1929 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1920-1929
05 Jan 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
St Michael's School
(advert) "Boys pepared for Navy and Public Schools. Great successin scholarships. Excellent diet. Individual attention. Headmaster E Costello-Wren."
[Edmund Costello Wren (d 1969) held a number of assistant masterships from 1915 to 1927. It seems an inheritance allowed him to buy a school and from 1927-1930 he was principal of St Michael's School before becoming principal of Denham Lodge, Uxbridge from 1930-1937]
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Southern Railway have been asked by Dartford RDC to repair Station Road; (2) Fencing at Whitehill Road allotments complted; (3) Land between Martins Bank and Service Garage [where telephone exchange is now] belongs to Sir T Colyer-Fergusson and he is OK with removing tree stumps; (4) Problem with dangerous stopping places for buses in Hartley Road.
Longfield Road Improvement
Engineer reports to Dartford RDC that there is a disagreement between the Ministry and the District Valuer on cost of land acquisition from Mr Williams of [The Retreat], Longfield.
19 Jan 1929 Kentish Gazette
Proposal to ban HGVs
Proposal to ban HGVs from following roads: (33) Pettings Road from Ridley-Ash Road at Berry's Maple via Pettings and Gorse Farm to its junction with the Gravesend-Wrotham Road at the milestone, Gravesend 8, including the branch, Rosemary Lane to its junction with the Ridley - South Street Road
(34) Hartley Bottom from the Longfield - Meopham Road ¼ mile west of the Green Man public house, Longfield Hill, to its junction with the Ridley - Ash road at Berry's Maple
(38) Scudders Hill from the Swanscombe - Fawkham main road to its junction with the Fawkham Green - Horton Kirby Road
(39) Woodsall Lane [=Manor Lane, Fawkham] from the Swanscombe - Fawkham Green road at Court Lodge to its junction with the Ash - Longfield road
(40) Stack Lane [=Grange Lane] from the Longfield Hill - Stansted Road via Foxborough Wood to its junction with Hartley Hill south of All Saints Church.
(41) Road from Fawkham - Betsham road to its junction with the Longfield - Hartley road at Hartley Green [Castle Hill]
(42) Road from the Longfield - Hartley road one furlong north of the School at Hartley Green via All Saints' Church and Hartley Hill to its junction with the Hartley - Ash road at Turners Oak Shaw [Church Road]
(44) Crowhurst Lane from the Fawkham Green - Ash Road to its junction with the London - Folkestone road near Kingsdown."
Ministry of Transport Enquiry
(Kent Messenger 16.2.1929) Mid Kent Water ask for an exemption for their vehicles which the County Council was prepared to agree to. "Among the scheduled reoad which the inspector had before him on Wednesday was that from the Longfield Hartley road, via All Saints' church and Hartley Hill to its junction with the Hartley-Ash Road. Mr C H Webb, Engineer and Surveyor ot the Dartford Rural Council, said the road had a large number of dangerous bends. The Inspector remarked that he found on this road notices purporting to to be with the authority of the ministry. Mr webb explained that there had been a mistake, and he had had the notices removed."19 Jan 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Concerns about delay in getting electricity. West Kent Electric Company say they are working in Sevenoaks at present; (2) As there had been problems of tins and bottles littering the countryside, a sub-committee suggested a scheme to collect unburnable rubbish at 6d per barrow load. However as meeting didn't want any loss to be paid for by the rates, the committee chairman said it would be impossible to proceed; (3) St John's Lane repaired promptly after previous complaint; (4) Complaints over bus stop being just below the Railway Bridge.
Hartley Band
"Members and friends of the Hartley and District Band gathered at the Black Lion last Thursday for a substantial meal, prepared by Mr Charles English. The loyal toast, proposed by the conductor, Mr T F Tate, was honoured, and that of the band was given by Mr Tom Rose. In reply, the Conductor congratulated the Band on its progress and stressed the need for earnest effort to improve the standard of performance. The soloists including: Messrs G F Oldrey, J Pankhurst, T Pepper, R Whitmore and H Bentley."
26 Jan 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Land for Sale at Church Road
"Freehold land, 3 acre plot £200 and 3½ acre plot £235 for sale. Excellent situation opposite Hartley Church. Road frontage and water supply, one mile from Fawkham Station, bus service, 25% cash secures. Balance easy payment. Apply Woodward, Manor Farm Lodge, Longfield, Kent. Telephone Longfield 37."
At Last
"The efforts of the Parish Council are at last bearing fruit, for workmen have commenced operations on the tree stump on the Main Road.
02 Feb 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Telegraph Lines
Post Office to place lines along Hartley Hill to New House Farm.
09 Feb 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield and Fire Brigade Services
"Should Longfield, for the levy of a penny rate, have increased services for fighting fires? This was the question before the parish council at the monthly meeting on Tuesday. The Chairman (Mr W Foster) and Capt Breton had attended a conference at Horton Kirby and the latter stated that Horton Kirby had purchased a £500 fire engine and the yearly upkeep of it would be about £40. It was proposed that this cost should be spread over the 5 parishes which attended, and nothing would be asked for the initial cost. That scheme was abolished, and later it was decided to invite the whole 15 parishes in the rural district to attend. A sub-committee recommended that 4 brigades be formed, with stations at Eynsford, Horton Kirby, Darenth and Sutton. They would want three 260 gallon engines. The total cost of £4,050 was made up as follows: Three engines at £600 each, hoses etc £500, and the upkeep of 4 brigades £350 each for 5 years. A penny rate would produce £860, and in 5 years this would almost amount to £4,300 leaving a blane of £250. The matter was referred to the Dartford Rural Council 'for their favourable consideration.'
