Newspapers 1876 - 1900
Peterborough Advertiser 2 December 1882
Woodford, Valuable Freehold Estate consisting of two newly erected semi detached cottages standing in well fenced garden and right of road at the back, with small barns, out houses etc. Both having an excellent frontage to the road leading from Woodford to Thrapston. To be sold by auction. By F S Abbott. At the Dukes Arms Inn in Woodford on Thursday December 7th 1882 at 5 for 6 o’clock in the evening, in one Lot and subject to such conditions and shall be then and there produced viz: All those two exceedingly well built recently erected cottages, containing seven rooms and six rooms respectively, fronting the street and near the National School; together with large gardens with outhouses in the rear. The above are built with white brick facings and slated and form an excellent opportunity for occupation or investment. To view, apply to the tenants and for further particulars to Mr Tarrant, Woodford; the auctioneers Thrapston or Mr E Toller solicitor Kettering.
20 January 1883 Northampton Mercury
For some time past the need has been much felt by many inhabitants of Woodford for a large room or hall where temperance and other meetings could be held.; Stimulated by the liberal offer of £100 towards the cost from a late resident of the village a committee has recently been formed, an eligible freehold site facing the main street of the village secured and plans specifications and tenders obtained, for the erection of a hall capable of seating 350 persons, with two committee rooms and other conveniences. The premises will be available for meetings and lectures of a temperance, social, religious or political character, and the Committee Rooms will be useful as Reading Rooms, such should be desired also as Club and Friendly Society Rooms, and they will provide useful accommodation for tea meetings and other social gatherings. The total cost of the premises including the land and heating and lighting apparatus will be about £500. The committee are anxious to avoid the burden of a debt upon the building, and carelessly solicit liberal donations and subscriptions from all interested in the moral wellbeing of the community. The following have kindly consented to act upon the Committee, by any of whom donations, or promises of same will be thankfully received.
Mr T W Barnes
Mr W French Secretary
Mr Thomas Green
Mr George Burnham
Mr Thomas Danns
Mr C Green
Mr J R Wilkinson Joint treasurer
Mr J Kidner Joint Treasurer
Mr Richard Green
Mr Joseph Hill
Mr Charles Neale
Mr W Neale
Mr J Wadsworth
Rev J Tyrell
Northampton Mercury 21 June 1884
On the 12th inst a meeting was held in the Temperance Hall, to celebrate its opening. Considerable interest was excited as it had been announced that Mr Raper, of the United Kingdome Alliance, was to be the principle speaker. The hall was well filled, persons being present from most of the neighbouring villages. The chair was taken by Mr Kidner. As treasurer of the building committee, he made a financial statement, from which it appeared that, including certain expenses incurred since the closing of the building account the debt stood at £98. Speaking on behalf of the committee, he said they had every reason to be thankful for the payment of four fifths of the cost, and he trusted that the collections at the conclusion of the meeting would go a long way towards paying the amount still outstanding. Their good friend Mr Fisher of Manchester had sent a donation of £5 (Cheers). Mr Parker of Finedon moved the first resolution which was to the effect that no shop for the sale of intoxicating drink should be forced upon any locality contrary to the wish of the inhabitants. Mr Parker said that the temperance reformers were carrying on their agitation under much more favourable conditions that was his own experience of fifty years ago. Then everybody was against them; now they were in danger of all men speaking well of them. The resolution was seconded by Mr Barnes who said he felt sure that after hearing Mr Raper’s speech non abstainers would feel very unhappy. Mr Raper, who met with an enthusiastic reception, supported the resolution. He said there were two schools of temperance reformers - those who belonged to the moderation section and those who went for total abstinence. His platform was total abstinence for the individual and the prohibition for the locality. Mr Roper then gave a vigorous and graphic account of the rise of the total abstinence movement commencing with Benjamin Franklin who thought about beer. He said does it make muscle, bone or brain? He came to the negative conclusion. These principles made but slow progress fifty years ago; they had rooted ideas and prejudice as Galileo had in his controversy with the priests. Mr Raper referred to the pledge of early temperance advocates. It was to abstain from spirits only but it was found that men who kept the pledge got drunk. There was something wrong, but they were groping in the dark towards the light. In Preston they adopted a curious pledge. It was not to take more than one pint in one sitting: but this was not the answer because they sat sown too often.
