1932 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1930-1939
01 Jan 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) R C Whitmore of Gossey Croft leaving Hartley. (2) Fancy Dress dance at Constitutional Hall
08 Jan 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Children's new year party at WI Hall. (2) Funeral of Mrs Applegarth. (3) Complaint about poor condition of Stack Road
16 Jan 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Loss of an Arm
// John Foster of Longfield, 83, back home following accident.Obitiary of Mrs Daisy Philips
Aged 35. Died in Gravesend Hospital following serious operation. Daughter of late Capt and Mrs Harris of Leithrop [20] Kent Road, Longfield.
23 Jan 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Theft of Wood
At Dartford Police Court on Friday, Elizabeth Chevis and her 13 year old son of Hill Barn Cottages [Fawkham] pleaded guilty to stealing a quantity of wood, valued at 2s, the property of Alfred Albert Smith. Supt Austin said complaints had been received abou missing wood. Defendants were bound over."
Ash Infant Welfare Centre Tea
For 60 mothers and babies. Mothers find clinic helpful and it is flourishing.
Death of Swanscombe Lady who knew Charles Dickens
Obituary of Mrs W Huggett (pictured). She helped Rev Bancks when writing Hartley Through the Ages [and is totally uncredited in the book], and obituary repeats a lot of earlier article from 1/3/1930.
Excessive Noise
"At Dartford on Friday, Thomas Victor Saxton, 3 Whitehill [Longfield] was fined 10s for driving a motor lorry which made an excessive noise, and William Sale, Hartley was fined 20s for aiding and abetting. Sgt Wright said Sale told him he had spent between £30 and £40 on tyres and a new body for the lorry. He took the greatest care of it."
Claim against Nurseryman
Dartford County Court. Bernard William Wheeler of the Nurseries [Longfield] v Amos Arthur White of Scudders Farm, Fawkham. He sold white 47,600 cabbage plants for £9 10s which was not paid because White complained about them 3 months after sale. John Brazier of Longfield said he helped pull the cabbages for Wheeler and they wee fine. Ralph Day of New House Farm, Hartley said he bought some and saw those going to defendant which looked quite all right. White claimed out of 30,000 plants he only got 2,600-2,700 cabbages. Court finds for plaintiff.
County of Kent Roads (Restriction) Order 1931
Bans HGVs for 5 years on the following roads: Hartley Bottom Road (all), Stack Lane [=Grange Lane] (all), Betsham to Castle Hill, Fawkham, Church Road between All Saints' Church and Ash.
30 Jan 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
A Loss to Hartley
"By the death of Mr T Fleetwood Tate on Tuesday last week, Hartley has lost one of its most earnest and enthusiastic workers. There were few activities in which he was not associated. During his 20 years' residence in the parish he took a large share in the development of local organisations. After a period as organist and choirmaster at All Saints', the Hartley Musical Society was formed on his initiative, and afte ra number of years he resigned to inaugurate the Hartley and District Band. It was through this organisation that he hoped to achieve the ideal of giving an opportunity of a musical training to those who would not otherwise have the opportunity. For over 8 years he worked to the full extent of his energies as conductor and the trainer of raw material. He resigned only a few months ago when he felt that the object he had in view had been established.
His experience among the smallholders, who settiled in Hartley in 1912 on a part of Fairby Farm, made him an earnest advocate of agricultural cooperation. In 1913 he helped to form the Hartley Agricultural Cooperative Society. From a modest start the influence of the society has extended and it now has an annual turnover of more than £9,000. Mr Tate became Chairman almost from the outset, and his business capabilities materially contributed to this success.
On the inauguration of the Hartley Congregational Church he became an enthusiastic supporter, and once again his wise counsel was of considerable assistance. Especially was this manifest in the raising of funds for a permanent building and £450 has been accumulated in about 4 years for this purpose.
In all his effective labours he has worked unostentatiously and studiously avoided every form of publicity. His sterling qualities were widely recognised and he gained the confidence and respect of all with whom he came in contact...." Description of Funeral at All Saints' led by Rev Bancks. Nearly 60 floral tributes (listed).
06 Feb 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Old Feudal Custom
"The collection of 'Quit Rents' was held on Wednesday, in Ash Parish Room by the representative of the Lord of the Manor. This ceremony now takes place once every 6 years. The original sport where the tenants of the Lambarde family (lords of the Manor of Ash) paid their quit rents was the Manorial Oak in White Ash Wood. These rents, in feudal times, entitled the tenants to be quit or free from rendering the usual service to the lord."
The Late Mrs Hollands
"The funeral took place on Monday of Mrs Mary Annie Hollands, of Elm Terrace, aged 59, who had been an invalid for about 16 years...." List of floral tributes.
Alleged bus obstruction
"Mr W Wright at Tuesday's meeting of the Rural Council, suggested that a pull in was necessary for buses at the Railway Tavern. The Surveyor estimated the cost at about £150 and the matter was referred to the Highways Committee."
Visit to Dartford
"A party of twenty visited the King Edward Avenue Hospital, Manor Gate and the Mount and distributed sweets, oranges, tobacco and cakes bought with the collections by the Longfield Church carol singers at Chirstmas......"
Got Mains Electric Now!
(For sale) "Electric Light Plant (GEC); cheap for quick sale, perfect running order, engine, dynamo, 2¼ 103 volts; batteries (54 cells) etc; reason for selling, Company's power just available - Apply Hickmott, Longfield [Court]"
[Mr Hickmott was not the only one trying to shift a standalone electric plant when mains electricity arrived. KM 10/9/1932 has advert for Electric Light Plant, 11hp paraffin engine, dynamo etc, 100V battery, 240A/h. Stickland, Old Downs, Longfield. And KM 14/10/1933 has Electric Light Plant suitable for 12-14 roomed house, 50V 3hp Armstrong Paraffin Engine, 1 unit Crompton dynamo, 90a/h chloride battery. Owner going on mains, £40 ono E Harry, Hartley Grange.
13 Feb 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Dump Trouble
"Complaints by residents at Longfield and Hartley regarding the nuisance which they state arises from the huge refuse dump close to Longfield Siding, owned by the Southwark Borough Council, and which have engaged the attention of the Dartford Rural Council for a long time, resulted in members of the council, with the clerk, Mr E J Hobbs, the Surveyor, Mr C H Webb, and the Sanitary Inspector, Mr Sutch, carrying out an inspection on Tuesday.
About 500 tons of refuse are brought down for disposal weekly. At the time of the inspection only one of hte dumps was alight, but the small from this was most unpleasant. The total area involved covers many acres and much of the refuse consists of vegetable matter. The Southwark Council have tried to combat the nuisance by spreading the dumps and covering the refuse as much as possible with earth. It was obvious from Tuesday's visit that the residents in the neighbourhood have good reason for complaint, particularly in hot weather, but how the matter is to be remedied does not seem easy to decide upon."
20 Feb 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Old Resident's Death
Funeral at Longfield Church of Mrs Julia Adelaide Whiehead of Brickies Row, aged 86. Had lived in Longfield 53 years oldest member of Women's Hour club.
Car for Sale
1927 Buick Touring Car £50, Sarona, Manor Drive, Hartley
Longfield Motorist's Neglect
Frederick Galpin Lilley of Riseley [14 Kent Road] fined 30s after accident at Cross Lane East when police discovered his lience had expired. He said he'd forgotten to renew
27 Feb 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Funerals
(1) James Remington of Valley Villas, Longfield, for 27 years gardener to the former Rector Rev Smith. (2) Mrs Francis Goldsmith of Station Road, widow aged 64 at King Edward Hospital Dartford.
Octogenerian Knocked Over
"Mr John Longhurst, 84, of Essex Road, sustained a fractured left leg on Sunday when he was accidentally knocked down by a motor car at the Lowfield Street and Princes Road crossroads." [sadly the paper of 12/3/32 reported that the accident had led to his death]
Late Mr W Hooper
Funeral at All Saints' Church Hartley of Walter Hooper, 68, of Woodcroft after short illness. Cambe to Hartley from London 7 years ago.
Man's Lost Freedom
(Hartley) "The Literary and Debating Society meeting at the WI on Friday discussed 'Man's Lost Freedom'. Mr Walter Wright, who opened, said he expected criticism for his view that the marriage laws were heavily weighted agaisnt justice ot men, but proof was readily obtainable from the courts. The 'flapper' vote put women in the majority on the electorate, and tis reduced the chance for the men's view to prevail in Parliament. Mr Wright's opinions were vigorously contested by Mrs Davies, Mrs Comont, Mrs Balchin and Miss Chisholm. Mr Worsley agreed that capital had become a menace to liberty and must be resisted; while Mr F Tate argued that religious freedom had never been more complete....."
05 Mar 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
10 Mile Walks at 80
"A Longfield octogenarian's habit of taking daily 10 mile walks was referred to at an inquest held at Dartford Institution on Monday by Mr W A Thompson on John Longhurst, 83, a widower, of 1 George's Cottages, [7] Essex Road, Longfield, who died in the King Edward Avenue Hospital last Thursday, folloiwng an accident at Princes Road, Dartford the previous Sunday evening, when he was knocked down by a motor car and sustained a fractured left leg.
Thomas Longhurst, 2 Fern Cottages, [20] Essex Road, Longfield, son of the deceased, said his father enjoyed good health and walked without a stick. Mrs Bailey, 1 George's Cottages, a daughter, said deceased had lodged with her for a month and went for a 10 miles walk every day. On February 21st after dinner, deceased said he was going for a short walk, but deceased's 'short walks' added witness, usually meant 6 or 7 miles. She saw deceased in hospital but he could not remember what happened.
PC Russell, Dartford, said at 6.45pm on February 21st, he saw a stationary car on the nearside of Princes Road, facing Chatham. Deceased was in a half sitting position with his back resting against one of the running boards. The road was 30 feet wide, but very dark at the spot. Deceased told witness that he did not know how he came to be in the road. Harry George Driver , 20, Lower Flat, Cobham Terrace, Greenhithe, said he saw a car approaching him at a normal speed. As it passed he turned and saw it swerve to the right. Witness then heard a crash, and deceased was found lying in the road.
