the original purpose of this pit, we believe it to be either a marlpit or an ancient well, and our opinion inclines strongly to the latter supposition. It is not likely to have formed a pit dwelling. As at present revealed, the shaft simulates a well shaft, such as have been dug in this country during all ages, probalby from the Neolithic onwards. Should this be the case, the shaft will not alter in form as it is furhter excavated, and will in all probability prove to be very deep; archaeological objects found in it might prove of great interest an dvalue in themselves, bu tcould not be used in dating the shaft, of rit might have been filled up from an already existing rubbish heap. If however, it proves to be an excavation of the kind called 'Dene Holes' many of whcih are undoubtedly marlpits, we should expect the shaft to open out into a large bell shaped chamber ,or to branch off by means of inclied lateral galleries into 3 or 4 chambers. We should then regard it as a pit dug to obtain chalk for spreading on the land, an agricultural operation which has been carried out intermittently since the prehistoric Iron Age. That this kind of pit was dug in this locality at a comparatively late period, for the purpose of obtaining chalk, we have direct evidence from 'Notes on Agriculture' written by John ?????? of Horton Kirby, not far from this valley. Writing in 1799, he describes these pits as being in the form and circumference of a well, with an apparatus at the top for drawing up the chalk. The situation of the shaft, in the bottom of the valley, appears to us to definitely limit its purposes to be one of the two we have discussed. A well would naturally be dug in the lowest part of the vallye; and a marlpit would similarly be dug ther in order to obtain chalk from the lowest possible level, as this was believed to be (on good authority) better for the land.
In conclusion, we wish to say that the original use of the pit does not detract from the interest and possible importance of the finds which may be found therein; neither does it lessen the interest of the pit itself, as it might be ancient work. Indications are not lacking that the brick earth of this valley has been extensively worked, possibly, and very probably, from Roman times; we would call attention to finds of Roman pottery througout the valley, and the several human skeletons which, unfortunately, do not appear to have been scientifically recorded."
02 May 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Poultry Farm
"Hartley Poultry Farm, Hartley. 1 mile Fawkham Station, 4 miles Dartford and Gravesend. Sale by auction of poultry houses and effects. Comprising two mammoth intensive houses, measuring approximately 297ft x 16ft and 17ft x 17f, 9 portable poultry houses, brooder house, sectional intensive house, 9 incubators, quanity of wire netting, 3 sheds, incubator stand, coops, drinking fountains, cramming machine, dry mash hopper, feeding troughs, trap nests, portable copper etc, which Messrs Geering and Colyer are instructed by J Davis esq to sell by auction on the premises on Wednesday May 13th 1925 at 1.30pm."
Death of Mr J Balchin
Aged 63, done lots of work in connection with Cooperative Society and District Flower Show Committees. Keen gardener. Funeral at All Saints.
Nursing Association
Annual meeting. Last year there had been 174 cases, 2,821 visits and 3,392 hours on duty.
23 May 1925 Kentish Gazette
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Meeting to ask RDC to campaign for lower water charges. (2) Saturday afternoon post deliveries and collections to be 2 hours earlier to relieve postal staff at Longfield. (3) Meeting said even when RDC take all the stone off Hartley Green it will be an eyesore, thanks to running lorries on Green. (4) Meeting unhappy with recent alterations at Hoselands Hill, said it needed widening.
Electricity for the Villages
Gravesend Council to ask for amendment to add Hartley, Fawkham, Meopham, Darenth etc be transferred to their supply area.
30 May 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Electricity for Hartley?
Official notice of plans to extend area of Gravesend Electric Lighting Order 1898 and Gravesend (extension to Northfleet) electric Lighting Order 1905, and to amend area of West Kent Electric Co Ltd accordingly
30 May 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Local News in Brief
Auction notice for (among others) crop of 6? Acres Cherries and Apples at Hartley court for A L Farrow.
06 Jun 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Fawkham Inquest
Inquest - suicide of Alice Woodford (43) widow and housekeeper of Wickham Cottages, Fawkham
09 Jun 1925 Sheffield Daily Telegraph
House for Sale in Hartley
6 room bungalow 25 x 160 feet site. £700. Apply Gray, Bank Buildings
12 Jun 1925 Brockley News
Negligent Motoring - Accident in Loampit Vale
"At Greenwich Police Court, on Friday, Frank Bayntum of Highfield, Hartley, Longfield, was summonsed for driving a motor car negligently at Loampit Vale, Lewisham. Mr Melville appeared to prosecute, and Mr Good defended.