The chairman said that in the first suggestion they wanted all the parishes to have a sub-station like Longfield's, bu tin the estimates they only allowed for the cost of the engines and the upkeep. Would the penny rate include the sub-fire stations? He did not think it would. Stone and Darenth were against it, and he thougt it would pay to be quite until they heard from the Rural Council. Capt Breton said many men were retiring from the Metropolitan brigades, and on the slightest excuse the Ministry of Health would push them into the job, as occurred at Bromley. On the proposition of the Rev E Smith, seconded by Capt Crick, it was agreed to seek the advice of the Rural Council."
Meeting also discussed bus stops, Maidstone and District said their buses would stop at the Railway Tavern for the station. Enterprise motor Services promised their buses would stop at the Station. Meeting was particularly annoyed at Hartley's intervention on this subject.
Station Road
"At Dartford RDC on Tuesday, it was reported by the Health Committee that a futher letter from the Minister of Health had been received, in consequence of another communication from the Longfield Parish Council as to the condition of Station Road on which certain repairs had been carried out, but were not considered sufficient. The Surveyor, it was reported, was of opinion that the making up and tarring of the surface would much improve the condition and would prove economical in mainenance. He pointed out, however, that the present condition of the surface could nto be described as dangerous, or a nuisance. The committee instructed the clerk to convey the purport of the Surveyor's report to the Minister."
One Stationmaster Congratulates Another
F Norman who transferred from Longfield to Borough Green 6 years ago, after being stationmaster here 12 years, has become station master at Bognor.
Longfield Parish Church AGM
Architect's report says £150 worth of repairs to the roof.
23 Feb 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Women's Constitutional Association
// 40 attend annual meeting. They have 220 members [this is a Conservative Party group]16 Mar 1929 South Gloucestershire Gazette
Australorp Eggs
(Advert) "Australorps First, Special, Second Place, two firsts, two specials, Hereford 1928. Pens selected by Professor Thompson and imported 1926, 1927. Sittings 10/-, 15/- Chicks double - Vassie, Prize Poultry Farm, Hartley, Longfield, Kent.
[Australorps were a breed of chicken from Australia found to be an excellent layer, which led to them quickly gaining popularity in the 1920s.]
16 Mar 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield's Rector Retiring after 35 Years
"The Rev Edward Smith MA, Rector of Longfield, announces that, after careful thought, he has decided to ask the Bishop to relieve him of his duties. Mr Smith, who has been Rector at Longfield for 35 years. In 1925 celebrated the 50th anniversary of his entry into the ministry. Born at Newark, graduated at Queen's College, Oxford, he was ordained at Lichfield, and came into Kent 46 years ago. He was formerly at St Mary's Gillingham. Representing Hartley, he sat on the Dartford Board of Guardians for many years, and for a long period he was Assistant Inspector of Religion in Elementary Schools."
23 Mar 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Liberals
// Election meeting held at Longfield School for J D Bateman, Liberal candidate for Chislehurst. On the platform were the local chairman F W Tate and Major Runcieman, Mr & Mrs Comont, A H Edward, F J Bartholemew and others. He attacked the record of the Conservative government on housing, public works and Winston Churchill's management of the economy.
13 Apr 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Bus stop to be fixed near the Longfield Station Steps after consultations between Dartford RDC and the Police; (2) Hartley against the idea of District Fire Brigade. County Councillor Day thought engines may well get here quicker from Dartford than Horton Kirby. Mr Symons said a lady who called the brigade to deal with a grass fire got a bill for £10; Cllr Day said people who called are the ones who are billed. Instead they will look at chemical fire extinguishers.; (3) Request to Southern Railway for an additional London train midway through current 5 hour gap.
20 Apr 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Players
Favourable review of 'The Man from Toronto' at the Constitutional Hall. Stars were May Symons, Charles Bignell, Robert Hale.
27 Apr 1929 Perth Daily News (Australia)
X Ray Martyr: Doctor Lost Finger
"Dr Lionel Sells, the X-Ray expert, died in St Thomas's Hospital, London, recently, at the age of 52. X-Ray sarcoma was the cause, says a recent 'London Sunday News.'
Dr Sells, who lived at Longfield, Fawkham, Kent, lost several of his fingers on either hand as a result of his x-ray work. He commenced his duties at St Thomas's hospital, and later went as a clinical assistant to the Royal Eye Hospital, Southwark.
In the South African War he was attached to the Royal Army Medical Corps as an X-ray expert. For that work he received the Queen's medal and three clasps and the king's medal and 2 clasps.
For his extensive work as medical officer during an investigateion regarding sleeping sickness, he was thanked by the Ugandan Government."
27 Apr 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Vestry Meeting
The £400 cost of dilapidations on the Rectory has been met, half from Queen Anne's Bounty, £30 from diocese rest from parish and Rev Bancks's personal contribution.
Death of Oldest Inhabitant
"The funeral took place on Saturday of Mr Henry Oliver of West Yoke, the oldest inhabitant of the village, who died in his 90th year. His family has lived in the village for 200 years. He was born in West Yoke and all his life was spent there. 'Oliver's Farm' was in possession of the family for many years, and the Oliver family owned the forge and wheelwright's shop, the butcher's shop and general stores. The latter was long kept by Mr Oliver. Mr and Mrs Oliver celebrated their diamond wedding in 1927. Deceased was for many years a bellringer at the church." List of chief mourners, inlcuded daughter Mrs W Goodwin of Hartley.
Ash Parish Council
(1) Concerns raised by Mr Goodwin about new concrete ponds contructed by Dartford RDC at North Ash and Idleigh. Ponds were deep and a danger to children or animals, recently a dog had to be rescued from one. They will ask DRDC to make them safer; (2) Rector asked for improvements in footpath from The Street to North Ash, so schoolchildren could go that way rather than the dangerous road "as there was so much motor traffic." (3) Seems that Ash only recently had a parish council as members seem confused as to the powers of the Parish Meeting.
