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Events (1900-1929)

This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0.

1900 - DEATH OF DAVID LONG AT THE AGE OF 80 > David Long of Pamber Heath, husband of Elizabeth Long, died at Pamber Heath about the 9th of February, 1900 at the age of 80. He was born in Pamber parish in 1820, the son of Henry and Mary Long and baptised at Pamber Priory Church on the 22nd of January, 1820. He married Elizabeth Bowman on the 29th of May, 1841 at Pamber Priory Church and many children were born to the marriage. David worked as an agricultural labourer and lived in Clapps Gate Road in a cottage which was said to be his property and situated on the land he was renting, at the time of the Sale of Lots in Pamber Heath in 1897. The lot was withdrawn from sale as he was aged and it was stated that he would be allowed to live there for the rest of his life. His funeral probably took place at Pamber Priory Church as he was buried there on the 12th of February, 1900. ITEM SOURCE: Burial register, Pamber Priory Church.

1900 - JUMBLE SALE AT SILCHESTER BENEFITS PAMBER HEATH FOLK > 'Silchester - A Jumble Sale, in aid of the Parish Church Restoration Fund, was held in the Silchester Schoolroom on Friday, March 16th, and resulted in the gratifying sum of £14 17s. being realised...There were some great bargains to be had, which the village folk, especially those from Pamber Heath, were not slow to secure for themselves. The Tea Hall...was well patronised throughout the afternoon.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 24th of March, 1900.

1900 - MOTHER' UNION ESTABLISHED AT PAMBER HEATH CHURCH > 'On Thursday afternoon week a meeting of Church-attending mothers and friends was held to consider the advisability of forming a local branch of the Mothers' Union. Rev. E. R. Adams, in an address of about twenty minutes' duration, made clear the objects of this excellent Society. Ten names were enrolled at the close. Through the kindness of Mrs. Adams all present were entertained to tea before leaving. Last Saturday the majority of the mothers attended the service, in conjunction with the members from Monk Sherborne and Little London, in the ancient Priory Church, and were formally sworn in. The Vicar (the Rev. H. D. S. Sweetapple) conducted the service, after which all adjourned to the Priory School and partook of tea. kindly provided by Mrs. Sweetapple. It was quite evident that all much appreciated the address given by Mrs. Gay, of Worting, who spoke at considerable length.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 31st of March, 1900 and ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 31st of March, 1900.

1900 - SOCIETY FOR THE PROPAGATION OF THE GOSPEL SERVICES > 'On Sunday, the 11th inst., at the Pamber Heath Mission Church, there were special services on behalf of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in foreign parts. Sermons were preached by Rev. E. Richards Adams, who in a clear and forcible manner, set forward the claims of the Society to the support of all Christians. Specially interesting was the evening sermon, the subject of which was "The Widow's Mite." The amount contributed at the services during the day were £1 3s 4d. Added to this was 8s 6d (contained in the box of Miss Adams), and 6s 8d in the Parsonage box, making a total of £1 18s 6d for the benefit of the Society.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 31st of March, 1900.

1900 - CHURCH HISTORY LECTURE > 'On Monday evening Rev. E. R. Adams gave the second of a course of four lectures on the history of the Church. Rev. A. Ashley very ably managed the magic lantern which was used to illustrate the various points of the lecture. The goodly number of people present were much interested, as evidenced by their quiet behaviour, even the boys listening and watching attentively. The progress of the Church was traced very clearly up to the time of the Danish invasion. The views of various cathedrals and ruined abbeys were very striking, and the picture showing the venerable Bede in his last act of translating and the circumstances of his death was much admired. The audience, during the interval, sang the hymn "The Church's one foundation," which was thrown upon the screen.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 31st of March, 1900.

1900 - GEORGE WEST SUMMONED FOR POOR SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OF SON > 'School Attendance Cases - George West, broom-maker, of Pamber Heath, was summoned by the Wootton and Tadley School Board for not causing his son Philip West, aged 11, to attend school. Defendant did not appear, and P. C. Austin proved serving the summons on the defendant's wife, who said the boy had been going to school for eight years but had no more education now than when he started, and she did not think he ever would have. Mr. H. Wills Chandler, who represented the School Board, said the boy lived one mile from the school and had now reached Standard IV. Edward Pither, School Attendance Officer, produced a certificate from the head teacher at Tadley School (Mr. H. J. Follett) showing the boy had only attended school 129 times out of a possible 245. The father had twice written warnings served on him. - Fined 6d and 4s 6d costs.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 14th of April, 1900.

1900 - MOSES RAWLINS FINED FOR ALLOWING HIS PONY TO STRAY > 'Reading County Magistrates' Office, Saturday, April 21 - Pony Astray: Moses Rawlins pleaded guilty to allowing a pony to stray in Park-lane, Beech Hill, on the 11th inst. P.c. Brown said he had complaints of defendant, who is a chimney sweep, of Tadley, camping in the lane. A fine of 2s. 6d., and 7s. costs, was imposed and paid.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 28th of April, 1900.

1900 - BENHAM'S BAKERY AND GROCERY SHOP ESTABLISHED > William Benham established a bakery and grocery shop in High Road (Silchester Road), Pamber Heath this year. In 1899 he had been a grocer in partnership with his brother Tom at Silchester. By 1900 the shop at Pamber Heath was opened. William was the official shopkeeper but helped by his younger brother Thomas, who was to be detailed as a 'baker's assistant' at the time of the 1901 census. William had a wife called Lucy and just one child when he came to Pamber Heath - a daughter named Kathleen. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 2nd of June, 1900 as well as the 1901 census.

1900 - VALUABLE ALLOTMENT LAND FOR SALE BY AUCTION > Allotment land measuring 3 roods and 13 poles or thereabouts, late in the occupation of David Long, (believed to be in Clapps Gate Road) is to be auctioned at Pamber Heath by Mr. Alfred W. Tyrrell of Basingstoke. The auction will take place on the ground on Friday the 1st of June 1900 at 1 o'clock punctually. ITEMS 0167 & 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 26th of May, 1900.

1900 - JAMES STAMP OF PAMBER GREEN SELLS FARM STOCK > Cherry Tree Cottage, Pamber Green: 'Messrs. Curtis & Curtis are favoured with instructions from Mr. James Stamp, who is giving up the land to sell by auction on the premises on Tuesday, June 12th, 1900, at 2 o'clock. On view morning of sale.' Various items of stock were listed. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 26th of May, 1900.

1900 - FIRST JUMBLE SALE AT PAMBER HEATH > A rummage sale, believed to be the first in the village, was held at Pamber Heath in the Mission Room on Tuesday, 22nd of May. The sale commenced at 3 o'clock and within half-an-hour nearly everything was sold. The Misses Adams, Mrs. Adams and Miss Hall sold the goods. Tea and cake was supplied for one penny. A large quantity of goods came from the Parsonage. Mrs. Roller, Mrs. Oppé, Mrs. Franklin Saunders, Mr. Rose and Messrs Burberry & Sons Ltd., were the suppliers of other goods. Between four and five pounds were realised to provide extra lighting for the Mission Room. ITEM 0167 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 2nd of June, 1900.

