1952 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1950-1959
04 Jan 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
59 Years in one house
Obituary of Annie Saxton of 18 Whitehill Road, aged 80. Lived ther since marriage 59 years ago. Leaves widower, 3 sons, 5 daughters.
Longfield's Rector Leaving
Rev S H Broughton, rector for 6 years, leaving to become recors of Wood Woodhay, Berks. He blamed poor health meaning he couldn't carry out his duties properly.
[Paper of 24/10/1952 reported on his death at West Woodhay]
£500 Reairs to Church
"Work of restoring and cleaning the roof of Longfield parish church, costing more than £500, has begun. Death Watch beetle has caused a great deal of damage in the timbers, which are among the architectural features of the building. A great oak tie-beam, reckoned bo be more than 500 years old, is one of the pieces which have to be taken down and carefully examined. If the beetle has attacked it, as is feared, it will have to be replaced. The extent of hte work to be done cannot yet be assessed. The church will not be closed during the repairs and normal services will be held."
05 Jan 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Obituary of Thomas Hockley
"A former resident of Hartley, Mr Thomas Hockley, died at Teignmouth, Devon, last week. He lived in Hartley for 23 years and was in business as a haulage contractor…. He was a member of the Hartley Country Club and in the early part of the war served in the Home Guard. He moved to Devon about 9 years ago. A widow, 2 sons and 2 daughters are bereaved. A brother, Mr Fred Hockley, is one of the oldest members of the Hartley Country Club."
Obituary of Harry Dalton
Aged 82 of Cross House, Fawkham. He "was a remarkable old man. In his younger days he was a keen cricketer, and actually took up tennis at the age of 60! He had lived in the house where he died for 60 years and spent all his working life on the Fawkham Manor Estate. He was born at nearby West Yoke, Ash. For over 40 years he was the sexton of Fawkham Church... He was a member of Hartley Country Club and the local branch of the Oddfellows Society (former president)..." Widower since 1933, leaves one son.
11 Jan 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Change from the Round
(Longfield) "The 18 boys and girls who deliver papers for Mr G Reid, newagent, with their friends, making up a party of 42, were entertained to tea by their employer in the village hall on Monday. There were games, fireworks, a conjurer and presents off a Christmas tree."
Hartley Parish Council Meeting
(1) Complaints that Church Road had not been swept in autumn, leaving lots of dangerous leaves. (2) Boundaries to be discussed with Ash PC. (3) War Memorial. Attendant appointed to look after it. (4) Hoselands Hill. KCC to be asked to remove dangerous overhanging tree and London Transport to be asked to move bus stop closer to doctor's surgery [paper of 14/3/52 says police object to moving stop].
18 Jan 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley man's appeal dismissed
Robert Roy Burnsten Wilson, 54, of Claremont, Church Road, loses appeal against 4 month sentence and £200 fine for running company while an undischarged bankrupt. In mitigation he had argued that no-one had lost money and he had not been paid.
Obituary of Mrs Dorothy May Bishop
Died suddenly at home 14 Valley Villas [233 Main Road], aged 50. Leaves widower and 2 daughters.
Handbags stolen
"Police at Longfield are investigating the theft of 2 handbags belonging to ladies who attended a party at the village hall on Saturday. The bags were missed at the end of the party, and next day some of the contents were found scattered about a mile away. A window in the cloakroom was found open." [the party would have been the KH Club New Year party]
21 Jan 1952 Evening News
16 Hurt as Train Hits Buffers at Victoria
"16 passengers were treated at Victoria Station's first aid post after the 7.13 am train from Gillingham - due to arrive at Victoria at 8.28 - hit the buffers of No. 6 platform today. The buffers were forced right back and the catwalk behind them was damaged. Although none of the passengers, who were flung from their feet and sustained cuts, bruises and were shocked, was seriously injured, seven were taken to hospital. No serious damage was done to the train. As the train, crowded with workers, was drawing into Platform 6, there was, according to a passenger [NAME] of College Road, Bromley, a 'terrific crash.' [NAME] said: 'Everybody was getting up from their seats to alight when the train hit the buffers. Some people in my carriage were thrown onto the seats and he floor.' Those who complained of shock were treated on the platform by station staff. " 7 men taken to hospital were from West Wickham (2), Maidstone, Hayes, Bromley, Otford and Thomas Norman Fox of The Old Vicarage, Meopham. 3 men and 6 women treated by station first aid from West Wickham (2), Bromley (2), Hayes, Shortlands, Gillingham (2) and Douglas Stacey Hill, aged 35 Windy Ridge, Ash Road, Hartley [1916-1987]
[Maidstone Telegraph of 25/1/1952 mentions S J Hurrell [Stanley James Hurrell of The Beeches 1895-1969] of Church Road, Hartley was also slightly injured and treated at the station first aid post.]
