1933 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1930-1939
07 Jan 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Bid for New Bus Route
"Longfield Council on Monday endorsed the action of the chairman in writing to the traffic commissioners asking them favourably to consider the application of the Enterprise Bus Company to extend their route from Perry Street into Gravesend. Capt Bretton said he understood that both the Maidstone and District Motor Services and the Gravesend and District Bus Services were opposing the application. He considered the Enterprise Company had been of great value to Longfield people. They were now seeking to extend their route to the Central Station Approach, Gravesend, and that would certainly be more convenient. At present Longfield people got as far as Perry Street and then had to change to other buses so as to get into the town." Council also to ask Post Office to open sub-office at Longfield Hill. [KM 11/3/33 Post Office agree, PC hears they have already received 2 applications]
14 Jan 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
// Parish decided to redeem £50 war loan and reinvest. Captain Bignell proposed money be given to the Chancellor of the Exchequer but got no seconder. They also decided not to approve the diversion of a footpath near Hartley Church.21 Jan 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Telephone Charges
"At Dartford county Court on Tuesday, Arthur Percival Robinson, Maxwelton was sued by the PMG in respect of £11 8s 4d telephone charges. Judgment was given for the amount. Robinson was also sued by Charles English, of The Stores, Hartley, who claimed £12 7s 5d (goods sold). It was stated defendant had agreed to pay £10 and his honour Judge Konstam approved this settlement."
Longfield events
The Labour club held a dance and the annual Clinic tea was held when 30 mothers with their babies attended.
Hartley Players' Cabaret
In spite of not inviting the press to their 3rd annual Cabaret Show at the Consitutional Hall, the paper's reviewer got a ticket and gave a favourable review.
03 Feb 1933 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
E2107Obituary of Ethel Shaeffer Wells-Thatcher, wife of John.
04 Feb 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Women Conservatives
Annual meeting of Hartley branch. They have 250 members. Miss Eva Smithers (chairman), Miss Green (Vice Chairman) other officers Mrs Jones, Miss Ada Harry, Miss Eira Baker and Miss Armstrong.
Longfield funerals
(1) Mrs Clara Jane Fuller of Mile End Green, aged 64, widow of J Fuller a Post Office worker at Gravesend. Originally from Faversham, she came to Longfield 20 years ago. (2) Archie Albert Hollands, 38 of the Railway Tavern. Originally from Wrotham Hill, he came to Longfield in 1919 having served with the Royal Army Service Corps in Mesopotamia, assisting his father in the pub. Also member of British Legion.
11 Feb 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Smash and Grab Raid
"Early on Wednesday morning, smash and grab raiders broke the window of a shop, owned by Mrs E L Rich, of 1 Station Road, and took 5 boxes of chocolates. Speaking to a KM representative, Mrs Rich said: 'I heard a crash, and thinking that the cat had knocked something over, I went downstairs and as I put the hall light on, a car accelerated and made off. As the back of the shop window seemed intact I again retired and it was not until I opened my shop that I found the plate glass window completely smashed.' A large stone was found outside the shop on the pavement.
18 Feb 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Bound Over
Winifred Bernice May Saunders, 20, domestic servant bound over for stealing £15 broach from Lena Vincent Knight her employer and trying to sell it in Rochester. Mr Knight of Churchdowns Fawkham said she was of good character and asked for leniency.
Comrades' Tribute to ex-Constable
Funeral at Biddenden of John Goble Fuggle, 71 (pictured). Career: born Tenterden, joined police in 1887 at Sittingbourne. Transferred to Dartford division and served at Hartley and Dartford, then transferred to Cranbrook Division serving at Rolvenden, Cranbrook and Biddenden.
03 Mar 1933 Bromley & West Kent Mercury
House for Sale or to Let
"Modern bungalow, 4 rooms, kitchen and bathroom, to let 17s 8d exclusive; sell £750, freehold, Hartley, Kent. Apply 32 Mycenae road, Blackheath."
04 Mar 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Woman Breaks Leg
"On Saturday, Mrs MacDanell, aged 80 of the Knoll, fell and broke her leg. She was conveyed to the Livingstone Hospital Dartford.
New Company
Ernest Walters & Co Ltd (co regn no 273394) – iron founders and manufacturers of agricultural implements etc. Office 5 Ash Road Hartley. Ernest W Spicer of Hoseland [The Birches, Ash Road], Hartley one of the directors.,
18 Mar 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Jewel Theft at Hartley
"An impudent theft has been made a the expense of Mr and Mrs Henry Crofton of Spinney Croft [sic should be Corner], Hartley, who until quite recently lived at Middle Farm. Mr and Mrs Crofton left the house in the occupation of two newly engaged servants, a man and his wife. While Mr and Mrs Crofton were away in London, a car containing 2 men was seen to draw up at Spinney Croft. When the occupiers returned, they found that a large quantity of silver, jewellery and wearing apparel was missing. The servants were also missing."
[KM 14/10/1933 Mr Crofton advertised for a cook aged 30-40, wages £50 - References Essential]
The Ghost Train - Hartley Players Good Teamwork
Generally positive review. Lulu Green as Miss Bourne "was the finest piece of amateur acting I have yet seen". "In E Snelling Colyer [Director of Mechanical Effects], the Hartley Players possess a genius."
Council Elections
Dartford Rural. At Eynsford, Farningham, Fawkham, Hartley, Horton Kirby and Longfield the sitting members are returned unopposed. Only contested election was at Darenth.
Wedding of Mr A J Tyler
Wedding of Albert John William Tyler, a signalman at Longfield Station to Rose May Gear of 1 Mile End Green. Long list of wedding gifts.