Arthur Henry Inkin of 30 Dermody Road, Lewisham, said that on March 19th he was driving a motor lorry in Loampit Vale towards New Cross, and intended to turn into Dunsley Place to go to a timber yard. His foreman, sitting on his left, leaned out before the lorry reached the turning, and, before witness commenced to turn, made a remark which caused him to pull up without turning. On the near side a light car dashed past him and ran into some men who were standing around road excavations which were indicated by posts. The men scattered, but three were knocked down. Before it stopped, the light car went on a further 7 to 10 yards. Witness's lorry was a 23hp Ford with right hand drive. He was driving at from 10 to 12 mph. To get into Dunsley Place he would have to make a sweep, as the entrance was narrow, but he was on the near side tramline and there was sufficient room. Mr Good said the width of the opening of Dunsley Place was only 10 feet, and wider sweep would be necessary.
Charles James Shipton of 63 Limes Grove, Lewisham, who was on the lorry with Inkin, deposed to having put out his hand to signal that the lorry was turning to the near side. The small car was following, and the driver did not appear to look at the signal. Witness, therefore, stopped the van from turning. The obstruction in the road was quite clear, and he thought anyone could see it. Defendant knocked down some of the posts.
George William Kirby of Short Street, Southwark, said he was working on the tramlines with his back to oncoming traffic. A fellow worker, named Collins, said, 'Look out,' and witness turned. The car came along and knocked him down, throwing him about 10 feet. William Frank Pollett of 19 Loampit Vale, said defendant's car went right over the obstruction where the road was under repair.
PC Chandler 309R said defendant told him, 'In avoiding another lorry, I struck an iron standard and lost control of my car.' PS Baker 91P, said he saw defendant on a date subsequent to the accident. He said, 'I was driving rather slowly up the hill on the near side. There was a large lorry in front of me on the right. The driver pulled out as if to turn to the right, when all of a sudden he turned to the left. The man who wwas sittin gon the front with the driver gave no warning that he was going to turn, so I continued on, ran into and knocked down an iron standard used as a warning which caused my nearside wheel to go in a hole. I then lost control of the car and knocked the men over. It was a pure accident and I did my best to avoid it, but could not.'
Mr Good, perusing a statement by Inkin, read, 'My foreman fully extended his arm about 20 yards.' (laughter). Mr Dummett: The long arm of coincidence. Defendant, in the box, said he was a building contractor. His car was a 7hp and he was driving at from 10 to 15 mph on the tramlines. He saw no signal, but Inkin was drawing on to the offside tramline and he thought he was going into Elswick Road. He turned suddenly to the left, and witness ran into the standard and unfortunately knocked down the men. His car, being a light one, began 'bumping about.' He always looked to a driver to give a signal. As soon as he pulled up, he gave his attention to the injured men.
Mr Good argued that this was a civil matter, and not a case of criminal negligence. Inkin he argued, turned out the get a sweep into Donsley Place and gave the signal far too late. Mr Dummett said he considered there was criminal negligence, but he would not treat it as a serious case and would fine defendant 10 shillings with 2 guineas costs. The licence would not be endorsed."
27 Jun 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Electricity for Hartley?
Gravesend Council approve resolution to extend powers of their electricity company to Longfield, Fawkham and Hartley
03 Jul 1925 Sussex Agricultural Express
House for Sale in Hartley
4 bedroom house for sale - rosemorran, Hartley
04 Jul 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Conservative Party
Hartley Women's Branch now has 140 members, including 3 new members enrolled at latest meeting at Hartley Manor.
11 Jul 1925 Gravesend Reporter
House for Sale in Hartley
Porter Putt Fletcher - auction of "The Limit", Hartley, 4b, 2r, 1 bath, 2 acres and 700 tree orchard [now called Ambleside, Ash Road]
11 Jul 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Court Sale
Dartford Board of Guardians buys 68 poultry, sheds and equipment for £32 from AC Farrow of Hartley Court.
