1930 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1930-1939
01 Jan 1930 Lewisham Borough News
Musical Success
"At the preparatory pianoforte examination of the London College of Music, held in December 1929, Miss Amy Finch, pupil of Mr Roy Chisholm LRAM of Restharrow, Hartley, Longfield, Kent, passed with 73 marks."
[A later article in the paper of 24.12.1930 reports she got a 1st class pass with 82% in piano higher grade exam, and that Mr Chisholm was organist and choirmaster of the United Methodist Church of Forest Hill.]
11 Jan 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Road from Hartley [Old] Rectory to Longfield Station rejected by Dartford RDC, Longfield favoured road commencing at Elm Tree Gardens and cutting across to Station. (2) Longfield think land next to new Churchyard which is for sale better site for council houses than Hoselands Hill site. Cllr Wright (DRDC) said the improvements to Hoselands Hill are not linked to building council houses there. Hartley PM wrote to say they don't want houses at Hoselands HIll but do want road improvements and better access to Station. (3) Telephones - Post Office report dangerous manhole in Station Road, Cllr Breton said underground cable laying at New Barn Hill near the Yews and Pescot Avenue had left road in dangerous condition. (4) Council to remind Dartford RDC of idea to widen New Barn Road 6 years ago but heard nothing since. (5) Confirmed Rev Edward Smith has not resigned his seat even though he has left Longfield and not attended since June.
18 Jan 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Liberal Association
Whist Drive winners were Mrs Supple, Mrs Tom Tate, Mrs Balchin, Mrs Lee, T Crouch jun, Capt Copus, Mr Marrington and Mr Prime.
Hartley Women's Institute
Annual meeting heard membership had increased to 82. Officers for 1930 to be Mrs F Tate, president; Mrs Balchin, secretary, Mrs Ball treasurer.
25 Jan 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Meeting
Considerable debate about the 16 council houses promised the parish by Dartford RDC. "Mr Walter Wright, Longfield's representative on the Rural Council suggested that the 16 houses allotted to them should be included in a public improvement scheme. For years the rural council had wanted to make a road between Hartley and Station Roads, and so divert the Hartley and Ash traffic from the corner of Station Road. The land suitable for that purpose was up for sale and there was a good opportunity to make the road and to use the rest of the land for the erection of the council houses. Mr Writht went on to say that after the Rural Council Committee viewed the spot, the chairman announced he had some land for sale at Hoselands Hill which would do for the houses, ad the committee decided to purchase the land. But, continued Mr Wright, if the Station Road site was obtained the scheme would come under public improvements. Government assistance might be obtained. There would also be a valuable frontage when the road was made. The price asked for the land at Hoselands Hill was £150 per acre, but it had only one entrance, at the top of the hill, and if the houses were erected on it they would have to make a 'T' shaped road which would be of no use to the general public. The question had since been put back for 2 months, and that would allow Longfield Parish Council to find other sites. There were 2 others on the Main Road between the church and the schools, one on each side of the road, and both were better than the one at Hoselands Hill. The parish of Hartley said they did not want the houses there. In reply to a question Mr Wright said the land at Hoselands Hill was £150 per acre, while the plot of 2¼ acres, owned by Sir Gerald Hohler in Station Road was £750. The Station Road site would work out at about £3 per foot frontage and the other at £2. But with the former as an improvement scheme the y might get a grant which would balance the costs of the 2 sites.
Mr Henry Hickmott said the 2 sites mentioned would both mean new roads, but with the other 2 sites on the Main Road there would be no road charges. They seemed to be good enough for Longfield. 'Why should we help Hartley people in getting to the Station?' he asked. The Chairman said they must look ahead and devise schemes that would benefit the village in 20 years' time, when ther emight be considerable congestion of traffic at the bottom of Station Road.
Mr B Wheeler: Is it fair to put all the Council houses on the main road, one of the most dangerous in the district? The Chairman: The main road will link up with the approach road to the Thames Tunnel, and there would be a great increase in the amount of traffic. On the proposed road Mr Wright thought they could possibly get a loan of £200 which would make the houses cheaper.
Mr R A Lawrence: If the houses are erected at Hoselands Hill for Longfield people, will Hartley expect first choice? A voice: Longfield people won't want them! The chairman: If they are built at Hoselands Hill the Rural Council will still owe Longfield 16 houses. Mr Wright said the Rural Council wanted to call it the Longfield Scheme to ease the feelings of Hartley people, who said they did not want the houses in their parish. If they were built in Hartley the parish must have a preferential right. Eventually the following resolution, proposed by the Chairman, and seconded by Mr wheeler was carried unanimously: 'This meeting of ratepayers strongly protest agains the purchase by the Dartford RDC of the suggested site at Hoselands Hill in the parish of Hartley for the Longfield Housing Scheme.' A further resolution was also carried without a vote against it, 'That the meeting if of the opinion that the road from Hartley Road to Station Road should be constructed without delay in order to divert the Hartley and Ash traffic, and so ease the congestion at Station Road corner. It is also desirable that the whole plot of land suggested for hte new road be purchased in one piece and the remainder be used for the erection of 16 houses and as one of the alternative housing sites."
[The site at Hoselands Hill formed part of the future Copse Side, it was never used for council housing]
League of Nations
"Major General Sir George Franks KCB who acted as President of an Allied Commission in Turkey at the end of the war, spoke on behalf of the Kent Federal Counicl of the League of Nations Union, at a meeting in the WI Hall, Hartley, on Friday. Mr F W Tate was in the chair, Sir George Franks said he believed the greatest cause of wars in the past had been fear 'sheer funk'. Nations watched their neighbours arming and building, and entered into the competition, which later on ended in war. He supported the League of Nations because it showed how this state of suspicion between peoples would be changed into a condition of mutual trust and understanding. He also put the casse from the point of humanity and referred to his experiences with the Commission in the Near East. their investigations brought them into contact with suffering and cruelty that could hardly be imagined by British people. How had all this misery been overcome? By the generosity of the Society of Friends, and by the help of great hearted people from the United States the first stages were dealt with. Then Dr Nansen, the famous Arctic explorer took up the work with money lent by the League of Nations. Most of the refugees wewre now earning their own living and the interest on the League loan was being paid. Mr Henry Brinton, organising secretary of the Kent Federal Council, League of Nations Union, said that the meeting was a great encouragement to those who were engaged in strengthening the Union in the country, under the lead of Lord Camden and the Archbishop of Canterbury. A vote of thanks to the speakers was moved by the Rev G W Bancks, Rector of Hartley and Mr S H Ellerby."
Hartley Scouts
Mr O Delf has resigned as scoutmaster to be replaced by Charles Sizmur. Duncan MacDonald to be Assistant Cub Master.
Cook wanted at Hartley Court
"Cook-general required; house-parlourmaid and children's maid kept; two in family and 2 children; present cook leaving to be married - Mrs Andrus, Hartley Court, Longfield, Kent."
Ellerby Agricultural Contractor
"Tractor ploughing from 15s per acre; large trees, stumps, hedges grubbed cheaply with special machinery, estimates - C Ellerby, Hartley, Longfield."
01 Feb 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Cherry Orchard Farm
"Canadian Utility White Wyandottes, hardy winter layers of true type; bred from pens we imported from Sir John Martin, Ontario. Sittings from 8s 6d, 12 or 15 UNR - Cherry Orchard Farm (Campkin Brothers), Hartley, Kent."
08 Feb 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Farmer Fined £10
"As a result of allegations that milk was being tampered with on the railway, police officers supervised the conveyance of a churn of milk from Meopham to Chatham and afterwards found that the 16 gallons of milk contained approximately 3 gallons of added water.
The sequel was heard at Chatham Police Court on Friday, when Richard Maddocks, dairy farmer, of Hartley Bottom, Longfield, was summoned for selling new milk containing at least 20.7% of added water on January 1st. Mr P Bracher, prosecuted for the County Council.