Dr T S Cochrane said deceased's left leg was fractured. Death was due to myocardial degeneration accelerated by the accident. Harold Clayton, Erith Lodge, Erith Road, Bexleyheath, the car driver, said he had just glanced at the time by the dashboard clock when he saw deceased about 20 feet in front of him. Deceased turned to his nearside and witness pulled to his offside. He thought deceased was walking by the side of the road and the front bumper struck his leg. A verdict of accidental death was returned."
Obituary of Mr Homan
Aged 45 of Red Roofs [Scotgrove, Fairby Lane], "he had lived many years in West Africa and had been only a short time in England."
Obituary of Mrs Susannah Wooding
Aged 64 of Martindowne [Hartley Bottom Road]. Died in Dartford Hospital, leaves widower and 8 sons and 3 daughters.
[Paper of 9/4/1932 contains advert for housekeeper "Housekeeper for working man; 4 grown up sons, no washing, middle aged woman. Wooding, Martindown, Longfield]
Application of Baroness Granted
"The Maternity and Child Welfare Committee of the Rural District Council reported at the monthly meeting on Tuesday, that ehy had received an applicaiton from Baroness Mayern Hohenberg of West Yoke, to be allowed to take up to 4 children under the provisions of the Children's Act. The Health Visitor reported that the home conidtions for the children were satisfactory, and the application was granted."
Rates 1932-33
Kent County Council 6s 11d in £, Dartford RDC 7s 2d (down from 8s 3d last year), Ash / Hartley 1d, Longfield 2d.
12 Mar 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Players Advert
"In aid of the Livingstone Hospital. The Hartley Players present THE CIRCLE (by W Somerset Maugham) at the Hartley Constitutional Hall on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 17, 18 and 19 at 8.15pm Matinee Saturday at 3.15pm. Admission (including taxi) 3s 6d. Numbered and Reserved, 2s 6d and 1s 9d. Tickets from the Hon Secretary Mrs Marsden, Grafton House, Hartley, Longfield. Phone Longfield 27."
In an article elsewhere paper clarifies that the Hospital only gets half the receipts. "By well patronising the play, the public will not only have the satisfaction of helping a derving charity but judging by their previous performances, the Hartley Players will afford it pleasurable entertainment."
A favourable review ("Put the 'Art' into Hartley followed in the paper of 19/3/32.
Streetlighting at Longfield
Parish Council accept quote for 8 lamps at £64. From 15 August to 15 May sunset to sunrise the cost per lamp including maintenance and power would be £5 12s 6d or £3 1s if only from sunset to midnight. This means a 3d rate in year 1 then 1¼d rate. Parish Meeting sanction required.
19 Mar 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Golden wedding
"Mr and Mrs Philip Letchford of Gladstone Cottages, [prob 41] Essex Road, celebrated their golden wedding on Friday. They were married at Hartley Church in 1882 by Rev Hill. Mr Letchford, who was born at the Black Lion Cottages, was clerk at Hartley Church for 25 years. He has been employed by the council for about 40 years. He has lived in Hartley and Longfield all his life. Mrs Letchford was born at Compton, Berkshire. They have 4 daughters and 4 sons. The sons all served in the Great War. There are 15 grandchildren, the eldest 22 years and the youngest 8 months....."
RA Point to Point Meeting
To be held at Gooses Farm, Ash.
26 Mar 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Whither Goest Thou?
"Mr F Comont opened the discussion at the closing meeting of the Literary and Debating Society at the WI Hall last Friday on 'Where is Civilisation Leading us?' He suggested that the disturbed condition of our own and other courntries made it difficult to see far ahead. Probably the financial chaos would be straightened before it destroyed civilisation, but reparations and war debts showed no real sign of settlement. Meanwhile tariffs and a general outburst of nationalism made matters worse. The League of Nations would be a power in the future, growing stronger as the nations realised how interdependent they were. In fact, the chief hope lay in the acceptance of 'internationalism# as the basis of all governments. The numerous speakers included Messrs Worsley, Davies, Robertson, Day, Edward and Chisholm, Mrs Balchin and Miss Chisholm."
Mr Forrest finds Majestic Patrons Enthusiastic
Cinema feature highlighting British films. Manager E O Forrest (pictured) said his cinema draws people in from and area up to Chatham, Grays, Dartford and Longfield.
Longfield Stores
(advert) "Poultry Keepers. Here's your chance to test Karswood Poultry Spice Free - See us today. Morris, Longfield Stores, Station Road, Longfield."
02 Apr 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Streetlighting for Longfield - Parishioners Decide to Move with the Times
"The parishioners of Longfield decied at a special meeting on Wednesday at the Schools to have street electric lighting. The Act was adopted by 9 votes to 4. It was also agreed to ask the rating authority for £50 for the year. The clerk (Mr A Adams) stated that the West Kent Electric Company estimated £8 for each of the 8 lamps, the payment to be extended over 3 years. The supply from half an hour after sunset to midnight would be £3 1s from August to May. Mr Wright said that the value of property would go up with the lighting. Longfield, he thought, would be a spot chosen for the erection of factories in the future."
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) On motion of Mr Comont, resolution carried not to allow electricity pole on Village Green. (2) Mr Nairn qeried cost of cesspool emptying.
A Husband's Liability
John Butler of Ashleigh in maintenance arrears of £14 15s 6d, due to change in personal circumstances. Given suspended sentence.
Baptist Anniversary
80th anniversary service and tea.
The Late Mr George Whiffin
Of Ash. Died, aged 38. Funeral at Ash Chapel, list of floral tributes.
09 Apr 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Literary and Debating Society
(Hartley) Membership is 65, secretary Mr B Gomer Davies.
North Kent Billiards League
Billiards, Hartley 7th out of 10 in league with 30 points (1 pt per win) from 72 matches. Snooker Hartley 6th out of 8 with 7 points from 14 matches.
16 Apr 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Capt F E Crick reelected chairman. (2) Electric Light to be installed shortly. Council to query £65 quoted by West Kent Electric Company. (3) "A dangerous corner on the Hartley Road, where a footpath looked exactly like the road to motorists, was the subject of a protest by Mr Letchford. It was decided to ask the Dartford RDC to erect some means of warning." (4) "It was also decided to ask the Rural Council to repair Essex Road footpath."
Longfield Football Club
// Team end season bottom of Dartford League Division 1 with P18 W2 D1 L15 F25 A66 Pts 5. Saturday's match saw them lose 3-0 to Bevan's Works.07 May 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Children's 2½d dinner
"The children of Longfield Church Schools can obtain a delectabledinner at the school canteen for twopence halfpenny! The Parish Council's representative on the school committee, Mr Brazier, told the members on Monday that the kiddies were given meat and vegetables, custard and pie, and all manner of good things for this remarkably low sum. He wished, however, they would buy locally........
The lighting committee reported meeting a representative of the West Kent Electric Company, when the following 8 points were chosen for the erection of electric lamps: Whitehill Crossroads, main road opposite Pondowne Villas, near Martins Bank (Main Road), near Parish Churh; corner of Essex Road in Station Road, Corner of Kent Road in Station Road, opposite New Road in Hartley - Ash Road, near Service Garage (Main Road). The company had written stating that they would be unable to alter the cost of £8 per point, totalling £64, and that they could not extend the company's mains to Longfield HIll, until themains already laid showed results. The company expressed disappointment that the Dartford RDC had not installed electric light in their council houses."
Gliding Fatality at Longfield
Inquest at Gravesend on William Herbert Cruse, 27 of West Ham. Glider crashed on ground of North Kent Gliding Club at Idleigh Court after a flight of 30 seconds.
14 May 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
The late Mrs Gilliam
Funeral of Ellen Gilliam of Pondowne Villas, Longfield, who died in Gravesend Hospital aged 48. Leaves widower and 3 sons, youngest of whom is in China. List of floral tributes including Stationmaster and workmates at Farningham Road and Fawkham Stations.
Telegraph lines
Post office plans to lay line from Turners Oak Ash, to a point 140 yards south of the Black Lion.
Cricket
Hartley 63 (W Osborne 22, H Goodwin 20) beat Swanscombe 41 (H Day 5-6) by 22.
20 May 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Electricity at Hartley
(1) Laying of cables has begun. (2) Dartford Chron 29/7/32 delays to providing service; (3) Dartford Chron 19/8/32 Electricity at last for Hartley
21 May 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield's 'Castle': Unusual Building Arouses Controversy
"The 'castle' that Mr Fortunatus Lynds is building at Longfield (pictured) [probably Castile, 17 Fawkham Road, there is a planning permission in 1945 to remodel the roof], has aroused much local interest. There are some who regard the design as unique, and it certainly is in contrast to the usual type of villa close by. But others are just a little more critical. They are those who lament the passing opportunities to preserve the countryside, and who deprecate the bungalow type of house as much as they do the petrol station that is out of all harmony with its rural surroundings. Just how far the new building fits in the with the neighbouring houses is the point of differing opinions.
Mr Lynds was most enthusiastic when he took me over the building. He feels he has conceived something out of the usual into which he is putting part of his own individuality. There is much to be said for any attempt to escape from ugliness. True to type the building is evidently intended to stand full square to the winds. Its outer walls are of triangular concrete blocks, an dare hollow to make cavity walls over 10 inches thick. The inner partititons are made of breeze blocks of similar design. The upper floor are of reinforced concrete slabs, ingeniously locked together to give adequate strength, and overlaid with maple wood flooring. Access to the 'battlements' is gained by steep, narrow steps. As the building is intended to be a shop, one can well imagine that here some harassed tradesman will relax and smoke a pipe of peace as the evening shadows lengthen and the sun sinks to rest. The craftsman has at least aroused local interest and there has not been so much discussion about the preservation of the countryside for a long time. He is entitled to our thanks for that, at any rate. AEE"
03 Jun 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
216 eggs collected by Hartley Guides for Dartford infirmary
11 Jun 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Bus Stops
(Longfield) "The County Surveyor has arranged for buses going from Dartford to stop at th Railway Tavern forecourt, and those from Dartford north of the forecourt."