25 Jul 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Accident in Hartley
13 year old son of motor contractor of Minchin Cottage, Hartley taken to Gravesend Hospital with broken arm [also in Kent Messenger 25.7.1925]
01 Aug 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Local News in Brief
(1) Hartley girl passes piano exam; (2) Obituary of George William Taylor of Longfield; (3) James Scholing of Snodland fined 40s and 10/6 doctor's fee for being drunk in charge of vehicle at Longfield
08 Aug 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Complaints buses are blocking end of Station Road. (2) Dangerous rut in road at foot of Hoselands Hill. (3) "Mrs E Grant asked the council to assist her to procure the sick allowance due to her husband from the Rural Council. It appeared that Mr Grant had been employed by the RDC for about 5 years. On Jan 13th he was taken ill, and was away from work 5 weeks; again in March he was away for 6 weeks, and then the surveyor wrote that his services would be no longer required, and his sick allowance stopped. The chairman (W Wright) said he could not defend the action of the Rural Council. He fought it at the meeting the previous day; that was not the first time he had taken up the cudgels against practically the whole council to obtain for the workmen their legitimite rights. Officials of the council obtained whatever they ask for; workmen, what they could enforce. A resolution was produced, at his request that any employee who had been in the employ of hte council for not less than 6 months should be allowed £1 per week sick pay for 26 weeks, each case reviewed at the end of 3 months. He asked the RDC to stand by that resolution, but acting on an adverse report by the Surveyor, and the opinion of Mr Stanley Morgan that the resolution was not intended to apply to a case where a man might not recover, it was refused, and the action of the Surveyor endorsed. It was agreed to write the RDC pointing out the facts, and asking them to reconsider their decision." [The man in question would be Edgar Grant of 1 Station Road]
15 Aug 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Longfield Church Fete
Longfield Garden fete for Longfield Hill Mission Church repairs; list of stallholders
15 Aug 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Man's "£60 a week"
John Henry Hensman, Woodcroft, Hartley, was summoned by his wife for persistent cruelty.
Mr Norman T Baynes, for complainant, said the parties were married at Brondsbury in September 1909, and there were 3 children. They first lived at Harrow, where the husband was a jeweller. The wife was an expert worker of a knitting machine, and ultimately defendant started manufacturing underwear on an extensive scale at Hither Green, where he employed a number of girls to operate knitting machines. At one time he was making £60 profit weekly. In 1922 the parties purchased a house at Longfield. The husband was now in financial difficulty. Trouble between the parties became acute in 1923, and since then defendant has been guilty of repeated acts of cruelty towards his wife. On May 15th, on account of defendant's cruelty, the wife lefet the house at Longfield and went to live with her mother at Chesham, Berks.
Gertrude Lena Hensman said the first act of cruelty was in November 1923. Her husband kicked her while she was sitting in a chair because she complained that he came home late. He purchased a motor car about that time. On March 4th 1924, defendant gave her a black eye without any cause at all.
The Chairman: No quarrel?
Complainant: I do not quarrel. She added that she continued to live with defendant until May, but then, on account of his cruelty, she went to live with her sister at Dulwich.
Answering further questions, complainant said that her husband ill treated her almost every other day. On one occasion he got hold of her and banged her head against the wall. On May 10th he punched her on the mouth, causing it to bleed, because she would not consent to go to Australia with him. Once he set fire to a newspaper which she was reading, and at another time set fire to a table cloth. He also smashed crockery, furniture, and a manicure set, and other things belonging to her he put in the copper. The house was in her name.
Herbert Henry Meddick, Longfield, Hartley, a neighbour, said on one occasion he saw complainant with her face badly discoloured. On several occasions he had noticed tht she had been ill treated. She seemed to be in fear of her life. Witness and his wife met complainant on the road one night. She said she was frightened to go into the house.
Clifford Henry Hensman, the eldest son, said he was living with his mother at Chesham. Last Christmas night, on returning from a party, his father tried to throttle his mother and hit witness about the face. He used to kick her legs and make her cry.
Defendant, who admitted certain acts of cruelty, said friction was caused in the first place through a relative of his wife who was interned during the war, and for whom he held goods and money. The knitting business had failed and he was a bankrupt. He disagreed with his wife, who was of German origin, on the bringing up of the children. A good deal of trouble was caused by his wife, trying to instil into the minds of the children ideas he did not approve of. When his wife left the house she sent three men to take away the furniture. Some money he had in a wardrobe was also taken. He had found a purchaser for the property at Longfield and his wife would get the money from that after a mortgage had been paid. He was working as a farm labourer and was paid 8d an hour.
The Bench granted the wife a separation and custody of the children, and ordered the defendant to pay 15 shillings (75p) a week.
The Chairman said if the circumstances changed it was open to either of the parties to apply to the court for a vacation of the order.