Fall in Garden
"While walking in her garden on Saturday, Mrs A Caller of 4 St George's Cottages, Whitehill, [18 Whitehill Road] fell and broke her arm."
Longfield Woman Killed
"When cycling near Bean brickfields on Tuesday, on her way to visit Mrs M Clarke, her sister at Bean, Mrs Kathleen Phoebe Robinson, aged 40, of 4 Mile End Green, Longfield, was killed in a collision with a motor car. A verdict of accidential death was returned at the inquest at Stone on Thursday.
[KM 25/3/33. Funeral at Longfield. Flowers include Foreman and women workers of Westwood Farm, Women Employees Gills Farm]
24 Mar 1933 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Hartley Debating Society holds mock parliament (2) Bus fares reduced by Maidstone and District Bus Company
25 Mar 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Sale of part of Longfield Court estate
"Longfield Kent. By order of the executors of Mrs A Hickmott, deceased. Messrs Porter, Putt & Fletcher are instructed to submit to auction at the Masonic Hall, Wrotham Road, Gravesend on Wednesday 12th April 1933 at 3 o'clock precisely.
The Freehold Property known as 'The Retreat', containing 2 reception rooms, 3 bedrooms, good offices, together with about 38½ acres of land. With valuable road frontage of nearly 2,000 feet to the main Meopham - Dartford Road, within easy reach of the station and an excellent motor bus servcie to the neighbouring towns of Gravesend and Dartford. Company's Water. Electricity. Ripe for development. The Retreat is in hand and the land with buildings is let on a tenancy expiring Michaelmas next at a rental of £50 pa.
The two well built houses 'Bushwood' and 'Meadowlands' each containing 2 reception rooms, 3 bedrooms, attic, good offices. Enclosed front and back gardens. Bushwood is in hand. Meadowlands is let on a tenancy expiring Michaelmas next at a rental of £60 pa.
The freehold business premises, No 2 Station Road. Occupying a good position and let to a motor mechanic at £36 pa. Tenant paying rates.
The block of freehold cottages, 1-8 Elm Terrace, 1 and 2 Armstrong Cottages, Kent Road; 1-6 Mabel Cottages. Producing £326 7s 4d pa. Landlord paying rates......."
The Retreat was where 84-86 Main Road is today; Bushwood and Meadowlands have been replaced by Heaver Court; Elm Terrace has been replaced by 42-54 Station Road. Armstrong Cottages are 9-11 Kent Road]
Longfield's Oldest Inhabitant
"Mr William Inkpen (pictured) of Walter Cottages, Kent Road, Longfield, has the honour of being the village's oldest inhabitant. To the casual passer by Mr Inkpen would not give one the impression that he has seen 89 years of life, for although he has a snow white beard, his hair shows very little sign of going grey. Mr Inkpen was born in an old house at Holtye Sussex, which has been in the family's possession for more than 300 years. It is now occupied by his two nieces. As there were no schools in his younger days, he took up farming when quite a boy, and stayed in his native village until 50 years ago, when he moved to Longfield, which was, in those days, a mere clusster of tumbledown houses, with the Railway Tavern and the Church in their midst. Mr Inkpen was married at his native village. There was a family of 11 children. His wife died 3 years ago. He continued his farm work when he came to Longfield and retired 6 years ago, from the employment of Mr J Foster. When I enquired the secret of his health, writes a KM representative, he quoted the old, old saying: 'Early to bed and early to rise...' and plenty of fresh air. Even now at his age, he takes his daily stroll round the village."
31 Mar 1933 Dartford Chronicle
Quaker Church Services
Quaker services held at WI hall
Theft Charge
Hector Meek and others charged with stealing £900 of jewellery from Mary Crofton's house, Spinney Corner cont'd 7/14/4/1933
Hartley Girl's Alarming Experience
attempted abduction of Eileen Bayntum of Manor Road [Manor Drive]7
01 Apr 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hatching Eggs for Sale
(advert) "2¼ oz hatching eggs from trap nested White Leghorns (Ronsford strain) 5s per 15, carriage paid. Hinde [The Stoep] Hartley, Longfield"
Staff Wanted
"Lady hairdresser wanted; strong waver, setter and cutter; saloon trained. Apply Skeltons, Longfield Kent [I think this is 3 Main Road]
07 Apr 1933 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) J Cuff of Fernholme [now Apple Tree Cottage], Church Rd, retires as works manager for Camberwell Borough Council. (2) South Suburban Gas Co considering laying on gas to Hartley
08 Apr 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Debating Society - Is Youth Getting a Square Deal?
"Members of the Literary and Debating Scoiety discussed this question at the last meeting of the session, held on Friday last week. Mrs Keen as chairman, introduced a team of 3 young speakers led by Miss H Chisholm, whose supporters were Mr Alec Taylor and Mr MacDonald. Miss Chisholm said youth was in revolt against the dead hand of tradition. the new generation looked forward, whereas older people looked back. Socially and economically the world was in chaos, and youth must suffer wrongly for the blunders of the generation that plunged into war. Other people had lacked vision or the will to prevent evil and now youth was unjustly paying the penalty - there had not been a square deal for the new generation. Mr Alec Taylor declared that a wholesale clearance was required to remove the old 'dodderers' who ruled in governments, councils and business. They had made a mess of things in general. Mr Macdonald said he charge was against organised religion, which had failed to protect yiouth against the growing danger of war. If such a calamity happened another slaughter of youth would result. The sacrifices of the last ware and the disastrous conditions that had followed ought to unite organised religion in all Christian countries to save the world from useless suffering. Speakers on behalf of the older generation were found in Mrs Balchin, Messrs FW Tate, G Davies, F Wise, while Messrs Barrow, Comont and F Tate jun supported the case for youth with reservations."