Arthur E Usher, Hillside Dairy, Victoria Road, Walderslade, said he had an agreement to purchase from the defendant 15-20 gallons of new milk with all its cream, daily. Herman Bland, Kent Terrace, Meopham, porter at Meopham Station, told how defendant's brother, Mr J Maddocks brought a churn of milk to the station on January 1st. He transferred the milk to a churn which had been sent from Chatham by Mr Usher, but before he did so he turned Mr Usher's churn upside down. Defendant's brother was present, and helped to put the churn on the train. PC Martin said the loading of the milk at Meopham took place under his observation. Arthur William Law, 63 Kitchener Road, Strood, gave evidence of being in charge of the milk as guard of the 9.1 train from Meopham to Chatham. Mr A W Ireland (a magistrate): Do you drink milk? - No. Superintendent W G Paramour MBE stated that he was at Chatham station when the train came in. He had Mr Usher's churn put on a lorry in the yard. The milk was stirred with a plunger, 3 gallons was put into a delivery can and poured back into the churn, and he then took a pint and a half from the top of the churn. Later witness served the summons on defendant, who said 'I cannot understand how the water go into the milk. Usher said it has been short measure once or twice.'
Defendant said he assisted in the milking of his cows on January 1st. He had been short of milk for his contracts and had purchased 5 to 7 gallons daily. Whether the milk he bought was poor he could not say. He had carried on the business with Mr Usher for over 20 years. 'I should not put that amount of water in one churn,' he added. Mr Ireland: 'You bought 6 gallons and half of it was water, according to you?' Defendant did not reply, but in answer to Mr Bracher, who asked whether the Superintendent had not suggested that a sample of the other man's milk should be taken, he said a sample had been taken. He added 'We have had a lot of trouble with this railway.' Mr Ireland: But the guard says he does not drink milk.
Prisoner was fined £10 and ordered to pay 17s costs. The Chairman of the Bench (Mr W Stunt) said they considered it was a serious offence of robbing poor people and children of their milk."
08 Feb 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Builder's Claim
(Dartford County Court) "Harry Smith, Avery Hill, a builder claimed £47 share of profit on the sale of a bungalow erected at Church Road, Hartley, from David Thomas Gray, Hartley. Plaintiff stated that he built the house for £575 and it was agreed that he should share the profit when it was sold - His Honour ordered the exact profit be ascertained before giving judgment."
22 Feb 1930 Folkestone Herald
On the Telephone
New subscribers to Longfield Exchange are: Longfield 129 - W H Farrant, Ivydene, Ash Road, Hartley, Longfield; Longfield 130 - W J Bye, The Firs, Manor Drive, Hartley, Longfield; Longfield 131 - F T Hitchcock, The Retreat, New Barn, Longfield.
22 Feb 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
House to let
"To let, Hartley, Longfield. Concrete bungalow; 6 large rooms, bath; Co's water; garage; 1½ acres - Owner, 7 Rona Road, Hampstead, NW." [Ardgowan, Church Road. Later advert of 29.3.1930 quotes rent of £52 pa and rates]
01 Mar 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Knocked down after dance
"A whist drive and dance in aid of the Girl Guides, and arranged by Miss Edwards and friends, attracted well over a hundred people on Saturday at the Constitutional Hall…..A regrettable accident occurred at Hartley Green just after midnight, when a party of people returning from the dance were knocked down by a motorcyclist, who was badly injured. Dr Griffiths, Meopham, attended to the injured man, afterwards taking him home."
01 Mar 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Dickens as Family Disciplinarian - Recollections of a Swanscombe Lady
"There resides at Swanscombe a lady who was a neighbour of Charles Dickens when he lived at Gad's Hill, Higham, near Rochester. She is Mrs W Huggett [pictured] of 33 Milton Road, who celebrated her 83rd birthday last December. Although she assured a kent Messenger representative who called to see her this week that he had rather caught her unawares, Mrs Huggett proceeded to give some interesting details of her life. Her hearing is good and she reads a lot, while she also does a certain amount of needlework.
Mrs Huggett was born at Hartley, and when the Rector of Hartley Rev G W Bancks, was writing his history of the parish, she supplied him with many of her reminiscences. Her father one Sunday in 1855 between the morning and afternoon services saw smoke coming from the roof of the Parish Church from the Old Vicarage, where Mrs Huggett was born, and while his wife was fetching pails of water, he forced his way into the church and rang the bells to attract the attention of the parishioners.
There was no delivery of letters in the parish then, and people had to walk to the post office at Fawkham in order to get them. Very often, a letter would remain at the Post Office for a week unless it was expected, but neighbours brought each others' when possible. 'We thought it wonderful,' said Mrs Huggett, 'when Mrs Day first brought the letters to Hartley some time after and a regular delivery was started. We only had one delivery a day, but we were grateful for that.'
As a child, Mrs Huggett and her friends used to go and watch the construction of the Chatham-Dover railroad. To reach Dartford or Gravesend, a distance of 7 miles, one had to walk. Dartford, known to country people then by the rather uncomplimentary name of 'Dirty D' was quite a small place.
Mrs Huggett had a clear recollection of the outbreak of the Crimean War, and remembers running indoors to tell her parents that the Russians had landed, as she could see them marching along the road in their scarlet coats. This delusion was caused by some scarlet clothes on a line, which, waved by the breeze, gave to her child mind the appearence of marching soldiers. During the Crimean War the cost of living was very high, and the average wages of labourers were only 12s a week.
Upon her marriage, Mrs Huggett went to live at Meopham, where her husband was born. They later lived at Shorne, and for some time at Higham, where they made the acquaintance of Charles Dickens. Mr Huggett was a member of Dickens' Cricket Team, and all the players had to wear his cricket caps of orange and black. Whenever Dickens was in residence at Gads Hill, his standard flew over the house. Mr Huggett was presented with cricket gloves by the famous author for his prowess as a wicket keeper, and also with the cricket ball for making the most runs in a season. Mrs Huggett recalls Dickens writing in a little chalet which stood in a lovely spot in his garden, screened from prying eyes by trees. One afternoon Dickens came along the road in search of his sons who were late home to tea, and met a Mr David Hill, who had a notice, 'Thatcher to the Queen,' over his door because he often did work for her at Kew. 'Have you seen my boys?' inquired Dickens. 'They will get this when I find them,' he added, brandishing a whip he was carrying. He was very annoyed, and Mr Hill said to him, 'Look here Mr Dickens, you were a boy once,' whereupon Dickens laughed and promised not to punish his sons when they put in an appearence. Mrs Huggett described Dickens as being a very genial gentleman. 'But in those days,' she said, 'we did not think a great deal of him, though this was probably because he lived amongst us and we saw a good deal of him.' Mrs Huggett's daughter, now dead, possessed a doll which was dressed by one of Dickens' daughters.
Mrs Huggett and her husband joined the Darnley Street Primitive Methodist church, Gravesend, during the ministry of the Rev Joseph O'Dell. She was present at the opening of the Dartford Primitive Methodist Chapel and at that of the Perry Street Chapel, Gravesend, which has since been sold. She also attended the laying of the foundation stone of the chapel at Northfleet. Two rooms knocked into one constituted the chapel at Shorne before the present building was erected. Mrs Huggett has been connected with the Galley Hill Chapel for 36 years, and for some years was a Sunday School Teacher. She was also placed on the list of local preachers and conducted services at Gravesend, but the superintendent of the Galley Hill Sunday School objected because it meant her loss to his chapel, so she gave up preaching. Mr Huggett was also a local preacher.
Mrs Huggett is a widow, her husband having died 21 years ago. She had 9 sons and a daughter, 4 sons being alive. She has 21 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. There are still some old friends who come to see her with unfailing regularity, and one in particular is Mrs McMillan of Rochester, who was once a district visitor at Higham. During the late war, 2 sons and 8 grandsons served in his Majesty's forces, all of them being volunteers.
Although now confined to her room, Mrs Huggett continues to take a keen interest in the work of the Galley Hill Primitive Methodist Church, and during the last 2 years she has made over 100 iron holders which have been sold on behalf of the church funds."