It was found on testing total abstinence, that men could live without alcohol, nay it was found that they lived longer without it. Mr Raper next explained the local option principal, and defended the right of localities to protect themselves fro the burdens of crime and pauperism, which were the inevitable outcome of the drinking customs. His address was listened to with rapt attention. After the collection which amounted to £10 (including Mr Fishers Donation) a hearty vote of thanks to the speakers and chairman was passed by acclamation, and an earnest hope was expressed that Mr Raper would again visit the neighbourhood.
Northampton Mercury 4 October 1884
The Salvation Army. The appointment of “Major” Kilby to the command of this division has been signalled by the hearty demonstrations which usually accompany such events. On the 24th ult (September) at Woodford there was a public tea in the Temperance Hall which was prettily decorated. There was a large attendance. Afterwards a march through the village ensued. On returning to the hall a Salvation meeting was held, which was led by Major and Mrs Kilby. The hall was packed. A prayer meeting followed. At woodford (and principally from the ranks of the ironstone workers) The Army is said to have enlisted many adherents.
Northampton Mercury 12 December 1885
Messrs Nichols Bros, Oakham have just completed their contract for the restoration of the spire of St Mary’s Church Woodford. On the 3rd inst the committee Messrs G Bayes, S Allen, J E Tiney and James Tiney together with the Rector and Churchwardens met at the national School to commemorate the occasion by a substantial supper which was provided by host Harlock. The supper was served in excellent style. On th withdrawal of the cloth a variety of patriotic, loyal and local toasts were proposed. The Rector Proposed “The health of Mr Nichols” Mr Nichols responded. Mr E Tiney proposed “The health of the Rector” which was responded to by that gentleman. “The health of the Churchwardens was proposed by Mr G T Bayes. Veveral other toasts were given.
Northampton Mercury 2 January 1886
Good Intent Club – The annual supper of this club was held at the Engine Inn, Woodford on Tuesday night last. A capital spread was prepared by the host , Mr Zachariah Gunn and between 40 and 50 members with their friends sat down. Mr W H Jervis took the chair, Mr W Tiney the vice chair, and there was also present Messrs John Hudson (Twywell), Joseph Bales (Woodford) etc. After supper Mr Joseph Tiney read out the annual report. A dividend of 9s per member was declared and the report was unanimously passed. The evening afterwards was spent in a convivial manner songs being given by Messrs Chas Hall, John Tiney, Wright Mastin, Arthur Woodhams, John Frost, Zachariah Gunn, T W Barnes, Mr James Tiney finishing off with the song “A fine old English Gentleman”.
Northampton Mercury 28 August 1886
…A correspondence between Rev J T Watson and Mr Wakefield was produced relative to a painful incident occurring at the burial at woodford churchyard of a woman named Abrahams, who died in the Union (Wodkhouse). It appeared that on arriving at the churchyard, the graver was found to be too short for the coffin , and a suspension of the proceedings took place until it was enlarged. Mr Wakefield now explained that he had omitted to advise the sexton of the required size of the grave (6 ft 6 ins) and he had apologised to the rector for his forgetfulness. The parishes of ~Woodfor dand Thrapston were the only ones in the Union which required such notification.
Northampton Mercury 6 June 1890
On Tuesday evening a haystack belonging to Mr Fitzhugh, butcher, was set on fire, it is supposed by some children playing around it. The Thrapston Fire Brigade was soon in attendance, but the stack was half consumed before they arrived. Owing to the scarcity of water the engine was not used.
Northampton Mercury 7 November 1890
Band of Hope – The inaugural meeting was held in the Temperance Hall on Tuesday. There was a good number of children present. Mr E Manning presided, and recitations were given by Lily Parrott, Charles Abbott, and Alfred Parrott. Miss Neale presided at the harmonium, the children singing at intervals during the evening.
Northampton Mercury 3 April 1891
On Easter Monday the Woodford Brass Band paraded the village and considering the short time they have been learning did great credit to Mr Saunders their conductor.
A ball was held at the Temperance Hall on Tuesday March 31st for the benefit of the Brass band. There was between fifty and sixty present. Dancing was kept up till about two in the morning.