Cricket Eynsford v Hartley
At Eynsford. Hartley 60 (F Crowhurst 26, H Day 14) lost to Eynsford 104 (H Goodwin 4-33, R Balchin 3-32, F Crowhurst 3-15.)
Longfield Refuse Dump
(Dartford RDC) "The Medical officer said he was only unhappy because of the powdered refuse deposited on the dump, as that might blow about during the summer. There was now practically no smoke; the dump looked more tidy and was not the eyesore it used to be."
Next Stop Longfield!
"Some years ago the Longfield Parish Council asked the Southern Railway to change the name of the station from Fawkham to Longfield. The reply stated that the company was under an obligation to call the station FAwkham. Capt C G Breton (vice chairman) raised the matter again at Monday's Meeting of the council, and it was thought that perhaps the obligation could be overcome. 'Longfield is no longer a peaceful rural village' said Capt F E Crick (the chairman). 'And it is ridiculous to call our railway station Fawkham. Longfield is now in the london telephone area, and people are beginning to get to know it. Fawkham is not in the telephone book, because it is part of Longfield. Parcel are sent to us by railway address to Longfield and are returned to the senders.' It was agreed to write the Southern Railway, pointing out that times had changed, and asking them to overcome their previous obligation and to call the station Longfield." (2) Electric company want an extra bracket arm 6-7 feet long for the light outside Martins Bank. Council unhappy at the extra £28 cost.
17 Jun 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
Obituary of Dudley James Campkin of Cherry Orchard and of Joseph Hann of Hill Crest, Ash Rd
18 Jun 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Obituary of Dudley Campkin
Of Cherry Orchard Farm, where he lived with his brother Neville. "Badly disabled in the war, Mr Campkin carried on high class poultry breeding. He died after an operation." Funeral at Finchley.
House entered
Break in at Hartley Hill Cottage.
Horse and Cart Thrown into Hedge
"A remarkable accident occurred on the Betsham to Westwood Road last Thursday, when a Maidstone and District bus, driven by Mr A Messam, attempting to overtake a cart which contained a large barrel of water, collided with the hub of the cartwheel, bork off the shafts, smashed the barrel and knowcked the horse into the hedge. The wheel fo the rear part of the bus was torn off and thrown into the road, together with a passenger, Thomas Goodwin of Church Road, Hartley who received shock, also injuries to the arm, hand and hip. The property of Messrs W Chambers & Sons, Mates Farm, Betsham, the horse was driven by Mr Hezekiah Willis, Brick Cottage, Southfleet."
Possession Order
"At Dartford County Court on Tuesday, Albert Hickmott claimed possession of a house at Longfield from Edith Dorothy Williams. It was stated that the arrears of rent amounted to £18 5s. Defendant's husband said his wife and child had been ill because the house needed repair, the walls being covered with mildew. Plaintiff's solicitor, describing Mr Williams as a difficult tenant, said he always stated he could not pay. An order was made for possession in 28 days."
01 Jul 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
Alfresco concert at Greenways, Church Rd for Congregational Church
02 Jul 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
"In the WI Hall on Friday, the Chairman, Mr F W Tate, read a letter from the Dartford Postmaster, announcing the extension of Money Order, Savings Bank and Licensing business to Hartley Sub-Office. Satisfaction was expressed at this concession. A promise from the West Kent Electricity Co to avoid disfiguring the Green with a pole was also received with pleasure. The chairman was asked to request the school managers to consider enlarging the school playgrounds... A motion regarding the absence of a guard rail beside he Church pond was carried at the instance of Mr Bonsall, who pointed out that this pond was at time deep, and likely to involve risk on dark or foggy nights." Rest of meeting was a protest about the 50 per cent additional water rate charged by Mid Kent Water Company. Apparently the parish had tried to get an enquiry in 1925 but the Dartford RDC wasn't interested. [Paper of 9.7.32 said Dartford RDC had written to the Ministry this time only to be told Mid Kent could charge up to the maximum allowed]
Cricket
Hartley v Stone at Stone. Hartley 129 (W Osborne 43, R Balchin 22) beat Stone 96 (F Tate 8-30) by 33. Park House v Hartley Sports at Hartley. Park House 94 beat Hartley Sports 61 by 33.
08 Jul 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) For sale: The Ridge and The Glebe, Church Lane (2) Hartley WI Garden Party at Hartley Hill Cottage (3) Fence for pond to be put up (4) Exam success for [NAME] of New Hayes & [NAME] of Coppice Lea
08 Jul 1932 Southwark & Bermondsey Recorder
Fairby Grange
"Fairby Grange, Hartley, Kent, which was given to Bermondsey Borough Council by Dr Salter MP, some years ago, and has been used ever since as a Convalescent Home for poor Bermondsey mothers, is to be supplied with electric light and power."
09 Jul 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Dartford RDC
(1) Chairman (Mr G Day) reported the Longfield dump was more satisfactory. (2) "Mr W Wright said Longfield Parish Council were concerned as to whether people occupying sheds in the village formed the nucleus of a gipsy encampment, and the Sanitary Inspector was asked to report."
Fawkham Station: No Change
Longfield Parish Council. (1) "The name of Fawkham Station, which is in Longfield, is to remain the same, despite the efforts of Longfield Parish Council. The Council received this information on Monday, when the Southern Railway wrote that the village already had a sstation called Longfield Halt, and there was also a station named Lingfield. Tehre was no doubt that, if the suggestion to rename Fawkham Station Longfield were adopted, the likelihood of parcels going astry would be increased. The station was originally constructed mainly through the efforts of the late Mr Hohler of Fawkham Manor, who made a contribution towards the cost. Some time ago his two sons, Sir Gerald Hohler KC and Sir Thomas Hohler were consulted, and they both expressed a wish that a change should not be made. As the station had been well known by its present name, and for the reasons given, the Company were not disposed to make an alteration. The chairman (Capt F E Crick) said he did not know whether any of the members had suffered through letters going to Lingfield due to a badly written 'o'. He had had that experience. Mr H G Brazier: Yes, I have known that..... Mr G B Morgan asked if the station could be named Fawkham and Longfield. The chairman pointed out that the notice at the station already said FAwkham for Longfield and Hartley. It was agreed to take no further action. (2) Streetlighting. They still think £64 + £2 8s for extra long arm outside Martins Bank excessive, as 5 poles will be reused. PCC wanted Lych Gate light to be moved to boundary of Church and Mrs Hickmott's garden, but council thought Lych Gate was better. (3) "So that ladies walking along the Pond to Station Road footpath should not be stung by nettles, the land agents, Messrs Porter, Putt and Fletcher, are to be requested to cut the nettles."
Ladies' Cricket
"Ladies cricket has come to stay. Gravesend County School Old Girls entertained the fair maids of the Civil Service on Saturday. Although it was conversion Loan Saturday, the CS Girls didn't care! Miss Pates bowled so well that Gravesend were all out for 43, and the the CS gracefully hit up 78. It was an enjoyable game, but the Gravesendians undoubtedly missed their captain Miss N Harley."
16 Jul 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Ash Parish Council
(1) Request for post box and 2nd delivery to part of Ash Road known as The Billet. (2) Council to request local police constable to live in Ash rather than Mr Hohler's stables at Fawkham. Suitable vacant house in Ash Street available.
Cricket
At Swanscombe. Hartley 83 (W Osborne 40) beat Swanscombe 34 (F Tate 5-10, R Balchin 5-24) by 49.
For sale
Poultry manure - cheap. Excellent rubber tyred pony trap. Bassano, Hartley
23 Jul 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Brownies' Success
1st Hartley pack awarded Peter Pan picture for getting top marks in exam. Leather bag gift to Miss Emmet on her retirement at Brown Owl of pack.
Truck on Fire
Longfield "On Tuesday evening excitement was caused by a truck of tarred sleepers catching fire on the line. It was got under [control] by the use of several hoses.
Church Electric Light Fund
Raffle raises £8 for light for Longfield Church.
Cricket
"Congratulations to Longfield Hill. They won their 11th consecutive match in defeating Shorne by 67 runs. Can any other team equal such a fine record this season? One rather doubts it. Close neighbours in Hartley are also keeping their flag flying high. That indomitable pair of wily trundlers, R Balchin and F Tate again made the wickets fly, and Dartford Co-optimists facing a score of 51 could only muster 44. R Balchin 5-13 nad F Tate 5-19 were the figures beneath the score...."
30 Jul 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Lightning Strikes House
(Hartley) "During a severe thunderstrom on Wednesday last week, a house occupied b Miss Rodwell, Haverstock Drive [Bertha Villa, Wellfield] was struck, a fireplace being dislodged and woodwork damaged. Dr Marsden, who lives close by, had his lighting circuit fuses blown out, apparently by the same flash."
Cricket
"There's no keeping those Hartley stalwarts F Tate and R Balchin, out of the news. Tate, 5 Farningham wickets for 29, Balchin 6 Hartley Sports wickets for 22. Well played you two!" Hartley v Hartley Sports at Hartley Sports. Hartley Sports 58, Hartley 61-5. Hartley win by 5 wickets.
Open Day
For Longfield CofE school. Demonstrations of country dancing, high jumps and plays. Headmaster said 2½d per day school dinners chapest in Kent and were not subsidised. Anonymous donors enabled 30 children to go to Bexleyheath to see the pageant.
Pinden Dairy
(Advert) "Mr W Evans is severing connection with North Kent Dairies and commencing business at 'Pinden Dairy', Longfield on July 31st."
30 Jul 1932 Nottingham Advertiser
Hartley Church Font
"Hartley Church, in Kent, has a very beautiful font,the basin of which was carved about the time of magna Carta. The basin was then placed on the pedestal and eight shafts supporting the Norman font which it replaced. No-one knew for hundreds of years what had happened to that Norman basin, but the rector discovered that it had remained in the church all the time, unseen and unknown. The rebuilders of the church had broken it up and used it as part of a three feet thick wall the the west of the church. The wall was again reconstructed about 40 years ago, and a mason engaged on the work has told the rector how he found the fragments of black marble, put them together again to see what the font was like, and then reburied them in the wall just above the window."