1900 - PAMBER HEATH SCHOOLCHILDREN RECEIVE A TREAT > Mr. and Mrs. Benham of 'The Stores, Pamber Heath', gave the scholars of Pamber Heath Sunday and Day Schools a treat in the Mission Room. A 'first-rate tea' was supplied at the event, which was held on the Queen's birthday. 103 children assembled at 4pm and sweets were given to each child. The children wore national colours and 'the company were unusually jubilant due to the recent success at Mafeking' (Boer War). ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 2nd of June, 1900.

1900 - PAMBER HEATH CRICKET JUNIORS LOSE MATCH AT SILCHESTER > 'Cricket - The Silchester second eleven played the Pamber Heath Juniors on Silchester ground this week. The Silchester team won. Tea for the boys was provided at the Crown Inn.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 30th of June, 1900.

1900 - PAMBER PARISH COUNCIL MEETING > 'A meeting of the Parish Council was held at the Mission Room, Little London (by permission), on the 27th ult. The following councilors were present :- Mr. W. Stroud (chairman), Messrs. J. Bonney, J. Dicker, W. Follett, T. Kimber, J. Smith and C. Stroud.' Business concerned writing to various persons requesting them to attend to such matters as clearing out watercourses and maintaining hedges. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 13th of October, 1900.

1900 - HARVEST FESTIVAL AT PAMBER HEATH CHURCH > 'On Sunday last the usual services of thanksgiving for the harvest were held in the Mission Church, at Pamber Heath, and were bright and hearty. The Vicar, the Rev. J. Sweetapple, preached in the morning and the Rev. E. Richards Adams in the evening. The decorations were tastefully done. Mrs. Adams acted as organist and played the musical portions of the services. The collections were in aid of the Royal Berks Hospital.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 20th of October, 1900.

1900 - SERIOUS CASE OF SCARLET FEVER AT PAMBER HEATH > 'Infectious Diseases Amongst Hop-Pickers - A serious case of scarlet fever was reported at Pamber Heath in a family that had returned from hop-picking at Coldrey, near Alton. The Chairman said that two cases broke out amongst the hop-pickers at Coldrey, and were removed to the Isolation Hospital at Alton. One of the patients - a child from Herriard - died. The Council seemed to suspect that there bad been some carelessness in allowing the case now reported to have been removed to Pamber Heath.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 20th of October, 1900.

1900 - SCARLET FEVER OUTBREAK - THREE CHILDREN DIE > Scarlet fever broke out in Pamber Heath in November, resulting in the deaths of three children. The following was recorded in the Pamber Heath School log book: November 9th, 1900: 'Florence Stroud, a scholar, died last night after only 3 days absence from school.' November 19th, 1900: 'Scarlet fever having broken out in the house where a pupil died on November 8th, all children from the immediate neighbourhood are being exempted from attendance.' November 23rd, 1900: 'Elizabeth B. Saunders attacked in school all the symptoms of scarlet fever and had to be sent home.' November 26th, 1900: 'Two scholars of class IV, Dorothy West and Ethel Lambden, having taken the fever, are absent as well as their brother. The head teacher and 25 pupils only were present all day.' December 16th, 1900: 'The names of two baby class pupils, Ethel Lambden and Edith Holmes, withdrawn from the register. Both  children died of scarlet fever.' January 7th, 1901: 'School reopened after being closed 6 weeks all but 1 day. 14 regular scholars and 4 new ones present, the monitress absent, undergoing quarantine for scarlet fever.' ITEM 0322 SOURCE: Pamber Heath School log book, document ref. 141M87/LB1, Hampshire Record Office.

1900 - DEATH AND FUNERAL OF ANN WOOKEY > 'We regret to announce the death, after a lingering illness, of Mrs. Ann B. Wookey, at the age of 67, of the Old Hatchet Inn, Pamber Heath, which occurred on November 9th. The funeral took place in the quiet old burial ground of Pamber Priory on Tuesday, when the remains of Mrs. Wookey were laid to rest by the side of her husband, the late Mr. Joseph Wookey, who died in January, 1899. The Rev. R. Adams impressively read the service. The polished coffin was conveyed in an open car and pair, and the mourners, including Mr. George Wookey, eldest son, and three daughters, followed in a mourning coach. The funeral arrangements were satisfactorily carried out by Goddard and Son, Silchester.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 17th of November, 1900.

1900 - JOHN WARD FINED OVER SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OF HIS SON > 'Basingstoke County Bench, Wednesday - School attendance: John Ward, labourer, of Pamber, was fined 5s. for neglecting to send his son, aged 10 years, regularly to school.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 24th of November, 1900.

The Hants & Berks Gazette gave more details : 'School Board Cases - John Ward, labourer, who did not appear, was fined 5s, including costs, for not allowing his son Lewis, aged 11 years, to attend school. Mr. E. Pither, who prosecuted by order of the Wootton and Tadley School Board, produced a certificate given by Mr. H. J. Follett, head master at Tadley Board School, showing that the boy, who is only in Standard IV, had made only 110 attendances between the 1st May and 31st October. He should have made nearly double that number. He lives at Pamber Heath, about a mile from the school, and no acceptable excuse had been made for his irregularity.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 24th of November, 1900.

1900 - OLD HATCHET LICENCE GRANTED TO WIFE OF WALTER BAGGETT (RAGGETT) > 'On the application of Walter Baggett (should be Raggett), a new license to the Old Hatchet, Pamber...granted to his wife (Elizabeth Raggett), who was the daughter of the landlady (Anne Wookey) lately deceased.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 24th of November, 1900.

1900 - CASES OF SCARLET FEVER AT PAMBER HEATH > 'Rural District Council - The Medical Officer of Health (Mr. C. H. Johnson) reported eight more cases of scarlet fever, six in the Pamber Heath district and two at Ashford. There had been 15 cases altogether contracted from a child or children in the Alton hop-picking district. Four had terminated fatally.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 15th of December, 1900.

1901 - DEATH OF FORMER PELICAN LANDLADY > Hannah Newman died in January of this year at the age of 83. She was born in Brackley, Northamptonshire and arrived in Pamber Heath from Mortimer, where the family were living at the time of the 1881 census. Her husband James Carr Newman, a former gamekeeper, had died in 1890 at the age of 76. Hannah was listed as the publican of the Pelican Inn at the 1891 census and she had three unmarried daughters living with her. She was forced into leaving the Pelican Inn in 1896, after a court case of permitting drunkenness on licensed premises, although she had kept the house in good order for many years. Hannah, who was still living in Pamber Heath at the time of her death, was buried at Pamber Priory Church on the 2nd of February, 1901. ITEM 0318 SOURCE: Burial register, Pamber Priory Church as well as the 1881 and 1891 census.