04 May 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Cricket Club
"A new asset to the Hartley Club is the pavilion, secured by enthusiastic efforts in organising a whist drive….. H Goodwin succeeds H Day as captain, and the last mentioned is vice captain. Mr h Sims is continuing in the office of hon. secretary and treasurer...."
[This is probably the building marked on the 1938 OS map about where Milestone school is today]
Car for Sale
"Swift 1922 4 seater tourer, 11.9hp; tax paid to end of 1929; electric L and S, first class running order, £50 - Apply E Harry, Hartley Grange, Longfield, Kent. Phone Longfield 15.
The Service Garage Limited
Of Wrotham Road, Gravesend and Main Road, Longfield advertises motorbikes for sale ("Think of the trips you can have together!" with picture of male rider and female pillion passenger). "Deposit £9 and off you go!"
11 May 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Cycling Accident
"Judgement was given for William Sale, a lorry driver, in an action brought against him at the Dartford County Court, on Thursday, by William Edward Barlow, Ebb Flow, Merton Avenue, a cyclist, who claimed damages alleged to have arisen from a road accident."
Longfield, Hartley and Darenth Nursing Association
Annual meeting. In 1928 nurses had dealt with 57 midwifery and maternity cases, compared with 45 in 1927. They also attended 158 other cases and paid 3,716 visits, in all 4,148 hours on duty. Nurse Baldwin had also made 52 school visits. Bean has been temporarily added to the area.
House for Sale
"Meru, Church Road, Hartley, Kent, about ¾ mile from Fawkham Station. Messrs Philip Champion & Sons have received instructions to sell by auction at the Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel, Dartford, on Tuesday 28th May 1929, at 3pm, as a whole or in lots, the freehold country residence and poultry known as Meru, Church Road [= Johns, Johns Close]. Comprising a conveniently sized modern house with 3 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, bathroom etc. In all 5a 0r 28p. Five roomed cottage and garage. Also 275 feet of valuable building land in Church Road...."
Longfield Parish Council
(1) PC still angry about bus stop for Hartley bus passengers in Hartley Road. They think it is dangerous and Mr Hickmott had asked for a board [bus stop?] to be removed from his land; (2) Owner of The Yews told they had built a fence across a bridle way.
Longfield Rector's Resignation
"The announcement that the Rev Edward Smith, REctor of Longfield for 35 years, will resign on July 25th, has been received with much regret.
Mr Smith, who was born at Newark, graduated at Queen's College, Oxford, and was ordained deacon in 1875. He came to Kent 46 years ago. Prior to his appointment to Longfield, he was for 10 years curate at St Mary's Gillingham. He married in 1885, Miss Rose C Grain, eldest daughter of the late Maj-Gen Grain RE, and has 4 sons and a daughter.
In addition to caring for the needs of the parish - his family say he puts that before his home - Mr Smith represented Hartley on the Dartford Board of Guardians for 27 years, and for 3 years during the war was chairman. For 30 years he was Assistant Religious Inspector in elementary schools, and for 20 years on of the chaplains (later Senior Chaplain) of hte Lay Readers' Association. It is a coincidence that all the churches of which Mr Smith has been the incumbent have been named St Mary Magdalene.
Many improvements have been made in Longfield Church during his incumbency. The initial service he conducted was on Whit Sunday 1894. At that time there was no organ. The Chancel has been reseated and redecorated. Other improvements were the enlargement of the churchyard, and a war memorial. The schools have been enlarged, the accommodation being practically doubled, and a school house built. Mr Smith celebrated his jubilee in 1924, when the parish presented him with several gifts. Among other gifts which he received during his ministry was a dining room suite from friends at Gillingham. His future home will be at Ellesmere, Hextable."
25 May 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Congregational Church Sunday School
Celebrated its second anniversary with performance of Red Riding Hood, with Evelyn Day in the starring role. List of other performers.
08 Jun 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Disagreement as to whether a bridle path existed on north boundary of parish, owner Lady Chatterton said she had been told by Dartford RDC and Ecclesiatical Commissioners there was no right of way. Rev Smith thought it was a packway only. Clerk said it was not marked on the map; (2) Dartford RDC have repaired footpath on Hartley Road. "Later it would be kerbed and continued up Hoselands Hill." Bus stop on Hartley Road moved a little, PC see it as an improvement but still think it's dangerous.
Who, or What Won the War?
Two letters from Hartley residents further to the recent election meeting, where the Conservative candidate Sir Waldron Smithers claimed that Lloyd-George's contribution to the war effort had been overstated. Mr A E Edward of Meadcot, Ash Road said "Those of us who were in France in the early days of the war, when the Germans were putting over 10 shells to our one, need not share Mr Smithers' opinion of the man who organised our munition output in 1915 and onwards..." Mr F W Tate of Amphion, Ash Road also objected to the comments and explained why he was voting Liberal "Between the weakness of the Baldwin government and the frenzy of the Labour party, Liberalism offered, in my judgement, a programme of national development that would, in its stride, reduce the grave evil of unemployment. I therefore put my personal views aside and worked for Liberalism..."
15 Jun 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Trucks on Fire
"Minor excitement was caused at Fawkham Station on Tuesday, when 3 trucks loaded with rubbish caught fire. It was speedily extinguished and little damage was done."
13 Jul 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Cooperation In Education - Parents' Meeting at St Michael's School, Hartley
"St Michael's School, Hartley, held its first parents' meeting on Friday. The headmaster (Capt W H Flear MC) said the education of the boys was a matter of supreme importance and time spent in the interchange of views and information was well spent if it led to closer cooperation in this work.