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Negotiations with Maidstone and District had resulted in in several fare concessions. (2) Meeting against joining proposed Dartford RDC 'Federation of Parish Councils'.
GFS Birthday
2nd birthday party for Longfield Church Girls' Friendly Society.
08 Apr 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Forty-eight years of farming
"The news that Mr George Day JP CC was selling his farms at North Ash and Hartley created quite a stir among the agricultural community last week. These arrangements are now completed, and by Michaelmas next year Mr Day will have severed an active connection with the land which will have extended over some 48 years or more/ The smell of the freshly turned earth is life itself to a man who has combated with nature and wrested from the soil a comfortable competence. The decision to sell must have caused a pull at the heart strings for it is like the final parting of old and tried friends. He knows almost every stone on the land, and although he will continue to live in the farmhouse, who will doubt that he will miss that direct contact with the land that he has ploughed and tilled throughout the years? No wonder, then, that Mr Day was in a reminiscent mood when I talked to him at North Ash this week.
He came to Ash in 1887 and established himself in his farm, operating in a small way with sheep and pigs and a few acres under corn. He was keen to develop and 6 years later added a poultry section. About this time he began to plant out more of his land with fruit. He was the first man in the district to extend in this direction, and he planted about 30 acres in the first year. Realising that that land will not yield up its harvest unless it receives its proper feeding of nutriment he introduced dairy farming in order to solve in part the problem of supplying natural manure. In natural sequence came the erection of silos to store ensilage which would ensure a bountiful supply of green food for the animals in winter months. And at North Ash too, a mechanical milking machine was installed very soon after this development had passed from the experimental stage. Mr Day is, of course, a firm believer in scientific methods. Tractors and motors superseded the use of horses, except for 'short' work, and to get to markets he has used the saddle, the trap, pedal cycles, motorcycles and since motors were a practical proposition he estimates that he has driven over a quarter of a million miles. // Somewhere about 1890 Mr Day was induced to enter public life and he became a member of the Dartford Guardians. In 1894, when the urban and rural councils were created as elected bodies, he became a member of the first Dartford Rural Council. Today he is the sole surviving member of that first assembly, and he had been its chairman for a number of years. He was appointed Justice of the Peace in 1914, and was elected to the Kent County Council 5 years later.
I asked Mr Day what were the most significant changes he had noted during these 40 odd years. 'The conditions of the people in rural areas,' he replied, 'Agricultural workers used to work from 6 o'clock in the morning until 6 in the evening. Today they work 52 hours a week, and even less in the winter, and they are better paid and housed.' He recalled that old people used to receive a loaf of bread and a shilling a week as an allowance of outdoor relief. Those days passed with the advent of old age pensions, which are supplemented by a Guardian's grant of 5 shillings a week in very many cases. 'I shall miss the farm,' Mr Day said, as I was leaving, 'but I shall still have my public work.' This remark sums up his philosophy, for his public duties have been the main essentials of his life during his later years." Philip Ward (includes picture of Mr & Mrs Day)
15 Apr 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Path in front of Woodview Cottages [Main Road] to be repaired; (2) Mr Chase, head of Primary School congratulated for high marks for his pupils in the London Music Festival.
Child knocked down by Motorcycle
"An accident outside Longfield schools, when a 5 year old child was knocked down and injured by a motorcycle, had a sequel at Dartford Police Court on Friday last week, when the motorcyclist, Henry John Thomas Shrive, Station Road, Meopham, was fined £4 for driving without due care and attention. His licence was endorsed and he was ordered to pay 6s costs. Mr Hugh Goff defended, pleading guilty. PS Wright said he was called to the accident, and in consequence of statements by witnesses, he cautioned defendant and obtained a statement. In this he said he saw the child run from behind a van. He admitted that he approached the schools too fast. Mr Goff said defendant did not realise at the time that the intention of the child was to pass behind the van and cross the road."
22 Apr 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Motorcyclist injured
(Longfield) "Falling from his motorcycle in Longfield Road on Tuesday, Mr Ronald A Piper of Redmays, Pescot New Barn received thigh and head injuries."
Garage Burgled
"Burglars entered the Service Garage, Main Road, on Monday night, by forcing open the back door. The burglary was discovered by Mr H D Edwards, the manager, when he was looking round the premises before going home. Some of the employees found an abandoned car half a mile from the garage. The car, which had been missing, was claimed at Dartford Police Court on Tuesday. It is estimated that about £20 worth of goods were taken, including £4 in cash, some keys and a road licence."
29 Apr 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Licence Transferred
"At Dartford Police Court on Friday, the Black Lion Hartley, was transferred from Mr Charles English to Mr William Cox."
Longfield, Hartley and Darenth Nursing Association
Annual report. Number of hours of duty done by the nurses was 3,511 in the past year.
05 May 1933 Dartford Chronicle
Copse Side Site
Dartford RDC accepts offer of £45 for land at Hartley [Probably land at Copse Side they bought for council housing that never went ahead]
06 May 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Cricket - Easy for Hartley
At Hartley. Hartley 118 (W Osborne 58), Fawkham 58 (Balchin 6-16). Hartley Sports club hold cricket practice. Tennis courts also ready.
Brownies' 4th Birthday
(Hartley) Celebrated with party in WI Hall, arranged by Brown Owl Miss Gladys Parkin.