Choir Tea – On Easter Monday afternoon Mr Thomas Essam invited all members of the Woodford Baptist choir to tea at his residence. Twenty responded to the invitation and a very happy evening was spent.
Friend in Need Choir. The members of the above club held their annual club feast ina a barn kindly lent by Mr Bonser when between 70 and 80 sat down to an excellent spread provided by Mr and Mrs G Beeby of the White Horse inn
On Good Friday a tea was held in the Baptist Chapel when about 30 sat down. In the evening a musical entertainment was given in the Temperance hall by the chapel coir. There was a large audience and they seemed to thoroughly enjoy the proceedings. Mr Essam presided at the harmonium. The Rev J Tyrell read connective readings.
A vestry meeting was held in the Parish Church on Monday Present Mr G Gunn and Mr G Chew (Churchwardens) Mr S Allam, Mr J E Liney, Mr J Liney, Mr E Manning, Mr W Neal, Mr J Wilson. The Rector occupied the chair. Mr G Gunn parish warden read the accounts which were passed; as were the Chairman’s accounts of Peter Grays Charity.
On Tuesday 31st March the members of the Good Intent Sick and Dividend Club celebrated their 8th anniversary at the Engine Inn, when about 30 members sat down to a very substantial meal provided by Host and Hostess Mr and Mrs Gunn. After the cloth was removed the Secretary read the accounts for the year and a dividend was declared of 6s 10d per head.
Parish Meeting – A meeting was held in the Infant Schoolroom on March 27 to nominate overseers, when the following gentlemen were proposed: Mr F Smith, MR T Barnes, Mr Charles Neal, Mr R Gunn, Mr Neale and Mr Smith. Mr J Bonser was nominated as wayward. Those present at the meeting included Mr G Gunn, Mr R Gunn, Mr Brayfield, Mr Wadsworth, Mr T Barnes, Mr E Manning, Mr Neale, Mr C Neale, Mr J F Bonser and Mr F Smith.
The Salvation Army held their annual festival for three days commencing on Saturday night last with a meeting in the hall. Early on Sunday morning the bandsmen paraded the streets, special services being held al day: and on Monday a tea was provided in the Temperance Hall when between 50 and 60 sat down. After tea there was a large march, several bands assisting from surrounding villages. A crowded meeting was held in the hall at night when a large number of officers and friends were present, and took part in the meeting.
Northampton Mercury 2 January 1891
The Baptist Choir paraded the village on Christmas Eve and sang carols, and on Christmas Day they visited the various houses for the usual Christmas Boxes. A supper was held with the proceeds on Tuesday in the Temperance Hall, when the choir, with a few friends, sat down. The evening was spent in various games. The village was also paraded by the Woodford Town Brass Band under the leadership of Mr Saunders. The local Salvation Army Band also went round.
Northampton Mercury 8 January 1892
Help Yourself Club. On Monday evening the Help yourself club held their annual supper in the Temperance Hall. About 26 sat down to an excellent supper provided by officers of the club, and a most enjoyable evening was spent.
On Saturday afternoon, Miss Plevins of Woodford House invited all the members of the Church Sunday School, about 230 in number, to see a Christmas tree, held in the Infant School. Each Child received a present, also oranges and sweets. Crackers were distributed afterwards. The infants sang very nicely, under Mrs Hughes direction. Hearty cheers were given for Mrs and Miss Plevins and Mrs C Latter, at the close.
Northampton Mercury 20 May 1892
George Betts of Woodford was charged with disorderly behaviour in the parish church of Woodford during service time on Sunday 7th May – Mr James Chew one of the churchwardens of woodford, disposed to the disturbance the defendant was making, and that he was evidently the leader of a gang of lads who regularly disturbed the services. In consequence of this, the rector gave it out some time ago that disturbers would be proceeded against. Defendant acknowledged the offence, but said there were others as bad as himself. Mr Beauford told the defendant he did not perhaps know the position he had got into. Any person causing riotous conduct in any church or chapel was liable to a fine of £2 or two months hard labour. – Fined £1 4s 6d. Defendant was admonished that any future case of the kind would be dealt with far more severely.