25 Jan 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Naturalist Club
Picture of their party at the WI Hall with winners of fancy dress competition (Robin, Mushroom and Bee)
01 Feb 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
We can take it: Kent Reaction to Mr Butler's measures
Page 1 feature on economy measures announced by the government, mostly favourable to the Conservatives. "Housewife's concern - Mrs C Lynton-Harris [Mary Lynton-Harris 1903-1999], Hammonds, Hoselands Hill, Hartley said: 'The situation is grave and something must be done to prevent it getting worse. On the whole I think the measures proposed by the government are reasonable. I would be prepared to make any sacrifice if I thought there was a chance of things improving in the future, but we have had crisis after crisis ever since the war and the general situation seems to be getting worse instead of better. The proposed charge of a shilling on prescriptions doesn't seem to me to be unfair. It may stop people going to see a doctor unnecessarily. The cuts in imported foodstuffs will not affect me because this type of food is too dear for me to buy anyway. A cut in the basic ration, however, would be very serious indeed. The present economies are unpalatable, but I am concerned about the coming budget. More taxation would be disastrous. It would destroy the will of people to work harder which the Chancellor warns us is so vital at the present time.' " [Mrs Lynton-Harris might be expected to support the Conservative government, as her husband was chairman of the Hartley Conservatives]
08 Feb 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield's New Rector
"The Rev Christopher Hope Sutton MA (Oxon) has been presented by the Lord Chancellor to the rectory of Longfield. Mr Sutton hopes to take up his duties on April 2nd. Ordained deacon in 1932 and priest the following year, he held curacies at St Crispins, Bermondsey, Christchurch, Mitcham, Holy Trinity, Hull and Willian. In 1945 he was appointed assistant organising secretary of the South American Missionary Society and since 1946 has been chaplain of hte Araucanian Missionary diocese, Argentine."
Longfield Parish Council
(1) 30mph speed limit on Main Road to be extended from Church to point beyond the schools. (2) X-Ray. No applicants from Longfield.
Something to Celebrate
Members of [Hartley and Longfield] Scout troop celebrated their 24th anniversary in the Longfield Village Hall.
Caravan may stay
Minister allows appeal by Mr H J Cracknell of The Knoll, Church Road, for temporary permission for 18 months to continue to use land for caravan and for operation of car hire service. Said to be screened from road and other houses.
15 Feb 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Teachers' New President
Mr N T Goff, headmaster of Longfield Primary School is the new president of the Thamesside Teachers' Association of the NUT. "In his address, he defined an educated man as one who could entertain an idea, entertain himself and entertain any one other person."
22 Feb 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Fit for Heroes was a little disappointing
Picture of Hartley Young Conseratives' play at the Country Club, reviewer gives unfavourable review.
07 Mar 1952 Dartford Chronicle
Old Downs
KCC added Old Downs as residential home for 25 elderly ladies and matron. Rev Henderson to be chaplain
07 Mar 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Rates 1952-53
Dartford RDC up 1s 5d to 18s 11d mostly due to increase in county rate. Parishes: Ash 19s 3d (was 17s 9d); Hartley 19s 1d (17s 6d); Longfield 20s 1d (18s 6d)
14 Mar 1952 Dartford Chronicle
Longfield Telephone Exchange
Longfield exchange goes automatic, replacing equipment installed in 1925. Now 465 subscribers
Hartley Parish Council Meeting
Hartley PC (1) KCC has removed dangerous overhanging tree at Hoselands Hill and others in area. (2) Footpaths to be signposted. (3) Hartley Green cut up by vehicles turning. (4) Ash Road opposite Hoselands Green said to be bad in poor weather. (5) Only 2 members of public at annual parish meeting that followed PC meeting.
21 Mar 1952 Dartford Chronicle
Obituary of John William Lewis
// Sudden death of John William Lewis, farmer (59) of Gorsewood Farm. Collapsed in sitting room, natural causes
Obituary of Fred Wise
Funeral of Fred Wise (80) of 107 Croxted Road, but of Hartley for 35 years.
21 Mar 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Obituary of Ann Crouch
Of Woodville, [11] Kent Road, aged 76. Born Southfleet but lived in Longfield for 53 years, buried Fawkham. Leaves widower.
Saying it with flowers
"Spring flowers sent from Cornwall by a former resident, Mr E Hoadley, who farms in the west of England, will be distributed at the Mothering Sunday service at Hartley on Sunday.
29 Mar 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Boundary of Ash and Hartley
Ash and Hartley PCs to meet over disputed boundary Highlands - Appledore, Ash Road
11 Apr 1952 Dartford Chronicle
Election Result
KCC Dartford Rural East election: F Goodwin (Con) 1805; G Mellor (Lab) 1470
11 Apr 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Players' show took a long time to warm up
Picture and mixed review of their production of Hay Fever.
Obituary of William Edward Barlow
Died at Croydon Hospital aged 84. Moved to Hartley 1920 then Ash 1947. Leaves widow, 6 sons and a daughter.
18 Apr 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Obituary of Thomas Jarrett
Of 5 Elm Terrace, Longfield, aged 57. For 33 years signalman at Fawkham Junction signal box. Leaves son and daughter.