[John Henry Hensman (1887-1955) married Gertrude Lena Reckin (1885-1955) in 1909. In 1911 they were living at 42 Bolton Road, Wealdstone. In spite of what is said in this case, she was not German having been born in Kilburn to German parents. By 1931 she was back living in Wealdstone. A similarly worded article in the Lewisham Borough News 12.8.1925 says the firm did work for Jaegers]
22 Aug 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Inter-Village Flower Show
"It is, may be, unique in the history of flower shows that 6 parishes should be represented at one exhibition as at that at Hartley on Saturday, where the Ash, Fawkham, Hartley, Kingsdown, Ridley and Stansted Horticultural and Floral Society held its annual display in the beautiful Hartley Manor Grounds, kindly placed at its disposal by its president, Mr W H Daniel. Inter-parochial competitions, involving, like that of the society in question, a wide area, may have their disadvantages from the point of view of distance, but there can be no question about the keen interest which they evoke. This was fully instanced by Saturday's magnificent display, although it was no more than one would expect from a district so noted for its horticultural proficiacy. It is undboutedly a wise policy on the part of the Society to hold the show annuallly in each parish, and Hartley must have considered itself excpetionally well favoured, for in addition to a first rate show it had the best of weather conditions and there was an excellent attendance. Besides the usual fun of the fair, there were children's races, followed in the evening by dancing to music by the Hartley Band, under Mr T Tate. Refreshments were provided in a large marquee by the Hartley Women's Institute.
IN the horticultural section of the show the exhibits numbered some 500, which were about the same as last year, but there was a decided increase in those of livestock, which reached three figures for te first time. The past season may have fallen considerably short of the horticulturalist's ideal, yet little of its imperfections was manifasted in the general display, which was well up to average quality. Of mammoth beans and beautifully moulded potatoes there was an astonishing display, but more arresting, perhaps, were the fine exhibitions of fruit and flowers, the latter augented by a wonderful collection, not for competition, from Mr R H Foa (gardener to Mrs S T Furnell). In this the choicest of flowers were most effectively arranged, making an exhibit of signal beauty which everyone admired. In another marquee there were a dozen or more elegantly arranged table decorations. Her also the Hartley WI, under Mrs F Tate, had a stall of toys and plain and fancy needlework, the proceeds from which were in aid of the fund for the new Women's Institute.
The livestock section, in which poultry and rabbits predominated, contained many notable exhibits. Mr J H Marsh won the Goodwin cup for the best bird in the show with a White Leghorn cockerel.
Mr H T Jennings-Clark, assisted by Mr T W Elliott, ably dischared the secretarial duties, while the judges were Messrs W Wright, Longfield; S Nichols, St Clere; Sheppard, West Malling, and E Accleton, Darenth (horticultural section); Messrs W R Snell, KEC, and E Robinson (Livestock); and Major and Mrs Tristram, West Malling (Ladies Section). Messrs T W Elliott and W R Baker had charge of the children's sports....." Long list of prize winners follows.
29 Aug 1925 Kent Messenger
Local News in Brief
(1) Horse belonging to John Foster was grazing in Hartley Rectory Meadow when it broke through wire fence and broke its back. [Also in Reporter 29.8.1925]; (2) Longfield Cottage Gardeners' exhibition
05 Sep 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Local News in Brief
(1) Building plans passed for timber framed bungalow near All Saints Church; brick bungalow in Church Road, and to convert army hut into bungalow at Stack Road [Stack Cottage]; (2) Obituary of Fred Gear (63) of Brickey's Row, Longfield
12 Sep 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Local News in Brief
(1) WI has agreed to buy plot of land near the Co-op Stores and building will commence shortly; (2) RC Bishop of Southwark visits St Francis de Sales and says 8.30am mass; (3) Porter Putt Fletcher - auction of Hartley Cottage, just off main road, 2 living rooms, usual offices, 4 beds, and ½ acre of land planted with fruit trees
12 Sep 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Building Materials for Sale
"Building materials - Scaffold poles 18-20ft, 2s 8d each; Scaffold boards, iron bound, 2½d per foot; scaffold cords, 16ft, whioped? 10s 6d dozen; Putt Logs 12s 6d dozen. Hardres & Co, Hartley Wood Corner, Longfield."
19 Sep 1925 Gravesend Reporter
Obituary of Samuel Newcomb
Obituary of Samuel Walter Newcomb of the Gables, lived 30 years in Court Villas Longfield, moved to Hartley quite recently
19 Sep 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
An Eyesore
(Hartley) "After long delay, the road metal deposited on the Green has been removed, and the present appearance of this little open space is worse than was feared, traction engines and wagons having cut up the surface and destroyed the grass."
Hartley Cottage for Sale
"By order of the trustees and others. Messrs Porter Putt and Fletcher are instructed to submit to auction, at the Masonic Hall, Wrotham Road, Gravesend, on Wednesday, 30th September 1925 at 3 o'clock precisely......
"The attractive freehold country cottage, known as 'Hartley Cottage', near Longfield. Situated just off the main road, within convenient distance of Fawkham Station and accessible by motor bus to the neighbouring towns of Gravesend and Dartford. The house contains 2 living rooms, usual offices, 4 bedrooms. Standing in about half an acre of land, well planted with fruit trees. These properties have the advantage of vacant possession on completion...."