[Mrs Huggett was born Amy Ware at Hartley in 1847]
22 Mar 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Players Score Another Success Favourable review of Alfred Sutro's 4 act play 'The Choice' which they perfomred for 3 nights at the Constitutional Hall. Leading roles played by Ernest Harry, Robert Hale, Rosalie Oldrey, J Corri Boulgar, Louise O'Brien, John Corfield, Monica Burnett, Molly Lancashire, Alexa Ross and Douglas Ross. Each performance closed with enthusiastic 'curtains'.
Gravesend Scout Boxing Tournament
Hartley Scouts K MacDonald (won bout in under 8 stone class) and Patrol Leader D Gray (lost bout in under 9½ stone class) competed.
Girl Cyclist Injured
"Cycling down White Hill on Saturday, Miss Alice Cogger, of 7 St George's Cottages, dashed into a motor. She was thrown on to the bonnet and through the windscreen, sustaining a badly cut face, neck and head."
Longfield Scout Church Parade
Attended by 50 Girl Guides under Miss Wightman, Wolf Cubs under H Day, Comp Fire Girls under Miss Dodd and Scouts under H Hale.
29 Mar 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Annual Parish Meeting
No-one attended other than parish and district councillors. (1) Cllr Wright (DRDC) said Southern Railway had offered £200 to make up Station Road, and some but not all of the frontagers had agreed to contribute, but would have to anyway. Hope to start in month or two. They also plan to link Station Road and Hartley Road behind Elm Terrace, Southern Railway has agreed to give up frontage for scheme. (2) Wheel of wagon of Sanitary Cart collapsed and repairs are proving difficult. There is a shortage of horses now to pull it. (3) Meeting to ask for cheap and workmen's tickets from Longfield Station. (4) No news on electricity, PC chairman said he believed that if 6 parishioners ask for it, the companies have to provide electricity whatever the cost.
04 Apr 1930 Dartford Chronicle
Local Witness
Thomas Hockley of Ash Road, contractor, witness in case of Harry Reeve
05 Apr 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Annual Parish Meeting
30 attend. (1) West Kent Electric Company say can't say when Hartley will get electricity, South Suburban Gas Company say they intend to bring gas to Hartley when they reach Longfield, but can't say when. (2) Winding up of local Board of Guardians means Hartley gets £45 in Government Stock from their assets. (3) "Road Questions - Arising out of the previous meeting's move for better road access to Fawkham Station, Mr A H Edward said there was an excellent prospect for a real improvement, which would give direct access from the station into Hartley Road. Other road questions led to a strong complaint by Mr Meddick that Hartley got less attention than other parishes. He moved that the District Council should be urged to widen St John's Lane, tar the footway at Hoselands Hill and make up the road near the Church Road pond. Mr Nairn seconded and the resolution was carried. The last resolution carried related to alleged dangerous driving at Hoselands Hill, particularly during the early evening, and the chairman was directed to approach the Chief Constable on the matter."
Proposal to Abolish Ash Council - Resolution Defeated
Annual Parish Meeting. (1) They have not decided to join the Dartford RDC fire brigade scheme. Cllr George Day said they were happy with service from Dartford. (2) War Memorial may have to be moved due to road widening meaning it will be in the middle of the new path. "Regarding the road widening operations it was asked if the trees opposite the Swan Inn were to be left standing. Mr G Day the Rural Council Representative said he had not heard that they were to be cut down. Mr Turner, the licensee of the Swan, said they ought to be removed. When the road was widened the trees would stand out in it. Children running behind them might dash our into the way of motors. Mr Fred Goodwin, who, in a general way did not approve of spoiling the look of the countryside, thought in this case the trees ought to come down. They would blow down sooner or later." Meeting agreed they should go. (3) Resolution to abolish Ash Parish Council defeated, they weren't sure it could even be done. Some wanted Ash to manage by Parish Meeting like Hartley.
12 Apr 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Rural Council Elections
"Although there were 8 vacancies on Dartford Rural Council, there was only one contest at Hartley, where the retiring member was heavily defeated. The electorate is 465 and 282 people voted…. C S Bignell 222, A H Edward 60." Elected unopposed - Fawkham: Rev J T Matchett, Longfield - W Wright.
[Although party affiliations are not obvious, Mr Bignell was Conservative and Mr Edward was Liberal]
Crawden Bank for sale
"Bungalow freehold, possession, 5 rooms, bath; lovely position; Fawkham Station; Crawden Bank, Hartley, Longfield, Kent."
19 Apr 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Proposed Playing Field for Hartley
"Close voting at parish meeting - poll demanded.
A special parish meeting was held in the WI Hall, Hartley, on Monday to consider acquiring a playing field. Mr F W Tate presided. The report of a special committee recommended that, subject to the report of the District valuer being favourable, and sanctions obtained from the County Council and Ministry of Health, a field of 10½ acres adjoining the Church Path, between Ash and Church Roads, should be purchased for £420. A proportion of the cost would be met by grants obtained through the Kent Playing Fields Association. A minimum area of 2 acres should be reserved for children of school age.
Captain Bignell, the newly elected member of the Dartford RDC, who moved the adoption of the report, pointed out that the only field available for organised games was one lent by Mr George Day, but, as the district developed, there was every likelihood the land would be required for building, and no other field would be available except at prohibitive cost. Mrs Balchin, seconding, urged the necessity of providing permanent facilities for healthy games, as a counter attraction to less desirable, forms of amusement for young people.
Mr Nairn opposed as the cost of laying out the ground, making roads etc, would be very great. Owing to the reduction of certain assessments under the Derating Act the produce of a penny rate was little more than £23 instead of £30. Major Woods considered the cost greater than was necessary for the number of children attending the school. Dr Welch objected to the site as not being very central, but Mr Sizmur replied that the ground could be reached equally quickly from either end of the parish. Mr Harry urged considering the financial aspect, and Mr Daniel wished to be assured that there was no possibility of the penny rate being exceeded. The Chairman replied that it would be impossible for the rate to be increased without the consent of the parishioners. Mr Davies said there was a large amount of vacant land on which the children could play and he considered a playing field would in time become derilict. Mr Wells Thatcher hoped that in time a bowling green would be available, as well as cricket pitches and tennis courts. Mr Benson pointed out that the child population of school age was nearer 130 than 70. Answering questions the Chairman explained that the management of the ground would be in the hands of a committee appointed by the parish meeting.
Mr Nairn moved as an amendment that the expense of acquiring and maintaining the playing field should be met by voluntary subscription. Major Woods seconded, and this was defeated by 37 to 32. The motion was then carried by 36 votes to 34. Mr Nairn thereupon demanded a poll of the parishioners."
03 May 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Playing Field Poll
"The poll demanded by Mr C W Nairn on the proposal to acquire a playing field took place on Monday when 55 per cent of the electors voted. 73 votes being cast for the scheme and 185 against. After the declaration of the poll, Captain C S Bignell said there was cause for satisfaction in the knowledge that 73 people had the foresight to support a plan that would grow more urgent as time went on. Mr F W Tate, the chairman of the parish, said he regrateeted that so much careful work by the committee had been thrown away, bu those responsible for the scheme had no reason for self reproach. The poll was a stupid waste of parish funds, since the small majority by wich the parish meeting approved the proposal would necessarilty have prevented its being proceeded with. The committee had put the facts before the electors in a moderate and reasonable form, but public opinion was clearly not advanced enough to move, especially in face of an opposition based on prejudice and inaccuracy. Hartley was a young village developing rapidly. By acquiring a public open space it would have given further proof of its vitality, but an overwhelming majority had shrunk from the responsibility."
03 May 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Nursing Association
"The Rector of Longfield, the Rev R F Galer, presided at the annual meeting of the Longfield, Hartley, Darenth and district Nursing Association in Longfield Village Hall on Wednesday…..the rector said he had spent the last few years of his life among hospital beds. In the country there was no ambulance to rush cases to hospital, or a dispensary, and the people had got to band together so as to be ready to deal with an emergency. Numbers of cases were left to the last minute and when the patient reached hospitalthe case was hopeless. Doctors and welfare committtees were working to make the future generation better than the present. Country places were harder to work because they had not the things that a town had for the fight against illness......."