12 May 1933 Times
Hartley Grange for Sale
For sale, with 16½ acres including 10a of orchard, description, picture
20 May 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
A Farewell Party
"An informal gathering assembled in the Constitutional Club on Monday to bid farewell to Mr Peter Newcomb and his wife, who were leaving the village. Mr Newcomb, who was formerly com boatswain in the navy, has lived for the last 8 years at The Nutshell, Hartley. Col Willis, president of the Conservative Club, thanked Mr Newcome on behalf of the members, for the able way in which he had helped the club from its formation. Mr Jackson endorsed all Col Willis had said. Cdr Morgan said how much he admired Mr Newcomb for his work in the club and the village. The improvement in the working of the club was due in a great part to Mr Newcomb. Replying, Mr Newcomb thanked all his friends for their good wishes. He had had a very jolly time in Hartley, and had been only too pleased to help in any way he could, but he was a rolling stone, and planned now to take his wife a long sea voyage, and show her the many beautiful places that he had visited years ago. The farewell toast was given by Col Willis. A silver cup was presented to Mr Newcomb by his many friends at Hartley about a year ago."
Stumps Hit 15 times
At Hartley. Crockenhill 64 (R Balchin 7-14) Hartley 31. Crockenhill won by 33 runs.
27 May 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Empire Day Celebrations
(Longfield) "School children celebrated Empire Day by parading in the sports field opposite the school and saluting the Union Jack. The Vicar, the Rev R F Galer, gave an address."
03 Jun 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Egg Collection
Children of Ash Church school collect 520 eggs for Livingstone Hospital.
Wilfred Woodward
Obituary, died at East Leigh Sanatorium, Bishopstoke, aged 32. Parents live at Black Lion Cottages. He was a keen cricketer and was gamekeeper at South Ash Manor.
Girl Guides' Parade at Gravesend
Picture of guides from Longfield and Milton Districts.
08 Jun 1933 Mitcham Advertiser
Banstead Resident's Divorce Petition
Mr Justice Bateson in the Divorce Court on Friday heard the petition of Mr Reginald George Louis Cheesman of Banstead Road, Banstead for the dissolution of his marriage with his wife Edith Florence, because of her adultery with a co-respondent named Archer. The suit was undefended. Shortly after the marriage, according to Mr Cheesman, there were differences because his wife was fond of a gay life and left him at home. In May 1929, they were living at Hartley Kent, and in the following year they separated. Later petitioner had his wife watched and as a consequence he filed his petition, alleging adultery at a London hotel. After evidence to support this allegation his Lordship pronounce a decree nisi with costs and gave petitioner the custody of the one child of the marriage."
10 Jun 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Resident's Loss
Death of Mr Harrison, 38 who had only recently moved to Hartley to live with his uncle A Watson of Wayside.
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Southern Rail asked to repair wooden bridge by railway which is unsafe. (2) Mr Hickmott [Longfield Court] asked to cut hedges.
Motorcyclist Injured
"Mr Donald Crouch, aged 20, of Essex Road, sustained concussion and abrasions when the motorcycle he was riding came into collision with another near Wimbledon on Sunday. Both motorcyclists were detained at a Wimbledon hospital.
24 Jun 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Gift to Teacher
"After 5 years' work at Hartley Church of England School, Miss Vera Emmott has been appointed to the staff of the Junior Mixed Council School at Welling. Miss Emmott was presented by Miss Fiddis on behalf of the children and staff of Hartley School, with a folding camera."
Cricket
At Hartley. Hartley 76 (W Osborne 36) lost to Park House 102 (F Tate 4-25) by 26 runs. Hartley Sports 207 (P Hicks 67) beat Harmsworth's 2nd 65 at Gravesend.
29 Jun 1933 Camden News (New South Wales)
Obituary of George Longhurst
"On Monday of last week, June 19, at the Camden District Hospital, Mr George Longhurst, orchardist of East Minto, passed away at the age of 76 years. The deceased gentleman was born at Hartley (Kent), England, and was the third youngest son of the late Edward Longhurst, being one of a family of 11 children. 47 years ago the late Mr Longhurst arrived in Australia, and prior to coming to East Minto 37 yeasr ago, was for 10 years a resident of Parramatta, his occupation being that of bricklayer. On arriving at East Minto, the late Mr George Longhurst with his brother Mr William Longhurst were among the first settlers of that part, and they can be classed as the pioneer orchardists of East Minto and Kent Farms."
[Minto is now a suburb of Sydney]
30 Jun 1933 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) All Saints' - £20 raised for electric lights. (2) Middle Farm - visit by Sidcup Literary Society
01 Jul 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
A Big Catch
"Mr W Wise, secretary of the Hartley Cooperative Society, who is a keen angler, on Tuesday last week caught the biggest fish ever taken from Herne Bay Pier, 1 24½ lb sting ray. The fish took more than half an hour to land, and its weightand measurements were verified by the Secretary of the Herne Bay Anglers' Association."
Rival Societies at Longfield
Annual meeting of Longfield and District Cottage Gardeners Association. A lot of discussion about the effect of a new rival gardening society in Longfield Hill, who will be running a show at about the same time as theirs. Walter Wright the secretary said "they had seen the rise and fall of football, cricket and other clubs in Longfield, where there always seemed to be the element of the 'break up' class...."
08 Jul 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Roman Road through Cobham Woods
Lord Darnley the landowner wants it to be stopped up as a public highway. In 1927 Strood RDC decided it should no longer be repaired at public expense. Estate said they were worried about public liability for potholed road and it was used as a parking place "One had only to walk down the road after dark to see what was going on. They would find various cars parked there for an obvious reason, some with and others without lights. It was the worst place he knew." Shorne PC object, Cobham would not object so long as it remained a bridle path.
Hartley on Top
Cricket at Gravesend. Hartley 100 (J Rich, no 11 batsman top scored with 29), Park House 35 (H Goodwin 6-10). Hartley win by 65 runs.
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Post office to be asked to white paint the telegraph pole outside the church as it is a hazard. (2) Woodview, Main Road. Tenants have received letters from Dartford RDC ordering removal of sheds and other items from the gardens. PC can't see there is a problem, and said if RDC unhappy they should built uniform sheds.