06 Aug 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Former Longfield Organist
"By the death at his home, Merton House, Hartley, on Tuesday, of Mr Alfred W Cromar, the Dartford Rural District loses a well known figure. For many years Mr Cromar served both as rate and income tax collector for several parishes, and as clerk to several parish councils. On resigning his position as income tax collector, he was appointed tax assessor and held that post for some years. In addition to his parish duties, Mr Cromar was a devoted worker for Longfield Parish Church, where until last year he was organist and choir master. Failing health led to his retirement, which was marked by a presentation made to him privately by the Rector the Rev R Galer. Mr Cromar was respected for his unfailing courtesy and readiness to give a helping hand to his neighbours. Aged 71, he leaves a widow and an invalid sister. The funeral takes place this Friday at Longfield Church at 3pm."
13 Aug 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
A Basket of Ducks at Hartley
(Cricket) "There was amazing bowling at Hartley, when Fawkham were dismissed for 10! F Crowhurst took 7 wickets for 4 runs, four of them with consecutive ball. He clean bowled 6 of the Fawkham batsmen, and only 3 men 'broke their ducks egg'. Hartley fared little beetter, being dismissed for 33, W Stevens retaliating with 6 wickets for 11 runs. Hartley won by 8 wickets, the match being made a two innings affair." Fawkham 10 and 32, Hartley 33 and 17-2.
Car for Sale
MG Midget 2 seater sports 1930 blue 90 guineas. San Rogue [Scotgrove] Fairby Lane, Hartley.
19 Aug 1932 Sydenham, Forest Hill & Penge Gazette
Wife Left Penniless
"At the Dartford Sessions, on Friday, Frederick C Giles, 61, Algernon Road, Lewisham, was summonsed by his wife, Florence Mary Giles, [Tor Lodge], Church Road, Hartley near Dartford, who alleged that he had been guilty of desertion, and also that he had neglected to provide reasonable maintenance fore herself and their 2 children.
Mrs Giles said she was married to defendant at the Lewisham Registry Office. In October she left hospital and went to stay with her sister, her husband being out of work. In the meantime he had gone to reside with his mother at Algernon Road, Lewisham. Witness had always had difficulty in obtaining money from her husband. He had not offered to make a home for her since October. He had sold up 2 homes to pay his gambling debts. She was not willing to return to him. He had told her that he had been earning £2 10s a week at Lewisham Town Hall. She believed he was a clerk, but he never told her what he really was. He had given her certain sums of money from time to time. She had asked him to make her a home, but he said he could not.
Complainant's sister said she did not know what would have become of Mrs Giles and the children if she had not taken them in. Mrs Giles was penniless.
Defendant said he had not been in a position to provide for his wife; he would have done so if he had had the money. He was out of work again, and had no money from the Labour Exchange.
The chairman of the bench said it was clear that defendant did not intend to resume cohabitation with his wife. She would be granted a separation order carrying 15s a week for herself and 5s a week for each child. The mother would have custody of the children."
02 Sep 1932 Dartford Chronicle
No lights
Alfred John Thompson of Gorsewood Rd - no vehicle rear light
03 Sep 1932 South London Observer
Mrs H A Edward
South London Good Templars will regret to learn of the death of Sister H A Edward, for many years a member of the G W Johnson Lodge and wife of ex-councillor E H Edward (St Pauls Ward, Southwark). On their retirement they went to live at Hartley, Kent, near Longfield. Mrs Edward was one of the oldest members of the Crossway Mission, New Kent Road, having been associated with the George Murphy Memorial Hall, New Kent Road, and Old Borough Road Chapel."
03 Sep 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield: A Village with a Problem
"Dormitory for workers who seek pleasure elsewhere. Lovely but not lively.
Longfield is a delightful village. It posseses a beautiful old church, set amid great trees, in a churchyard neatly kept by loving hands. Situated in a valley among the North Downs, with some of Kent's most charming country within walking distance, it enjoys many of the amenities of modern life. I can testify too, that it has some charming people, genial and friendly, of the type who make village life so often the pleasant existence it can be. But there is one thing which spoils Longfield - it is too easy to get away from! Because of this, Longfield lacks what one might call the community feeling . Its people live their own individual lives, and the life of the village as a whole tends to be neglected. That at any rate, was my impression when I spent a few hours in the village the other day, with my eyes and ears open, in an attempt to look behind the rows of neat modern villas, and find out what king of a place Longfield is.
The first man I spoke to in Longfield was Mr A Adams, Clerk to the Parish Council. He was in his garden picking plums, and we chatted while he took a breather. He told me about Longfield's problems, and how some of them, at least, have been overcome. One of the biggest of course, was the dump. NOt long ago the smoke from Southwark's burning refuse drifted up the valley, defiling the keen downland air. Today, thanks to energetic protests, measures have been taken to deal with the refuse more efficiently, and recently there have been no complaints, even of the rats, which a councillor once suggested he and his colleagues might sally forth and shoot! Electric light, too, has come to the village, and on winer nights there will be public lighting so that the villagers will no longer have to grope their way home through the darkness.
Then I met the inhabitant with the tale to tell. I must not give his name, or one dark night he might come to seem with a big stick! 'Oh l like Longfield well enough,' he said, 'I have been here 20 years now and shall go on until they take me to the churchyard. But it's not an easy village to run anything in. You see, most of the people work elsewhere - in the factories at Gravesend, Northfleet or Dartford, many of them. And at night, off they go, again by bus, to enjoy themselves somewhere else. There's very little here for them to do, and if we do try to get up entertainments, it's difficult to get support. People go off to the pictures or to dances in the towns, tehy belong to sports clubs where they work - and how can you blame them? But it would be a treat if we could even things up a bit here. We tried a cricket club. It didn't last. A football club, and its fate was the same. Even the WI failed to establish itself. What we want is for the Community Council of Kent, or some such body, to get people together, and start something like a social parliament for the village. Then perhaps we could make things hum a bit.'
The next man I met told a different story. He was a gardener, and he pointed out the neat and flourishing allotments, the fruitful gardens. Longfield poeple, it appears, are the keenest of gardeners, and the annual show of the fruit and vegetables is the red letter day of the year.
To understand Longfield, there is one man it is necessary to meet - the man who built most of it! Longfield - as distinct from Longfield Hill - it should be explained, for the benefit of those who know it not, is not a really old village. Most of it dates from the coming of the railway station about the middle of the last century. Mr Robert Gilham is in his 88th year, and is very nearly, if not quite, the oldest inhabitant. Despite his years, his memory is undimmed. 'When I first came here from Stansted, 50 or 60 years ago,' he said, 'there were only 3 or 4 houses. The railway station was only a shanty, and there were hop gardens where houses stand today.' He told of the days when there were no buses, and he often walked from Stansted to Gravesend and back before starting work at 6 in the morning. Those good old days!
Far be it from me to give the impression that I found Longfield dull. Quite the contrary! I loved the church, with the restraint and good taste of its decorations, its list of incumbents dating from the 11th century, the carpet before the altar made and given by two devoted parishioners, and the mysterious bell, with a history which the Rector, the Rev R F Galer is said to be writing. I noticed, too, that the war memorial was well cared for. For those in search of sensation, what could be more startling that the castellated building at the other end of the village? Why,it would be difficult to find anything like it in the world!
Neither should I give the impression that Longfield lacks social life completely. There is a Women's Hour, of which Mrs Stuart is the President, which is much appreciated, and the church has several flourishing organisations under its wing. After tea in a little tea room, from the walls of which Highland cattle, from pictures of romantic mountain scenery, gazed down on me, I strolled up to the village hall - a homely little place big enough to hold about 250 people. Many smaller villages have more imposing centres of village life, and at one time there was talk of building a new one, but nothing came of it. A whist drive was about to start, and I had a word or two with the presiding genius of the hall, Mr Henry Hickmott. Mr Hickmott is one of the most modest of men, but everyone in the village speaks well of him.
Perhaps if there were more people in Longfield like Mr Hickmott, men and women prepareed to work hard just for the sake of making their fellow villagers happy and sociable, the local grousers would be silenced. They might even be found a job! Here are some suggestions - A Longfield Dramatic Society; a Live WI, Football and Cricket Clubs, A branch of Toc H. No doubt a revival of Longfield village life would be bad for the bus companies, but I should like to see it - and when things get going I shall visit Longfield again to tell the world about it! CDR // [Article includes pictures of Longfield Church and R Gilham]
KM 10/9/1932 Longfield's Vicar Speaks up
"British fair play always gives freedom to one's opinion, and in all fairness to the village of Longfield and its social life, I feel it my duty to speak up for the inhabitants. Your correspondent CDR in his article on Longfield says that he was only in the village for 2 hours, and picked up what he could of the social side of life. Had he remained longer, and I wish he had, he would have learnt many things. He would have realised that the people are always ready to help, that many of them take deep interest in the various organisations in the village. He would have discovered that Longfield is not behind other villages in caring for and catering for the many needs of the inhabitants.
Dances, social eveningss, Scouts, Cubs, Brownies, Girls' Friendly Society, all have their usual meetings and all given interesting entertainments from time to time. The Mothers' Union is one of the largest branches in the district. A village that can take £120 at a fete, and a gate of over a thousand people at its flower show cannot be termed in such light manner 'dormant'. He would have realised that the village hall not only with its weekly whist drive but with its ever open door to the various organisations, to help and foster them, plays a very great part in the village. What other village has a successful Thrift Club amounting to a considerable sum yearly? If CDR would care to come and spend a week with me here he would learn much and he would find himself entertained by a very good company of villagers almost every night of the week. He would certainly go back with a very different idea than a mere 2 hours of superficial and, by no means correct, survey of Longfield, and its good people, which he published in your last week's issue. Ray F Galer, Rector, The Rectory, Longfield."