Summary of last year's work - 3,592 visits, hours worked 4,115. Nurse Baldwin had made 87 school visits. Receipts £471. Longfield thanked for coming to the rescue of Darenth a few years ago.
10 May 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Playing Field Poll - Letter
"Sir. I have no wish to enter into any controversy respecting the above, but the remarks from Mr F W Tate in the Kent Messenger compels me to do so. In the first place his percentage of polling is wrong. Allowing for removals and deaths 67% of the electors voted - 48% against, 19% for and 33% abstained. He complains of the stupid waste of parish funds by taking the poll of the parish. That waste is entirely due to him for not informing me that, on account of the close voting at the Parish meeting, the scheme would be abandoned. I heard nothing of this until I saw his remarks in print after the poll, otherwise I would have withdrawn my demand for a poll. Why did he appeal to the parish with his typed circular only 2 days before the poll if he intended to withdraw his scheme/ His remark 'prejudice and inaccuracy' applies to his case very strongly. The scheme was explained at the parish meeting and rushed through, not giving the electors the chance of a few days' thought. He had the support of the strongest committee possible, whilst I ploughed the lone furrow. His own friends sacrificed principle for friendship, otherwise I question if he would have polled 20 votes. In conclusion, I heartily thank my fellow parishioners for the support they gave me with their votes and cars for the distant voters. So long as I am able to attend our Parish Meetings I shall never hesitate to appeal to the parish, especially when our rates are to be mortgaged and the surest possibility to be increased, and I feel sure that I shall not appeal in vain. Clifford W Nairn, The Elms, Hartley."
13 May 1930 Times
House for Sale
Bundoran (= 1 St Johns Lane; 5 bed, 3 r, orchard, 2 acres) for sale at £1,850 by Major P I Newton
17 May 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Poll Sequel - Parish Chairman Retires
"Echoes of the recent poll on the playing field scheme were heard at the Parish Meeting held in the WI Hall on Friday. At the opening of the meeting the chair was taken by Mr F W Tate, who said the chief business would be the election of his successor. At the annual election he was given a renewal of confidence, but a poll of the parish had shown a wide divergence of view between himself and the electors. The proposal to acquire a playing field had been rejected by an overwhelming majority. Though the scheme was the work of a representative committee it had been particularly associated with himself. The strength of the opposition to what he regarded as a real social improvement forced him to the conclusion that he would out of place as their chairman and must retire. Mr Nairn hoped Mr Tate would reconsider the matter. Dr Beadles, Miss Barker and others argued that the chairman was mistaken in regarding the poll as reflecting on himself. Mr Tate, while expressing gratification at the attitude of the meeting, said he must adhere to his decision. A vote of thanks was given to Mr Tate for his past services and Commander Morgan RN was elected on the nomination of Dr Welch, seconded by Mr R Newcombe..."
Hartley Manor Cottage for Sale
Porter Putt & Fletcher have property for sale, entrance hall, 1 recep, kitchen, 3 bed, bathroom, wc, 4½ acres, built in garage which could be converted to other rooms. Large outbuildings.
Hartley Couple's Unhappiness
(Dartford Magistrates) "John Alfred Hawkins, 33 of Church Road, Hartley, was summoned by his wife, May Hawkins, 31, for persistent cruelty. Mr NP Baynes apppeared for the complainant and Mr G Chancellor for the defendant.
Complainant said she was married at Wandsworth in 1919, and there were 3 children. Defendant earned about £3 a week and also had 24s war disability pension. Defendant had struck her several times and tried to strangle her. In April last year she found a letter in his pocket asking for forgiveness, and indicated that he contemplated suicide. Elizabeth Annie Waters, The Clearway, Sevenoaks, said she had seen her daughter with bruises two or three times. PC Hogg stated that in August complainant complained to him and defendant then promised to behave himself. Ethelwyn Veronica Baldwin, Hartley, said that on one occasion complainant came to her with her mouth bleeding and she had marks on her throat.
George Robert Waters, Royal Marines, Chatham, brother of complainant, gave evidence. Mr Baynes: What have you come here for? - to protect both parties. Mr Baynes - As a Royal Marine? - Yes (laughter).
A separation was granted, defendant to pay 30s a week and £3 2s costs."
24 May 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Local Government Reorganisation
Review recommended by Royal Commission on Local Government has led to a number of proposals. Dartford UDC suggest they should take over Stone, Darenth, Sutton at Hone (including Swanley) and Wilmington from Dartford RDC, opposed by all 4 parishes. Swanscombe UDC wants to stay as it is but would be OK taking over Stone, Darenth (part) and Southfleet. Meanwhile Wrotham UDC has designs on West Kingsdown, Ash and Ridley. This would leave only Farningham, Eysnford, Horton Kirby, Lullingstone, Fawkham, Hartley and Longfield in Dartford RDC. Dartford RDC plan to resist all proposals. [None of the parishes of Dartford RDC was moved to other districts until abolition in 1974]
07 Jun 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
50 MPH at Hartley
(Dartford Magistrates) "Richard James Berens, 18, GVTS Carter, 16, and Robert James Dunsmuir, 17, all of Hartley, admitted riding motor cycles in a dangerous manner in Ash Road, Hartley on 9th May. Charles English, Hartley, estimated their speed at 50mph. Defendants, who denied this, were fined £3 each and their licences were endorsed."
House Signs for sale
"House or name tablets, dark oak, gold letters, 16 x 3½ inches, 6s post free. Signs, trade supplied - Lowe, Dawsland, Hartley, Longfield."
Speeches by Kent MPs at Hartley
"A 'Home and Empire' campaign meeting was held in the Hartley Constitutional Hall on Friday, Mr W H Daniel presiding...." Captain H H Balfour (Thanet) and Waldon Smithers (Chislehurst) spoke in favour of protectionism ("safeguarding") and empire free trade (that is the rest of empire would supply Britain with raw materials while Britain would be allowed to sell manufactured goods without tariffs).
07 Jun 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Wedding
Wedding at Longfield of Lancelot John Dunmall of Essex Road to Dorothy Mary Thompson of Watch Gate, Darenth. Features picture of bride and groom, bridesmaids and best man.
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Dartford RDC going to buy 400 feet frontage by stone quarry for £675 from Colyer Fergusson Estate, which will take 16 houses. Report of Dartford RDC meeting mentions purchase of Watch Gate Estate at Darenth form the Ecclesiatical Commissioners for £2,650 (2) West Kent Electric Company said HV mains at Longfield couldn't be "tapped" to supply the village. Council allow Croydon - Swanscombe cable over recreation ground. (3) Dartford RDC asked to fill in potholes in Station Road, as it is likely they will take it over soon.
Baby Car Crushed by Motor Lorry
"During a storm at Gravesend, Miss Ellen Coulson of 2 Fairby Cottages, [41] Station Road, Longfield was fortunate to escape serious injury when her car wsa crushed by a motor lorry drien by Mr S C Atlin of 4 St James' Avenue, Gravesend. The collision occurred at the cross roads near Tipperary Cottages, Wrotham Road, and the small saloon car was turned over, finishing up on its roof. The lady was pinned inside the car and was extricated from the wreckage with much difficulty, as one side and the ront of the car were crushed in. Miss Coulson was conveyed in the Police Ambulance to teh Gravesend and North Kent Hospital, suffering from head injuries and shock , but after medical attention she was taken home."
28 Jun 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
A Gypsy's Death
The funeral of Mr William Harris, owner of a gypsy encampment at Green Street Green took place at Longfield on Friday, following his death on the previous Tuesday. A horse carriage and 5 motor cars followed the hearse to Longfield Church, where the rector Rev R Galer officiated.
To Let
"Vacant - Furnished apartments with attendance - Grafton House, Hartley, Longfield."