1901 - JOHN WARD AND DONALD SIMPSON IN TROUBLE FOR NOT PAYING FINES > 'Mr. E Pither, school attendance officer for the Wootton and Tadley School Board, applied for warrants of distress against John Ward, of Pamber Heath, and Donald Simpson, who had failed to pay the penalty of 5s each imposed upon them last November for not sending their children to school. In reply to the Chairman, the Attendance Officer, said he had not applied for payment. The Chairman said he had better apply before asking for a warrant.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 19th of January, 1901.

1901 - DEEP SNOW IN PAMBER HEATH CLOSES SCHOOL > February 5th, 1901. 'Snow has fallen to a depth of 4 feet in some places. Roads are blocked. Only 1 scholar has come. School closed till the roads are open again.' ITEM 0322 SOURCE: Pamber Heath School log book, document ref. 141M87/LB1, Hampshire Record Office.

1901 - OLD HATCHET LICENCE TRANSFERRED TO WALTER RAGGETT > 'The licence was only transferred to the defendant that very day - the 27th (February). The defendant's wife had been conducting the house for some little time previously' (See the court case later below) ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 30th of March, 1901.

1901 - NEW CLASSES FORMED AT PAMBER HEATH SCHOOL > February? 30th, 1901. 'New classes were formed for the year 8 scholars from Standard 1. Drafted to upper schools - 4 to Tadley and 4 to Silchester. A child having brought a walnut to school, clay models of it were done by classes 1 and 2.' ITEM 0322 SOURCE: Pamber Heath School log book, document ref. 141M87/LB1, Hampshire Record Office.

1901 - EMBEZZLEMENT BY WILLIAM RAGGET AT MORTIMER > 'William Ragget, of the Hatchet publichouse, Pamber, Hants, aged 15, was brought up on remand, charged with, on February 9th, embezzling the sum of 4s. 5 and a half d., received on account of his master, Charles Davis, of Mortimer. The prosecutor said he was a butcher, at King Street, Mortimer. Prisoner's duties were to take orders and deliver meat. He would also take any money when necessary...Miss Emily Plester...proved paying Ragget...for meat delivered. Davis said he had found the boy dishonest on one occasion before...The Bench said they would not send him to prison on account of his youth, and would fine him 10s., and the costs, 10s.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Berkshire Chronicle, 2nd of March, 1901.

1901 - GEORGE WEST EMPLOYED SON WHO SHOULD BE AT SCHOOL > 'Borough Petty Sessions - George West, broom maker, of Pamber Heath, was summoned for unlawfully employing Phillip West, his son, who ought to attend school. He did not appear, and Phillip explained his father's absence by saying that "he was not going to hinder a day's work"...The Chairman told the boy the case would be dismissed, as there was no evidence that he was employed by his father; but he ought to attend school, and his father would be summoned if he did not.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of March, 1901.

1901 - DEATH OF EDWARD RICHARDS ADAMS > 'We regret to announce the death of the Rev. Edwd. Richards Adams, which took place at the Parsonage, Pamber Heath, at 9 a.m., on March 14th. Mr. Adams was only taken ill on the previous Thursday morning, with influenza...from the latter hours of Wednesday, Mr. Adams appeared to be sinking...family called to his bedside...The late Rev. E. R. Adams had held his office as curate in charge of Pamber, since September 1897. he was a man of great kindliness of heart, especially to the children, aged and infirm...The funeral took place on Monday afternoon in the church-yard of the Old Pamber Priory...Shops were closed and blinds drawn, and over 200 people were gathered in the church from neighbouring villages.' He left a wife Augusta, aged 48, a brother, two sons and five daughters. Augusta was born in Germany. He was buried at Pamber Priory Church on the 18th of March 1901, aged 59 years. ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 23rd of March, 1901, ITEM 0318 SOURCE: Burial register, Pamber Priory Church and 1901 census.

1901 - OLD HATCHET LANDLORD FINED OVER JOHN SIMPSON'S DRUNKENNESS > 'Walter Ragget, landlord of the Old Hatchet beerhouse, Pamber, was summoned for permitting drunkenness to take place on his licensed premises, on the 27th February...two men named John Simpson and Alfred Cinderberry had been charged with being drunk on licensed premises, but only the charge against John Simpson would be proceeded with...Albert Wood(s)...saw John Simpson come out about quarter past nine, the worse for drink...He went back again and came out again about half-past nine. He came down the road and wanted to fight...He used bad language and struck a blow at a person named Stroud, who had since gone to Ireland...Walter Monger...said that Simpson had some of his clothes off...there were about a dozen fellows outside waiting to see what John would be up to. He was there on a previous evening when the fellows were teasing John about his kneeling on the drum head when he was in the Salvation Army...P.C. Austin, of Silchester, said: On Friday, March 1st, I saw the defendant at the Old Hatchet and said to him " I have received a very serious complaint respecting a young man named John Simpson, who was seen to leave your house on the night of the 27th February, drunk and very disorderly"...The Chairman said the magistrates considered the case proved and the defendant would be fined two guineas and the costs £1 18s. The licence would not be endorsed.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 30th of March, 1901.

1901 - JOHN SIMPSON FINED FOR DRUNKENNESS > 'The charge against John Simpson for being drunk and disorderly was then proceeded with. Mr. Chandler, who appeared for him, said that having regard to the decision in the previous case he had advised his client to plead guilty. He hoped the magistrates would deal with him leniently, bearing in mind the great aggravation he received from the young men who were waiting for him. The Magistrates inflicted the small penalty of 1s and costs...The Chairman (to John Simpson): ..You appear to be a marked man with the police, and therefore you had better try and keep out of these disturbances. The next time you come before us we shall deal with you more severely.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 30th of March, 1901.

1901 - REPORT ON SCHOOL RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION > April 19th, 1901. 'Copy report of religious instruction. Inspector April 19th, 1901: Old testament very good, new testament very good, catechism very good, repetition very good. General remarks: Number on books 42, present 35.' ITEM 0322 SOURCE: Pamber Heath School log book, document ref. 141M87/LB1, Hampshire Record Office.

1901 - FAMILY OF THE LATE REV. ADAMS BID FAREWELL TO VILLAGE FOLK > 'The family of the late Rev. E. Richards Adams are leaving the "Parsonage", Pamber Heath, this week, and are bidding farewell to the village folk, many of whom will miss the many acts of kindness shown them in the time of need by the late Rev. E. R. Adams and by Mrs. and the Misses Adams.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 27th of April, 1901.