15 Jul 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Funeral of Elizabeth Rice
Aged 51, for more than 35 years housekeeper and companion to Mrs Fitzroy-Munday of Church Road. Funeral at Fawkham.
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Building work has just commenced by the school, it was said it could be the last chance to enlarge the playground. (2) Buses - Mr Tate said he had written to the London Passenger Transport Board to keep the Enterprise and Hollands bus services. Board's reply is that from July 1st they have taken over the Maidstone and District services, but have not decided what to do about the other operators. (3) Rail - complaints of new timetable which has removed train people used to get back from London on Saturday half days. (4) Litter - increasing problem in Hartley so they are going to put up KCC anti-litter posters.
Six wickets for Balchin
(Cricket) "Thanks to the deadly bowling of Balchin of Hartley, Fawkham were dismissed for the meagre total of 59 on their own ground on Saturday. Out of the total 59 of Fawkham's innings there were six ducks and had it not been for an effort by G Bailey, who scored 30, the Fawkham lads would have been in a sorry plight. Although none of the Hartley batsmen exceeded 20, they all did their bit, as it were, with the result that they had 77 on the board when the last wicket fell."
22 Jul 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Cricket
Swanscombe 128, Hartley 14.
Help Wanted
"Wanted, strong girl for house with knowledge cooking, help poultry occasionally. Elliot, Applegarth, Hartley,Longfield."
Funeral of Mr A Day
At Longfield Church, aged 66 of 2 Victoria Terrace, [36] Essex Road. Floral tributes include staff at Southfleet Waterworks.
Tunbridge Wells Show
Miss Jane Foote Maxton wins 3rd prize for sow born before 1.1.1932.
Newsboys' Outing
Picture - "The employees of Messrs Bye Brothers, the Longfield Newsagents, leaving for their outing to Herne Bay on Wednesday."
28 Jul 1933 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
Thomas Lamon of Thames View, Church Rd, collided with telegraph pole
05 Aug 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Petition
(Dartford RDC) "It was reported that a petition had been received from 3 owners and 11 owner occupiers of Kent Road, Longfield, protesting against the road being made up under the Public Street Works Act, and ultimately taken over as a public highway. The Highways Committee stated that the petitioners had not given adequate reasons for deferring the make up of the road and it was decided that the Council adhere to their previous decision."
18 Aug 1933 Bromley & West Kent Mercury
Dog for Sale
"Low price for quick sale - Billingshaw Cerberus, White Bulldog, registration no 26777/31, born 21/2/1931 by Newington Chief out of Beauty of Jenotan. Grandparents: Ch Tweedside Red Chief, Pengodene, Ch Diomed, Oakville Pride. GG Parents include Ch Dunscar Draughtsman and Crew So White Man. May be seen at Westward Ho Kennels, New Barn, Longfield, Kent... Owner moving. Present address: E Harry, Hartley Grange, Longfield, Kent. Phone Longfield 15. City phone Met 4931.
26 Aug 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Church Council
"It was decided at last week's meeting ot proceed immediately with the installation of electric light. The tender of Messrs J H Boys & Co was accepted. Repair and redecoration of the church was discussed. Mr G W Bancks referred to the flaking fo the walls, and Mr E J Cuff said he believed that, given suitable treatment, this could be remedied to some extent. The council decided to invite tenders for the work, on the lines suggested by Mr Cuff."
Lucky 13th at Longfield
13th annual show of Longfield & District Cottage Gardeners' Association, held at the Court Meadow. 300 entries. Pictures of winners H Francis (Hartley), AE Crouchman (Mile End Green), F Smith (Longfield) and the secretary Walter Wright. "There was exceptionally keen competition for the Longfield Parish Church Challenge Cup for the best collection of wild flowers by school children of Longfield, Hartley, Fawkham and Darenth. Gladys Cherry [b 1924] (pictured) of Fawkham, won the coveted trophy for Hartley C of E School, who had held it for the previous 2 years."
02 Sep 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Fire
"A fire broke out in the meadow [Dartford Chroncile said hedge] adjoinging Mr Ernest Harry's residence, Hartley Grange, on Monday. The thatched roof of Brick End, Mr John Green's house, was in great danger of igniting, but the Dartford Fire Brigade were quickly on the scene and put out the fire.
Bulbs for Sale
Tulips, Daffodils, Narcissi, Polyanthuses. Church Road Nurseries, Hartley, Longfield
09 Sep 1933 Daily Mirror
True Squirrel Story
"As I was in bed the other morning I heard a scratching at the window, a few moments later a tiny head appeared and a small red squirrel entered and sat on my dressing table. He stayed for about a minute and then disappeared. He much have come by the pipe, for my window is twenty feet from the ground - Hazel Andrus, Hartley Court, Longfield"
09 Sep 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
PC informed that Dartford RDC is looking into issue of Whitehill Dump which periodically bursts into flame.
16 Sep 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
'Dene Hole' Discovery
"An interesting relic of ancient times was discovered in the course of building operations on a site adjoining Hartley Church of England Schools. After digging down a few feet of a proposed cesspit, the workmen struck into a deep excavation, apparently one of the much discussed 'dene holes.' The pit was quite clear of water and was found to contain a bench on which were a number of worked flints, a vase, which unfortunately crumbled to pieces when handled, and a lower human jawbone. After the chief contents had been removed the work of doming over the cesspit was completed."
Fire
"A fire broke out on Saturday in the field adjoining Dr Marsden's house and with the strong wind blowing spread towards Colyton, the residence of Capt & Mrs Bignell [Wellfield]. The Dartford Fire Brigade were sent for and the flames were extinguished."