For Sale
"Hut 14 x 10 section; ¾ T and C Matching; nearly new; suitable poultry, garage or workshop; £20. Harris & Co, Hartley and Wood Corner (sic), Longfield"
20 Sep 1925 Sunday Mirror
Motorcyclist's Escape
"When his motorcycle skidded, throwing him under an omnibus in High Street, Lewisham yesterday, Mr Wallace Burton, of Longfield, Kent, had a miraculous escape. His machine was completely smashed, two the wheels on one side of the bus passing right over it."
28 Sep 1925 Sheffield Daily Telegraph
House for Sale in Church Road
Westfield, Church Road for sale - £1,150. Apply - Barfield
10 Oct 1925 Croydon Times
Up from Kent
"Richard Thear (66), a labourer, no fixed abode, admitted having been found drunk lying on the footway in Church Street, Croydon, at 8.30 pm on Saturday. Asked if he had any explanation to offer. Richard said he walked from Fawkham (Kent) to Croydon to see some friends, but by the time he reached Croydon he was drunk and did not see his friends.. He was bound over to be of good behaviour for a year, and he promised to send the court costs (4 shillings) in a week."
10 Oct 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Road Danger
Dartford RDC "The surveyor, reporting to the Rural Council, says that on the Hartley-Ash Road, a dangerous and weak haunch near the Black Lion requires strengthening. Lorries passing close to the hedge would readily thrust out the narrow margin of existing road crust, and possibly overturn. The property is owned by Mr Fleet and the Surveyor suggested that permission be requested to strengthen the slight supports of road."
23 Oct 1925 Southwark & Bermondsey Recorder
Bermondsey Mayor's Review
"Fairby Grange Convalescent home, Hartley, Kent, has continued to be very attractive to the mothers of Bermondsey, an full use of its facilities have been made during the best part of the year. As the country in the winter is not so attractive, we have made arrangements to utilise the home for a larger number of children during the 2 or 3 months of the winter."
07 Nov 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Nursery Plants for Sale
"Apples, pear and plum trees in variety, bush and half standards. Costen, Hartley, Longfield."
Classification of North Kent Roads
Dartford RDC Surveyor thought Ash Road from Longfield to Ash, and Longfield to Pinden roads would be classed as secondary roads [probably means later B class roads, which Ash Road never was]
14 Nov 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Institute - Opening of New Women's Hall
"A large and enthusiastic gathering of members of the Women's Institute and their friends attended the formal opening of the Hartley Institute on the 6th inst. The president, Mrs F Tate, gave a brief sketch of the origin and growth of the institute, and said that none of those who took part in the first stages of its existence anticipated such rapid development as their new building indicated. They were proud of their success but believed they could do better yet. They had a splendid body of loyal members, and now they had their own hall she was certain they would make their Institute still more useful to the women of the village.
Mrs Burne, who attended as the representative of the National Federation of Women's Institutes, congratulated Hartley women on the strength of their institue. She referred to the great strides the Institute movement was making in all parts of the country as evidence that women required their organisation. The Institutes, however, could only be permamently succcessful if th emembers took a full share in the work of management. There was a danger that this work would be left to a few enthusiasts who were hampered at times by unfair criticism. Mrs Burne urged the members to serve on committees and express their views at meetings, as in this way they would avoid the difficulties some Institutes had encountered.
In calling upon Lieut-Col J Waley Cohen CMB DSO, to open the hall, the President said that Colonel Cohen had always been a good friend to Hartley in general, and the institute in particular. Colonel Cohen, who was warmly received, said he admired the way in which the Instittute had been run, and he believed they were doing a good think in catering for women's special interests. They now had a good building of their own, and he hoped they would take great care of it and make their Institute stronger than ever. On the motion of Mrs Hamilton, seconded by Mrs Jennings Clark, a resolution of thanks to Col Cohen was carried with acclamation. A vote of thanks to Mrs Burne, proposed by Mrs Balchin and seconded by Mrs Supple was also carried unanimously.
After an interval for tea, which was provided by the Committee under the direction of Mrs Tubb and Mrs Cuff, a sketch 'Mechanical Jane' was played by Miss Bancks, Mrs Symons and Mrs Oldrey. A vote of thanks to the players, moved by Mrs Copus and seconded by Mrs Bishop was warmly approved."
21 Nov 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Stack Fire
"On Monday evening a hayrick in Hartley Road, belonging to George Day of Ash, was burned to the ground. The Dartford Fire Brigade was unable to extinguish the fire, as enough pressure could not be obtained. The nearest hydrant was near the Railway Station, 2,000 feet of hose had to be run out and the stack was located upon a hill."