05 Jul 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Mrs Balchin to replace Captain Copus as parish representative on Primary School Managers (Governors). They had been unhappy with Kent Education Committee proposal to send older children from Hartley to new school at Northfleet, because transport would add extra cost to rates. (2) Surface Water nuisance again in Church Road. (3) Miss Capper and Mrs Walker said the water was dirty looking. (4) Complaints of removal of road workman, Capt Bignell said as an economy measure they had been put on road tarring, if the parish want him back on road clearing they will have to pay for it. (5) Presentation to former chairman F W Tate.
Apartments to let
"Vacant - Furnished apartments with attendance. Grafton House, Hartley, Longfield."
12 Jul 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Cricket // Gillingham Amateurs 115 (Tate 5-34, Ellerby 3-14). Hartley 61 (no-one got more than 8 runs).
In Fairyland - Pretty play by children at Gravesend
Performance of 'Nimmy, Nimmy Not' organised by Mrs Witt of Hartley and featuring many from Hartley to raise money for the Kendall House Home for Girls.
19 Jul 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Help for the hospital
Hartley and Holywell and Ash women raise £30 at Gravesend Hospital Fete. Mentions Mrs Andrus and Mrs Speir.
Fruit and Flower Service
At All Saints Church for Scouts, Cubs and Brownies. Produce taken by Eric Green to Livingstone Hospital.
Cricket
Hartley 82 (E Hurst 27, F Sims 11, V Peeke 11, E Seath 10). Gillingham Social 87.
Longfield Church Fete
"In an effort to pay off the debts and prepare for the future restoration of the parish Church, Longfield held a fete in Mrs Hickmott's meadow on Saturday.... There was maypole dancing by the school children as well as a playlet 'Widdicombe Fair' and Morris dancing. Hartley Band was in attendance and there were many sideshows....." (list of stall holders)
Longfield Photos
(1) Longfield Fete, Rev R F Galer, Miss Hassell (who opened fete), Mr J Hickmott, Mr A W Cromar, a flower girl Joyce Lawrence [1925-2002]. (2) Longfield Fete, Girl Guides at Fishing Pond stall. (3) Wedding of Mr J G Letchford of Dartford and Miss L Crouch of Longfield)
Fawkham Dairyman Fined
Ernest Fuller 51 of Pennis Farm, Fawkham fined 40s for selling milk 47.3 per cent deficient in fat at Longfield.
26 Jul 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Mothers' Day
(Hartley Primary) "The mothers of the pupils visited the school at the invitation of the headmistress, Miss Fiddis, on Thursday. All branches of the work of the school was shown to the visitors, much interest being shown in the handwork taught by Miss Emmott to the smaller children. The cookery girls in white overalls and caps attracted everyone, and the delightful cakes sampled at tea proved Miss Fiddis's capabilities in this direction as in others."
26 Jul 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Diphtheria Outbreak
"8 cases of diptheria have been reported from Longfield, all being children between 7 and 13. They were removed to the Dartford Isolation Hospital, where one child, Prudence Lynds, 8, daughter of Mr and Mrs Lynds of Sundown, Longfield, died during the weekend. The cause of the outbreak was traced to a child who had been at a holiday camp." Paper of 2/8/1930 said the epidemic was over but they were still watching 6 carriers.
30 Jul 1930 Daily Mirror
£5 Payments - Children's Mishaps
Payment under the Mirror's free insurance scheme to W Tatlock [William Thomas Tatlock, 1912-1967] of 7 Valley Villas [219 Main Road], Longfield, for broken arm while jumping.
09 Aug 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Brass Band
Played at Swanley Liberal fete.
Land for Sale
"For sale, Hartley. Valuable Freehold building land in splendid position with frontage to main roads of 1,400 feet; price 30s per foot frontage; 10 per cent down; balance at 6 per cent - Full particulars apply: Porter Putt and Fletcher, Auctioneers, Gravesend."
Cricket Hartley v Hartley Constitutional Club // "At Hartley on Monday, Hartley won by 65.
Hartley: V Peeke b Seath 21, P Burgess b Ellerby 13, F Sims b Ellerby 2, H Goodwin c Boston b Adams 16, H Day b Ellerby 6, W Balchin c Hurst b Ellerby 0, J French b Ellerby 5, A Duvall not out 0, H Sims b Ellerby 0, G Wst b Ellerby 0, R Balchin b Seath 18, extras 8. Total 89. Bowling - Ellerby 7-11, Seath 2-38, Adams 1-5.
Constitutional Club - E Hurst b W Balchin 0, L Boston b W Balchin 3, F Hockley b W Balchin 1, C Ellerby b Day 10, R Adams c Goodwin b Day 8, E Seath c&b R Balchin 0, G Jenkins c W Balchin b Day 0, W Richards b R Balchin 0, F Jackson b R Balchin 0, C Adams c Burgess b Day 1, D Gray not out 0, extras 1; total 24. Bowling W Balchin 3-7; Day 4-7, R Balchin 3-2. Second Innings 40 (Goodwin 4-8)
[Hartley Constitutional is the ancestor of Hartley Country Club]
Women's Institute
Maidstone Telegraph "Members entertained to tea at the Institute on Thursday 40 old ladies from Dartford, whose ages ranged from 70 and 80 years. They were conveyed by motors...."
09 Aug 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) "When the meetng concluded, the clerk used many matches for illumination while htemembers were signing cheques. The chairman suggested that members should bring candles to the next meeting." (2) Residents asked to clear public footpaths of weeds. (3) Corner of Essex Road and Fawkham Road said to be dangerous and in need of rounding off.
16 Aug 1930 Essex Newsman
No Driving Licence
Romford Magistrates: "For driving motor vehicles without being duly licensed, fines were imposed as follows… William H Daniel, Hartley House, Longfield, Kent - 10/-."
16 Aug 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
The Late Mrs Marshall Jackman
"The funeral of Mrs Marshall Jackman wife of Mr Marshall Jackman [Lily Cordelia Jackman, 1860-1930], LCC MP for South Hackney, took place at Norwood Cemetery on Monday. The cortege left Willmar, New Barn, Longfield at 1.45…..." Long list of mourners and floral tributes "Upon the coffin was a wreath of flowers picked by husband and daughters from 'The Garden she loved so well.' "
Motorcyclist and the Sump Hole
"Mr Leslie R Obee of Longfield was motorcycling toward Southfleet Station on Saturday, whith Mr Albert Christian on the pillion, when his handlebar caught the rear of a Maidstone and District Bus. The cycle struck the bank, swerved across the road and both riders were hurled over the hedge down a steep bank to the margin of a sump hole. The driver sustained injuries to the right hand and the pillion rider was detained in hospital."
House for Sale
"Hartley. Attractive bungalow for sale, occupying a delightful situation: 3 bedrooms, large reception room, bathroom, kitchen, scullery and wash-house, garage, tool shed etc. Half an acre of orchard ground; all modern conveniences; price £850 freehold - For full particulars and order to view, apply Mark Liell and son, 100 Fenchurch Street, EC4 (Tel Monument 2491)." [Not sure where this is]
19 Aug 1930 Times
Governess Wanted
Mrs Spier (Hartley House, Ash Road) requires protestant governess for 4½ yo boy and 8 yo girl
22 Aug 1930 Southwark & Bermondsey Recorder
Former Southwark Councillor
"Mr and Mrs A H Edward (the former of whom was for 19 years a Southwark Borough Councillor), have celebrated their golden wedding. Mr Edward and his wife now live at Hartley, Kent, and he is a member of the Hartley [sic] Rural District Council."
26 Aug 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Motor Cyclist Injured
"Mr George Rich of Pinden Farm, was injured in a motor cycling accident at Longfield on Tuesday. He was taken to Gravesend and North Kent Hospital in the Police Ambulance. After treatment for cuts, bruises and shock, he was taken home."
Motor Collision
"On Sunday a motor car driven by Mr Fletcher of London, with his passenger and Mr Mander of Eventide, Ash, as passengers was turning into the new car park outside Ash Parish Room, when a collision occurred with a small car coming from the London Road. No-one was hurt and the cars but slightly damaged."
29 Aug 1930 Dartford Chronicle
Child Maintenance
Leonard John Glidewell, father of child by Kathleen Emily Osborne of the Institution, West Hill, Dartford, ordered to pay 7s 6d for the child. Miss Osborne said they had been associating for a year and 4 months before the birth went into the institution together as man and wife, later discovered they were not married.