The men who spread the news
PIcture feature on the newspaper industry includes adverts from local newsagents including large ad for W J Bye, [48] Main Road, Longfield (Longfield 105), newsagent, stationer and tobacconist. It says they deliver papers daily to Ash, Bean, Betsham, Darenth, Fairseat, Fawkham, Green Street Green, Hartley, Hodsoll Street, Lanes End, Longfield, Longfield Hill, New Street, New Barn, Pinden, Ridley, Stansted, Southfleet, West Kingsdown, Wrotham, West Yoke, Westwood. Also "books of every description can be supplied promptly. Children's books and annuals for Christmas a speciality."
Work Wanted (advert)
"for 6 seater Laudalette, would contract. 2 guineas per 100 miles. Phone Longfield 114. Maynard, Longfield [chauffeur of 1 Hope Villas, approximately 9, Station Road]
23 Sep 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Diamond Wedding at Longfield
"Mr and Mrs T Crouch of Ivy Cottage, Longfield [53 Essex Road], who have just celebrated their diamond wedding, have resided at Longfield for 29 years. Although Mr Crouch is 83 and Mrs Crouch only four years younger than her husband, they both enjoy fairly good health, and until 2 years ago Mr Crouch was in regular employment. Both are natives of Horton Kirby, and they were married at Fawkham Church. They have no family of their own, but have brought up several foster children."
Boy loses 4 fingers
"On Wednesday last week Leslie Leeves [1927-2004], aged 6 years, son of Mr W Leeves, butcher of Station Road, had 4 fingers of his right hand cut off in the sausage machine. He was conveyed to Gravesend Hospital."
30 Sep 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Scene at Village Hall Meeting - Longfield Trustee Walks out
"After piquant passages had been exchanged at the annual meeting of Longfield Village Hall on Monday, a trustee, Mr F Fuller, left the hall indignantly stating that his resignation would be forthcoming.
While the balance sheet was being read by the Rector (Rev R F Galer) who presided, Mr Fuller questioned an item of expenditure which read, 'Pram shelter £4 9s 5d,' and complained that although he was trustee he had received no intimation that a shelter was to be erected. Mr H C Hickmott (hon secretary to teh trustees and chairman of the Working Committee) explained that the pram shelter - a lean to - had been provided for the use of mothers attending the clinic, held at the Village Hall. Before the erection of the shelter the clinic paid 7s 6d fortnightly as rental. Now that tehy had the shelter an extra 2s 6d was paid. 'Whether I should have called a meeting of trustees,' said Mr Hickmott, 'I don't know. Nine times out of ten when I do call a meeting there are insufficient present to form a quorum.
Mr Fuller: I think it is wrong for a secretary to o something unbeknown to the trustees. If you were secretary of any other body you would not take it in your own hands and do as you like. I say it is not right. Mr Hickmott: Will you propose something? Mr Fuller: After tonight I am going to resign. Mr Hickmott: Put any proposition you like. I am in your hands entirely. I represent the trustees, and it is entirely up to you to make a proposition. Another trustee (addressing Mr Fuller): You don't very often come here! Mr Fuller: You only come here once a year, don't you? He added that he considered trustees should be fairly treated by the secretary - that they should be called to consider all matters. The Chairman put that as a proposition, but there was no seconder.
Mr Hickmott said he was carrying out the duties to the best of his ability, but if he was not considered satisfactory, he woudl be pleased to relinquish office. He believed he was right in saying that the working of the hall was handed over to a committee, whose duty it was to report to the trustees. Mr Fuller: unbeknown to me! Mr H Hale stated that the matter of the pram shelter had been dealt with by the Working Committee. Mr Fuller then left his seat and said he was going. Mr Hickmott: Are you resigning as trustee? Mr Fuller (leaving the hall): Yes, you will have my letter in a day or two. The chairman said it was very sad that there should be differences over a pram shelter." Debt reduced by £19 to £48 18s. Election of Working Committee (named)
07 Oct 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Cup Presented
For Best Garden [for council's tenants] to Mr A Heaver of 6 Valley Villas, Longfield [217 Main Road]
14 Oct 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Cyclist Hurt
"While Charlie MacDonald, son of Mr and Mrs Macdonald of [2 Hartley Wood Corner] Manor Drive, Hartley, was cycling to Ash on Monday, he crashed into a telegraph post and sustained severe concussion."
'Stroke' of Village Hall! Longfield Rector's Tribute to Mr H Hickmott
4th annual dinner of Longfield Village Hall. Secretary H C Hickmott likened to the stroke of a winning boat. Capt Bretton referred to improvements including a new pram shelter. Mr Hickmott said the hall had been there 25 years and was never more useful thn now. The Thrift Club would likely pay out £500 at Christmas. He listed the hall users which [in addtiion to groups mentioned in previous artilces] included Gardeners' Associations, Nursing Association, Mothers' Union and Infant Welfare Clinic.
'Fading' Troubles Radio Listeners
"Would a new broadcasting station for SE England improve radio reception in Kent? Extensive enquiries made by the Kent Messenger this week show that while few 'blind spots' appear to exist in the county, there are many places where reception of the BBC programmes is not good, particularly owing to foreign interference. The worst areas appears to be East Kent, due to its nearness to the Continent. Here there is much complaint about fading, especially on the London National wavelength......"
"North: At Gravesend a leading man in the wireless trade stated that so far as he knew there were no 'blind spots' in the district. Except for local interference, reception at Northfleet has been regarded as quite satisfactory. Longfield finds he only programmes that do not alwas give entire satisfaction are those from the northern stations. Midland Regional appears to give the most satisfaction. Radio experts state that there are no blind spots in Dartford itself. Listeners in adjoining districts complain that they cannot receive London National programmes without serious interference from two foreign stations, Trieste and Turin, unless they have expensive sets. This is probably due to the fact that these districts are in what is known as the 'swamp area' in wich reception from London is markedly inferior. The reason for this is obscure."