09 Sep 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Wedding of Francis Fleetwood Tate of Amphion. (2) Hartley War Memorial descecrated by unnamed adult. (3) Resignation of Vice Admiral Wigram, representative for Hartley on Dartford RDC. (4) Part house to let by Hobbs of Bay Lodge
10 Sep 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley: Happy but not highbrow
(by Sheila Ward) "All desirable things seem difficult to approach. In the case of Hartley, it is the steep and sharp ascent, known as Hoselands Hill. It was once a chariot tract, used by the 'bright young things,' whho visited the Lord of Hoseland at his villa along the Ash Road. If you are afoot, you no doubt tire as you clime. Even the houses on the roadside look as if they started walking up and, one by one, dropped to the edge to sleep. One has reached the top, but only to drop lazily to the right hand side, where the sympathetic trees have thrown protective arms aoround the sleeping form. Although it dates back to Saxon Days, Hartley is largely a modern village. Before the war, its charms were exploited by a land development company and the experiment failed. But within a few years the parish has devleoped itself rather successfully. It has become largely a village of 'city gents' a kind of suburbia that has managed to retain much that is rural.
Before going to Hartley I was told that it has a little known literary shrine, where Daniel Defoe traditionally wrote Robinson Crusoe. This place was pointed out to me, but I was not thrilled. The thought that struck me was, if Defoe wrote his materpiece within the narrow confines of that building, it was very fortunate that it did not cramp his style!
The village is governed by a parish meeting and from this arrangement it refuses to depart. ON two occasions, proposal to appy for the status of a parish council have been negatived. Mr F Tate is the presiding genius who confidently guides their footsteps through the pitfalls of the Local Government Acts. As a keen student of economics, his chief interest is in the conditiion of the people, and his one great worry is that he cannot right their wrongs. He is of the stuff that reformers are made.
On a visit of exploration, I discovered that there exists a satisfactory social life, which is being steadily developed. Under the wise presidency of Mrs F Tate, the village possesses a go-ahead branch of the Women's Institute, with well attended meetings. As evidence of ts vitality they spoke with justifiable pride of their own hall they had built. Not only was it free from debt but the branch has ample funds in hand. It has done even more than this. For some years past, the members hav ecollected more than £30 a year towards the fund of the Kent Cancer Campaign. Good work this. Then there is the Hartley Constitutional Club. My guide said it was the place where the family paragons talk over local affairs, and dispense the worldly wisdom they glean from the real heads of the family. A shaft of wit, borne of experience, perhaps. But undboubtedly the club is an excellent agency for promoting social intercourse in the village. Aossociated with it is the Sports Club and Ground, with its tennis, cricket and football sections, all encouragingly supported. All the year round there is a weekly whist drive in the WI Hall, organised by the genial Mr C W Nairn, assisted by Mr W Wise, where they are always assured of from 15 to 20 tables. During the winter months, the WI also run a fortnightly drive. The Literary and Debating Society was spoken of with enthusiasm. It was started last year and in every case, except one, the discussions were opened by a local resident. This, said the Kent Community Council in their publication, is a unique experience. I was assured by Mr Gomer B Davies, the secretary, thati this society will wax strong in popularity and widely extend its usefulness in communal life. There is no danger of Hartley becoming a village of highbrows, however. Far from it. Judging by those I was fortunate to meet, the parishioners possess a fund of humour. No-one enjoys a dance better than the average inhabitant, and this will certainly continue while the present opportunities exist to indulge this recreation to the full.
An impression fo a visit to Hartley must no tomit reference to the religious life fo the parish. There are two churches. One old, rugged and steeped in historical past, with a strange peace that clings like the faint odour of honeysuckle on the evening air. This is All Saints which nestles on the Church Road under the protecting wings of two yew trees planted, I was told in 1828. Over the services here officiates the Rev Gerald [sic] Bancks MA, Rector, scholar and author, assisted by his warden Mr J Wells Thatcher, barrister and preacher, and who is the author of several legal and naturalistic works. Here is the perfect liaison. The other church is vry, very , young - not more than 5 or 6 years. But hte Congregational Church is an important feature of hte religious life of the village. Its services are held in the WI Hall but its own edifice will soon be commenced nextdoor on ground already purchased for the purpose. There are no jealousies between the two churches, in fact, the parish church shares its magazien with its dissenting friends. This surely, is a striking example of Christian amity. And when these two chures hold a combined service, another step wil have been taken along the road of Christian re-union. If this is the spirit of Hartley, I shall visit it agein." Article features pictures of "Defoes Cottage" and Darenth Cottages, and John Wells Thatcher. In the following week's paper, E G Mandeville Roe of the Gun Station wrote to thank her as a journalist himself.
10 Sep 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Gravesend Football League - Hartley Rally in First Game
"Hartley Sports, making their debut, did well to shae the honours with the RA Territorials, also newcomers. Three minutes from time the Terriers led 2-0, but Hartley put on a spurt, and equalised through McDonald and Shambrook. Well played the 'babes' of the league."
Motorcycle Accident
"While turning the corner at the bottom of Station Road on a motorcycle on Thursday last week, Thomas Crouch 17, of Salts Farm collided with a car passing along the Main Road towards Dartford. Dr Marsham [sic] attended the lad, who was conveyed to the Livingstone Hosptital, Dartford, suffering from a borken kneecap and cuts on his head.
Weddings
(1) Wedding at Longfield of Alma Isabel Humphrey only daughter of Mr and Mrs A Humphrey of Longfield Post Office. (2) Wedding at South Croydon Wesleyan Church of Francis Fleetwood Tate of Amphion, Hartley to Sophia Doris Osborne.
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Streetlights - West Kent Electric company will paint them and be responsible for electrical failures, PC responsible for other accidents. (2) PC to write to KCC to ask for more white lines as there have been several accidents.
16 Sep 1932 Bromley & West Kent Mercury
A Day's Tramp
"I promised myself another pilgrimage last week I much prefer to imagine myself a pilgrim than call myself a hiker. I have no objection to the thing, but I dislike the name, and I dislike the hiker because of that. I am no modernist. The Farnborough Rector can have his hike. I am content with my obsolescent tramp. Modernism is all very well for people with tastes that way - but much of modernism is but old stuff served up in a new-fangled mode. I prefer it unembellished. If I had had my 'hike' with a hiking party, I should have returned depressed and dissatisfied. I had my ancient tramp, and I feel I have done something: had a sort of adventure and made a voyage of discovery. In a hike, you discover nothing, because discovery is not its object. Its object is to pursue a programme; cover so many miles and make one of a crowd. Conducted tours are no good to me. I am too rebellious.
But about my tramp. That is no great matter. It was really a pilgrimage because I went out to see somthing, and I saw more than I was promised. I had been looking through a village history 'Hartley Through the Ages', a book that had some good press notices, and formed the submect of a leader in the 'Morning Post' I remember, when first th ebook was published. I like these local histories, but I have never met one to satisfy me yet. This one doesn;t, though I am not going to write a criticism of it. I am only too grateful to the Rector for writing it at all. At any rate, I am in his debt for an interesting tramp, because I wanted to see this Kentish village that I had never even heard of before. I saw it - a part of it. Like all such villages within an easy motor ride of London, it is being horribly spoiled by those builders' outbursts called bungalows. They are, I have no doubt, replete with every modern convenience, but the old thatched cottage, with all its ancient inconveniences, attracts me more. There are still enough of them left to witness an earlier picturesqueness, but the delights of Hartley are departing. Its lanes, or some of them, are as yet unspoiled. And if you look in the Rector's book you will find a couple of photographs that show what the modern road improver has done to one of them. However, I didn't pass along Hoseland Hill. Now that I have looked at the 'History' agains and studied the map, I must have walked along the Ash Road, past the Village Green and the Village School, turned into St Johns Lane, and so into Church Road. I was looking for the village Church. I came to it in due course, but it was before I reached it that I made my grand discovery.
Now there's one disadvantage in studying the guide book first - it prevents you making any discovery yourself. My advice to trampers is: read the guide book afterwards. You'll probably find you have missed much. But the few things you haven't missed you will have discovered for yourself, and that makes any pilgrimage worth while. Had I really studied the Rector's book beforehand, I should have known what to expect. As I hadn't, I had my adventure.
At the junction of four cross roads I saw what looked like a very well preserved barn. But it was a curious looking barn, for it had a number of tiny windows in its walls. There was a little notice board on the door. And as I read most notices, I went to read this, and found the barn was a church. Curiosity aroused, I went in, and discovered - a Roman Catholic Church.
How old the barn is I know not, I daresay to people ersed in such matters its beautiful old beams, fitted and jointed with wooden pegs, will date it pretty nearly. I can believe it has stood there for over 400 years. And if you go through the building you will find another doorway opening upon the old world garden of the 'Middle Farm'. 'The foundations of the Middle Farm are 11th century; to this the 16th century added somewhat; and the 20th century has added more. There is some enormously thick stonework; there are floors tilted at disconcerting angles; there are twisted oaken beams of astounding solidity, the framework of walls and the support of roofs dangerous to unwary heads.' But if he doesn't stay to examine these architectural details, th stray visitor cannot fail to be fascinated by the closely trimmed lawn, the garden of old fashioned flowers, and the dovecote, which a peep through the doorway of the church brings to view. Here, surely, is a sample of what Hartley was like in bygone days before the roadmakers and builders came to mar it.
Old though this church in the barn is, as a building, the date is very modern as a church, for it is not yet 20 years young. The story of its birth the curious can read in a little booklet by Father Martindale; but if one remembers that there were pre-Reformation days, the catholic chapel is but the resurrection of things that existed in hundreds of other villages once upon a time. The Rector's history hasn't much to say about this revival, but to judge from a will he quotes dated 1473, there were a least 3 priests in Hartley then, for Thomas Cotyer left money to them 'for masses for his soul.'
But it is not only the building that is of interest to the seeker after the things of the past - as I confess, I am no modernist. There is a sanctuary lamp, with a history that probably started in the hands of some Italian craftsman, and which was at one time in the possession of the Duke of Norfolk. There is a statue of the Virgin which I learn was rescued from some obscure second hand shop and came from Belgium. But the robe is adorned with the representation of the Rose and Irish Shamrock. What the significance of that is I, being no Catholic, am unable to tell. But one might hazard a guess that the rarity of this form of decoration hides some interesting history of its first owners - exiles perhaps in a foreign land who wished to remind themselves of something very near to their home in the British Islands.