26 Apr 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Parish Council Elections
Ash no election (7 candidates for 7 seats), Fawkham no election (4 candidates for 5 seats), Hartley (8 candidates for 7 seasts W Ball; AE Edward; DS Hill, CS Jenman; J Phillips; FC Robertson; W Sprenger; JF Tate)
Maidstone Telegraph of 2/5/1952 says Mr A E Edward who is also district councillor has withdrawn to save the cost of an election.
02 May 1952 Dartford Chronicle
Hartley WI
WI thriving with increased membership. Hall built by former members; kitchen recently redecorated and they hope to redecorate changing room
09 May 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Must have land
"A compulsory purchase order is being made by the Rural Council in respect of 1.92 acres of land for housing on the north side of Main Road. The owner was willing to sell, but the tenant was not agreeable to the arrangement...."
Obituary of Mrs F Stevens
Of 3 Victoria Terrace, [34 Essex Road], Longfield, aged 88. Had lived in Longfield 12 years and Southfleet 32 years before that. Leaves 3 sons and 4 daughters.
10 May 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Ash Church
Roman stonework found at the base of the tower of Ash Church
Taxi Service
Advert: H T Cracknell, Taxi Service, Church Road, Hartley
16 May 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Mrs Field, 99 on Sunday, likes to read light romances
"Oldest resident at the Old Downs, Hartley, near Gravesend, the latest of the extremely comfortable homes opened by Kent County Council for old people, is Mrs Sara Field, who on Sunday enters her 100th year. And as she rested in a comfortable armchair in the finely appointed home with a country house atmosphere, Mrs Field told a reporter: 'I can't think of a better place to live in.' Despite her years, Mrs Field, who comes from Tunbridge Wells, is also one of the liveliest residents, keeping her friends rocking with laughter at her shrewd comments and witty remarks. With glasses she reads - light romances. 'At the moment I'm reading Love ofhis life, and enjoying it' she said with a wink, 'I can see to sew a bit and what is more my teeth are my own - I paid for them myself,' she added glibly.
Mrs Field is one of the 5 over-nineties at Old Downs. When they sit down to tea together, their ages add up to 469 years. There is Mrs Mary Ann Freeman, aged 96, Mrs Elinor War of Bromley, 92, Mr and Mrs John Crampton, both 91, who celebrate 65 years of marriage on June 4th. Mr Crampton, who retired on pension in 1911 from the Metropolitan Police, often goes up to the village working men's club. 14 of the other residents are over 80. All are delighted with the soft beds, handsome furniture and lovely grounds in which they are spending the remainder of their days.
All are full of praise for the kindliness of the matron, Miss Lawes, and her assistants. 'The house accommodates 39 men and women, but we are not quite full at the moment,' said Miss Lawes. 'One man told he was to be a resident, was so anxious to come here, that he appeared at the door two days before we opened. Of course, we did not turn him away.'
Visitors to the old folk are encouraged. IN the spacious sitting rooms, the memories of scores of years are exhanged in the course of a day. Some knit or read. Sometimes, Mrs Ellen Hoy of Cuxton, who is 89, plays the piano for her friends. The old folk are provided with pocket mone. Some have tobacco given them, others sweets.
Old Downs, built as a private residence and later used as a private school, is hte 8th old people's home provided since 1950. There is a waiting list of more than 180 people."
Tea for Five: Picture of the 5 oldest residents of Old Downs: Mrs S Field (98), Mrs A Freeman (96), Mrs Ware (92), Mr and Mrs J Crampton (both 91)
Gravesend Reporter of 31/5/1952 has fuller description
17 May 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Hartley Parish Council Meeting
(1) Rev Hendeson has applied to close the Churchyard, as PC has already adopted the Burial Acts, they decided to enquire further; (2) Complaint from Miss Lowe that footpath leading from Gorse Way to Gorsewood Road has been wired off. PC to write to owner A H Thompson, although it is not an official footpath. [paper of 7/6/1952 said Mr Thompson refused access] (3) Resident of Hottsfield requested road sign, council didn't want too many "non rural" signs but told residents they could make one themselves.
23 May 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley - Rogationtide Service
"At the Sunday evening service at the parish church, a procession …. Left the church and traversed the field opposite. They halted in 3 stages while the rector asked for God's blessing on the crops, the orchards and the life of the village....."
Longfield loses a friend
"One of the best known figures in Longfield and district, Mr Walter Wright, Melbourne, [12] Main Road, Longfield, died on Sunday. He was 82.
A Sussex man, he had lived in Longfield for nearly 60 years and represented the parish on Dartford RDC for 28 years. He retired soon after the war. He was at one time clerk to Longfield and Hartley Parish Councils, and later served on Longfield Parish Council for a short time.
Mr Wright, a keen gardener, was a former secretary of the old Longfield Flower Show and of the Village Hall Committee. He used to judge at flower shows in the district.
Mrs Wright died in 1941. There is no family. A neighbour said of Mr Wright: 'He was a friend to everyone in the village and was always ready to help them with their problems. He will be greatly missed. The cremation was at Charing yesterday."