[Although the paper put this item under Longfield, George Day owned Hottsfield off Hoselands Hill, the description of it being an a hill and 2,000 feet from the station supports this identification]
28 Nov 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Gold Rush Recalled
"On Friday the first monthly lecture arranged by the Cooperative Society was given by Mr W H Chisholm, on 'Along the Yukon'. The audience stood in silence as a tribute of regret at the death of Queen Alexandra. Mr Chisholm gave reminiscences of this stay at Klondike during the great gold rush of 1898, and his account of strange and dangerous experiences on the Yukon and among the Arctic snows was very interesting. Lantern slides from original photographs showed the conditions uder which the gold seekers lived and worked...."
Hartley Women Conservatives
Membership up to 188.
05 Dec 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Counties Laying Trials at Wye College
"These trials, which consist of 240 birds in pens of 5 birds each, are divided into two separate sections, viz Kent section 130 birds, and Surrey section 110 birds. Each county has separate breed subsections. Each pen of 5 birds is housed separately, all the birds are trap nested, and the eggs weighed. A system of scoring is being used which gives preference to eggs of large size, normal shape and texture. The score values are based upon seasonal market prices. By this method eggs produced during the winter months have a greater score value than those produced at other seasons.
The birds arrived at the trials ground on October 6th and were passed in by the two county representatives. On the whole, the birds received were in good condition and of a rather higher standard tahn those sent in in previous years. The type of birds on the whole is very good. The birds were given until October 15th to settle down, and on that date recording commenced. The health of the birds for the month to Nov 11th has been satisfactory. One bird only has been in hospital. 31 birds have been in moult, while 10 birds have passed through the broody coops.
The number of eggs produced during the month (28 days) has been 2,928, which gives an average of 12.21 eggs per bird for the whole of the flock. The number of birds in lay has been 174. Grades of eggs laid: special grade (score 11 points each) 983 eggs; first grade (10 points) 917; second grade (8 points) 947; small and defectives (no score value) 81. The birds have been fed with mixed grain, wet and dry mash. Average amount of mash consumed per bird 3.19 lbs; grain 3.9 lbs; food consumed per bird per day has been 4.05 oz."
In the any other variety (sitting breed), the birds of Campkin Brothers of Hartley laid 55 eggs. The highest score in the study was for 5 White Wyandottes in Surrey owned by Mr H Rowntree with 109 eggs between them.
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Myrtle Villas, Main Road. Some of the landowners object to giving up land to widen footpath. (2) Railway. PC want station renamed Longfield and a railway bridge built.
Road Fund Grants: Longfield to Dartford Widening
Minister of Transport approves grant of £26,296 towards the estimated cost of widening and resurfacing the road of £35,062. "In connection with the improvement of Longfield Road, the District Valuer in regard to the strip of land surrendered by the Colyer-Fergusson estate at Longfield, confirmed the terms proposed of £25, the erection of fencing and gates, compensating the tenant and paying the legal costs and surveyor's fees of the owners of the land."
12 Dec 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Fifty Years in the Church - Longfield Rector's Jubilee
"The Rev Edward Smith MA, Rector of Longfield, next week celebrates the 50th annivrsary of his entry into the ministry, 31 years of which have been spent at Longfield. It is an event upon which the district in which he hs laboured so long and so faithfully, will cordially congratulate him. Mr Smith, who was born at Newark, graduated at Queen's College, Oxfore, was ordained at Lichfield, and came into Kent 42 years ago. Prior to his preferment to Longfield, he was curage for 10 years at St Mary's Gillingham. He married in 1885 Miss Rose C Grain, eldest daughter of the late Major-General Grain RE, and has 4 sons and a daughter.
In addition to caring for the spriritual needs of his parish, Mr Smith has allowed other interests to benefit from his ability and experience. As representing Hartley, he has sat on the Dartford Board of Guardians for 27 years - during the war he was chairman of the Board for some 3 years - for 30 years he has been Assistant Inspector of Religion in elementary schools, and for the last 20 years he has been one of the chaplains (lately senior chaplain) of the Lay Readers' Association.
Asked in an interview, what change impressed him most in a retrospect of 50 years' church work, the Rector replied, 'the change in public worship. When I was a boy the whole family went to church together regularly, but this 'family' worship seems almost to have disappeared. It is a pity. But the church is progressive. There is a greater tendancy now for more attractive - more musical - services, and in that respect the church is getting back to the position which she held in medieval times when she was the Church of the people. In short, people are taking a more lively interest in Church matters. Yes; there is big scope for growth even on that score, bu tthe attitude of people towards the Church's place in life is improving. Compared with the Victorian era, there is a broader and a less material view. A bigger recognition of things spiritual is, I feel, coming.