Mr F V Smith MC, headmaster of Gunnersbury Preparatory school, said that it was one of the functions of education to train a boy to take his place as a member of a community; at parents' meetings individual prefernce should be subordinated to common interests; the headmaster's study was the place for the discussion of the needs of particular boys. Every parent should have a private interview with the headmaster at least once in every term; knowledge of even the smaller details of a boy's life was of great value to a headmaster. Mr Smith then spoke of some of the difficulties which faced a headmaster and of some of the ways in which parents could help him and his staff. He hoped that parents would go at once to the headmaster should they feel that they had a grievance; he would always be glad to explain a misunderstanding or to have an opportunity to put things righ. Attendance at school functions, matches and practice games would encourage the school and would, moreover, give parents and their boys added mutual interests. Strict adherence to the school uniform was in the interests of the school and of the individual boy as a member of it.
Capt Flear thanked parents for not having worried him during his first and somewhat difficult term. He hoped that they would now begin to worry him. The meeting concluded with a call for volunteers to play for the parents in a cricket match against the boys."
13 Jul 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Southern Railway have added a train from London to Longfield on Sunday evenings; (2) Mid Kent Water laying larger mains along Church Road, so meeting to ask Dartford RDC to install hydrants at the top of Hartley Hill and by the RC Church. They also ask for 2 chemical extinguishers for general use on Ash Road and Church Road; (3) They will open a testimonial fund for Rev E Smith of Longfield who is retiring but used to be Hartley's district councillor; (4) A number of questions about recent rates reassessment.
Ash Parish Council
(1) Concerns nothing has been done by Dartford RDC about dangerous cement ponds; (2) West Yoke road to be resurfaced and PC to ask for repairs to road at Pettings; (3) Complaints that privately owned Forge Cottages drain into council estate cesspool. Reply from Fred Goodwin was this was in return for the owner Mr Day giving land for access. Rev Hennell complained about the contruction of the new group of council cottages [not sure why], Mr F Goodwin thought in a large parish like Ash they needn't have been bunched into one space.
20 Jul 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Boy Injured
"Riding a motorcycle in Hartley Bottom, near Red Cow Farm, on Saturday, Mr W G Brooker, of Stansted ran into a boy on a cycle. The boy was taken to Gravesend Hospital and detained, suffering from severe cuts to the head. Dr Hsler treated Mr Brooker for cuts on the face and hands."
Dartford Rover Scouts
To hold training camp in Hartley Woods.
Longfield's Rector Retires after 35 Years
"This Sunday is an eventful day for Longfield, eventful in the sense htat after shepherding the parish for the long period of 35 years, the Rev Edward Smith MA (pictured) retires as rector of Longfield on Thursday. It is a remarkable record, not merely of residence, but of devoted service to the interests of the Church, the people and the parish. The Bishop of Rocheser is paying Mr Smith the signal honour of coming to preasch on Sunday evening - the last Sunday on which Mr Smith officiates as Rector. As he will reside at Hextable, near Swanley, happily he will still be a near neighbour of hte people who have known and loved him for long years, and probably now and again he may be able to assit in some way his successor, Rev R F Galer.
Mr Smith has been for no fewer than 54 years in the ministry. He was born at Newark, graduated at Queen's College, Oxford, was ordained at Lichfield, and came into Kent 46 years ago. He held a curacy for 10 years at St Mary's Gillingham, before being appointed to the rectorship of Longfield. He married in 1885 Miss Rose C Grain, eldest daughter of the late Major-General Grain RE, and has 4 sons and a daughter.
As representing Hartley, Mr Smith sat for some 30 years on the Dartford Board of Guardians (he was chairman for 3 years), and is now a member of the Longfield Parish Council. For over 30 years he acted as Assistant Inspector of Religion in Elementary Schools, and for over 30 years he has been one of the chaplains of the Lay Readers' Association. Therefore, not merely as Rector, but in an officila way Mr Smith has, with unswerving zeal and ability, devoted the best of his days to the spirtual and general well being of the people of the district. In a residence of Longfield for 35 years, he has seen many changes in the parish, not the least of which has been its development as a residential district.
On Thursday evening at the Rectory, on behalf of the congregation and friends, Mr A W Cromar (people's warden) presented the Rector with an illuminated address and a cheque for £62 16s; and Mrs Smith with a nest of mahogany tables, in token of goodwill and esteem. On Sunday the Rector and Mrs Smith were the recipients of farewell gifts from the members of the Sunday School."
House to let
5 room plus bathroom semi-detached house at Hartley, 7 minutes from station to be let on lease at £55 per annum. Keys from Mr Nairn, Church Road.
27 Jul 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Unlawful Possession of Revolvers - Hartley Man fined £5
"William Edward Barlow, Nil Desperandum, Hartley, was fined £5 at Dartford Police Court on Friday for being in unlawful possession of two revolvers.
Last year Barlow, who has a wife and 7 children, was given notice to quit the shack Ebb Flow, Merton Avenue, Hartley. This he failed to do and was fined 40s. Barlow then raised the pleas that the building did not come within either the sanitary or building bye laws, but the objection was overrruled. Mr R V Sargent, Sanitary Inspector ot the Rural Council said that on 24th June he carried out an eviction order, which had been confirmed by the ministry of health at defendant's premises, and found 2 revolvers in a bookcase. Sergeant Nichols stated that when he asked defendant if he had a license for the firearms, he replied, 'No, I did not know they were there, someone must have put them there.' Defendant left court on a bicycle with the summons between his teeth."
Farming Stock for Sale
"For sale - cob, van, trap, harness, plough, harrow, brake, balker; reasonable; reason for selling giving up market gardening. G M Wood, Hatchlands [Now Blue Firs, Church Road], Hartley, Longfield."
03 Aug 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Rover Training Camp
(Dartford Scouts) "The 4th of the series was held last weekend on the outskirts of a wood; almost opposite the Oratory of St Francis, at Hartley. The lay of the tents was well arranged, and the timetable set out in a workmanlike and orderly way. The first session (Saturday night) dealt with splicing and lashing. This was followed by 'camp fire'. On Sunday morning, after inspection, day break and prayers, ASM Kircher was invested as a Rover. The morning session ook the form of a ramble with a naturalist."