Longfield's Rector worked among Indians in Chile
"On a board in the beautiful village church of St Mary Magdalene, Longfield, is inscribed the names of 66 rectors dating back to 1075. Soon the name of the Rev Christopher Hope Sutton MA will be added. In the crowded church on Saturday he was instituted by the Bishop of Rochester and inducted by the Archdeacon of Rochester.
It is a far cry from this peaceful Kent village to the wide open spaces of Chile, where Mr Sutton worked for nearly 5 years as a missionary. 'This perfect weather we are having now is very similar to the Chilean summer,' he told a reporter at the weekend. 'The sun shines brilliantly every day without being tropical. In the winter however, it is a different story. The heavy rains turn the roads, which are no more than tracks, into mires. If you have a car, you can't use it. The only means of travelling is by horse coach or horseback. Even a coach is dangerous. One day a party, including my wife and small son, were in a coach being pulled by a horse knee deep in mud. A wheel got caught in a mud hole and the horse could not move. But fortunately a native was passing with an ox cart. His oxen replaced the horse and the coach was pulled clear.
Mr Sutton worked among Spanish speaking Aaraucanian Indians, swarthy, childlike people who live in huts of plaited reeds. He helped teach a large class of boys, girls and young men. 'These Indians', he added, 'Are enthusiastic about football. They often play in bare feet.'
Looking out of his study window, Mr Sutton said, 'I always had a desire to travel abroad, but now I think I have found a spot where I can settle.' Returning to this country a year ago, he had charge of a parish at Ardingly, Sussex, before coming to Longfield.
After the Rector's institution, there was a social gathering in the Youth Centre, which was beautifully decorated with flowers brought by schoolchildren. The Bishop and visiting clergy attended. There were enough refreshments left over to provide the Sunday School children with a tea."
24 May 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Far from the Madding Crowd
When I get old I would like nothing better than to lie in a place like the 'Old Downs' Hartley (pictured), and enjoy the same homely atmosphere as the 38 men and women who live in this home for old people.
Last week I was conducted around this chaming residence by the matron, Miss Lawes, and was astonished at the vitality of the residents.
There was Mrs Field (affectionally known as Sarah) who would be the life and soul of any party with her keen sense of humour and happy disposition. When getting ready for her photograph to be taken, she insisted that they took her cardigan off. Apparently so many gentlemen in the room made her hot and bothered!
Although she is 98 years old, she does not wear spectacles except for reading, and 'likes a bit of sky larking'. Her favourite books by the way are love stories.
Mrs Field (pictured) was born in Tunbridge Wells, but spent some time in Brighton, where she said with a twinkle in her eye 'I had quite a time when I was young'.
Then were was Mrs and Mrs Crampton (pictured), aged 91 and 92 respectively, who have been married for 65 years on June 4th. A grander pair would be hard to find. 'Mary' was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and her husband 'John' spent 25 years in the Thames Division, Metropolitan Police Force.
Mr Crampton related the story of how he dived into the Thames to rescue a drowning lighterman. For this he received a certificate from the Royal Humane Society, which he has hanging on the wall of his bedroom, and of which he is justly proud.
There is Mrs Ware, who is 92 and Mrs Foreman 96. With the other 3 this makes a total of 469 years.
All 38 of the residents are just as pleasant and charming, and all seemed remarkably fit and well when I spoke to them.
Ther is no reason why they should not, because this house for old folks is a really beautiful place.
It was only opened in January, being the 8th opened since 1950, and the emphasis is on colour and brightness.
The bedrooms are of delicate pinks and blues, and over the windows, overlooking the spacious well kept gardens, gay curtains are tastefully arranged. There is nothing dowdy about Old Downs.
All the tranquil calm of the English countryside is to be found there, but the old folks are not bored. Outings are arranged and in the winter film shows will be given in the house.
Most of the residents are unable to walk very far, and when anyone gives any of them a ride in a car their joy knows no bounds.
If any reader has a car and is passing through the locality he could bring much happiness to an old soul, just to drive him or her around the lanes. It would be well worth it just to talk to some of these 'old timers'.
No restrictions are made in this house, and visitors are encouraged. the old folks are given a cup of tea in bed at 7.30 and breakfast in bed at 8.30am.
In the bright airy dining room they sit aound, four at a table, and enjoy their many comforts. Every table has flowers on it, and pictures hang on the wall.
I have been in many hotels but have never seen such charming surroundings and managed quite so efficiently.
IIn case you are thinking of packing your bages and catching the next bus to Hartley, let me remind you that Old Downs is for those who are unable to look after themselves and have noone to look after them.
There is a waiting list of 180, who are eligible to enter the home, so all you can do is to wait, and if you are as happy and cheerful as these residents when you are 90, you will have made no mean achievement." JJH
30 May 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council Meeting
(1) Street lamp in Fawkham Road by bridge said to be dangerous because of glare. SEEBOARD to be asked to replace with non-glare type. (2) Complaint to KCC about state of roads and lack of cleaning. (3) Complaints received about lorries and cars parking outside Longfield Cafe and causing congestion [presumably 27 Main Road].
Hundreds of pilgrims will visit Hartley's thatched oratory
Fete tomorrow expects people from a wide area to support fundraising for church. In 1913 the barn, which then contained mangel-wurzels was turned into church. Floor was leveled and windows added. It gets lots of pilgrims. In coming August 400 are expected on one day.