The parish of Longfield has, of course, grown considerably since the Rector came there, more especially around the railway station, which, located in the centre of Longfield, is, curiously enough, named 'Fawkham,' after a village a mile and a half away. One more effort is to be made to induce the railway company to give the station its correct designation. The village is largely agricultural and industrial, but, strangely, it has made little expansion since the beginning of the war, except to be well connected by means of motor omnibus services with the towns of Gravesend and Dartford. To the detriment of village tradesmen, perhaps, these provide facilities for residents to shop in the towns; on the other hand, they are a source of convenience for travel, and in the summer months they bring visitors from the towns to enjoy for a little while some of the pastoral delights which Longfield and the countryside thereabouts offer to them.
Longfield Church, dedicated to St Mary Magdalene, is of flint and brick, principally in the Gothic style with traces of Norman work. It has one bell. The original is cracked and is placed in the vestry as an interesting curio. It is of 14th century. There is a memorial window in the nave to Thomas Plume (1704), Archdeacon of Rochester and founder of the Plumian Professorship at Cambridge, who is buried here. Longfield Court, adjacent to the church, is of historic interest. It was formerly the residence of the Archdeacons of Rochester. The oldest part of the house is of the same date as the oldest part of the church. The churchyard has been recently extended, and in this extension (situated on the opposite side of the main road) is the village war memorial. The parishioners (almost entirely of the working class) raised in one year £200 for this purpose."
Cruelty by Hartley Couple at Southfleet
(Dartford Magistrates) "William Edward Barlow, 30, of Ebb Flow, Merton Avenue, Hartley, and his wife were summoned by the RSPCA for cruelty to a horse on November 14th. Ida Starkey, of Betsham, Southfleet, said that when in her sitting room she heard a sound 'like someone beating carpets.' She saw Barlow with a pony which 'looked as if it were going to drop down dead.' Barlow got down from the cart and thrashed the pony for a hundred yards. When witness told him the pony was in an unfit state to be worked, defendant threatened her. The blows were very hard ones. The horse appeared very weak. Mrs Barlow, who was in the cart, held the reins and 'pulled at the horse's mouth'. Barlow asked witness to turn her back to him, which she did. He then beat his hands across his breast, addressing an imaginery horse, 'Was that what you 'eard' he queried. 'No it was not,' retorted the witness.
Mrs Barlow heatedly denied that her husband ill treated the animal. 'Stop it,' murmured her husband, 'Keep to the point.'
Inspector Fletcher, RSPCA, siad the male defendant told him the pony belonged to his wife, that it was old and had the gripes, but was better now than when he bought it, with the cart for £10. Witness said he had never seen a pony in such a terrible condition. Mr Robards, veterinary surgeon, said the pony was utterly unable to work, and he shot it for Barlow.
Defendant, who said he did not believe in God, but believed in the King, refused to be sworn. The animal was in a 'poor position' when his wife bought it. It was a tissue of lies which had been told by the witnesses. All the lady witness heard was theslapping of defendant's hads across his breast. 'I think that I hav esufficient commonsense not to threaten a woman or to ill treat my pony,' he said, 'If I had a donkey and it wouldn't go....' he quoted. Mrs Barlow said she had never ill treated animals. She loved animals. 'If you fine us we cannot pay,' she said. Thomas Joseph Newman of Hawley Road, Dartford, said the poney was between 20 and 30 years old. It was capable of drawing a cart. Mr Fletcher: Would you work that horse in that condition? [- Not if it was my own sir. Another witness said the horse was in a weak state.
The bench regarded it as a bad case and fined the male defendant 40s and his wife 20s."
19 Dec 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley School: Pretty Yuletide Play
"On Friday an Open Day was held at the Village School, all the mothers of the pupils being invited by the headmistress, Miss Fiddis, to attend. The mothers first inspected the work of the children, and afterwards listened to a delightful programme of songs, dances and recitations. Excellent exhibitions of folk dancing, taught by Miss Porter, were given by the girls and boys, and among the songs sung, 'Will o'the Wisp' obtained much applause. Recitations were given by the following: Mary Sale, Irene Sims, Annie Robson, E Jackson, K Day, H Barlow, M Glidewell, N Garner, T Crouch, Jackson, M Harris, J Bradford, T Barlow, D English, G Glidewell.