Strange Hartley Business Arrangement
(Dartford Magistrates Court) "Charles Alfred Pocock, 3 The Green, Meopham, summoned Thomas Doughty, butcher of Hartley for £6 wages. Complainant, a butcher's assistant, stated that defendant purchased the business on 1st July. Witness was employed by the former owner at £3 per week. Witness hoped to stay on at the same pay. On 6th July, defendant told witness he would no longer require his services. He was claiming a week's wages and a week's wages in lieu of notice. Witness admitted there was no contract between him and defendant. The case was dismissed, defendant's application for costs being refused."
10 Aug 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
St Michael's School, Hartley, Longfield Kent
(advert) "Captain W H Flear MC (formerly assistant master Gunnersbury Preparatory School). Prepares boys between the ages of 5½ and 14½ for scholarships and entrance to the Public Schools and the Royal Navy. Prospectus on application. Telephone Longfield 114. Omnibus services from Dartford and Gravesend."
Light for Longfield
Longfield Parish Council meeting. (1) "The West Kent Electric Company wrote that a scheme for general electrification of the south east portion of Kent had received the authorisation of the Board, and, subject to the necessary consents and wayleaves etc being negotiated, it was anticipated that the supply would reach Longfield about the middle of next year." PC to offer any assistance possible. (2) "Mr G E Holmes wrote that the manager of the Dartford Branch of the South Suburban Gas Co had told him that the Gas Co. were laying their mains at Lanes End, and they hoped to have the supply in Longfield by the autumn. The Gas Co wrote that it would be some time before mains could be laid in Longfield, but they would inform the council when a decision had been reached. (3) Dartford RDC plan to build 36 council houses at Longfield and Longfield Hill, 24 of the cheapest type, 6 parlour and 6 non-parlour type. (4) White lines have been painted on road at New Barn Hill.
07 Sep 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Village Hall
AGM. "The balance sheet for the year showed the lettings were 245, bringing in an income of £26 16s; other sources of revenue brought the total to £58 19s 3d. Outgoings were: repairs and decorations £18 16s 9d; working expenses £26 9s 4d; expenses owing to Mr Hickmott £12 6s 9d. The balance in hand was £1 6s 5d...."
Mr Cromar said piano was not good enough for concerts, he was told it was retuned 4-5 times a year and since everyone used it there was no point in having a better one. Mr Hickmott said hall had been thoroughly redecorated and would need little work next year. Considerable discussion about an operating sub-committee. Mr Hickmott said one when the defunct Working Men's Club was going. He expected billiards to be more profitable next year as they had only begun at the end of the season.
"Mr Hickmott said that he hoped that more of the trustees would come and help more frequently in the running of the Hall. He suggested that the sub-committee should be enlarged, as the work of that body was rapidly increasing. He proposed running a series of weekly whist drives. These with the increased lettings, called for further organisation. He therefore, thought it was necessary to divide the hall by a partition, so that 2 parties could use it at once. The billiard table could then be used while the Scouts, Girl Guides etc were using the lower end of the Hall. This alteration was an absolute necessity, otherwise the hall would lapse into the hands of weekly organisations such as the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides and Camp Fire. These were all seeking to organise meeting for their younger members, and would soon be in possession of the Hall for every evening of the week. On the other hand, the funds of those organisation were very low, and they could nto afford to give due support ot the Hall in proportion to the time they used it. It was necessary that other organisations should aid them them. The Rover Club, could, as they proposed in a letter read by Mr Hickmott, use the hall for 3 nights per week, at the rate of 2s per night. This 6s per week, together with 5s, the proposed weekly income from the whist drives, would cover a large part of the weekly expenses, taking the burden from the younger and weaker organisations...."
[Camp Fire Girls Club was originally an American Organisation similar to the Guides. Rover Clubs were for boys after they were too old for the Scouts]
14 Sep 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Pretty Presentation for Gravesend Hospital
"Amid ideal surroundings in the grounds of 'Tree Tops' [Fairby Lane], fairies and gnomes held gay revel on Saturday afternoon while more than 200 people listened and applauded. Mrs Witt had adapted the fairy story of 'Tim Tom Tot, Nimmy Nimmy Not' to suit her small performers and the effect was charming.
The scene opened with a prologue by the Rev Snookums (Lorna Mee), while a girl Dulcibella (Edna Mee) was seen reading the fairy story of Nimmy Nimmy Not. The second scene showed Goldenhair's mother (Tonia Bignell) seated at her spinning wheel, and talking to her black cat (Jessie Spencer). The king (Gladys Parkin) entered, seeking as his bride a girl who was able to spin, and was told by Goldenhair's mother that her daughter Goldenhair (Sheila Witt) was a wonderful spinner of wool. Goldenhair was hindered by Tim Tom Tot (Patricia Bignell) and helped by the fairies Queen Mah (Joy Webb), Fairy Pit a Pat (Gillian Bignell), Fairy Toddler (June Witt), Fairy Sunbeam (Rosemary Wakeford), Fairy Dewdrop (Joan Hicks), Fairy Twinnies (Stella and Ida Keen), Fairy Rainbow (Lorna Mee), Fairy Moonbeam (Patricia Humphreys), Fairy Brighteyes (Doreen Hill), Fairy Twinkletoes (Jean Glenday), who spun the wool for her. She was married to the king and the fairies danced at her wedding. Queen Mab and several of the fairies delighted the audience with solo dances, afterwards making a bridal archway of silver bells for the happy pair to walk through. This was a very effective and artistic scene.
The whol company performed with remarkable ability, and at the close each performer was presented with a bunch of flowers and a box of chocolates, while Mrs Witt was given a bouquet of crimson carnations. Teas were served on the lawn, and there were various sideshows and competitions. Captain Webster was an arresting figure as an Indian Fakir and extracted further contributions for the funds of Gravesend Hospital, for which the whole entertainment had been organised."