Northampton Mercury 31 March 1893
Good Intent and Dividend Society. The tenth anniversary of the above club was celebrated on Monday at the Engine Inn, when about 40 members and friends sat down to a substantial dinner provided by Mr and Mrs Gunn. After the meal the secretary read the yearly account and a dividend of 10s 1d was given to each member. Business over, the afternoon and evening was spent in singing etc. A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr and Mrs Gunn for the free use of the Club Room.
Friend in Need Sick Benefit Club The club held their anniversary on Saturday when about 90 members and friends sat down to a substantial dinner provided by Mr and Mrs Beeby at the White horse. Mr J Bonser occupied the chair. The secretary (Mr Jesse Hill) read out the balance sheet for the year and a dividend was declared to first class members 7s 10d each and to second class members 3s 11d each. The afternoon was spent in singing etc. In the evening the village brass band after parading the village assembled in the club room and played for dancing.
Northampton Mercury 28 December 1894
Football. The Woodford Stars drew with Ringstead Rovers, at Ringstead, on Saturday; and on Christmas Day played Kettering Almas, Woodford, and came off victorious by six goals to one.
Christmas. On Christmas Eve the ringers of St Mary’s Church rang a very merry peal at midnight and also in the morning, whilst on Christmas Day the usual festival services were held. The Woodford Brass Band and the Wesleyan Band also paraded the village. Two weddings have been solemnised at the Baptist Chapel this week, thus providing further festivity.
Northampton Mercury 4 January 1895
The helping Hand Club Supper was held at the Bakers Lane on Wednesday evening when 37 sat down to an excellent supper provided by Mrs Harlock, Landlady of the Bakers Arms. The Club has lost two members by death. After all the business was settled each member of the club received his dividend, Mr Hankins was appointed chairman and the rest of th evening was spent in harmony.
Parish Council – A meeting of the Parish Council was held in the Infant School on Wednesday. Present: Messrs Bonsor, Ellson, Charles Neal, W Neal, G Essam, Charles Smith, W Bird, W Wood, Goodgames, W Arnsby, Jesse Hill, R Grey, E Manning. Mr Ellson occupied the chair and after the preliminary business had been dispatched, Mr Bonsor proposed that the Rev Watson should be chairman. Mr W Neal seconded and Mr Wood as an amendment proposed Mr Ellson as Chairman. The amendment was put to the meeting and four votes were recorded. Eight voted for the Rev Watson but he refused to act and it was eventually proposed by Mr Ellson and seconded by Mr Robert Gray that Mr Wilkinson of Great Addington be asked to be chairman.
Northampton Mercury 8th March 1895
The pulpit at the Baptist Church last Sunday morning was occupied by Mr J R Wilkinson of Great Addington and at night by Mr Riley of Thrapston. Mr Tyrell received as a New Years gift £10 4s 2d from great Addington and £5 10s 6d from Woodford. A very handsome stained glass window was last week put up in Woodford Parish Church in memory of the late Mrs Plevins of Woodford House.
Northampton Mercury 8 January 1897
Widows Tea On Thursday week a tea was given in the Infant school by Miss Plevins of Woodford House to the widows of Woodford. At four o’clock between 40 and 50 sat down to a bountiful tea, and those who could not walk were fetched in a Bath Chair. After tea Mr Latter gave two comic songs and the amusements were kept u[ till six o clock when the company dispersed having thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
Helping hand Club Dinner On Wednesday 30th December the annual dinner of the helping Hand Club was held and about 33 members sat down to a substantial repast provided by host and hostess Harlock of the Bakers Arms Inn. Mr Eli Goodgame presided and the secretary Mr Jesse Hill read the balance sheet for the year showing that the receipts amounted to £26 5s 6d and the expenditure for sickness and three funerals of £24 10s4d leaving a balance in hand of £1 15s 2d. A vote of thanks was accorded the secretary. Songs were well rendered and a vote of thanks was accorded the chairman and treasurer (Mr G Harlock) both replaying.
Work peoples tea and dance. On Friday Messrs Wallis and Linnell of Kettering gave their Woodford workpeople an excellent meat tea in the Temperance Hall to which over a hundred sat down Mr Wilson (Manager of the Kettering Factory) expressed his great pleasure to be with them and wished them all a Happy New Year. During the evening a programme of music was nicely rendered..... the evening dancing was kept up with great spirits and abundance of refreshments provided for the large number of friends attending after tea. Great praise is due to Mr White, the manager of the Woodford factory who had the excellent arrangements in hand. Dancing did not conclude until one a.m.