30 May 1952 Kentish Express
Sale of Crops
(Advert) "Agricultural Hall, Maidstone. Messrs E J Parker & Sons will conduct their sale of growing crops of Cherries etc at above on Tuesday 3rd July 1952 at 12 noon sharp:
5a 2r 0p at Cherry Orchard Farm, Hartley, Kent for C G Campkin esq
6a 0r 0p North Ash Farm, Ash near Wrotham, for J Ewbank, esq...."
31 May 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Obituary
Death of Mrs [Mary A] Freeman of Old Downs, aged 96 (picture)
31 May 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Boundary of Hartley and Ash
"….. Arrived at by Dartford Rural District Council on Tuesday, the matter is to go to the County Council for adjudication.
The minutes of the General Purposes Committee before the Rural Council contained a report on a meeting at Ash between representatives of the two parish councils and it was stated taht the report had been submitted to the two village authorities for their observations.
The report stated that Councillor F Tanner, who presided, told the Ash meeting that the Rural Council had suggested that some 17 properties with a total rateable value of £286, in an area south of the Black Lion, Hartley, should be transferred from Ash to Hartley.
The representatives of both parish councils then debated the proposals and counter proposals and stressed the need for community of interest to be maintained.
Ash members stated that if the original proposal of the rural council was put into effect it would cause unecessary hardship to them in the loss of properties and rateable value.
It would appear from the evidence that was offered, Councillor Tanner reported, that both councils had investigated the proposals with commendable thoroughness and each presented an equally good case.
Having regard to the relevant factors - which included community of interest, rateable value, enabling a parish boundary which could be easily recognised and defined, welding a parish into a homogeneous unit and the known wishes of the population - it appeared that the most satisfactory solution would be for the district council:
1. To adopt their original proposal with regard to the area south of the Black Lion and that this should be transferred from Ash to Hartley.
2. To transfer New House Farm and 2 cottages and other houses from Hartley to Ash. In order to avoid unnecessary administrative difficulties it was suggested that the boundary line should run behind the properties on the north west side of Church Road.
Letters from both parish councils wer read to the rural council on Tuesday. Ash agreed to the recommendation contained in the report.
Hartley expressed surprise and it was stated that their members considered them illogical and not a correct representation of the facts as they existed.
In addition, the Hartley letter enclosed a petition signed by 30 residents objecting to the proposals. Any [.......] any justification they stated and the rural council was asked not to proceed with the transfer to Ash parish.
Councillor A E Edward said the people of Hartley were genuinely concerned about the transfer and it was a matter which required very careful consideration before they went to the county and recommended that part of Hartley should be transferred to Ash.
After a considerable discussion, a motion for the reference back of the matter was defeated and it was agreed that the County Council should be asked to adjudicate in the matter."
31 May 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Cost of Living
Advert for Market Stores 13-14 Milton Road, Gravesend. Includes 4 packets of soap powder 1s (normally 2s), Hartley's Garden Peas 1/4 per tin, tinned tomatoes 1s per tin, 1lb Marmalade 1s, Penguin Chocolate Biscuits 3½d each, Heinz Mayonnaise 1/6 per jar, Airwick 3/6 per bottle, ½lb Cream Cheese 1/10, Luncheon Meat 1/7 per tin. Advert of 14.6.1952 in Reporter included Kit-e-Kat 1s per tin; Colgate and Gibbs Toothpaste 1/6 or 2/3; Cream Crackers 11½d per half pound box; sweet biscuits 10d per half pound; peanut butter 2s per jar
[Actually they seem more expensive than today. Bank of England Inflation Calculator says prices have increased 30 fold 1952-2021, so one shilling is the equivalent of £1.50 today, but of course the size of the tins is not given here.]
06 Jun 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Council Meeting
(1) Signpost for Hoselands Hill footpath has been damaged. (2) War Memorial. Corner post damaged, new caretaker required.
07 Jun 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Eamonn Andrews Captivated by Kentish Beauty Spot
What more beautiful site for their annual fete could the Hartley Roman Catholics have found than the daisy covered meadows and the spreading orchards of the Carmelite Friary, Church Road?
But unfortunately the sun did not shine. There were several heavy showers and the grass soon became wet and slippery.
Mr Eamoonn Andrews, the well known radio and television star, who opened the fete humorously refered to the weather and said 'The Carmelites have control of a lot of things, but they have not yet got control of the heavens!'
After telling a number of stories in his familiar Irish brogoe, he said how he envied the local people their Kentish beauty spot.
His advice to everyone present was to 'put their hands deep in their pockets, but not to keep them there!'