28 Sep 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
County Produce Show
25th annual produce show under the auspices of the Kent Educational Committee, held at Canterbury. Campkin Brothers of Hartley come second in the hens' or pullet eggs brown category. L Hales of Hartley wins 2nd in the Bramley Apples category.
05 Oct 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Ellerbys Contractors
(Advert) "Autumn ploughing etc; work wanted for new international tractor; ploughing from 15s per acre; broadsharing 5s; 15 mile radius - C Ellerby, Hartley, Longfield."
11 Oct 1929 Southwark & Bermondsey Recorder
Fairby Grange Statistics
"From 1.9.1923 to 30.6.1929 the Fairby Grange Convalescent Home admitted 1,357 mothers, 784 babies, 649 toddlers and 82 convalescents."
12 Oct 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
Held for the first time in the WI Hall. (1) They welcomed news that Hartley is in area to be supplied by electricity but weren't happy with the 1931 target date [Actually it was 1932]. They are interested in asking the South Suburban Gas Co to lay mains to Hartley. (2) The requested hydrants in Church Road have been installed, but not the chemical extinguishers. (3) More complaints about recent rate assessments. (4) "A discussion on an unwholesome method of cleaning a pond, which resulted in a deposit of evil smelling mud along the roadside, ended in the chairman receiving instructions to send a complaint to the District Council, in the hope of preventing a repetition of the trouble."
19 Oct 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Ash Parish Council
(1) Council oppose Dartford RDC's plans to build more council cottages at Ash, although it seems some members thought more were needed at Hodsoll Street. (2) Dartford RDC to be asked to repair road surface at Haven Hill. Water not draining away properly on road to West Yoke. (3) Cllr Goodwin said Ash should have a Remembrance Day service like most others do. Cllr Edwards said a lot of Ash people go to the Hartley service. The rector to be asked to organise one.
Harvest Festival Services
"were held at the Parish Church on Sunday. The church had been tastefully decorated by Mesdames Andrus, Chisholm, Elliott, Wakeford, Miss Chisholm, Green and Robertson. The lay reader, Mr J Wells Thatcher preached in the morning and the vicar (sic) (Rev G W Bancks MA) in the evening. West's anthem 'Father of mercies' was sung by the choir, the solo being taken by Master Worsley, treble, from Rochester Cathedral. Mr Crol Worsley's fine tenor voice was heard to great advantage in the duet with his son 'My song shall be always Thy mercy,' from Mendelssohn's Hymn of Praise. Mr W H Chisholm was at the organ. Fruit and flowers were sent to the Livingstone Hospital, Dartford and the collection was for the churchyard fund."
Longfield Chauffeur's Suit
"On Monday in the Divorce Court, the president heard the undefended petition of Alfred George White, chauffeur of Hartley, Longfield, for a divorce against his wife Ellen L White on the ground of her adultery with Jack Smith. Petitioner married respondent in October 1921, and there was no issue. In 1924 respondent worked at Ramsgate for the summer and corespondent went there too. Petitioner suspected nothing. ON petitioner's return on December 31st 1925, he found his wife gone and a note left for him saying she was going away with Jack Smith. Evidence was given and his lordship granted petitioner a decree nisi with costs."
Kent Wills
"Mr Edgar Richard Taylor of Ashcroft, Hartley Hill, Longfield, who died on the 17th September, aged 78, left gross estate of the value of £1,570 with net personality of £152. Mr E F Taylor of 20 Long Lane, Croydon, insurance official, son; and Miss J E Taylor of 29 Drayton Road, Tottenham, daughter are the executors."
26 Oct 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Ladies help Gravesend and North Kent Hospital
Annual meeting of Ladies' Association, president Mrs R H Foa. "Hartley's distinction - Mrs Foa impressed on the gathering the needs of the hospital in the surrounding districts, and said that Hartley was the only village that subscribed annually in addition to the Christmas Collection. Many of them did nothing but expect help from the hospital......"
02 Nov 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Properties for Sale
(Advert - Porter Putt and Fletcher) "Hartley - freehold bungalow residence known as Hartley Manor Cottage [Longacres, Manor Drive], containing entrance hall, reception room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, bathroom (h&c), wc, standing in about 4½ acres. Built in garage, which could easily be converted into 2 additonal rooms. Large outbuildings."
"Longfield - freehold house known as Lyndhurst [16 Hartley Road], containing 2 reception rooms, 3 bedrooms, bathroom (h&c), good kitchen accommodation. Good garden in the rear with heated greenhouses."
Hartley Cricket Club
34 attend 3rd annual dinner presided over by Brig-Gen T A Andrus at Black Lion Club Room. He said in the last season they won 11 lost 12, some narrowly. "Thanks to the efforts of members, the club was now in the possession of a roomy pavilion which was of great benefit and a decided asset. A vote of thanks was accorded Mr G Day of North Ash, for his kindness in allowing the free use of the land and for granting permission to erect the pavilion."
09 Nov 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Stable Fire
"On Tuesday night some old stables adjoining the Black Lion Inn caught alight. Captain H T Potter, by the use of fire extinguishers, prevented the flames reaching other buildings until the arrival of the fire engine. The stables were gutted but the inn and garage escaped damage."
Gravesend Billiards League
Hartley bottom of table of 8 with only 1 win and 7 losses. Latest match was 4-0 loss to Gravesend Billiards Club. Hartley's team was J Green, T Hockley, D Rose and E Hurst.
Property to let
"To let - 2 rooms suitable for lock up shop or offices, adjoining, and apply Fairby Stores, Hartley, Longfield" [Would appear to be the shop site next to the Post Office]
Gift to Longfield Councillor
"One of the most popular residents in the district, Mr William Thomas Foster [pictured], who is leaving to enter a business at Gillingham, will be missed in Longfield. Born at Fawkham 50 years ago, Mr Foster has endeared himself to all, for he has always been one of thefirst to offer help if it was needed in the village. He was an ardent worker for the flower show and for the Village Hall, and for 7 years he had been a member of the Parish Council. For the last 3 years he had been its chairman, and was held in high esteeem by those over whom he presided. He assisted his father as a farmer and contractor. On Sunday (the day prior to his departure), he was the recipient of a mounted walking stick, suitably inscribed, from the members of the parish council."