Northampton Mercury 1 April 1898
On Tuesday evening the last entertainment of the season was held in the Temperance Hall by the Band of Hope Children. Mr Bird occupied the chair and a good number was present.
Good intent society The fifteenth anniversary was held on Monday. Fifty members and friends attended at a tea provided by Mr L Gunn of the Engine Inn. Mr James Tiney presided and the afternoon was spent singing etc. The dividend was 3s 4d per share
Peterborough Advertiser 2 April 1898
Friend in Need Society. The anniversary of the club was held on Saturday when about 709 members attended. Mrs Beeby of the White Horse Inn provided an excellent Dinner. MR Bonser presided. After dinner the afternoon was spent in singing and the evening in dancing. The dividend for double share members was 8s6d and for single shares 4s3d
Good intent society The fifteenth anniversary was held on Monday. Fifty members and friends attended at a tea provided by Mr L Gunn of the Engine Inn. Mr James Tiney presided and the afternoon was spent singing etc. The dividend was 3s 4d per share
16 September 1898
On Saturday last a meeting of the Men’s Football Club was held at the Prince of Wales Inn to appoint officers for the ensuing year. The following were appointed. Captain A Barnet, vice captain F Howlett, secretary a French, treasurer J Cook. On Saturday a meeting of the St Marys Football Club was held at the Engine Inn for the purpose of electing Officers, the following being chosen. Captain C Kirton, secretary Fred Short, Treasurer Zachariah Gunn.
Northampton Mercury 31 March 1899
The anniversary of the helping Hand Club was held in the Engine Inn on Monday, when 30 members sat down to a beautiful dinner provided by the hostess (Mrs Gunn) After dinner a dividend of 2s 6d was declared.
Northampton Mercury 12 May 1899
Death of Mr Plevins. Mr Plevins of Woodford House, of the Islip Iron Co., passed away on Monday after great suffering. He will be greatly missed in the district. The cause of death was an affection of the heart
On Mayday both the schools combined together and went round with the may garland, and collected over £3 10s and on Saturday a tea was provided, to which 300 children sat down. After tea the children and their teachers adjourned to an orchard, kindly lent for the occasion by Mr Bonser, where the children indulged in all kinds of games, and a very enjoyable time was spent.
The members of the St Mary’s Football Club presented Mr Frederick Smith with a handsome riding whip in acknowledgement of his kindness in lending a field to the club.
Stamford Mercury 19 May 1899
The death took place last week at Woodford House near Thrapston of Charles Henry Plevins at the age of 75 years. The deceased gentleman was the head of the Islip Iron and Steel Co,., a business which he founded about 30 years ago and was also a large colliery owner in Derbyshire, The funeral took place at Cranford in the presence of a large concourse of sympathisers and was conducted by the Rev J T Watson (Rector of Woodford) and the Rev A S Lindsay (Rector of Cranford).
Illustrated London News 24 June 1899
The will (dated April 13 1899) of Mr Charles Henry Plevins of Woodford House Thrapston who died on May 8 was proved on June 6 by George Joseph Plevins and Wilfred Maurice Plevins, te sons, and John Gilbert Bradbury, the executors the value of the estate being £764,607. The testator bequeaths all his furniture, plate, pictures and house hold effects, carriages and horses to his two sons; £2000 to Mrs Kate Evelyn Plevins, the widow of his brother Thomas Plevins; £1000 each to Thomas, Mabel, Noel and Morris, his brothers children;£5000 to Charles Henry Pashby and an annuity of £200 to Miss Louisa Vaney. He devises all his real estate to his two sons. The residue of his property he leaves in equal shares to his two sons and his daughter Mrs Edith Gertrude Latter
Northampton Mercury 19 January 1900
James Abbott labourer while engaged in the Islip stone pits a fall of earth fell upon him which bruised his body very much but fortunately there were no bones broken. We have to record the death of Mrs Beeby an old inhabitant landlady of the white horse inn who has lived there for many years, who passed away Friday last and was buried in the village churchyard. She leaves three daughters to mourn her loss.