A fairy play 'Wee Willie Winkie' was charmingly played by the 5 year olds, the Fairy Queen, Beryl Harris and Wee Willie, Frankie Jackson being especially well done. Tea was then served to the mothers, accompanied by mince pies made by the girls at the cookery class recently established by Miss Fiddis.
Then followed a Christmas play by the elder children, in which Ada Shambrook and Willie Bradford were introduced as the parents of a naughty boy Beechy (N Foster) and an exceedingly good little girl Alma (E Day). It was Christmas Eve, and the children were seen hanging up thier stockings in preparation for Santa Claus's visit. During the night three fairies, G Parkin, R Glidewell and E Day visited the bedside of Alma and three imps (N Letchford, A Crouch and G Glidewell) danced round the bed of naughty Beechy. They were sent away by the good fairies. Beechy promised to be good, and Santa Claus (John Ballard) arrived and filled the stockings. Christmas morning came and everyone joined in singing a carol of welcome. The little sketch was excellently acted by the children, and Miss Fiddis is to be congratulated on being able to give such a successful performance.
At the close the two smallest babies presented Miss Porter with a fountain pen inscribed with her name, as a parting gift from the children, as she was leaving Hartley at Christmas, to take up a headship at Cranbrook. Miss Porter thanked both children and parents, and strongly urged co-operation between parents and mistresses."
Hartley Comedy "The Young Person in Pink"
"Hartley and District Amateur Players presented the 'Young person in pink', a comedy in three parts by Gertrude Jennings, at the Fairby Hall last Friday and Saturday evenings.
For a first public appearance since the task was ambitious but the company achieved remarkable success. The cast was strong and the comedy was interpreted with a confidence and skill which indicated thorough preparation and diligent direction, with the result that the whole performance showed no trace of hesitation or amateurishness.
Miss Edith Evans as Leonora, an aristrocratic, if absent minded girl, captivated her audience by her charming presentation of beauty in distress, and gave Mr Billie Medlam as Lord Stevenage, ample excuse for his forgetfulness of an engagement elsewhere. Mr Medlam's consistently clever treatment of his part made a strong point in the play. Miss Lulu Bancks who, as Mrs Badger cause great fun by her impudent frauds, played extremely well, her sure hits of humour being highly amusing. Mrs May Symons, as Lady Tonbridge, young Lord Stevenage's elderly fiancee had a different role, calling for special ability. Therefore her success was all the more striking.
Mrs Farrow, who appeared in the opening scene as the Woman with Balloons, contributed greatly to the general success of her excellent acting, securing at once the interest of the audience. Mr Eric Green as the park Chair Man, did capital work, and Miss Eleanor Green also made the most of every opportunity as Miss Winch. A scene in Lady Tonbridge's drawing room gave Miss Mollie Godrey (Emily de Voysey), Miss Norah Newcomb (Mrs Courtenay Miller) and Miss Jean Goldie (Lady Sara Aldire), an opening for varied characterisation of which they all made full us, and every point in this scene was effectively scored.
In the third act, Miss Cicely Medlam, as Ada Badger, did well, her sympathy and naturalness being particularly marked. The denoument of the comedy proved hugely successful. Mrs Badger and Lady Tonbridge giving thrust and return in a contest which gripped the house. Mrs Rosalie Oldrey as the Lady's Maid, who supplied the needed shock to restore Leonora's lost memory, played well and with the discomfiture of Lady Tonbridge completed, Leonora and Lord Stevenage came to an understanding which captured the heart of everybody, and clsoed the play with a most enthusiastic 'curtain'. If the Hartley and District Amateur Players can maintain the standard reached on this occasion they will find themselves extremely popular.
Much of the success of the event was due to the thorough and detailed work of Mr Charles Gain, the producer and of Mr A Lambert Farrow, the stage director.
During the intervals, musical selections were given by Mr and Mrs Shepperson, cello and violin and Mrs Oldrey at the piano.
The proceeds of the performances are to be given to Hartley CE School Fund, and the Rector (Rev G W Bancks) in expressing thanks from the Managers, referred in very happy terms to the generosity of the players in coming to his rescue at a time when he was faced with a 'gentle reminder' from the bank that the school account was overdrawn."
Longfield Telephones
"The telephone communications wires in the neighbourhood are to be converted to underground cables, before road widening operations take place."
26 Dec 1925 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Ur of the Chaldees
Monthly lecture by Agricultural Cooperative Society given by Mrs C J Gadd of 1923-4 archaeological excavation of the city of Ur.
Hartley School Song
New song composed by Roy Chishom (music) and J Wells Thatcher (lyrics) [I'm not sure how successful this was, certainly it was never sung when I was at Hartley Primary School]