The Lower Thames Tunnel
Government announce in the House of Commons that they hope the "long overdue" and necessary for London, Dartford Tunnel scheme will start soon. Cost to be £3m.
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Fire Station. They accepted lowest tender of £5 16s from Fortunatus Lynds to move it from bottom of Whitehill to spot above the allotments.
(2) Northern Boundary Footpath. Two Longfield Hill residents have supplied statements, saying they walked the path for 52 and 60 years. (3) Station Road. Dangerous manhole cover outside Post Office reported.
10 Nov 1929 Sunday Mirror
Reduced to Ashes after Escape of Three Occupants
“Three people had a narrow escape when a house almost entirely built of wood was reduced to ashes by fire yesterday morning.
The house was occupied by Captain Flear, headmaster of St Michael's School, Hartley (Kent) who was awakened by smoke and fumes to find the house already ablaze. He immediately warned two members of the school staff sleeping in the house and the three made a hurried exit. In a short time nothing remained but two brick built fireplaces and chimneys and a heap of ashes.
[ The St Michael's School referred to was probably the future RC School in Woodland Avenue, which was a private school before the nuns from Alderney took it over during the war.
Captain Walter Howard Flear (1894-1951) had only become headmaster in 1929, having been an assistant master in Gunnersbury Preparatory School from 1921-1929. He was awarded the military cross in WW1 for "conspicuous gallantry in action. Although himself wounded he succeeded in rescuing another wounded officer and in crossing 150 yards of open ground under heavy fire with a water carrying company" (London Gazette 13.2.1917). The London Gazette of 1.5.1928 records that he retired from the East Staffs regiment and was paid a gratuity, so he may have used that to buy the school in Hartley.]
16 Nov 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Fire at Hartley School House
"Headmaster and Staff Escape in Night Attire.
A disastrous fire occurred at St Michael's School, Hartley, near Gravesend, early on Saturday when Capt W H Flear, the headmaster and his assistants, Miss Brodie and Mr D A C Tyrie BA escaped from the furiously blazing school house in their night attire.
The alarm was raised by Miss Brodie, who awoke about 3.30am to find her bedroom filled with smoke and she heard the cracking from rooms on the ground floor of the wooden building. The occupants, who were met by a huge volume of smoke from the entrance hall, feared that the staircase was alight, but they descended in safety.
The fire, visible from a great distance, was remarkable in the completeness with which the building and its entire contents were rapidly demolished. Dartford Fire Brigade, under Capt Potter were promply on the scene, but they found that the nearest hydrant was half a mile away, and even if one had been available nearer, the brigade would have been unable to save the school house from destruction. The house blazed like an inferno, and the noise made by the bursting of the roof tiles awakened the people in neighbouring dwellings. All that remained of the school house after the fire were 2 high chimney stacks.
Quite close to St Michael's School is a Roman Catholic Church with a heavily thatched roof, this having been a barn before it was converted into the 'Oratory of St Francis' but that building was undamaged."
Hartley Players
Picture of production of 'Tilly of Bloomsbury.'
Hartley's War Memorial - How it is tended and cared for
"Many visitors to Hartley, near Gravesend, paused on Remembrance Day to admire the artistic floral decorations on the greensward around the base of the white stone cross bearing the names of the 8 men of the parish who fell in the Great War.
The site occupied by the Hartley Parish War Memorial, at the junction of the Hartley and Longfield-Ash Roads, was formerly a stone dump. When the stone cross was erected in 1922, the parish council asked Capt J W Webster (pictured), a local resident, whose hobby is gardening, to look after the Memorial. He willingly accepted the honour, and began making improvements on the site, which have been greatly appreciated by all his fellow parishioners. Not only has the triangular grass plot always the appearance of a well kept lawn, but for many days before each anniversary of Armistice Day he devotes practically the whole of his time to makeing floral emblems, in the making of which chrysanthemums of many different colours have been used, are more beautiful than ever, and they bear the floral inscriptions of 'faith', 'hope' and 'charity', one being arranged at each corner of the grass plot. Around the stone base of the Memorial are white flowers forming the words 'Lest we forgete' and 'One soweth and another reapeth'. In appreciation of the care which Captain Webster has bestowed on the Memorial, the men and women of the parish have presented him with an illuminated address inscribed as follows: 'We admire the artistic and constant effort with which he had tended and beautified the Memorial, and we commend the self sacrificing labour by which he has expressed his and our memory of the fallen.' Captain Webster, who retired after 30 years in the Army, was in the Indian Ordnance Corps for 17 years. He was on active service in France practically throughout the Great War, and was mentioned in despatches."
Room to let
"Furnished bedsitting room to let, bungalow, pleasant situation; terms moderate; Bayonne, Hartley, Longfield." [Marsworth, Church Road]
New Schoolmaster at Longfield
"Mr William Henry Chase, who has been in charge of Longfield School since the resignation of Mr T W Widgery, has been appointed schoolmaster. During his 5 months' stay, Mr Chase has made himself very popular with the children.
Trained at Bangor University, Mr Chase was assistant master at Bacup, Lancashire for 4 years, before going to Burnley for a year. He came into Kent in 1905, and for 5 years was at Eastry. On the opening of Dunton Green Council School he was appointed there, and remained for 16 years before joining the unattached staff of the Kent Education Committee.