30 Aug 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Fairseat Church
Large picture feature on the dedication of the new church at Fairseat the by the Bishop of Rochester, donated by Sir Philip Hickson Waterlow baronet of Trosley Towers for the children of the Convalescent Home there. Articles for Sale
"Walnut dining table 5ft 9in x 4ft and 2 leaves; armchairs; lady's cycle; overmantel vases etc - Ravenna, Church Road, Hartley, Longfield." [Ravenna is now The Poplars, Church Road]
30 Aug 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Dangerous Driving Charge at Northfleet
Horatio Gilbert Wooding of Martindown, Longfield fined £1 for driving a motorbike in a dangerous manner at Tollgate. His 2 passengers fined 10s each for aiding and abetting.
06 Sep 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Hedge to be cut down at dangerous corner at Whitehill, fence to be erected 20 feet from the bend (2) PC agrees to diversion of Pond to Station footpath (3) District Valuer has said RDC should offer £650 for land for council houses, owner wants £675.
06 Sep 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield's Village Hall - Trustees Criticised
"So satisfied apparently are Longfield people with the way their village hall is worked by the committee, that only about a dozen people were present at the annual meeting on Wednesday,and Mr H Hickmott, secretary, complained that the trustees nevr attended meetings, and they could not get a quorum. It was true they delegated their business to a committee, but they might attend." This year is 21st anniversary. After £54 spent on alterations, the accounts show a deficit of £19. Praise for the hall committee.
13 Sep 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Stores (Advert)
"8 hens laid 1,008 eggs in 7 months on Karswood Poultry Spice (containing ground insects). Packets from 1s 3d. Best egg producer obtainable. Try it from Morris, Longfield Stores, Station Road, Longfield."
18 Sep 1930 The Stage
Disengaged Actor
"Mr Wilfred Mansfield. Disengaged, disengaged. Hartley Green, Near Longfield, Kent."
20 Sep 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Bus and Car Collide
"A collision between a bus and a car in a narrow lane at Hartley had an interesting sequel at Graveend County Court on Tuesday. Graham Marchant Wood of Hatchlands [Now Blue Firs, Church Road], Hartley Hill, Longfield, smallholder and market gardener, sued Harold Dean Fletcher, trading as Enterprise Motor Services, of 42 Perry Street, Gravesend, for £23 damages for alleged negligence. Mr H L Tatham (Messrs Tolhurst and Tatham, Gravesend) appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr Fox Andrews (instructed by Messrs Joynson-Hicks & Co) for defendant.
Mr Tatham said that on March 18th, defendant's motor coach collided in Church Road, Hartley, with plaintiff's motor car, which was stationary close to the proper side of the road. Plaintiff stated that on approaching a blind corner, with a triangular piece of land called the Sanctuary, he sounded his horn twice, but got no reply. On rounding the corner he saw the motor coach approaching 30 fee away, and not on its proper side. Mr Tatham: That is where you first saw the bus? Plaintiff: You will agree with me that itis difficult to diagnose anything coming toward you? Mr Tatham: Quite (laughter). Plaintiff siad he stopped his car close to the 'blind' edg, but the motor coach crashed into him. Defendant admitted giving no warning with his hooter. Cross-examined plantiff said his little boy who was in the car, bumped his head owing to the application of his brakes. The braking marks of the motor coach and the car were 24 feet and 15 feet respectively. His marks began 2 feet 6 inches from the his nearside. He was at a standstill when the collision occurred. The bus had ample time to stop. Mr Fox-Andrews: And you stayed there innocently while the driver of the coach came and mowed you down? - Yes. You have been curiously unfortunate in your driving experience? - I have had 3 accidents in the 3 years I have had the car. In further cross examination plaintiff said his front wheel brake marks ceased a shade over 2 feet from his nearside. Judge Spencer Hogg: That was where you stopped? - Yes. Plaintiff's little boy was called, but as he cried all the while he was in the witness box, he was not pressed to give evidence.
E A Watkinson of Fairby Stores, Hartley, stated that after the accident he saw plaintiff's car, which was jammed right into the hedge. It was a very narrow and dangerous corner. Francis W Barnes of Hartley Bottom Farm, Longfield, who, like the previous witness, attended on subpoena gave similar evidence.
Mr Tatham submitted that even if plaintiff's car had stopped in the middle of the road, the bus should not have tried to pass it.
Cyril Evans, driver of the bus, said neither of them were able to stop until they collided. Mr Fox-Andrews: Was the car at a standstill before the collision? - I deny that fact (laughter). Mr Tatham: you put your speed at 12mph. Do you put it at that now? - Perhaps I go round there a bit more steady now.
His honour said both the motor coach and the car were going too fast at a dangerous corner, and both drivers were guilty of negligence. He was satisfied that plaintiff's car was not stationary before the collision occurred. Judgment was given for defendant with costs."
[this is probably the bottom of Stocks Hill by the turn off for Manor Lane, this was still a problem in 1961]
20 Sep 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Poultry for Sale
"For sale, March stock cockerels; cooks and dewars strain; Barnevelders, Rhodes, Minorcas, from 8s 6d. Watson, Wayside, Hartley, Longfield."
"Poultry. 50 pullets (Rhodes, Leghorns) cheap, Bassano, Hartley, Longfield."
20 Sep 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Fire Protection in Dartford District
"While Dartford RDC are to be congratulated on the thoroughness with which they have tackled the important question of providing adequate facilities for dealing with fire outbreakes in their area, there is a good deal of apprehension in hte district as tto the cost, which in the opinion o fmany will coem to considerably more than £4,320, which the council estimate will be sufficient.
In the scheme which the council have adopted, it is proposed to provide 4 new engines complete at a cost of £3,000, and to maintain the existing engine at Horton Kirby. The engines will be stationed at Horton Kirby, Eynsford, Swanley Junction, Wilmington and Stone, and there are to be substations with hose trucks and equipment at Farningham, Sutton village, Hawley and Horton Kirby village. Retaining fees are to be paid to 65 men at 30s apiece, and 5 chief officers will receive retaining fees of £5 each.
The question is being asked whether 4 new engines are necessary? The rual area is not so large that an engine stationed in a fairly central position could not reach any point within a few minutes, and though it is impossible to say what may happen in the future, and it is wise to be prepared for eventualities, it must be admitted that there have been few serious outbreaks during the past 15 years at least.
Up to the present fires in the rural area have been dealt with by the Dartford Brigade, and it is safe to say that 90 per cent of th calls received by this brigade have come from places outside the Dartford town district.. There has never been any hesitancy on the part of the Dartford Brigade to respond to calls from neighbouring villages, and on each occasion their arrival at the scene of a fire had been exceedingly prompt. The Dartford Brigade can reach the farthest portion of Stone within 15 minutes at any time of the day or night, and recently they arrived at a stack fire at Ash, one of the outlying parts of the rural area, within 18 minutes, although several narrow and winding lanes had to be negotiated.
In the report presented to the Rural Council, no mention is made of the cost of erecting suitable buildings to house the fire engines. There are existing stations at Horton Kirby and Swanley Junction, but buildings would have to be erected at Stone, Eynsford and Wilmington, and these cold not be put up under £150 each - an additional £450 to the estimate. Then here is the very important matter of providing suitable alarms at the various stations. The firemenwoudl have bells at their residences, but nothing is mentioned about having resident firemen on duty at the stations to give the call. During the daytime the firemen would be at their work, and it woudl be necessary to summon them by means of sirens or something of that nature. It seems quite obvious that in order for the various brigades to be effective there would have to be at least two men to each station, who would work in shifts. These should be drivers, as otherwise firemen might arrive in response to a call and find that there was no-one to drive the engine. The cost of providing these men at 5 stations would be a big item. Another point is whether the firemen would be content with retaining fees of 30s a year. In other brigades the fee is much higher, being at Dartford £6.