This, then, was the chance discovery of a chance trampinto a village of Kent. After that the Parish Church seemed insignificant in comparison. Its history can be read in the Rector's book, bu tthere is little in the building itself that is in the nature of an historical memento. I looked around its rather bare walls and found nothing that was not modern. I returned across a footpath back into the Ash Road and the only object that might attract the traveller was the Black Swan (sic) Inn; but it was closed. There is a legend that Daniel Defoe lived nearby, and it was here he wrote Robinson Crusoe. But as that legend crops up in connection with other inns (we have it too, in Bromley) I am not setting much store by it. However I must make a return visit to Hartley when I've read the Rector's History again more carefully. I wonder what Farnborough's modernist Rector would say to my anti-modern interests in ecclesiology.
Hugo".
17 Sep 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Gravesend Hospital
In 1931 it treated 14 patients from Hartley costing £24, 60 from Longfield costing £106 10s.
Naval Funeral
(Ash) Funeral of William Kindred of Turners Oak late of HMS Whirlwind.
Lady Cricketers' Good Form
"A match, Ladies v Gentlemen, arranged by the Sports Club ended in victory to the men by 133 runs to 97. The match was well contested, Miss Johnston distinguishing herself by a fine innings of 34 not out, and at the wicket. Miss Bromley and Miss Locke both showed good form."
Newly weds ride home on tandem
Marriage at Dartford Parish Church of Alan H Tiptaft of The Brent and Jennie Barnett of Mount Pleasant Road. "Both he and his bride are keen cyclists and after the ceremony they left on a tandem for Hartley, the bride being dressed in jumper, shorts and blazer! Mr and Mrs Tiptaft will live at Chelsham, Church Road, Hartley."
17 Sep 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Village Hall Prospers - Local Organisations Lack Money
'We are not dormant; we have never been dormant, and - you can take it from me - we never will be dormant, ' declared the Rector of Longfield (the Rev R F Galer) at the Village Hall on Monday. The Rector, presiding at the annual meeting of the Hall, challenged the statement in a recent article in the KM that Longfield parish was 'lovely but not lively.' There was however, a rift in the lute! It became apparent that, while the Village Hall, the centre of village life, was propering, several local organisations which largely helped to fill the coffers of hte Hall were languishing through lack of funds, and were in danger of becoming extinct.
Mr H C Hickmott, hon sec of the Village Hall, reported that the hall was growing in popularity and usefulness, nothwithstanding the regrettable fact that the receipts of the past year failed to reach their expectation, and certain desired improvements had perforce been deferred and economy effected in working expenses. The installation of electric light, incurring a heavy initial outlay, had added immensely to the comforts and had given general satisfaction. the weekly whist drives had been a great success and also proved an appreciable source of revenue. A larger attendance was confidently expected in the winter months. The thrift club, now in its 3rd year, was fast growing, both in numbers and deposits. Last year £220 plus £10 in interest, was paid out; this year it was expected to reach £300 with a membership of 100. The billiard club fell through, but Mr Leeves had given a cup for competition.
The Rector stated that, as chairman of the Hall, he would like to say a few words about the article in the KM. 'Naturally being a friend of yours', he said, 'I stand up for the whole village. The Kent Messenger has always been a fair minded paper and I am grateful for their courtesy to me, but I wish that in future before publishing an article dealing with local organisations, they will obtain their information from those responsible for those organisations, and they will then get a very fair idea. I am not going to throw bricks at the village or at anybody. I only hope that the KM will do as I have suggested. They have always had a good name - until they put that charming article in! (laughter). The Hall is doing a great dea of work in the village. There is a great comradeship between myself, representing the church, and the club, and we work to help each other.' The Rector, referring to the excellent work of the secretary, said that Mr Hickmott did a great deal for the village: in an unkind moment, he had told Mr Hickmott that the village hall was his god.
The Hon Treasurer (Mr H Hale) stated that, although the income from various sources had decreased, they had not actually had a lean time. The Hall had made a profit of £34 during the past year. Of the £29 16s received through letting the Hall, £25 7s 6d was paid during hte year by local organisations - Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, GFS, Women's Hour, Mothers' Union, Nursing Association and Longfield Parish Church. The organisationw which in the majority of cases were run for the benefit of the boys and girls of the ivllage had been the mainstay of the Hall. The installation of electric light had cost £22 9s and the provision of cutlery £12 13s 9d. AS the Hall had made a profit of £34, he considered that some of the money received might have been better utilised for the benefit of the people using the hall, especially as some of thelocal organisations were in financial difficulties. It cost the Scout Troop, of which he was Scoutmaster £7 5s a year for rent by using hte Hall. He had chatted with other scoutmasters, who were surprised that 1s an hour was charged. The electric light made no difference to them, and they did not use any cutlery. The Secretary said the cutlery was used at wedding receptions and other functions. Besides helping the funds, a good display was made and visitors had been impressed. It was impossible to play billiards properly without the electric light. AS to the charge for letting, he pointed out that the wear and tear was greater when the hall was used by young people. The Treasurer: Would somebody be good enough to explain the object of the Village Hall?
Mr F Fuller, a trustee, said he agreed with the article in the Kent Messenger and not with the REctor's remarks. It was no credit to the village when the Village Hall had a bank overdraft of over £60. The Treasurer repeated his question, and the Rector asked Mr Fuller if he would once again explain the object of the Hall. Mr Fuller replled that the Hall was erected over 22 years ago and was largely used by the young people. The Rector said there had been no suggestion of domination by any section of the community. Mr Fuller: You referred to the Church. The Rector retorted that Mr Fuller was absurd. He should keep to the point. The Treasurer: That has helped me a bit - the Village Hall should help the village. The hall is mainly sued by local organisaions, and like many other people, I am spending my efforts to help the young people. Apparently the purpose of the cutlery, which only brought in a revenue of £1 1s is to make a good show when a wedding receiption or a supper party is held here. Mr B Wheeler, a member of the Working Committee, said the capital charges for improvement could be spread over a number of years and constituted a good investment. The Secretary agreed that the cost of providing electric light, a piano, and other improvements should not be included in one year's working. The Treasurer: Money is coming in, and also going out. Mr Adams (Clerk to the Parish Council): You have your money's worth.
The Treasurer: As we have made £34 profit, it looks as if we have been making a lot of money out of somebody instead of benefitting the organisations using the Hall. Mr W Wright thought there was no need for alarm. The Hall was making a profit and the improvements benefitted the Hall, and the people of the village. He suggested, however, that the thrift club was intended for the poorer people and not tradesmen with banking accounts, who could well afford to invest their money elsewhere without causing expense to the club. The Secretary explained that the interest on the thrift club money was 5 per cent, and it was limited to a total interest of 5s. If more than £5 was subscribedby one person, the extra money in the bank earned 2½ per cent interest for the club. It was agreed, on the motion of the Treasurer, seconded by Mr Fuller to refer the question of the letting charges to the Working Committee. The Rector said he sympathised with Mr Hale, because he knew that several organisations had a terribly hard struggle. Among others present were: Messrs F Crouch, W Robson, F E Stevens (trustees of the Hall), W Leeves and G Lynds."
23 Sep 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
Suspended sentence for John Butler of Ashleigh, Church road for maintenance arrears
24 Sep 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Gravesend's New Stationmaster
Picture of Henry Robert Peters, who has succeeded A G Stacey. Details of his railway career, including being responsible for dealing with air raids during the war. He is also responsible for Gravesend West Street, Pier, Southfleet and Longfield Halt stations.
08 Oct 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Owner of land at Hartley Hill who blocked footpath accepts report of Dartford RDC that a right of way exists. (2) Fire extinguisher boxes to be painted and instructions added. (3) Southern Railway to be asked to extend cheap weekday tickets to Longfield.
Hartley Literary and Debating Society
Annual report. Membership is 64.
Bishop's busy week
Bishop of Rochester visiting All Saints' Perry Street, Hartley and Aylesford on Sunday.... Fawkham on Thursday ...... Snodland, Shorne and Longfield on Sunday 16th.
Service Garage (Gravesend) Limited
Advert for car and motorbike sales. 119-125 Wrotham Road, Gravesend (Tel 363). Branch: Main Road, Longfield (Tel 88)
08 Oct 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Bethlehem in Hartley
E2078(by A E Edward) "The oratory of St Francis, which houses the shrine of Our Lady of Hartley, nestles on the corner where the Stack Road meets the far more ancient Church Road. Some people believe it was standing at the time of the Reformation. The theory is probably true. If so, it was situated just outside the village of Tudor days and overlooked the common which extended as far as the top of Hoseland Hill. The barn was one of the buildings that became known in more recent years as Middle Farm. A part of the foundations of the farmhouse date back to the 11th century. The farm was occupied in the 18th and 19th centuries by successive members of a family named Best, who probably thatched the old barn through a hundred years or more.
In 1913, a lady conceived the idea of founding a Roman Catholic Church where one was most needed. She desired too, to perpetuate the memory of her brother, Capt A G K Davies-Cooke, and of her sister Kathleen. She purchased Middle Farm, and her idea soon took practical form. A few years later, the property was handed over to the Roman Catholic Parish of Northfleet, and ceased to be a private oratory.
It was a heaven born inspiration that led her to choose the barn as a suitable place for the mission. Its unornamented primitiveness is, of coure, in marked contrast to the flamboyant grandeur of the great cathedrals. But in its very simplicity it is symbolical of Christ From the road the building is but little changed. It is the cross upon the eastern end of the roof, and the little thatched erection that houses the Angelus bell, that gives any indication of its present use. It is from the courtyard of Middle Farm tha tthe visitor sees the Oratory in an enchanting setting. Clumps of pampas grass are buffeting in the breeze, againstthe background of the tarred wall timbers and the thatch of the roof. The brave colour of a few worn tiles, laminated by age, shows up in cheerful contrast. Old fashioned flowers such as flax and nasturnums blossom in profusion to the very walls of the oratory. A hedge of St Francis of Assisi roses is still blooming, defiant of the early frosts. This is all so delightfully approprieate if you recall the legend. It is said that St Francis wsa tempted to put aside his ascertician to return to the luxurious life from which he had turned with such stoical self sacrifice. The temptation passed, but following a self imposed penance, he rolled himself in a rose bush. Ever since then, this particular rose has been thornless, and its leaves marked by dark red stains, suggestive of the blood spots.