Northampton Mercury 6 April 1900
The Good Intent Club feast was held at the Engine Inn. The dinner was served by Mrs Gunn. The afternoon and evening was spent in the usual way by members and friends.
A Council meeting was held in the schoolroom on Tuesday Evening. The following members were present. Messrs G Gray, T Green, W Barnes, A French, L Allen. The object of the meeting was to pass the accounts. Mr Green proposed that they should be passed and Mr A French seconded. Carried No other business was done.
On Tuesday evening a Band of Hope meeting was held in the Temperance Hall, when a magic lantern was shown by Rev J Tyrrell, the subject being Selling Strong Drink to children”. Mr E Manning presided. Mr and Mrs Smart, Mr T Abbott and Mr W Wood were present to help with the children.
Evening Telegraph 12 April 1900
Mr J Davies presided at the 15th quarterly meeting of the Co-operative Society held at the Temperance Hall on Tuesday Evening. The balance sheet was read by the secretary, Mr G Essam, it being orf a very satisfactory character. The sales for the quarter amounted to £426 1s 8 ½d being an increase of £45 on the last quarter’s sales. The profits amounted to £53 7s 8 ½ d and a dividend of 2s in the £ on purchases by members is given, and 1s in the £ to non members. There were five nominations for two seats on the committee namely Messrs G Swan, A Woodhams, W Knighton, G Leverett and J Gunn. Messrs G Swan and A Woodhams were elected. Mr J Bunning was re-elected as auditor. The committee were authorised to arrange a tea, entertainment and dance during feast week. There are now 83 members in the society five having joined and one left during the quarter
Evening Telegraph 7 May 1900
Wanted. Assistant. Female experienced) for Grocery and General Trade. C Neale and Son Woodford, Thrapston
Evening Telegraph 21 May 1900
Quite a gloom has been cast over the village of Woodford by the announcement that the postmaster of Woodford Mr Joseph Tiney has been found drowned in the brook between Woodford and Thrapston. For some time past the accounts connected with the office have been in a muddled state and it was known on Friday that one of the head officials at the Post Office would inspect the books We believe that the same morning that the official came Mr Tiney walked out of the house never to be seen alive again. On Saturday evening two little boys discovered the body in the water. The body was conveyed to the Bakers Arms to await the inquest which will be held this evening at 6pm
Peterborough Advertiser 23 May 1900
A painful sensation was created in Woodford Northamptonshire on Saturday evening by the discovery of the body of Joseph Tiney aged 45 the local postmaster, in the water near the Plantation. The deceased had been missing from his home since the previous day and it was upon search being made for him that his body was found in about two feet of water. How he came to be in the position in which he was discovered is at present a mystery, but circumstances point to suicide, although it must be stated that there is apparently no reason why he should have taken his life. The deceased was a married man and leaves a widow and two children.
Evening Telegraph 5 June 1900
On Saturday evening a large assembly met together in the National School to witness a presentation made to Mr James Chew, who has for nineteen years been rectors church warden. The presentation took the form of an address, which contained the names of the chief subscribers, and also a silver salver on which was the following inscription:- “Presented to Mr James Chew by parishioners of Woodford in remembrance of his services as churchwarden Easter 1881 to Easter 1900” In making the presentation the Rector expressed his sorrow at losing his churchwarden and said that he had tried to persuade Mr Chew to remain but owing to his many duties, he felt he could not carry on the work any longer. The Rector mentioned many things such as repairing the steeple, reflooring and reseating the church and the making of a new entrance to the church , in the carrying out of which Mr Chew had been most energetic and all things had been brought ot a successful issue. In reply Mr Chew, expressed his gratitude to the parishioners and the Rector and thanked all ho had contributed towards the handsome present. Mr George Gunn the parishioners Churchwarden made a very appropriate and jovial speech after which Mr Samuel Allen who had been collecting for the present read out the balance sheet and said he did not require the thanks of anyone present for what he had done,. He expressed the hope that Mr Chew would live to wear the salver out. Mr Bonser made a few remarks in which he expressed his pleasure at being present. He also hoped Mr Chew would have some good liquor on the slaver, and if it were not good, he thought the salver would make it so. In conclusion three cheers were given for Mr Chew and the whole company sang “For he’s a jolly good fellow”.