20 Oct 1933 Dartford Chronicle
Motoring Offence
Sidney Etherington of Longfield fined for driving on Hoselands Hill without a licence
21 Oct 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Horticulturist's Success
"Outstanding successes in the horticultural world have been gained this season by a Hartley resident, Mr Francis, of Hillside [Hartley Hill]…." List of awards "At the PLA autumn show last week Mr Francis carried off 17 firsts, 6 seconds and 3 third prizes for flowers, fruit and vegetables... Mr Francis is an enthusisastic gardenr, his special interest being dahlias, of which he has raised a number of new varieties, and he is always delighted to show visitors round his garden." (includes picture of Mr Francis)
Death of Mr E Hurst
"The death occurred on Monday of Mr Edward Hurst, aged 32, the Cottage, Hartley Green. 'Ted Hurst' as he was familiarly called, was in his early years often to be seen on the sports field, and was a clever footballer and cricketer. For the last 6 years, however, he had been an invalid." 27/10/33 report of funeral
Hockey - Gravesend Ladies 3 Hartley 5
"Hartley visited Gravesend Ladies on Saturday and won by 5-3. Goals were scored for the winners by Mrs Marsden, Miss E Bayntum (3) and Miss M Bayntum. Hartley - Misses Edwars, Hewitt, Kirke, Smith, Brooke, B Jackson, J Lilley, M Collingwood, E Bayntum, M Bayntum, J Elphick and Mrs Marsden."
Case against motorist dismissed
Harry Hinde of the Stoep, Hartley, was accused of using a car without a third party insurance policy on September 23rd. Defendant did not appear. PC J Butcher said he stopped defendant at the top of Bath Street, and asked him to produce his certificate of insurance. Defendant said he had left it at home, and witness told him to produce it to the police at Longfield. PS Wright of Longfield, said that as defendant did not produce his policy within 5 days, he visited his residence. Defendant said 'I am afraid it is run out,' and he showed a certificate which expired on September 16th. He added, 'I thought I was covered until the end of the quarter.' He had since renewed the policy. Defendant wrote that he had been under the impression that the policy was valid until September 30th. The Bench dismissed the case on payment of 5s costs."
Longfield Man's Offence
"Sidney H Etherington, of Station Road, Longfield, pleaded guilty to driving without a policy of insurance and a licence at Hoselands Hill, Hartley and was fined £3. Defendant had a small off licence, and business had been very poor."
27 Oct 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) Thanks to help from Dartford RDC, Hartley's water charges have been reduced, but attendees thought not by enough. (2) Hazardous open well reported in Manor Woods, owner to be written to. (3) Meeting to request extension of electricity to the Ash end of Church Road.
04 Nov 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Cricket Club
AGM. In previous season they played 22 and won 10. W Osborne was top batsman with 311 runs at an average of 17, R Balchin was top bowler with 95 wickets at a cost of 4.6 each. List of officers include Brig-Gen Andrus (president), Rev G W Bancks (vice president), H Goodwin (captain), W Osborne(vice captain). "Owing to the farm being sold, the club's position with regard to the ground, had become uncertain, an da committe was appointed to go into the question of an alternative field."
Hartley Sports Club
Cricket team won 19 out of 35 fixtures. First season of hockey team. 24 had joined table tennis section. Proposal for bowling green.
Debating Society
They discussed self government. Walter Wright opened saying "the large powers of self government that Englishmen once possessed were rapidly disappearing. Parliamentary powers had gone into the hands of individual ministers...."
Fresco Finds
"Hopes of interesting finds have been aroused by the discovery of traes of fresco painting during the cleaning of the walls of the church. Expert advice is being obtained, and the work of uncovering the plaster is being very carefully proceeded with. A hitherto unsuspected arch has been found concealed in the wall, and this also is being investigated.
Funeral of Dorothy Mary Dumnall
At Longfield Church. Aged 27 of Essex Road, one of the list of wreaths is from the Council Employees at Swanley Housing.
10 Nov 1933 Dartford Chronicle
League of Nations Union
League of Nations Association bookshop at Bank Chambers for Armistice Week
11 Nov 1933 Daily Mirror
Church Nurseries
Advert for Church Nurseries, Hartley, Longfield, Kent, including Fruit Trees (Apples, Pears, Cherries, Plums, Raspberries, Blackcurrants, Gooseberries, Loganberries, Blackberries), Hedging Plants (Poplar, Privet, Lonicera), Roses and Bulbs (Daffodil, Iris, Narcissi, Forget me Nots, Crocus, Red Hot Poker, Flowering Cherries, Laburnums, Golden Privet). All guaranteed to have been grown in Kent.
11 Nov 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Ducks for sale
"Now is the time to buy ducks for Christmas. 80 on sale at 3s 6d each. Barnard, Pleasant [Copthorne], Hartley, Longfield."
Gravesend Horticultural Show Results
Heaviest onions were (1) Mr E Bailey of Longfield (12lb 10oz), (2) F Smith of Longfield (9lb 12oz)
18 Nov 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Musical Society
"A meeting was held on Friday last week to discuss the advisability of meeting for the practice of part songs etc. Mr D T R Gray sai dhe feltsure that in spite of wireless and other attractions, there were many in the village who would find much pleasure in singing together once a week, and he suggested Mr Cyril Worsley as conductor. Mr Worsley said he would be very glad to give what help he could. It was agreed to meet every Friday for practice. Mrs G F Oldrey is to be pianist."