Father O'Neill, who had formerly introduced the popular star, called him back to receive a presentation which in the excitement had been forgotten. Mildred Hodgkinson (aged 11) of St Joseph's Convent had the thrill of presenting him with a picture..... " (details of organisers' names, stalls and events). [Also in Dartford Chronicle and Maidstone Telegraph with pictures 6/6/1952]
13 Jun 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
12 Main Road for sale
"By orders of the Executors of Walter Wright deceased…... The semi-detached freehold residence known as 'Melbourne', Main Road, Longfield, Kent. Comprising 3 bedrooms, bathroom, 2 reception rooms, kitchen and scullery. Electric light. Main water. Large garden having in all a frontage of about 60 fee. Various outbuildings, inlcluding greenhouse 22ft x 11ft 9in. Vacant possession. To be offered for sale by auction by Messrs Pilley & Talbot at the Village Hall, Kent Road, Longfield on Thursday June 26th 1952 at 7.45pm precisely...2
21 Jun 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Foot and Mouth Disease
Outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease at Slade Green, Gravesend now in infected area
21 Jun 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Repairs to Hartley Church
// No services at All Saints Church due to repair work as a result of death watch beetle and woodworm
05 Jul 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Obituary of Charles Bignell
"Death of former chairman of Dartford Rural Council: Well known in Hartley for many years, Captain Charles S Bignell died at Beckenham Hospital on Friday. In his early days, Captain Bignell had a successful business career in China. He served in the 1914-18 War, and while an officer in the King's Own Scottish Borderers was badly wounded in France. About 30 years ago he came to Hartley. He was a member of the Dartford Rural District Council from 1930 until 1947, whien he retired for health reasons, and was Chairman of the council from 1941 until 1945. During the last war Captain Bignell was sub -controller of Civil Defence in the Dartford Rural Area. For a number of years he was a member of the local Parish Council. For his war services he was awarded the OBE. He took an active part in the formation of the new Hartley Country Club and had a large share in the success of the social and also the sporting side of thsi popular venture. He was Hon Secreatry of the Club for enearly 20 years, and on his retirement was presented with a handsome cheque by the members. Captain Bignell was in his 70th year. He wife died over 7 years ago and he later suffered a second bereavement by the death of his second daughter. Two other daughters are married and live in South Africa and Australia. For the past few years, owing to the state of his health, Captain Bignell had been confined to his house in Church Road, Hartley, and quite recently he was removed to a nursing home at Bormley.... (list of mourners)... Members of Dartford Rural Council paid a silent tribute to the memory of Captain Bignell at thei meeting on Tuesday morning. The Chairman, Mrs Kathleen Wood JP said Captain Bignell was a member of the council for a long time and he was also a past chairman - 'a very excellent Chairman'."
11 Jul 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council Meeting
(1) Complaint of smell from rotting rubbish and fly nuisance at Southwark Tip at Hartley Bottom Road. (2) British Rail asked to deal with rabbit burrows in embankment at Longfield Hill, rabbits eating crops of allotment holders.
12 Jul 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Civil Defence
Poor response for Civil Defence recruitment in Dartford Rural District. Only 116 of which 10 are from Hartley
12 Jul 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Footpath Gorse Way to Gorsewood Road
Miss Lane claims footpath between Gorse Way and Gorsewood Road has been used as of right by the public for 20 years. Council to investigate further
18 Jul 1952 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)
Two Road Accidents
"Two accidents in Tonbridge on Monday evening, within 15 minutes, resulted in damage but no personal injuries…. At 5.45pm near the Shipbourne Road - London Road junction, Mr A Shaw of 39 Mill Crescent, Tonbridge, was driving a van involved in a collision with a sports car driven by Nora M Morris of Friezland [Gorse Way], Hartley. Both vehicles were damaged."
26 Jul 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Dallums
Game over 100 years old called "Dallums" still played at Vigo Inn. Nine skittles about 6 inches high are put on a table and player tries to knock them down with 3 wooden disks. If "29" felled in 3 goes landlord gives them a gallon of beer. Played as best of 5 legs.
28 Jul 1952 Adelaide Southern Cross
RC Pilgrimage
10 bus road trip of 300 Roman Catholics to visit 10 shrines to St Mary will take in Hartley RC Church
01 Aug 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Gravesend Scouts' new DC
"New district commissioner of the Gravesend and District Boy Scouts' Association is Mr Percival Hewett, Homefield, Ash Road, Hartley, a civil servant. Mr Hewett takes up the appointment with plenty of experience. He has been in Scouting for 20 years, and from 1947 to 1949 when he came to Hartley, he was ADC of the Sidcup Association. In 1934 he started his own group at Sidcup. Mr Hewett was in the Scout movement at Deptford at the time that Mr F C Braby, the new commissioner for Kent was the DC."
02 Aug 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Fawkham Parish Council
Dartford RDC support widening Fawkham Valley Road and adding a pavement from Fawkham to Longfield, and one immediately to Fawkham School.
08 Aug 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
For sale
"Chinese goslings, 30/- and 25/-. Shepherd, Field End, Church Road, Hartley, Longfield."
09 Aug 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Country Club Fete
opened by Sir Waldron Smithers MP who spoke against what he claimed was the "spiritual and moral evil of socialism"
15 Aug 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
'Good old days' not so good says Longfield Hill veteran
"If you wan tto know what the growin gcommunity of Longfield Hill was like years ago, the best preson to have a chat with is 81 years old Mr Albert Blackman, 2 John's Cottages, who has lived there all his life. He was born in the old thatched Green Man public house, which was demolished 60 years ago. Landlord of the present house, built on the same site is Albert's nephew, Mr J E Miles.