Evening Telegraph 20 June 1900
Woodford Feast
Thrapston Town Silver Band will give a concert on the green on Sunday July 8th 1900. After Evening Service.
Evening Telegraph 5 July 1900
An interesting wedding took place at the Baptist Church Ravensthorpe on Saturday last . The contracting parties being Herbert French of Nottingham (second son of William French of Woodford) and Miss Nellie Gunn, second daughter of Mr J Eaton Gunn of Ravensthorpe. The ceremony was performed by the Rev J Griffiths, pastor of the church.
Ebening Telegraph 11 July 1900
Cricket. The match arranged with Cranford was brought off on Feast Monday and was witnessed by a large number of enthusiastic spectators. The first innings caused great excitement. Cranford batted first and three wickets were down for 26 runs. Then the collapse came. C Tiney taking the next four wickets in four consecutive balls, to the consternation of everyone present, the applause being tremendous. The innings closed for 29 runs. A collection was then made for the successful bowler and the sum of 7s 6d was handed to him, for which he tendered his sincerest thanks. Woodford then commence to bat expecting to gain easy victory; but anxiety was soon fel for six wickets were down for11 runs, the bowling of A Blowfield being very disastrous. Nine wickets were down fore 28 and the excitement was very high. With only two runs to win, the last player was run out. Thus the first innings closed one short of Cranford. The visitors on batting a second time made the same number of runs as in the first innings (29). The home players with onlythree quarters of an hour to play soon began to force matters, 45 runs being scored for the loss of five wickets. Thus an exciting and enjoyable game ended in victory for Woodford by 15 runs and five wickets.
Islip. The feast is being kept in Islip this week although perhaps to anyone not acquainted with the village this fact would not be recognised. In former years the Fest was an important event, but of late much of the inter5eswt which generally centres around these annual days has been lost. This may very likely be accounted for th by the fact that the Feast falls at the same time as that at the larger Parish of Woodford ad just before Thrapston Feast,. Those who are in the habit of visiting their friends in the village now do so at the time of the more important feast in the adjoining town of Thrapston. On Sunday morning the service at the Parish Church was conducted by the Rev Canon Lawson of Sudborugh whilst the evening service was taken by the Rector (Rev A C Neely At eact of the service the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis were sung to a setting by Sir J Stainer. At the evening service the anthemwas “Thine O Lord is the greatness”. There were good congregations , the offertories being on behalf of the choir fund.
Evening Telegraph 12 July 1900
The Valley of the Nene
In the description of holiday resorts the “Morning Leader” has the following relating to the Valley of the Nene. To the disciple of Izaak Walton who sang.
Oh the gallant fishers life
It is the best of any
Tis full of pleasure, void of strife,
And ‘tis beloved by many!
The River Nene, “the winding stream” has its own peculiar charm. Being well stocked with fish, assiduously looked after by the Fishing Association, the angler is sure of good sport, combined with river scenery that has been the happy hunting ground of more that one artist now known to fame. Denford, a pretty old world village, with it’s picturesque church close upon the river’s redge, is the centre of really good fishing and boating, there being a fine expanse of water ffrom the village to the neighbouring village of Woodfor, with many a shady nook and quiet spot suitable alike for angler and lover. There is a splendid camping ground and many a party spend the night under canvas or canopy of heaven.
In the morning up we rise,
Ere Aurora’s peeping
And try their luck with with the fly and the worm. Provisions are easily obtainable being within easy distance of Thrapston where there are several goo, comfortable homely hotels at which one can stay for a week at a moderate charge. Fare from London 11s return.
Evening Telegraph 17 July 1900
We understand that a young man named Barnes of Woodford is missing. He was last seen on Saturday, when about to take some letters and parcels to Islip Furnaces and the residence of Mr Plevins. A number of the parcels have been found in the carriage drive, but there is no trace of Barnes.