Darenth Parish Council are satisfied with the services of the Dartford Brigade and feel that by not joining in the RDC's schme they will save the local rates. If a new and fully equipped engine was provided at swanley Junction with a man continually on duty, it could deal with outbreaks at Swanley, Birchwood, Farningham, Eynsford and a portion of Wilmington, while the existing engine at Horton Kirby could respond to calls at Farningham and Sutton at Hone. The Dartford Brigade could be responsible with their 2 engines for Stone - where, by the way, there have only been 14 fires during the past 15 years, four of which were serious - and Longfield, Fawkham, Ash, Kingsdown and a part of Wilmington. By providing one new engine and coming to an arrangement with Dartford UDC, the RDC could have their district well protected against fires, and the saving to the ratepayers would be considerable.
Before the money is spent the points mentioned in this article are worthy of consideration. Although the council have passed the scheme, there is time to reconsider it. If the council saw to it that there was a plentiful supply of hydrants throughout the rural area, which could be easily found, it would go a long way towards removing the fire peril. There have been many occasions in the past where firemen have been badly hampered owing to the lack of water. Teh scheme as it stands at present, if not grandiose, as Mr W Butler the member for Farningham, called it, is certainly rather ambitious, and is almost certain to be a heavy burden to the ratepayers if carried out."
26 Sep 1930 Dartford Chronicle
Driving without Lights
Cdr Colin Alexander Gordon Hutchinson of Hartley Manor fined for driving car without lights
04 Oct 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Houses for Sale
"By order of the Public Trustee. Messrs Porter Putt and Fletcher are instructed to submit to auction, at the Masonic Hall, Wrotham Road, Gravesend, on Wednesday 22nd October 1930 at 3 o'clock precisely. The freehold bungalow residence known as 'Villa Rosa' [Kantara Church Road], Church Road, Hartley within convenient distance of Fawkham Station, London being reached within the hour and near to the neighbouring towns of Dartford and Gravesend. The accommodation comprises 2 reception rooms, kitchen, scullery, good offices, 2 bedrooms, attic. Standing in about 1a 2r 10p well planted with fruit trees. Vacant Possession on completion...."
Other auctions by same agents (Longfield) "The freehold country property known as Pescot within easy distance of Fawkham Station, London being reached within the hour. Comprising: Entrance lodge, attractively arranged house, containing large entrance hall, 3 reception rooms, excellent domestic offices, 6 good bedrooms, garage, greenhouses, outbuildings. Standing in about 2a 3r 7p with extensive road frontages. Comprising pleasure garden with tennis court, vegetable garden and orchard. Company's water supply. Electricity will be laid on very shortly. Vacant possession of the whole on completion...."
Wilimar, New Barn, lounge, hall, 2 recep, 4 bed, bathroom, 1a 2s 6p grounds including pleasure garden, tennis court, vegetable garden, small orchard.
04 Oct 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield's Village Nurse
"After 8 years with the Longfield and District Nursing Association, Nurse Martha Weaver [1862-1937] is retiring. She came to Hartley from Hertfordshire 35 years ago, and since then has acted as nurse to the surrounding districts. For the last 18 years she has lived in Kent Road, Longfield.
Nurse Weaver (pictured) commenced nursing quite young, and for no pay. In Herts and Suffolk, where she began, the wages were so low that people could not afford to pay. Instead, they gave the nurse her meals. That was over 40 years ago. She received her training in midwifery at the East End Mothers' Lying In Hospital, Stepney, but her training for general nursing was gained in the hard school of experience.
When seen by a Kent Messenger representative, Nurse Weaver said there were but 23 houses in Hartley when she took up residence there. She helped to form the Longfield Child Welfare Clinic, and when the Nursing Association was formed 8 years ago, she was the first nurse. Her beat covered the whole of the district from Green Street Green to Stoney Corner (near Meopham), and at all hours she has been seen cycling on her rounds, despite the weather. Seven years ago the work increased so much that another nurse was engaged for the Green Street Green area. there were many gipsies in the neighbourhood, and Nurse Weaver related how they used to call for her in their pony carts to attend a case. Nurse Weaver was full of praise for the work of the Nursing Association Committee, and said the only reason she was giving up was the winter, but she hoped to take private cases. She admitted it was a hard life, but she loves the work.
As a token of esteem for her services, the Committee of the District Association have opened a testimonial fund, and donations are being received by Mr H Hickmott."
11 Oct 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Someone has written to another local paper to complain about the tip, PC said no-one has written to them about it. (2) PC will not support resolution by Darenth PC for the Dartford RDC to hold meetings in the evenings, so working people could become councillors.
11 Oct 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Celebrates - Coming of Age of Village Hall
"Longfield Village Hall is 21 years old, and to celebrate the coming of age a supper was held in the building on Tuesday. 60 people seated around the tables illuminated by old fashioned oil lamps (electricity has not yet reached the village) made a happy party. At the one end of the room sat the Rev R F Galer, chairman of the trustees, and, at the other Mr Henry Hickmott, chairman of the working committee and friends.
Following the loyal toast, Mr H C Hickmott... said Longfield had been more fortunate than most villages. It was true during the last 21 years they had their ups and downs, but they had had more ups than downs. The hall was in quite a strong position and they were very fortunate in having such excellent trustees and a working committee who were very keen. He had led them most of the time. They had not got a marble hall, nor a brick building, but they had a hall that was big enough for the village. The hall could cater for anyone in the village, including the Scouts, Guides and other organisations, in a small way and who could not afford to pay big rents. The hall was used most nights of the week, and was gradually getting bigger in many directions. Expenses had been rather heavy. Big improvements had taken place from time to time.
In response, Mr Allchin said when he came to the village 36 years ago, there was a small working men's club which soon lapsed. In December 1908, a site was purchased and the hall erected. There was opposition from some people, who thought the hall would be unsightly, and some time after the people who sold the land called upon him to remove 'the old tin shed' erected on the plot. After a little persuasion the matter dropped, and teh 'tin shed' remains (laughter). From that time the village hall had gone on from strength to strength, due to the help of many present and many absent. When the hall owed £80 and was being pressed for payment, Messrs E Fielder and W Foster, with their friends, worked together and paid off the debt. If the hall was to be carried on it would have to receive the support of the public. It was hard work organising various functions, and he hoped the people would support the committee. The hall in 1908 had for one of its objects the attraction of the young men who stood about on the street corners. It was possible to mould a man's character at a certain age and thus entice him to higher aims. Great credit was due to Mr Hickmott for the way he had altered the 'old tin shed' into the palatial building it was now........"
On another page is a picture of many guests at the dinner, conspicuous by his dog collar is Rev Galer.
[edition of 29/11/1930 has want ad from Mr Hickmott for Table Tennis table]
Where Rats Breed by the Million
(1) "The attention of the Dartford RDC on Tuesday, was called to teh condition of the Borough of southwark's refuse dump at Longfield. The Public Health Committee were asked to go intothe matter with the object of securing an improvement.
Mr J J Chambers said the nuisance from the dump was becoming intolerable and to say the dump was there before the district became residential was no reason why it should be allowed to continue. Mr C S Bignell [Hartley] said that rats were being bred there by the million and would continue to be as long as the refuse dump existed. He felt that the council should cll the attention of the Ministry of Health to the position without delay. The chairman, Mr G Day [Ash], informed Mr Bignell that the council drew the attention of the Ministry to the state of affairs that existed at Longfield before he became a member. Mr Bignell said they should keep at it until there was an improvement. Mr F W Ladds suggested that if the Southwark Council were approached in a friendly manner, they would probably do all in their power to remove the nuisance. It was no use for the RDC to approach them in a fighting attitude. Mr Bignell mentioned that a resident at Longfield drew up a petition which was signed by other residents and forwarded to the Southwark Council. The results however were nil. Dr C M Ockwell, the Medical Officer, said such a nuisance was not confined solely to Longfield. An inspector of the Ministry of Health visited the dump, but so far nothing had happened." (2) Rat campaign 3-15 NOvember. Council will pay 1d per tail of every destroyed rat. (3) Council to offer £650 for Longfield Housing Site, subject to District Valuer's sanction.