'When I was a boy there were only about 11 houses at the Hill,' said Albert. 'Things got lively during the fruit picking season, when about 300 Londoners 'invaded' the district. While they were there, my father who kept the Green Man was kept pretty busy. Opposite the pub, where the Post Office and a row of houses now stand, there were orchards. The road was made of flints collected by women and children off the fields. It was only half as wide as it is now. Two carts had difficulty in passing each other.'
Albert went to school in a building which is now the Mission Hall on Longfield Hill Green, with about a dozen other children. At the age of 10 he started to work for his father, who carried on business as a contractor after he left the Green Man.
Saturday was the day he liked the most, when he was a young man. He usually walked into Gravesend with his friends to see the show at the old Grand Theatre. 'These music hall shows were good fun,' said Albert. 'When we left the theatre we went to the market, which was just closing down for the day. You could buy 40 oranges or 40 herrings there for a shilling in those days.'
Mr Blackman hasn't got much time for folk who talk about the 'good old days'. 'I don't think they were so good,' he said. 'An man would work in the fields from 6am until dusk for 16s a week in the winter and 18s in the summer.' From the first world war until he retired 4 years ago, Mr Blackman worked for the late Mr D Woodward, farmer of Longfield. Mr and Mrs Blackman have lived in their present house for 30 years, have a son who lives in the district. Another son died a few years ago."
Newsagent's Holiday
"Mr J H Reid, newsagent of Longfield, rides many miles on is motorcycle in the course of a week's newspaper delivering. For his holiday this year he thought he would see how far he could ride on his 250cc machine 'in a straight line' instead of around the usual lanes. He reached John O'Groats and in 6 days had travelled 1,653 miles. On the first day he rode 481 miles from Longfield to Oban. He had 3 breakdowns and had a piece of string round the throttle for the last 80 miles! The took the opportunity of visiting relatives in Morayshire, and on the last day rode through thunderstorms on the last leg from Yorkshire to Kent. During the whol time he was away, Mr Reid did not look at a newspaper!"
Light Betrayed Him
[NAME] of Mile End Green, Longfield £10 for abstracting electricity. Seeboard cut him off for unpaid bill on 31 December, but on 9 July an inspector saw a light at his house and found seals on meter had been broken. He said he'd done it because his mother-in-law was staying and needed a light to sleep.
29 Aug 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Southfleet's new squire
"Ninth generation of his family to live there, Mr Sedley Andrus took up residence at Southfleet's lovely Scadbury Manor on Tuesday. He succeeds his uncle, the late Capt F B Andrus, who died in May. The new squire is 36 and a batchelor. HIs father and mother, Brig-Gen and Mrs T A Andrus, with whom he lived at Hartley Court, Hartley, have also moved to Scadbury Manor.
Mr Sedley travels each day to London. He is on the staff of the Richmond Herald at the College of Arm. He has known and loved his new home, the history of which goes back to the 14th century, since he was a child. His forbears first lived there in 1689 and the line has continued without a break. One of the traditions that the late Capt Andrus established was an annual supper for the elderly men of the village. 'That will continue, but is is likely that my father will be the host,' Mr Andrus told a reporter."
05 Sep 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
It was standing room only in church in his young days
"For 54 of his 79 years Mr John Crouch, Woodville, [11] Kent Road, has been a church verger, and he is still going strong. For 20 years he has held the office at the little 11th century parish church at Fawkham, and before that he was verger at Hartley Church for quarter of a century.
This sprightly veteran, who loves a joke, also does part itme work in gardens in Fawkham. He started work in the garden of Hartley Rectory when he was 11 years old, and gardening is what he has been doing ever since, except for a short period when he took a coal round.
One can understand his affection for St Mary's Fawkham. He was christened there, sang in the choir as a boy and was married there. After 54 years of happy married life, Mrs Crouch died and was buried in the churchyard.
Mr Crouch recalls the time when Fawkham church was packed every Sunday. 'Whole families came together,' he said, 'and people would be crowded into the pews like sardines. There were plenty of occasions when there were no seats left and people had to stand.'
At one time he knew everyone in the district, but many newcomers have arrived and he often sees strange faces. Mr Crouch has no family, but has hosts of friends. For him there is no place like Fawkham. He thinks it is the healthiest village in England."
12 Sep 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Council Meeting
(1) Road maintenance has passed from Dartford RDC to Kent County Council. (2) In reply to correspondence calling for a 30mph limit on Castle Hill and removal of the speed limit derestriction sign, PC thought there wasn't any point but did say they thought Old Downs should have concealed entrance sign.
27 Sep 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Longfield Housing Land
Public Enquiry concerning compulsory purchase application by the Dartford Rural District Council for 1½ acres of land at Main Road, Longfield for 14 houses, owned by Trustees of Thomas Colyer. Tenants J J Barker object to loss of farmland. DRDC said only 18 houses built in Longfield since the war 1/64 of population compared with 1/37 for the rest of the district. They have 29 on the houisng waiting list in Longfield and 10 in Hartley. Land is in outer ring of Greater London Plan, which envisaged 5,000 eventually at Hartley, Longfield and New Barn.