1901 - FUNERAL OF MRS. RACHEL TULL, WIDOW OF AARON TULL > 'Mrs. Tull - The funeral of Mrs Tull, widow of Mr. Aaron Tull, of Pamber Heath, took place on Monday at the old Congregational Chapel (Mortimer West). The Rev. W. H. Summers performed the service. The deceased was in her 90th year, having been born on June 25, 1811, and was one of the first to be baptised (early in the last century) in the old chapel where she is now laid to rest, in the time when Rev. Andrew Pennel was minister. She was (says a correspondent) proud to relate, how, with her sisters, all attired in new bonnets, she attended the jubilee celebration of George III at Silchester, and consequently she had lived in the reign of five ruling monarchs, viz., George III and IV, William IV, Victoria, and Edward VII. Mrs. Tull has left 37 descendants, many of whom attended her funeral. Messrs. Goddard and Son were the undertakers.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 27th of April, 1901.

1901 - PELICAN INN PUBLICAN DIES AT AGE 41 > 'Mr. Daniel George Beer - This week is recorded the death of Mr. D. G. Beer, which took place on April 16th at the Pelican Inn, Pamber Heath, which house he had conducted for several years. The deceased...was well known and respected in the neighbourhood, was called away in the prime of his life at the age of 41 and much sympathy is felt for his widow and two sons in their bereavement. Mr. Beer was the eldest son of Mr. George Beer of Hill Farm, Bath. The funeral took place on Monday afternoon at the Congregational burial ground, Tadley Hill. The Rev. T. W. Robilliard conducted the service. Many floral tributes of wreaths and crosses were sent. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs. Goddard and Son, of Silchester.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 27th of April, 1901.

1901 - PELICAN LICENCE TRANSFERRED TO THURZA BEER > From Daniel G. Beer to Thurza Beer.

1901 - WILL OF REV. E. RICHARDS ADAMS > 'The will of the Rev. Edward Richard Adams, Pamber Heath, Basingstoke, has been proved at £6443 17s 5d.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 4th of May, 1901.

1901 - PRESENTATION TO MRS ADAMS AND FAMILY > '...To show in a small measure in a tangible form their appreciation, the friends of Mrs. (Augusta) Adams and her family subscribed sufficient money to purchase a very handsome silver tea service, consisting of a teapot, sugar basin, and cream jug. To this was added a crystal glass and silver butter dish, and the whole presented a very pretty appearance. The present has been forwarded to Mrs. Adams with the list of subscribers, as given below. The parishioners desired Mrs. Adams to kindly accept it, for the use of herself and her family, as a humble offering in recognition of the many acts of kindness performed by herself and her daughters. Mrs. Adams, in a letter, expresses how very deeply she appreciates the (as she says) undeserved kindness, and remarks how sorry she and her family were to part from the parishioners.' (A list of subscribers was then given in the full article) ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 4th of May, 1901.

1901 - THOMAS BOMAN'S COTTAGE DESTROYED BY FIRE > 'On Tuesday, about 11 a.m., a fire broke out in the roof of a cottage at Pamber Heath, owned and occupied by Mr. Thomas Boman. The cottage is on the left hand as one approaches from Silchester Common, and is the nearest house to the traditional "Impstone." The roof was thatched, and it is thought that a spark must have ignited the thatch, and in a very short time the cottage was completely gutted, only the chimney stack remaining standing. Nothing could save the cottage, but through the prompt action of Mr. Hobbis and other neighbours, a large shed standing near in the rear was saved. The cottage was insured. The homeless family were kindly given shelter by their neighbours.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 11th of May, 1901.

1901 - AUCTION OF 'THE LAURELS' IN PAMBER HEATH ROAD > 'Mr. Alfred W. Tyrrell has received instructions to sell by auction on the ground on Tuesday next, 2nd July, 1901, at three o'clock, the freehold brick and slate cottage with garden and ground, comprising three-quarters of an acre or thereabouts, pleasantly situated overlooking Tadley Heath, and lately in the occupation of Mr. A. (Astyanax) Brattle. Land tax and tithe free.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 29th of June, 1901.

1901 - CHURCH ARMY VAN MISSION COMMENCES AT PAMBER HEATH > A Church Army Van Mission began at the start of July. See the item below.

1901 - REV. FRANCIS WINGFIELD KING AND FAMILY WELCOMED TO PAMBER HEATH > 'Church Gathering - In order to welcome the Rev. (Francis) Wingfield King and his family to Pamber Heath, and also to mark the close of a very successful three weeks' Church Army Van Mission, a tea and social gathering were held last week in the meadow adjoining the school. Captain Cox, of the No. 1 Winchester Van, first mooted the idea of giving a reception of this kind to the new curate...Not far short of 200 adults and children assembled to partake of the tea...Lovely weather added much to the enjoyment...' Hymns, prayers and recitations followed, including an introduction to the new curate. 'It was much regretted that Mrs. King could not be present, as the family were unable to come into residence at the Parsonage till July 11th or 12th.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 20th of July, 1901.

1901 - OLD HATCHET LICENCE GRANTED TO ARTHUR HENRY NOTT > '...to Arthur Henry Nott.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 20th of July, 1901.

1901 - AUCTION OF LARGE DWELLING HOUSE IN SILCHESTER ROAD > 'Mr. John H. Gould is favoured with instructions to sell by auction at the Crown Inn, Silchester, on Thursday next, Sept. 19th, at three o'clock in the afternoon precisely, all that detached brick-built and tiled freehold dwelling house and premises, in the Parish of Pamber, Hants, having a frontage of 97 feet or thereabouts to the main road leading from Silchester to Aldermaston and Newbury. The accommodation comprises:- three bedrooms, two sitting rooms and the usual offices; a capital granary, coach house and stable, fowl-houses, pigstyes, and an excellent garden, at present in the occupation of Mr. Hobbis.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 14th of September, 1901.

1901 - AUCTION OF A PLOT OF FREEHOLD BUILDING LAND IN CHURCH ROAD > (Following on from the item above) 'Also a plot of freehold building land, having a frontage of 70 feet or thereabouts to Church Road, Pamber Heath, and a depth of 142 feet or thereabouts. It is well adapted for the erection of a house or a pair of cottages. The property is situate close to the Pine Woods and in a very healthy and favourite district. May be viewed by permission.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 14th of September, 1901.

1901 - ELIZABETH SIMPSON FINED  OVER SCHOOL ATTENDANCE > 'County Bench, Wednesday'...'School Cases - G. West, of Tadley, labourer, was ordered to pay 6s., and Elizabeth Simpson, of Pamber Heath, who did not appear, was fined 12s. for neglecting to send their children regularly to school.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 12th of October, 1901.

1901 - MRS. GOLDING LOSES A LADY'S SILVER WATCH AND CHAIN > 'Advertisement: 'Lost, on September 30th, at Pamber Heath or near, a lady's silver watch and chain. Anyone returning the same to Mrs. Golding, Pamber Heath, will be rewarded.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 12th of October, 1901.