It is inside that the greatest transfromation has been effected. And it has been done with commendable skill. The floor has been levelled, and small windows provided. It is the use made of the original doors space to raise a Mary shrine, however that most inspires the visitor's admirations. Rough hewn beams of oak stretch their lengths confidently from eave to eave. The studs, marked by age, reach up to the high sloping roof to support the timbering upon which the thatch is laid And here and there wisps of straw peep wonderingly between the rafters on the tranquility below. The abundance of the good earth has given place to the quietude of the cloister There is a peace that can almost be felt. That is the miracle of the Hartley Oratory. Black oaken panels form the altar and the same wood has been used for the tabernacle shell and throne. The other furnishings have historical associations which ar eof more than passing interest. A time worn stone font, chipped and maltreated, is a witness of that senseless desecration done in the name of Christianity in ages past. The font wa fortunately retrieved, and found security in a Hertfordshire mansion unitl it was handed over to Hartley. One of the chasubles dates from the 13th century, and others from the time of Louis XIV of France. A citorium was found in the death grasp of a priest on the battlefield around Ypres, and brought home by a Protestant officer to this country. It was given to a Hartley lady who was a Catholic.
The Rev CC Martindale in one of his books tells of a woman who had no arms, and who wrote her letters holding a pencil in her mouth. She collected money by singing songs to her visitors. He has since revealed that the money she collected in this way she haded to the Hartley Oratory, and with it was purchased the priedieu which has been placed before the shrine. The pope has taken a direct interest in the little oratory, and has authorised the invoation 'Our Lady of Hartley, pray for us'. And at the shrine, it is claimed, prayers have been answered with incredible directness. Other denominations will probably testify that this happens anywhere. But whatever the faith or creed of the visitor may be, he will be ready to acknowledge the breadth of vision out of which this simple little Oratory was created."
15 Oct 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Obituaries
(1) Robert Hird Harker of Copse Side, Hartley, after short illness, aged 74. Funeral at Longfield Church. List of floral tributes includes one to the loss of the Foreign Department from Sutton & Co Limited. (2) Robert Gilham of Station Road. "A retired builder, Mr Gilham built many of the houses in the village. He came from Stansted 5 or 6 years ago and was in his 88th year." Funeral reported in following week's paper. Said he was buried in coffin he made for himself at Longfield Church.
Breaking the Ice
Football Gravesend League Division 3. Hartley Sports recorded their initial victory beating Swifts 3-0.
22 Oct 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Visit of the Bishop of Rochester
(Longfield) "On Sunday evening, which was the last day of Mission Week, an open air service was held by the Lych Gate, before Evensong. The Bishop of Rochester gave a short address. As the Bishop approached the church door with the choir and the Rector and Messrs A Robson and F Crouch (Churchwardens) a guard of honour was formed by the Scouts, Girl Guides and Brownies. Every seat in the church was occupied and chairs were placed in the vestry and aisle....."
Hartley Debating Society
Account of debate 'Should British Policy be Imperial or International'. Mr F W Tate argued Britain's outlook had always been international. Mr Worsley thought capitalism had broken down. Mr Harry argued for Empire based trade. Mr Davies pointed out that Arts and Science was international, International Organisation wsa growing and would extend.
Ash Parish Council
(1) Sevenoaks Postmaster said there was no need for a second delivery to the Billet, because afternoon post is left at the Ash Post Office. No point in a post box there either as usage would be too low. Council to reply that Fawkham postman already goes past the place anyway. (3) Footpath blocked near the Haven. (4) Council to support Hartley's protest against Water charges.
Longfield's Loss: Funeral of Mrs Adelaide Hickmott
"A lady who had the interest of the village at heart, Mrs Hickmott was always ready to assist anybody, or to give a social event her support. She died at Longfield Court on Friday last week aged 83....." Born London, came to Longfield about 40 years ago. Leaves 6 sons and 3 daughters.
Housekeeper wanted
Two people no children, small house. Rugg, Chemist, Longfield. Fawkham Station.
22 Oct 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield's 14th Century Bell
(by A E Edward) "A little bell, marked by the passage of time, ahs found sanctuary in Longfield Church. For close oupon 500 years - until the end of the last century - its mellow note floated in the clear, country air calling the faithful to prayer and praise. The bell came to Longfield somewhere about 1360 when Wyclifwas rousing the fervour of the countryside in a campaign for Church Reform. It was this religious revolution which was to have a direct influence on the rising of the peasants which culminated in Wat Tyler's abortive march on London. The Longfield bell was probably run when the men were rallying to Tyler's call, for in medieval days the church bells often sounded their warning notes as a call to arms. To prevent their use in this fashion, the opposing factions were wont to strip the churches of their bells. This is one of the reasons why early bells are so rare today.
J C L Stahlschmidt in his book Surrey Bells and London Bell Founders refers to 'the solitary little tinkler' at Longfield, and suggests that it probably owed its preservation to its inaccessibility. The same idea appears to have been in the mind of another writer who, referring to Longfield Church steeple, said 'Access is rather difficult, but descent is easy, namely by sliding down the roof the church'. But the little tinkler was not always so lonely in its isolation. Among ecclesiastical records there is a church inventory made in the time of King Edward VI, and an entry under Longfield records the existence of 'two little bells of brass in the steeple.' There is no available evidence as to when the second bell disappeared. There was only one in 1797. In this year Hasted in his historical survey of Kent said of Longfield Church: '......It consists of one aisle and a chancel, having a low pointed steeple at the west end in which hangs one bell.'
Longfield people must have grown to love the dulcet note of the 14th century bell. Butthere came a time when its work was done. It had become cracked and decrepit. When the church was restored, just before the close of the last century, it was taken down and replaced by another. The good church folk of that day retained the bell, and gave it an honoured place in the vestry. And there it hangs today. On its side is the imprint of its maker 'Welelmus Revel me fecit'. It is the signature of the craftsman. William Revel was a London bell founder, and there is a reference to him in the archives of the City of London under the date of 1357. Other bells by him are still in existence in Essex, Buckingham and Norfolk. The smallest of these are at Tattenhoe, Bucks and the bell at Longfield which only measures 15½ inches in diameter. Revel probably had a foundry close to the spot where Billiter Street stands today, for it was in theis neighbourhood that the majority of London bell makers had settled to carry on their craft. There are only a few 14th century bells in Kent. Hartley possesses a treble made about the same time as the Longfield bell, by William Rider, another London maker. The neighbouring village of Sutton at Done once possessed one, but it was recast.
The imagination of the visitor to Longfield will be quiickened as he gazes at the old world relic. In fancy he will hear its note as it was run as an ovrn bell,to make known to the villagers that the lord of the manor's oven was ready to bake their bread. And his mind will visualise the busy scene in the nearlby cornfields as the gleaning bill signals the time for starting and ceasing work, to give everyone an equal opportunity. The old bell cast in the days of King Edward III will never be rung again. But touch it gently with your knuckle and its once mellow note will vibrate eerily in the small room. And in that single note there seems to reverberate a voice that is but sleeping and whose message is one of beauty and peace."
KM 29/10/1932 Longfield Church Old Bell
"My attention has been called to a contribution in your current issue giving some account of the history of this bell, which I have read with some interest. The writer has not been quite correctly informed as to the time when it ceased to ring. At the restoration and enlargement of the church, when my predecessor, the Rev W H Duke, was rector, it was removed from the old turret, which gave place to the current tower from which it continued to call folk to church, until one Sunday, I think at the beginning of the present century, but cannot at the moment verify the date, while ringing for evensong, it suddenly became dumb and was found to have developed a serious crack. The Churchwardens with myself, considered whether it was better to have the old bell recast or to preserve it as a memento of the past and obtain a new one. The latter course was decided on, and then the late Mr J J Hickmott, one of the churchwardens, very kindly relieved us of all responsibility by undertaking the replacement of the bell at his own charges. Edward Smith (the Rector) Hextable."
28 Oct 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Picture of All Saints. (2) Street lights in Longfield said to be causing envy in Hartley
04 Nov 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Enterprise Motor Services apply to run Gravesend - Hartley service; (2) Picture of Fawkham Church
05 Nov 1932 News Chronicle
Kent Farm Fires
"Three outbreaks yesterday…... A large 17th century barn and old hop kiln on New Hayes Farm, Hartley, Kent were seriously damaged by fire last night. Fire brigades from Swanley and Eynsford fought the flames for over 2 hours. The farm is owned by Mr George Day JP of Ashtead."
05 Nov 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Bethel reopened
"The reopening of Longfield Bethel (pictured) took place on Saturday. The Church originally belonged to the Baptist Union, but has been purchased by Pastor A E Bassett and congregation. At the opening the Pastor explained the meaning of the new title of the building 'Bethel' which means the House of God, statign the the church was reopened not for one section of people only, but for the whole of the village and neighbourhood. He invited all to attend worship regularly and hear the Word of God preached without prejudice. Mr J P Thompson of Gravesend then opened the door. The old hundreth was then sung and at the third verse 'Oh enterthen His gates with praise, approach with joy His courts unto,' the congregation proceeded inside.
After a hymn and dedicatory prayer, Mr Thompason addressed the congregation. He spoke of the large heartedness of the Baptish Union in selling the building to the Pastor and people and of his delight in the Pastor taking over the work as he felt he had a real ministry for the people of Longfield. Following this the Pastor spoke of the taking over of the work and made it quite clear that he heartily believed in and endorsed all the doctrines for which the founders built the place and he did not intend to undo anything, but merely to add a little more, namely, Divine healing for the body and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which he pointed out were as scriptural as the other doctrines already held.