Mr Chase has done much to further interest in football. He was a member of the Burnley Club, and formed one of the first schools' leagues in Lancashire, becoming secretary. Many well known players today were pupils of Mr Chase, among them being R Bradshaw (Crystal Palace) and Joe Bradshaw (Fulham and now secretary of Bristol City). Mr Chase was responsible for reforming the Bacup FC and played for them as right back for 5 years. He also played for Burnley. Coming to Kent, he played for the Deal Club for 5 years, and has been a member of the KCFA for 15 years. He was responsible for the formation of the Sevenoaks and District League, and was its first chairman. In this league, the school team in Mr Chase's charge played through 2 seasons without suffering a defeat.
A keen bowls player, he has represented the South of England against the North. He has also played against New Zealand, Australia and Canada, and has represented the county on 70 occasion."
23 Nov 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Bungalow to Let
4 rooms, bathroom etc, garage, rent 22s 6d per week.
07 Dec 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) RDC councillor Wright told PC Longfield is meant to get 16 council houses but problems finding a site. Personally he wants them to be on site by station which would mean a link could also be built from the station to Hartley Road. The orchard there is owned by Sir Gerald Hohler and is up for sale. Dartford RDC committee rejected this scheme and suggested buying land in Hartley at Hoselands Hill at £150 an acre. Chairman said Hartley don't want council houses but they want the improvement to Hoselands Hill that would go with them. He suggested site next to Mabel Cottages.
Congregational Church Sale of Work
£64 raised towards the £500 they need to build a church and Sunday School. Long list of stallholders and prize winners.
10 Dec 1929 Western Morning News
Fairby Grange
Trees from nursery at Fairby used to beautify Bermondsey Borough
13 Dec 1929 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)
Tonbridge Cattle Market: Christmas Show and Sale
"Mr Walter Tibbits held his Christmas Show and sale in Tonbridge Cattle Market on Tuesday, when silver cups and plate to the value of £42 caused keen competition…. As usual there was an excellent show of pigs, competition being keen throughout every class.... 12 fat sows were shown, but the outstanding pig was owned by Mr J F Maxton (sic) of Longfield. This was a fine pig, and was sold to Mr Toop for the good price of £18.... 5 entries were submitted for the best pen of 10 porkers. Mr J F Maxton of Longfield won first prize iwth a grand pen of pigs sold to Mr E G Malpass of Tonbridge for £5 16s...."
[Actually "Mr" Maxton was Jane Foote Maxton, lady of the manor of Hartley who lived at The Cottage, Hartley Bottom Road, perhaps the journalist just assumed the winner would have been a man]. At the show in 1930 (Tonbridge Free Press 19.12.1930) she got a a 1st in the sow class, sold to Mr J Toop for £13 5s, and seconds in the pairs of pigs (sold to Mr F Hartridge for 98s) and 10 porkers (sold to Mr E G Malpass for £6 1s). In 1931 (Tonbridge Free Press 18.12.1931) she won 1st for the pen of 10 pigs (sold at 69s each to Messrs W H Hill & Sons), and a second in the sow class. The paper of 16.12.1932 reported on another show at Tonbridge Market saying "nearly 700 pigs were sold, every available pen being filled and all records for the market were broken" Miss Maxton came first out of 37 entrants for pairs of porkers of 10 stone dead weight, being sold to Mr Moon of Tunbridge Wells for 68s; and 1st out of 17 entrants for the pen of 10 porkers, being sold to Mr Malpass of Tonbridge for 63s. She also came 2nd out of 28 entrants for bacon hogs, being sold to Mr Field of Ticehurst for 85s. Judges commented on the very high standard of entries]
14 Dec 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Scouts Merry Birthday Party
"A more jolly party than that which filled the Longfield Village Hall on Monday for the 2nd birthday of the local troop of Scouts it would be almost impossible to find….." Membership 18 scouts, 12 cubs, 5 rovers. Founded by scout master Capt H Hale and ASM G Mason. Capt Hale has had to stand down but Mr Mason has found someone to assist.
21 Dec 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Meeting passed resolution that they don't want council houses at Hoselands Hill. [Longfield PC also annoyed because these were houses originally allocated to Longfield] Both Mr Nairn and Mr Benson said they don't mind them being built elsewhere. Mr Nairn suggested land already owned by Dartford RDC in Hartley. George Day said 6 of the 16 houses likely to go to Hartley people. (2) Maidstone & District Buses to reduce fares. (3) Mr Comont called for the road access to the Station from Hartley Road to be built, he pointed out that when suggested in the past they were told the owner didn't want to sell, but now they do so things are different. Meeting supported his motion. (4) Following recent fires they discussed fire protection. Chemical extinguishers are on hold while Home Office considers Dartford RDC proposals. George Day said he had seen they worked and could contain a fire until the Brigade arrived. Dartford Brigade arrived in just 22 minutes after a recent fire on his farm. (5) Committee of enquiry into a parish playing field set up.
Hartley and District Band
"...gave an excellent concert in the [Longfield] village hall on Friday. It was a pity the audience was not larger. The band played a number of selections and marches in good style, under the direction of Mr T F Tate. The programme was interspersed with songs by Mrs F Tate, and humorous recitations by Mrs Balchin, whilst Mr Harry Tomlinson's funny songs and patter caused roars of laughter."
27 Dec 1929 Beaudesert News (Queensland)
Angel of the Slums
"The Angel of the Slums" - health visitors in Bermondsey, mentions home for mothers at Fairby
28 Dec 1929 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield School Party
"The school on Friday closed for the Christmas holidays with a party given by the teachers, managers and friends in the village. Whilst tea was being prepared the children sang carols and gave a display of country dancing. After the 'great feed', Mr W H Chase, the headmaster, spoke on the way the canteen was running. He said it was the largest canteen in Kent and he urged any mother who was present to tell others that, although it was not the duty of the teachers to wait at meals, each took their turn willingly to see the children had their proper supply for food....." Teacher Miss Loveday moving to another school nearer her home in Watford.