1901 - MOSES RAWLINS FINED FOR USING OBSCENE LANGUAGE > 'Basingstoke County Bench, Wednesday - Using Obscene Language: Moses Rawlins, a sweep, for making use of obscene language in the public highway, at North Waltham, on the 8th of October, was fined 8s., including costs.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 26th of October, 1901.

1901 - NO MORE CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR GIFTS FROM WILLIAM BENHAM > 'Advertisement - Abolition of Christmas and New Year Gifts - To the inhabitants of Tadley, Pamber, Silchester and District - We the undersigned have unanimously agreed to discontinue giving Christmas and New Year Gifts and Almanacs, to come in operation this year, 1901...W. Benham, Pamber.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 30th of November, 1901.

1902 - CONCERT AT PAMBER HEATH > 'A Concert, the third of a series which the Rev. J. (? should be F. W.) King is arranging for the people, took place on Wednesday evening, and made a delightful evening. A party from Reading brought over by Mr. Welfare, greatly added to the pleasure of the programme.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 25th of January, 1902.

1902 - PAMBER HEATH COMPANY OF CHURCH LADS' BRIGADE ENROLLED > 'Church Lads' Brigade At Pamber Heath - The company of the Church Lads' Brigade, provisionally formed in January, was enrolled by Colonel Heathcote on Thursday, March 13th. A correspondent writes:- It was perhaps a new departure to make the enrolment of the Lads' Brigade the occasion for a public display, but the experiment was fully justified by the result...A profuse display of flags in the district made it quite clear that the occasion was one of more than local interest...the chair was taken by the vicar, who called upon Colonel Heathcote to proceed with the enrolment of the company, the lads being ordered to parade for the purpose. After a brief address on the organisation and working of the brigade, Col. Heathcote formally declared the company enrolled.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 22nd of March, 1902.

1902 - TADLEY DRAMATIC CLUB ENTERTAINMENT FOR CHURCH LADS' BRIGADE > 'A company of the Church Lads' Brigade has recently been organised at Pamber Heath, and is working most successfully. Not only has the maximum number of members, fixed at 30, been enrolled; it has been found necessary to form, in addition, a reserve squad from which vacancies in the company will be filled as they occur. A flute and drum band has been started, and a club for lads is in full swing. To meet the heavy initial expenditure involved in the starting of a company, two dramatic and musical entertainments were given in the Tadley Mission Room, on Wednesday, April 2nd...The lads of the Company were present in the evening by the kindness of Mrs. Evans...As a result...The Tadley Dramatic Club have handed over to the funds of the Company the substantial sum of £10 5s.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 19th of April, 1902.

1902 - HATCHET BEERHOUSE LICENCE TRANSFERRED TO JAMES ROBBINS > 'Divisional Petty Sessions - Licence Transfer - An application for the transfer of the licence of the Old Hatchet beerhouse, Pamber, from Arthur Henry Knott to James Robbins, was granted.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 26th of April, 1902.

1902 - WILLIAM BOWMAN SUED BY HIS COUSIN IN READING > 'Basingstoke County Court - ...Plaintiff, Walter Bowman, labourer, Reading, claimed £9 balance of £12 advanced in 1894 to the defendant, William Bowman, labourer, Pamber Heath. In 1894 defendant, who is his cousin, was in Queensland, and was anxious to return to England, but as he could not find the money for his passage home his friends in England made a collection and got enough all but the £12 in question, which the plaintiff advanced...defendant...promised to pay a little each year...The defendant - a member of the Salvation Army - denied having borrowed any money...The judge did not believe a word defendant said, and gave judgement for plaintiff for payment and costs £2.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Berkshire Chronicle, 31st of May, 1902.

1902 - MEETING HELD TO DISCUSS CORONATION FESTIVITIES > 'The Coronation - At a meeting held in the National School, Pamber Heath, on Wednesday evening, it was arranged to hold an all-day festival on Thursday June 26th, to celebrate the Coronation. A substantial subscription list was opened.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 7th of June, 1902.

1902 - PEACE REJOICING FOR THE END OF THE BOER WAR > 'Pamber Heath Peace Rejoicing - The restoration of peace was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Pamber Heath. On Monday evening the members of the Church Lad's Brigade, with their band, paraded the village. A meeting was then held in the Square. After the singing of the hymn "Now thank we all our God" and the National Anthem, an address was given by the Rev. F. W. King. A resolution was passed by acclamation congratulating Mr. Chamberlain on the happy termination of the war.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 7th of June, 1902.

1902 - CASE OF ASSAULT AGAINST JOB RAWLINGS STRUCK OUT > 'Struck Out - The only case down for hearing by the County Magistrates at the Divisional Petty Sessions was a summons for assault issued by William Rawlings, a gipsy, of Tadley, against his brother Job Rawlings. The defendant appeared but the complainant did not, and the case was consequently struck out. The defendant asked for his expenses, and was told that he must get them from his brother.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 5th of July, 1902.

1902 - REGULAR AT BRETHREN MEETING ROOM FOUND DEAD WITH GUNSHOT WOUNDS > 'Sad Death Of Mr. David Cane - The inhabitants of Mortimer West End were shocked last week to hear that Mr. David Cane had been found shot dead in his cow house. Mr. Cane, who was 54, kept a grocer's shop, and was also a coal and grain merchant. He was a regular attendant at the Plymouth Brethren's meeting room at Pamber Heath. An inquest was held on Friday evening at the Red Lion Inn, before Mr. Spencer Clarke, county coroner. Henry Lamden...who occupied part of the house...said he last saw him alive on Wednesday evening...He appeared in good health, bright and cheerful, and quite rational... He was injured...on the left side of the head by the discharge of a gun, which was lying by his side...The jury found that death was due to the discharge of a gun by the deceased, but there was not sufficient evidence to show the state of his mind at the time.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 19th of July, 1902.

1902 - OLD HATCHET LICENCE TRANSFERRED TO WILLIAM OXHEAD > '...was temporarily transferred from James Robbins to William Oxhead.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 13th of September, 1902.

1902 - CORONATION FESTIVITIES AT PAMBER HEATH > 'The Postponed Coronation Festivities - Favoured by splendid weather the rejoicings in celebration of the Coronation (unfortunately postponed on June 20th) were successfully completed on Saturday. A meadow was kindly lent by Mrs. (Thursa) Beer, and the proceedings commenced with a cricket match, followed by a programme of sports...roundabouts, swings etc., were supplied...On the conclusion of the sports a torch light procession was organised by the Church Lads' Brigade, to the accompaniment of their flute, drum and bugle band. A display of fireworks followed...and from beginning to end the festival was a success.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 20th of September, 1902.