[151-181 Main Road]
10 Oct 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
For sale
"8 fattening pigs, 11 weeks old. Morgan, Greycote, Hartley. Tel Longfield 3174."
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Footpath in Station Road between old forge and Essex Road, said to be dangerous for those waiting at bus stop. Council also to report state of other footpaths.
Wins state scholarship
[NAME], 19, of 3 Mile End Green, Longfield [pictured], wins scholarship to university to study Engineering, after he completes his 2 years' apprenticeship at Henley's Telegraph Works Co Ltd.
11 Oct 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Hartley Parish Council
J S Phillips resigns due to business commitments. A E Edward coopted
17 Oct 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Home Guard
"There was a disappointing attendence at a meeting at the Social Club to form 'C' company of the 18th Kent (Dartford) Batt of the Home Guard. The meeting was addressed by Lt-Col E Harrison, battalion commander. The company will meet at the Social Club every Tuesday. Applications for membership will be welcomed from men of Hartley, Longfield, Fawkham, Ash and Kingsdown."
[This revival of the Home Guard only lasted from 1952 to 1957]
01 Nov 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Young Conservatives
Hartley Young Conservatives win tennis tournament at Orpington
07 Nov 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council Meeting
(1) Longfield Hill Green. Willow tree is hollow, care left to Dartford RDC who promised to strengthen it with steel bands in 1938. The question of a new tree was referred to Coronation Committee. (2) KCC say path in Station Road would cost £250 to build up so they will do temporary repairs to make safe. (3) Lymouth appeal raised £54.
Hartley Players
Picture of latest production 'Young wives' tale' at Country Club
08 Nov 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Automation of Southfleet Exchange
Telephone subscribers at Southfleet present Mrs J Knight, sub-postmistress with cheque for £41 3s 6d for many years' service before the recent automatic exchange.
08 Nov 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Conservative Target
Gravesend Conservatives aim for 10,000 members in the constituency. [This figure seems incredible today. In 2024 the Conservatives had 648 members in the Gravesham Constituency, the most recent equivalent figure I could find for Labour is 473 in 2015.]
14 Nov 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Council Meeting
(1) London Transport agree to move stop at Hoselands Hill as a 2 month experiment. Council said they wanted stop to be nearer doctor's house [Grafton House, Ash Road] and they thought old stops on bend of the hill were dangerous. (2) Planning permission received for village sign which the Hartley Art Circle are making.
Hartley Players' show was a hilarious success
Very positive review of play in particular Peter and Audrey Read in the lead roles.
15 Nov 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Missing Noticeboard
Hartley PC noticeboard from top of Hartley Hill found in wood
28 Nov 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
For Sale
(advert) Rhode Island Red Pullets, P.O.L, good laying strain, 27/6 each. Cherrydown, Hottsfield, Hartley
29 Nov 1952 Gravesend Reporter
Postmistress retires
Retirement of Alice Whiffen (78) postmistress of Ash for 34 years
05 Dec 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council Meeting
(1) Buses. Complaints morning and evening buses to and from Dartford are not well timed. (2) Longfield Hiill Green, work to preserve willow tree will commence soon. (3) Whitehill Road, following complaints Sanitary Inspector has killed 73 rats and will visit again.
12 Dec 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Reinstate old bus stops
Hartley Parish Council meeting. (1) Petition received from 53 residents of Merton Avenue, wanting the bus stop put back to its old place on Hoselands Hill. PC to forward to Traffic Commissioners with their comments. (2) Church Road pond to be cleaned.
19 Dec 1952 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
The boundary Tree
"Lone tree a landmark associated as a boundary link for 5 Kent parishes for at least 100 years is now in a bad condition. The tree marks the parish boundaries of Darenth, Horton Kirby and Southfleet. Stone parish boundary is a few yards to the west and the Longfield boundary a short distance to the east. For many years the old tree has been a guide for parish parties when carrying out the ancient custom of beating the bounds. Darenth PC has decided to invite Horton Kirby, Southfleet, Stone and Longfield PCs to be represented at a meeting to consider planting another tree subject to the consent of the owner of the land."
31 Dec 1952 Dartford Rural District Bulletin
Dartford Rural District Council Newsletter
This newsletter was published about every 3 months by the council. In 1952 they mention (1) one in five private houses is owned by the council, but they announce they are prepared to sell them, will loan money for purchase; (2) Money raised for Lymouth Disaster Fund included Hartley (£30 15s), Ash (£11 2s 7d), Fawkham Church & PC (£36 10s) and Longfield (£15 14s 1d) overall rural district raises £500; (3) Winners of Well Kept Gardens competition in Aged Persons category were 1st Mrs A Rickwood of 1 Hoselands View and 2nd Mrs M Marks of 13 Hoselands View; and (4) articles about Hartley Civil Defence and Hartley Players