Evening Telegraph 19 July 1900
On Thursday last week the Co-operative society provided a public meat tea at the temperance hall, when about 100 members and friends sat down. The wants of those present were supplied by a large staff og lady assistants. After tea an entertainment was given over which Mr G Essam presided. Addresses were given by Mr J Langley (Kettering ) and Mr C Groom ( Raunds). The musical part of of the programme was well carried out by Messrs Hardwick, Bert Hall and W Eagle of Kettering. At the close of the entertainment a public dance was arranged at which there were about fifty present, the usic being supplied by Mrs A Manning (piano). Mrs L Allen and Mrs J Barnes served refreshments at the dance.
The sixteenth quarterly meeting of the co-operative society was held at the Temperance Hall on Monday. In the absence of the president (Mr J Davis) through illness Mr W Neal took the chair. The balance sheet was read out by the secretary (Mr G Essam). The sales for the quarter amounted to £426 19s 6 1/2d and a dividend of 2s in the £ being returned to members. Mr J Leigh was elected president, Mr G Essam Secretary, Mr W Neal treasurer, Messrs J Davis and J Harrold Committee and Messrs T Wilson and Bunning auditors. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr Davis for his services as president of the society for the past four years. It was decided to take stock and pay dividends half yearly in the future. The profits made during the quarter amounted to £47 9s 2 ½ d and are divided as follows: By dividend £10 2 6d; reserve fund £2; depreciation of fixed stock, £3; balance carried forward £2 6s 8 1/2d. The society has 89 members an increase of six during the quarter.
2 August 1900
A very interesting lecture was given in the Temperance hall on Tuesday by Mr Jakeman Liverpool, the title being “Intoxicating Drinks as food” The chair was taken by Mr E Manning. The lecturer performed several experiments to prove his various statements and showed how alcohol hardens the food taken into he system and this makes digestion more difficult. The audience was not large, but those present greatly enjoyed watching and listening to the fluent speaker. During the evening several temperance pieces were sung. Miss Gertie Manning presiding at the pianoforte. At the close Mr W Wood proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Jakeman, which was seconded by Mr T Abbott
17 September 1900
Wanted. To Bakers Wanted a young male journeyman apply Charles Neale and son Bakers woodford, Thrapston
ET 2 October 1900
On Sunday morning as two Kettering men, both named Clark were going down Allage Hill from Woodford they met with a serious accident. The first who was riding at a great pace with his feet on the rest ran into the foot bridge that crosses the brook and fell on his head in the water and the other fell with his chest on the rail of the bridge. Dr Staward of Thrapston who was passing at the time had the men conveyed to his surgery at Woodford where he attended to their injuries. One had a very bad scalp wound which had to be stitched up and the other was suffering with serous injuries to his chest After being attended to by Dr Staward they were taken to their homes at Kettering in a serious condition. Early in the after noon another man named W Richards of Woodford while rifind a freewheeler down the hill from the roundhouse lost control of his machine and ran into a trap. He was picked up insensible and conveyed home. Dr Staward was fetched and founf the young man in a dreadful condition with his face cut all over and his skull laying bare. One leg was badly cut and deep gash down one arm. His clothes were saturated with blood. And it took the doctor about two hours to stitch up his wounds. Richards is now lying in a serious condition.
30 November 1900
On Tuesday the members of the Helping Hand Club held a meeting at the White Horse Inn, the object being to present Miss Rose Beeby with a handsome dressing case. Miss R Beeby is daughter of the late Mr and Mrs G Beeby who resided at the White Horse Inn for many years. After the death of Mrs R Beeby who was treasurer of the above club, Miss R Beeby tioook te office of treasurer until she gave up the business, Mr Bonser presented the case to Miss R Beeby with a few suitable remarks, Miss Beeby thankfully accepted the gift. Mr Bonser proposed that the health of the young lady be drunk by all present. The dressing case is handsomely fitted up inside and has an inscription engraved on a plate outside with the following words = “Presented to Miss Beeby by the Woodford Helping Hand Club, Nov 27th 1900.
Northampton Mercury 14 December 1900
An inquest was held at the Dukes Arms Inn Woodford on Friday be fore Mr J C Parker (Deputy Coroner) touching the death of the female infant child of Frances Emily Saddington. Evidence was given that the child only lived two hours and was prematurely born. The mother was not attended by a Doctor but Doctor Bird said she had been properly treated and there were no suspicious circumstances about the case. Death was due to the premature birth. The jury recorded a verdict accordingly.
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