1902 - HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICE > 'The annual services of thanksgiving for the harvest were held on Sunday. In the evening the room was crowded to excess. Extra chairs had to be sent for and some two dozen people were unable to gain admission. During the half-hour preceding the service a selection of sacred music was sung to the accompaniment of the band of the Pamber Heath Church Lads' Brigade. Great praise is due to the choir for the excellence of the music provided. Mrs. King presided at the organ.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 11th of October, 1902.

1902 - NOAH PIKE & THOMAS RAWLINGS FINED > 'Divisional Petty Sessions: Unlighted Vehicles - Noah Pike, gypsy, who was represented by his father, and Thomas Rawlings, a loud voiced and rather brazen individual, were ordered to pay 5s each for driving vehicles at Pamber on the 16th October to which no lights were attached. Pike had a lamp in his cart and when stopped by PC Pott he fixed it in the socket and lit it. Rawlings, who was driving another cart in front, had no lamp whatever. He went and tried to borrow one, but failed, so he drove on another mile and a half without a lamp.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 25th of October, 1902.

1902 - JOB DOE (GIPSY) CHARGED FOR DRIVING A CART WITHOUT A LIGHT > 'Basingstoke County Bench, Wednesday - No Light: Job Doe, a gipsy, was charged with driving a cart on the high road at Pamber, at 7 45 p.m., without having a light. Defendant did not appear, and the case was proved by P.c. E. H. Pett. Defendant was fined 5s., including costs.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 8th of November, 1902.

1902 - MOTHER OF SCHOOL HEADMISTRESS DIES AGED 60 > Mary Hall, the mother of Pamber Heath School headmistress Sarah Hall, died on November 12th this year at the age of 60. The Hants & Berks Gazette reported that: 'Having lived at Pamber Heath for a considerable time, the deceased lady had endeared herself to many.' Mary had come to live with her daughters Sarah and Eliza at the School House in Pamber Heath adjoining the school, presumably following the death of her husband James, who was a blacksmith. Mary had been at Pamber Heath at least since 1901. She originally came from the Northumberland area but spent some time living in Durham, where her daughter Sarah was a pupil teacher. It was said in the local newspaper in 1909, on Sarah's farewell from the school at its closure, that a close tie that linked her with Pamber Heath was that her dear mother had spent her last days with her. Mary was laid to rest in the churchyard of Pamber Priory Church on the 16th of November, 1902. 'The coffin, which was beautifully polished and with brass fittings, was covered with a profusion of wreaths and floral tributes.' ITEMS 0304 & 0318 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of February, 1909, ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 22nd of November, 1902, Burial register, Pamber Priory Church, as well as Census returns for 1881 and 1901.

1902 - NOAH PIKE IN ALLEGED THEFT OF A RABBIT SKIN > 'Alleged Theft of a Rabbit Skin - At the Basingstoke Police Court yesterday (Friday) morning, a young gipsy named Noah Pike was brought up...charged with stealing a rabbit skin, value 1d., the property of Maurice Holley, of Pamber Heath...He took one of two rabbit skins which were hanging there (in the pantry)...The prisoner emphatically denied being in Pamber parish that day. Mr. Cooper remanded the prisoner, who was released upon his father depositing the sum of £3 as security for his appearance next Wednesday. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 13th of December, 1902.

1902 - JOSEPH WOODS FOUND HANGING FROM TREE AT GRAVEL PIT > 'Labourer Hangs Himself - An inquest was held at the Pelican Inn, Pamber on Saturday last, by Mr. Spencer Clarke, county coroner, on the body of Joseph Woods, aged 51 years. William Woods, a son of the deceased, said he last saw his father alive last Thursday morning at Tadley. He seemed ill in the head, as he had been before...He had been taken to Fareham Asylum three times. Crawford Beer, living at the Pelican Inn, said last Thursday evening he looked for deceased, and found him in some firs in a gravel pit at Pamber. He was alone and hanging from a tree and dead. His feet were on the ground. Andrew Monger said last Thursday night he went...and found Joseph Woods hanging from a tree. Witness cut him down...Verdict - "Killed himself by hanging whilst temporarily insane."  ' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 20th of December, 1902.

1902 - NOAH PIKE HAS ALLEGED THEFT CASE DISMISSED > 'Division Petty Sessions: About a Rabbit Skin - Noah Pike, a gipsy youth, 16 years of age, was charged with stealing on the 9th December, a rabbit skin, the property of Maurice Holley, coachman to G. Roller, Esq...The evidence of Joseph Holley...was read over...The witness added that he afterwards went to the encampment with the policeman and Philip West for the purpose of identifying the prisoner, and he did so. Mrs. John James deposed to seeing the prisoner coming out of Mr. Holley's gate. The prisoner, who pleaded not guilty, then gave evidence on his own behalf...Mr. Wills Chandler...submitted that there had been a total failure to prove that the prisoner was the one who called at the cottage, only very shadowy evidence being brought...the case was accordingly dismissed.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 20th of December, 1902.

1902 - NEPTUNE PIKE FINED FOR ALLOWING HORSE TO STRAY > 'Divisional Petty Sessions: Horse Astray - Neptune Pike, gipsy, father of the defendant in the first case (Noah Pike), was fined 6s 6d including costs for allowing his horse to stray on the highway.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 20th of December, 1902.

1903 - ENTERTAINMENT GIVEN IN PAMBER HEATH MISSION ROOM > 'A good entertainment was given in the Pamber Heath Mission Room recently by friends from Reading, Mortimer, and Bramley. The attendance, unfortunately, was not large.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 3rd of January, 1903.

1903 - PAROCHIAL ENTERTAINMENT AT TADLEY FOR PAMBER HEATH MISSION > 'Tadley - Parochial Entertainment - An excellent musical and dramatic entertainment was recently given in the Church Room, the proceeds being in aid of the Sunday School and choir treats in connection with the Pamber Heath Mission and the extinction of the debt on its working...The popularity of many of these performers was the cause for bringing together a large audience, which included many of the principal residents in the neighbourhood.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 3rd of January, 1903.

1903 - BASINGSTOKE RAILWAY STATION IMPROVEMENTS > Work has begun on Basingstoke new red brick railway station. Completion is expected in spring 1905. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 21st of March, 1903.

1903 - JOHN WARD FINED FOR NOT SENDING SON TO SCHOOL > 'Absence from School - John Ward, labourer, of Pamber Heath, was summoned for not sending his son Lewis, aged 13, to school. The defendant, who had been fined twice before on account of the same boy, was ordered to pay 5s., which he did.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 25th of April, 1903.

1903 - TADLEY CONCERT IN AID OF PAMBER HEATH MISSION CHURCH FUNDS > 'Tadley - A successful concert was given on Tuesday evening in the Church Mission Room...At the close of the performance the Rev. F. W. King thanked all who had assisted and announced that the debt of £25 on the Pamber Heath Mission Church funds was paid off, thanks to this concert and to substantial contributions from Mrs. Evans, Mr. Benyon, Dr. Phillips. Mrs. Mount, and others.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 2nd of May, 1903.