Tea was held at Longfield Hall, Kent Road, where over 90 sat down. Much interest was caused by the Pstor cutting the 4 tier iced cake given by Mrs Curwen to celebrate the opening. At the evening meeting, Mr Cheeseman elder of Hextable Bethel, conveyed the best wishes of that assembly to their brethren at Longfield. Mr Wheeler of Mottingham, conveyed the best wishes of the Smarden, Pluckley and Frittenden Bethels and also Lee Assembly. Mr Forsyth, Elder of the Longfield Bethel replied on behalf of the assembly. The Pastor applealed to those who had been healed by the Lord in their bodies to stand and a good number stood, several giving their testimoniies of remarkable healing. He then gave an address on the text from Matt 16: 15-18 'Upon this rock I will build my church.' He promised that if any sick desired annointing according to James 5: 14-15 fo rthe healing of the body, he would gladly annoint at any of the following services throughout the week. Thanks were conveyed to the lady workers who so beautifully arranged the chapel and tea. Mr Howell, Elder of Hextable Bethel was at the organ and Mrs Curwen at the piano."
Sorrell & Son
Hartley Debating society discussed this book about the hardships faced a former soldier who returned to find the wife he had hastily married had been unfaithful and he could get no work. Among comments Mrs Balchin "said she read the book from a woman's standpoint, and considered that the desire of the women characters to live their own lives was natural. Freedom had come too recently for women to have learned to use it wisely, and at the call of real affection a woman would probably always be ready to sacrifice her independence."
Fatal Stokehole Fumes
"'Deceased had often complained about the fumes from the stokehole,' said a witness at the inquest at Stone on Monday on William Banks, 50 of Cheshunt Road, Belvedere, who died on Thursday last week after being discovered in the stokehold of Hartley Manor, Hartley, where he was employed as chauffeur mechanic by Mr H L Groom of North Heath, Erith. Ronald Willaim Banks of Wickham Street, Welling said his father had stated at times the fumes were more than he could stand. He had also said that he had to put a towel round his mouth an rrun back to the opening. Amy Watts also said that Mr Banks had complained about the fumes. He had often been overcome an dalway wore a scarf round his face. On Thursday he went down to the stokehole at 5.55pm and on going to call him witness discovered him huddled up and lying on his face. The fumes were terrible. Robert Weston, Church Road, Hartley, the gardener, said Mr Groom had complained that the dampers of the furnace were in too far. Dr A W Marsden, Hartley, who made a post mortem examination, said death was due to heart failure, induced by carbon monoxide poisoning, caused by inhaling fumes from the coke. The coroner, remarking that he was rather surprised Mr Groom was not present, returned a verdict of death by misadventure. Sympathy was expressed with the relatives."
Hartley's Capable Girl Guides
(in the presence of Girl Guides from all round the district, the 1st Hartley Company had the honour on Sunday of receiving the Divisional Standard for being the most efficient troop in the North Kent Division....." 500 from district attend.
Bon Marche advert
three shops in Graveend, will deliver to Cliffe, Cobham, Meopham, Wrotham, Longfield, Hartley.
11 Nov 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Hartley Cricket Club annual meeting; (2) Fred John Jackson, of Forge Cottage fined for fare evasion; (3) Frederick Crouch fined for driving without licence; (4) Picture & account of fire at New Hayes Farm, cl7th barn destroyed
11 Nov 1932 Hinckley Echo
Gamekeeper Injured
"Alleged Poaching Affray in Kent: Two men were seriously injured as the result of an alleged poaching affray at Fawkham Manor, Kent, the residence of Sir Thomas B Hohler, on Tuesday. It was stated that a keeper was knocked down and that his gun was smashed. There was a chase accross country, in which motor lorries and bicycles were used. A man was subsequently asked to get into a lorry, which also conveyed the injured keeper, but while crossing a railway bridge at Longfield the man is stated to have jumped from the vehicle. He fell on his head and received injuries. Both he and the keeper, William Hawker, were taken to Gravesend Hospital."
12 Nov 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Motorcylist hurt
"Thomas Crouch, 24, Essex Road, a motorcyclist, swerved to avoid a lorry and ran into the kerb at Lanes End. He was taken to King Edward Avenue Hospital suffering from a fractured skull."
The late Mrs Rugg
Funeral at Longfield of Susan Rugg, aged 74, wife of W J Rugg, chemist of Station Road.
Blaze on Eve of 'Fifth'
"On the eve of the fifth a fire occurred at New Hayes Farm, Hartley, occupied by Mr Ralph Day. An oast house, dating from the 17th century, and used as a store for baskets and fruit tubs, was noticed to be alight early in the evening, and though the District Council's Fire Brigade was at once called, the building was soon blazing fiercely. The Swanley fire engine was on the scene, followed by the Eynsford engine. No main water supply was available, the firemen drew from the wells, but it was impossible to save the oast house. New Hayes Farm stands on high ground and the fire was visible for miles. The Fire Brigade, on finding that the oast house could not be saved, concentrated on preventing the flames from reaching the adjacent buildings arne farmhouse, which were in considerable danger."
A Costly Train Journey
Fred John Jackson, 22 of Forge Cottage, Hartley fined £1 and costs for fare evasion. Said to have travelled to Longfield from Holborn Viaduct and said "here's 4½d from Farningham Road". He said he had bought a return but lost his ticket and had no money for more, so didn't consider he had committed a crime. At sae court Frederick Crouch of Hartley fined £2 for driving a lorry with an expired licence.
Longfield Like a Town
"Street lighting pleases councillors. 'From a small dark hole, Longfield has become like a small town'. This observation was made by Mr G B Morgan when the parish council met on Monday. He said he was most agreeably surprised at the improvement made to the village by the installation of street lamps. It would help local business, he added, as women would be able to do their evening shopping in comfort. The council agreed the lighting was satisfactory, and to keep observation on the scheme this winter in order to detect possible improvements for the future..... Mr W Wright said the Enterprise Bus Company was making an application to operate a better service between Gravesend and Hartley via New Barn. Mr Morgan said the service was a useful on, and would like to see it extended. The clerk was requested to write the Post Office authorities requesting the erection of a public telephone box at Longfield Hill."19 Nov 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Is War Finally Discredited?
"Literary and Debating Society members devoted their meeting on Armistice night to a discussion the question. Mr F Comont, who presided, said since the Covenant of the League of Nations and the Kellogg Pact both formally renounced war, the nations concerned had thereby discredited what had hitherto been an accepted mode of action. Mr Worley [sic] regarded war as a method of evolution, that in a capitalistic society must be inevitable. the abolition of the competitive system would remove the cause of war. Mr Tate said European war had frequently been dynastic, and even the last war was due probably to the determination of the Central Powers to display their military power and increase it. Mr Ellerby sai dwomen could do much to prevent war, but in fact during the Great War had even encouraged the military spirit. The Chairman reviewed the discussion, from which he felt one leading inference could be drawn, that in all countries the people must cultivate the will to peace."
Two Cyclists Injured
"While cycling from Hartley towards Longfield on Thursday last week, Walter Butterfield of Forest Hill and John Shaw of Leytonstone were thrown from their bicycles by some loose stones, under a Maidstone and District bus. After receiving attention from Dr Marsden, they were taken to the Livingstone Hospital. One man had head injuries and the other a dislocated thigh."
The Whole Town's Talking
Favourable review and picture of the cast of Hartley Players' latest production. Following week's paper had fuller review "Another triumph has been added to the long list of successes achieved by the Hartley Players.... The society has a large following in the villages of North Kent and many make the journey from London to witness their performances.
Poultry for Sale
"White wyandottes, stock cockerels, barrons class A birds March 1932 10s 6d each. Burr, Hartley, Longfield."
26 Nov 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Funeral at Longfield
of Frederick Harris, 75 of Essex Road. Had been at King Edward Hospital for 3 years and 8 months ago was moved to Barming Hospital.
03 Dec 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Fancier's Success
"Outstanding successes in recent shows have been secured by Mr B Alexander." List of prizes for rabbits and poultry at Gravesend and Crystal Palace shows.
Obituaries
(1) Mrs Beadles. Died at Stoke Cannon, Devon. Wife of Dr Beadles, moved away when her husband got a job in Exeter. Was involved with Hartley Players and for 4 years was president of the Women's Conservative Club. (2) James Jenkins, 34 of Mabel Cottages, Longfield. Had lived in Canada for 14 years.
Longfield Church
29 confirmed by Bishop of Rochester at Longfield.
Football
"The Royal Ulster Rifles have sportingly taken over the fixtures of Hartley Sports, who have withdrawn. Good luck the newcomers!" Final tally of Hartley Sports in Gravesend League Division 3: P8 W1 D3 L4 F18 A26 Pts 5. Second from bottom of league. As RUR the team started to climb the table by 28.1.33 they had risen from 13th to 10th.
Labour Club
Dance held at Longfield Village Hall. Mr Richards chairman.
09 Dec 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
Congregational Church Bazaar; (2) Hedge near Biack Lion replaced by fence for safety reasons 9/12/1932
10 Dec 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Players Performance at Dartford
"In response to an appeal by the Princess Royal, through Mr George Crossmith to all amateur dramatic societies to give a performance in aid of the League of Mercy, the Hartley Players will present their latest success 'The Whole Town's Talking' ... at the Church Hall, Dartford......
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Longfield Hill Phone Box - Post Office says unless underwritten by parish council, they won't supply one as they don't think it will generate enough income. (2) Father of one of the cyclists who fell off in Hartley Road last week writes asking for compensation.
Optician Advert
"Residents of Longfield! To obtain maximum benefit from glasses, the frames should be adjusted regularly. This will be done with pleasure whenever you are in Gravesend..... Bernard C Bishop 33 New Road...."
23 Dec 1932 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
Christmas toy service for Given Wilson Institute in Plaistow
24 Dec 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley ex-soldier and Gravesend Girl Mother
Arthur Alfred Blackwell of The Cottage, Hartley ordered to pay 5s a week for child by Annie Luchford of Gravesend. He said he was prepared to marry her until his mother and sister intervened. Mrs Blackwell his mother said she had 5 children, his sister Emma Munn of 2 Pondown Villas, Longfield said she had 6. Clerk said "We have a jury of matrons in this case!"
For sale
Electrolux as new £7. Goodwin, Westfields, Hartley
31 Dec 1932 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Chemist
"Dorothy Croft, qualified chemist, has taken over the business of Mr W Rugg, Station Road, Longfield. All prescriptions or private recipes carefully prepared. For all goods in the way of chemistry make for this shop and you will not be disappointed. Prices are reasonable (Advt)