Debating Society
Discussed 'Can we increase the span of life'. Dr Benjamin Hughes said life expectancy in UK was 56 for men and 58 for women, but thanks to "splendid climatic conditions" was 63 for men and 65 for women in New Zealand. However due to poverty it was only 22 in India. Improved sanitation, clean water, medicene and better food and leisure all help but something will need to be done to stop the human frame wearing out. Mr Fielder thought people should study the laws of health. Mr Williams said longevity was no good without quality of life. Mr Worsley "put forward the view that life was an external force working regardless of our social conditions and continuing after individual death. Physical improvements through sanitation etc, did not matter."
Britain's Small Savings
Government announce that investments by people of small means total £2.8 billion.
Mothers Outclass Children at Cake-Making
Longfield and District Horticultural Society's Autumn show. Last year first prize for cakes went to Kathleen Townley, a 12 year old Hartley schoolgirl, but this year the adults turned the tables and won all the prizes. List of many winners.
Hartley Players
Picture of their latest production 'Sport of Kings'.
Life work for the Jews
"After a life devloted to the service of his own people, the Jews, the Rev Samuel Schor, aged 73 died on Thursday at Rosina, Longfield [New Barn], where he lived in retirement for 3 years. Mr Schor [pictured] was one of the best known clergymen in the country. He was born of Jewish parents in Jerusalem in 1859. His early years were spent in the LJS school in Jerusalem, from which he passed to the famous St Chrischona College near Bale, and finally to teh Hebrew Missionary College in London.
He started missionary work amongst the Jews in the East End of London. In 1885 he was sent as a missionary to Jerusalem, but owing to the effect of the climate on Mrs Schor's health he had to return. He then studied for the Ministry and was ordained in the Church of England in 1889, and not long after accepted a curacy at Felixstowe. In this parish began his life's work. He had long been impressed by the ignorance in this countyr of Eastern life and customs. In 1883 he began giving illustrated lectures on Palestine and the Bible. From this sprang the first Palestine Exhibition in Islington in 1907, producing the great tour of the exhibition through Canada. In 1893 he was appointed organising secretary for the London Jew's Society in the North West of England, and then started that intensive work centred in the Palestine Exhibition which he carried on for more than 20 years.
In 1914 he accepted the living of Christ Church, Blackpool, and in 1923 was appointed Director of the Barbican Mission to the Jews. He was responsible for establishing the Barbican Mission in Poland. He hten had a serious breakdown and had to relinquish active service. The remainder of his days he spent in writing on behalf of the Jews. HIs lates work is 'The Everlasting Nation and their Coming King,' while one of his earlier works 'Palestine and the Bible' has almost reached its hundred thousanth copy. Mr Schor has during recent years taken temporary duty at Southfleet and Darenth." Details of funeral at Longfield.
25 Nov 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
The Sport of Kings - Delightful performance by Hartley Players
"When I attend a performance by amateurs, I invariably say to myself, 'now don't forget that these people are amateurs. They will do their best, and you mustn't be too hard on them.' Very frequently I long to rise in my seat and shout, 'My dear lady!' or 'My dear man' as the case may be, 'for the love of heaven forget yourself and act as if you menat it, instead of reciting like a 5 year old perched on a footstool at a family party.' Last Thursday, I saw the Hartley Players produce Ian Hay's delightful comedy, 'The Sport of Kings' at the Hartley Constitutional Hall, and enjoyed without reservation every minute of it....." CDR
Hockey
Hartley 2 (Miss S Witt, Miss M Tinley) Rochester Art School 1.
02 Dec 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
For Sale
"Climax Michaelas Daisies, 15s per 100, carriage paid. Elphick, Hartley, Longfield. [Annlea]
Debating Society
Topic was 'Is Modern Art Decadent'. Cyril Worsley said it was just different, artists will always use modern materials available and now this is concrete and steel. Design of many common articles has improved. Mr Gomer Davies said that is fine but what could be said for modernist sculpture such as Rima or Epstein. Mr Ellerby thought art was decadent due to materialism of age.
Wedding
At Longfield Church of Arthur Victor Squance of Cornwall to Rosa Mildred Stevens of Station Road (picture of couple).
Injured at Work
"While at work on a propeller shaft in dry dock at Tilbury on Monday, Mr J Crouch of Ponsdowne Villa, slipped and fell 15 feet. He was taken unconscious to Tilbury Hospital, suffering from a cut head and bruised shoulder, and later allowed to return home."
Tonbridge Show
Miss Jane Foote Maxton wins 1st prize for fat sow any age or breed.
09 Dec 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Streetlighting, council to ask West Kent Electric Company why the lights periodically fail. (2) Gas. Company to be asked if any progress on bringing gas to Longfield.
16 Dec 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Debating Society - Democracy in the Modern World
C J Gadd spoke in praise of the freedom of democracy in this country. Others said better education would support democracy. Mr F Comont regretted dictatorship which was likely to lead to war.
£272 for loss of Wife
"A claim for damages for the loss of his wife was brought by William Edward Robinson of Hillrise, Kent Road, Longfield, against Arthur Gerald Lake of Vanbrugh Hill, Blackheath at Dartford County Court on Tuesday. It was stated that Mrs Robinson was cycling when she was knocked down by defendant's car and killed. The jury found for the plaintiff in the sum of £200 and £72 for the two children."
23 Dec 1933 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
League of Nations
Inaugural meeting of Hartley League of Nations Youth Group at headquarters of Hartley Girl Guides. Chairman, Mr F F Tate, Secretary Miss H Chisholm.
Oldest inhabitant dead
"The death occurred on Saturday of Mr Inkpin, aged 89. He had been living with his son, Mr William Inkpin at Whitehill."