1903 - REV. FRANCIS WINGFIELD KING LEAVES PAMBER HEATH > Around this time the Rev. Francis Wingfield King finished his ministry at the Pamber Heath Mission Church and left the village.

1903 - REV. FRANCIS JOHN KIDGELL COMMENCES HIS MINISTRY AT PAMBER HEATH > Around this time, the Rev. Francis John Kidgell became the resident curate at the Pamber Heath Mission Church.

1903 - REV. FRANCIS WINGFIELD KING IN COURT AS A DEBTOR > 'Basingstoke, County Court - Town Hall...The Rev. Francis Wingfield King, late curate in charge of Pamber, was sued on two judgment summonses. One by Messrs. Bonny and King, grocers, of Reading, and the other by Messrs. Smith and Son, of the Railway Bookstall. Both summonses had been adjourned for a month on the suggestion of His Honour Judge Gye, who now said he should adjourn them for a further period of two months. The defendant hoped to get a permanent appointment. and would then do what he could to meet his debts.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 22nd of August, 1903.

1903 - REV. FRANCIS WINGFIELD KING APPEARS IN COURT AGAIN OVER DEBTS > 'Basingstoke County Court, Monday - A Clergyman's Debts: There were three adjourned summonses against the Rev. Francis Wingfield King, formerly curate in charge of Pamber. The only one of the plaintiff firms which was represented, Messrs. Bonny and King, of Reading, produced an undertaking by the defendant to pay his debt in a specified way, and in view of this the Judge adjourned all three summonses for a further period of two months.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 17th of October, 1903.

1903 - HARVEST FESTIVAL AT PAMBER HEATH CHURCH > 'Harvest thanksgiving services were held at Pamber Heath Church on Sunday. The building was beautifully decorated. The services were bright and hearty, and the church was crowded, especially in the evening.' ITEM 0375 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 24th of October, 1903.

1903 - AUCTION OF A PAIR OF COTTAGES IN CHURCH ROAD > 'Mr. John H. Gould is favoured with instructions to sell by auction at the Crown Inn, Silchester, on Thursday next, Nov 12, at Three o'clock in the afternoon, a pair of brick-built and tiled freehold cottages situate in Church Road, Pamber Heath, at present in the occupation of Messrs. Charles Monger and G. Fullbrook, yearly tenants, at the rent of £4 per annum each, the tenants paying rates. The property has a frontage of 66ft. or thereabouts to Church Road and a total area of about half-an-acre. May be viewed by permission of the respective tenants.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 7th of November, 1903.

1903 - JAMES SMITH IN AN ACCIDENT > 'An accident occurred on Monday night to Mr. James Smith, of Yew Tree Cottage Laundry, Pamber, as he was returning home from the Duke of Wellington's with the washing in a pony trap. His leg was injured badly, being nearly broken, and he has been laid up since. He is progressing favourably.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 5th of December, 1903.

1904 - WEDDING OF ALBERT WOODS TO ANNIE LONG > 'A very pretty wedding took place at Pamber Church on Monday afternoon, the Rev. Kidgell officiating. The contracting parties were Miss Annie Long, second daughter of Mr. D. Long and Mr. Albert Woods, second son of the late Mr. J. Woods, both of Pamber Heath. The bride, who looked very pretty in a costume of lavender grey with hat to match, was given away by Mr. W. Woods...Mr. P. Monger was best man. The bridesmaids were...Miss Rose Long, Miss Elsie Woods, Miss Kate Woods and Miss Bertha Woods, who wore pretty costumes of blue - grey, with hats to match. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the party adjourned to the bridegroom's home where a goodly number of relatives and friends assembled.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 30th of January, 1904.

1904 - FORMATION OF THE MORTIMER WEST AND PAMBER HEATH NURSING ASSOCIATION > At some point during this year the Mortimer West and Pamber Heath Nursing Association was formed to provide health care for the local people by providing nurses and midwifes, being funded by fundraising events and donations. Mrs. Karslake was the President of the Association.

1904 - AMELIA RAWLINGS DIES IN THE UNION WORKHOUSE > Amelia Rawlings was the daughter of James and Olive Rawlings and born in Woodmancote, Hampshire about 1835. She married Moses Rawlings at Tadley, Hampshire in 1852 and many children were born to the marriage. They came to Pamber Heath from Tadley about 1862 and lived in a small cottage in the Burney Piece (Bit). Amelia was a pedlar/hawker and had a somewhat fiery nature as depicted from various news articles about the couple. Drunkenness and fights were often to bring them into trouble with the law. In 1901 at the Census she was still working as a pedlar/hawker but before long she was to be admitted to the Basingstoke Workhouse, probably due to infirmity. She died there on the 31st of March, 1904. ITEM SOURCE:

1904 - WILLIAM BROADHURST & ESAU WIGLEY IN BOUNDARY DISPUTE > 'Garden Boundary Dispute - At the Divisional Petty Sessions at Basingstoke, on Wednesday, William Broadhurst appeared to answer an information alleging that on the 16th June he maliciously damaged a fence belonging to Esau Wigley.' Esau Wigley's son William gave evidence: On the 14th June, he saw that the fence had been pulled down and his mother said William Broadhurst had done it. The fence was restored the following Wednesday, only to be then pulled down again and cut into five pieces by William Broadhurst on the 16th June. 'It was an old dispute and one for the County Court to settle. The Acting Clerk advised the Magistrates that they had no jurisdiction, and the case was accordingly dismissed.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of July, 1904.

1904 - WEDDING OF PAMBER HEATH SCHOOLMISTRESS > Eliza Hall, a schoolmistress of Pamber Heath School, was married to George Herbert Fletcher, a schoolmaster, at Pamber Priory Church on the 4th of August, 1904. Eliza is the younger sister of Sarah Hall, the headmistress of Pamber Heath School. ITEM 0175 SOURCE: Register of marriages, Pamber Priory Church.

1904 - SALE AT THE OLD HATCHET > 'Advertisement - A sale of household furniture and outdoor effects is to take place at the Old Hatchet public house, Pamber Heath, on Monday next. Mr. Alfred W. Tyrrell has received instructions from General Sir Edward Markham and others to sell by auction useful household furniture...bedsteads, bedding, linen, washstands, tapestry and other carpets, linoleum, wardrobes, writing table, walnut marble top chiffonier, pictures, five antique chairs, corner cupboards, carved oak panels, rush-seat chairs, also wheelbarrow, two lawn mowers, gent's and lady's bicycles, a well built waggonette by Mulliner, four wheel chaise, two pony carts, horse clothing, harness, dumb jockey, carriage aprons, and a capital Dark Bay Horse 14.2, and Donkey with foal.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 10th of September, 1904 and ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 17th of September, 1904.