[Paper of 8/11/1930 reported that Southwark Council to spend £1,000 on improvements to the dump. They ask Southwark to put out the fire and deposit refuse on fresh ground.]
18 Oct 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
"The Chairman (Cdr Morgan) said that, with reference to complaints as to the colour of the water, he had written to the Mid Kent Water Co who replied that the occasional brown colour was due to rust from the pipes after the periodical flushing, and was quite harmless; they enclosed an analysis of the water, proving its excellence.
Complaints had been made as to the dangerous height of the hedge by the War Memorial, which the chairman said had now been rectified. Mr Benson protested about the drastic way the hedge had been cut, and asked who was responsible. The chairman replied that the owners preferred to remove the hedge and save the continual expense of cutting it. Miss Barker remarked that it was safer to drive around now than it had been for the last 8 years.
In reply to enquiries, the school manager, Mrs Balchin, reported that as only 65 children were on the roll at Hartley School, it was impossible to have a master. As to the heating difficulty, the managers had decided to purchase another oil heater. The sanitary arrangements had been approved by the County Medical Officer. The school gate is to be altered, so that the children could not rush straight out into the road. Mr Symm pointed out the danger of fire to the children unless the oil heaters were protected. Mrs Balchin said the necessity for fireguards had already been thought of, and, in reply to a further enquiry, it was stated the school managers were responsible for insuring the building.
Mr Comont asked as to the 6 fire extinguishers purchased for the village. The chairman produced one extinguisher in the case made for it, for approval. It was agreed to reduce the amount of glass in the front of the case. Mr Nann [sic - probably Nairn is meant] was asked to make the other 5 cases as quickly as possible, and place them on the School, the corner of Fanty [sic - probably Fairby Lane is meant] Lane, Black Lion, Catholic Church, Stocks Farm, Hartley Hill......"
24 Oct 1930 Southwark & Bermondsey Recorder
Fairby Grange Statistics
"During the 3 months ended September 30th, 86 mothers and 82 children were admitted to Fairby Grange…"
25 Oct 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Advert
"Fruit trees £5 - 100. Apple, pears, plums, all leading varieties, English grown 3 years, less than 100 - 15s dozen; call any time and select trees. 100,000 for disposal; not Sundays. Dealers invited; special prices for 1,000 lots - James Brown, Hartley, Longfield, Kent."
Dartford Traders' Big Push
Report on Dartford Traders Week. Potts ladies' outfitters won prize for best window display. Speeches from Chairman of the council and MP.
12 Nov 1930 Daily Mirror
Money to Pay the Doctor
More payments under the paper's free insurance scheme include J Elphick of Annlea, Hartley for broken leg in motorcycle accident (£5)
14 Nov 1930 Chelmsford Chronicle
Woman and Windows
Grays Magistrates: "Mrs Ethelwin Baldwin [1888-1956], Hartley, Longfield, Kent, was summoned for damaging 8 panes of glass in Tyndall Square, Tilbury to the extent of 8s 6d - Mr William Murray, Tyndall Square, said Mrs Baldwin knocked at the front door, bu he did not answer, as he knew who it was, and did not want to see her. Mrs Baldwin then went to the back door, and knocked. He still refused to answer, and she then broke a french window. They had words through the broken window. Defendant returned to the front of the house and broke 7 panes of glass. Defendant, who did not appear, was fined £1."
22 Nov 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Eggs
"Eggs new laid for sale, 60 to 120 dozen weekly - Farries, Hartley Hill, Longfield [his house was called Maubeuge but I don't know which house that was, Hartley Hill then included also the top part of Church Road up to the future New Ash Green]
Comedy Play at Hartley
Favourable review of Hartley Players' performance of 'Aren't we all?' at the Constitutional Hall. "The Hartley Players are players of repute, and that that repute is spread o'er the countryside was reflected by the number of motor cars parked in an adjoining lane on Friday evening." Details of performers. Paper said it should have been "more widely advertised" which may suggest attendance could have been better.
29 Nov 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Girl Guides' Tea Party
"The 10th Hartley Girl Guide Company held their 4th birthday party in the WI Hall on Friday. Many good things for the table were supplied by the members of the local association and friends. The delightful birthday cake was made by Mrs Edwards, and iced and decorated by Mrs Robrson. Guests included the committee, the 1st Hartley Brownie Pack, 1st Longfield, and 1st Higham companies. Competitions and charades occupied the evening, those acting in the charades being Beatrice Bromley, Evelyn Day, Kathleen Jackson, Mary Sale and Maisie Glidwell. Miss Arnold, commissioner for the district presented the Kingfisher Patrol with the challenge shield and congratulated them on having won it for the second year in succession."
Ellerby Advert
"Fencing Stakes, 5 to 6 ft, 3 to 4in diameter, sawn, pointed and dipped, £2 10s per 100; over 100 delivery free; spiles 5ft, 10s per 100, over 200 delivery free; logs £1 10s per ton delivered. C Ellerby, Hartley, Longfield."
29 Nov 1930 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Free Church
Sale of work to raise money towards the £50 required for church renovation.
06 Dec 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
No lights
(Dartford Magistrates) "Henry Hastings, Church Road, Hartley, was fined 40s for driving a car without lights at Farningham on 4th November."
Village Band
AGM reported good year and they are out of debt. "Trustees, in whom are vested the whole of the band instruments, uniforms, music stands, music etc were elected - for the subscribers Brig-Gen TA Andrus CMG, Messrs W G Benson and E J Cuff, and, members, Messrs G Munn, J Pentland and T F Tate". Half collections from carols given to Longfield and District Nursing Association.
Hartley School
£2 collected for Dr Barnados.
13 Dec 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Congregational Church Bazaar
Opened by Rev Ernest J Barson of Penge Congregational Church. £115 raised for building fund. Details of stallholders.
Gift to Mrs Tate
WI meeting. "….A pleasing ceremony was enacted when the vice-president Mrs Balchin, asked the President, Mrs Frank Tate, to accept a gold wrist watch from the members of the institute with their love and appreciation of her work as President of the Institute during the past 7 years. Replying, Mrs tate said she felt that among the many good things life had to offer there were perhaps two that stood out - loyal friendships and happy memories. They had given her both."
House for Sale
"Kent - 23 miles from London - Bungalow, 5 rooms, scullery, bath, sitting room 18x 14; good garden; acre fruit; price £900 part down if required, or to let £75 ex - Parkin, Laburnums, Church Road, hartley, Longfield."
Poppy Day Receipts
(KM - Maidstone Telegraph) Dartford District results - Hartley £15 12s 2d, Ash £8 1s 3d, Fawkham £8 17s 7d. Total £559 14s 6d
27 Dec 1930 KM (Gravesend Telegraph)
Hartley Players - New Members Given their Opportunity
"Hartley Players have found a novel way of discovering new talent. On Saturday in the Constitutional Hall, the young members were seen in 3 short plays. Mr E Harry, the chairman, explained that it was a new venture. The society possessed many experienced members, and the committee did not get the opportunity of seeing what the newer members could do. That evening the artistes were members who were beginners, or who had not appeared more than twice." Brief reviews of 'Judging by Appearences', 'A Restaurant Episode' and 'Tilda's New Hat', with names of actors.
Motor Cycle Hits Pedestrian
"A motorcycle ridden by Mr F C Selsby of Manor Cottage, Fawkham, while rounding the bend into Southfleet Lane, near the Railway Station, came into collision with Mr W Smith or Old Road West, who was acompanied by Miss P H Wilson of Campbell Road, Gravesend. The lady was thrown into the hedge, but escaped serious injury. Her companion was carried some distance on the front of the cycle, then fell to the ground, receiving a cut ot the back of the head. The cyclist was hurled in the road, sustaining a compound fracture of the left forearm, a broken nose, fractured left fibs, abrasions and contused wound over left eye. Dr A W Marsden of Hartley, who was on his way to Gravesend, attended the injured and conveyed them to Gravesend Hospital in his car. Mr Selsby lies there in a critical condition, but Mr Smith was able to return home."