1904 - WILLIAM WIGLEY FINED FOR NOT HAVING A DOG LICENCE > 'Unlicensed Dog - William Wigley, labourer, of Pamber Heath, did not appear to answer a summons alleging that he kept a dog without a licence. P.C. Pett, of Silchester, having proved the service of the summons, stated that had called at the defendant's residence on the 29th August and asked him for his dog licence. Defendant replied: "I have not got one." Witness told him that it was an old dog, and that he had kept it about six months, so that he had plenty of time to take out a licence. The dog was a rough-haired terrier. Defendant said he thought of either selling the dog or taking out a licence before be went hopping. He believed the defendant had since sold the dog. He had it from a man at Swallowfield, who also had no licence for it. Defendant was fined 7s 6d, the value of the licence, and the costs, which amounted to 9s.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 8th of October, 1904.

1904 - HARVEST FESTIVAL > At the Mission Room there were crowded congregations at both morning and evening services on Sunday, when the Harvest Festival was held. In the evening many people were unable to gain admission, so great was the throng. The room had been artistically decorated by a band of willing workers. A huge loaf of "the staff of life" stood on the altar crowned by grapes. Bright hearty singing was the order of the day'. Many sent corn, fruit, flowers, vegetables, bread etc. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 15th of October, 1904.

1904 - OLD HATCHET LICENCE TRANSFERRED TO MR. G. H. ROBBINS > 'Transfers - The licence of the Old Hatchet beer-house, Pamber, was transferred from Mr. W. Coxhead to Mr. G. H. Robbins.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 22nd of October, 1904.

1904 - EDWARD SMITH FINED FOR ASSAULT ON ARTHUR WILLIAM LONG > 'Charge of Assault - Edward Smith, a labourer, of Pamber, was summoned for assaulting Arthur William Long, also a labourer, of the same place. The complainant stated that on the 5th November, about nine p.m., as he was going along the road the defendant stopped him and began about some hedge trimmings that he wanted cleared off his garden, but which he (complainant) had not cleared up because the defendant would not let him come on his side. The defendant rushed at him...but did not hit him...groceries fell...defendant kicked them about...Defendant admitted taking hold of the complainant's coat...The Magistrates inflicted a fine of 1s., with 13s. costs, and the Chairman told the defendant that he no right to interfere with anyone on the highway.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 19th of November, 1904.

1904 - EARTHQUAKE IN NORTH HAMPSHIRE > An earthquake shock was felt in many of the villages of north Hampshire 'last Friday around midday'. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 3rd of December, 1904.

1904 - SALE OF TABLE FOWL > Advertisement: 'For Sale - Table Fowl for sale - P. Tull, Pamber Heath, Basingstoke.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 17th of December, 1904.

1904 - INQUEST ON SUDDEN DEATH OF ARTHUR CRIPPS > 'Sudden Death - On the morning of the 9th inst. quite a gloom was cast over the inhabitants or this village when it became known that Mr. Arthur Cripps , a much respected parishioner, had died suddenly before medical aid could be got. An inquest was held on Saturday afternoon at the Old Hatchet Inn. Elizabeth Cripps, widow of the deceased, said her husband was 57 years of age. Early on the morning of the 9th inst. they got up as usual before daylight. Her husband went out and got an armful of wood and was soon back with it. She noticed he looked queer, and he fell down as though in a fit.' Dr. Langley...examined the body superficially and he should say the death was due to heart disease.' The jury returned a verdict to that effect. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 17th of December, 1904.

1905 - FRANCIS BOYD IN COTTAGE ON RED HOUSE ESTATE > Around this time, Francis Boyd took up residence of a cottage in the north-east corner of the Red House Estate owned by Mrs. Pauline Oppé. It is believed that he was the gardener on the estate. Francis had married Annie Matilda West of Pamber Heath on the 4th of November, 1905 and was stated as being a gardener in 1906 on the baptism of his son Rowland. He was also stated as being 'a tenant of 44 years standing' on the sale documents of The Red House in 1949. ITEM 0311 SOURCE: Sale documents of The Red House, 1949 and other documents.

1905 - JAMES SMITH ACCIDENTLY FALLS INTO A WELL > 'Accident - Mr. J. Smith, of Yew Tree Cottage, Pamber, met with a serious accident on Tuesday night as he was going round to the end of the cottage. The well was left uncovered, and he missed his footing and partly fell into the well. With great presence of mind he saved himself by his right arm from falling down any further. The doctor was called in, and on examination found that one of Mr. Smith's rib's was broken and another one injured. He is suffering very much from the effects.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 21st of October, 1905.

1905 - HARVEST FESTIVAL AT PAMBER HEATH > 'The services for the safe ingathering of the harvest were held in the Mission Church at Pamber Heath on Sunday last and were well attended. The Rev. F. Kidgell officiated. The church was beautifully decorated with abundance of flowers and produce, for which the preacher thanked the people at the close of the evening service. The services were bright and hearty. Mr. W. Yates presided at the harmonium.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 21st of October, 1905.

1905 - ARTHUR LONG IMPRISONED FOR STEALING A BAG OF CHAFF > 'Mentally Deficient - Arthur Long, a labourer of weak intellect, was charged with stealing a bag of chaff, value 2s. 6d., the property of William Bowman, of Pamber Heath...kept the bag of chaff in his cart house, but missed it on the morning of November 23rd. He noticed a track of chaff up the road to Long's House...could not find the missing property. He afterwards saw the prisoner on Silchester Common, and he admitted taking the chaff...When the prisoner was brought up for remand...he should be examined by the divisional surgeon. Dr. Macpherson...formed the opinion that he was mentally deficient...police had had numerous complaints...He had stolen bicycles, walking sticks, and a number of other things...locked up for setting fire to Tadley Common. He was remanded to Winchester Prison for a week, and eventually discharged...Medical Officer of the prison...:"He is, in my opinion, mentally deficient, with destructive tendencies to such an extent as to make him of unsound mind, and unfit to be at large." He was sentenced to 14 days' hard labour.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 2nd of December, 1905 and ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 25th of November, 1905.

1905 - OLD HATCHET BEERHOUSE LICENCE TRANSFERRED TO RICHARD BELL > 'At the Divisional Petty Sessions on Wednesday, the licence of the Old Hatchet beerhouse, Pamber Green (should be Heath), was transferred from Mr. G. H. Robbins to Mr. Richard Bell.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of December, 1905.

1905 - WALTER HERBERT STROUD BURNT TO DEATH IN ACCIDENT > 'A sad fatality occurred at Pamber last week, resulting in the death from burning of a little boy named Walter Herbert Stroud, aged 5 years, the son of Charles Stroud. It appears that on Thursday morning the little boy was in a room with his brothers and sisters, and there was a fire in the grate. The children were all recovering from the measles. By some means Walter, who was wearing a flannelette garment, got too near the fire and his dress caught alight. His mother extinguished the flames, but not before the child was badly burnt on the abdomen and chest. Dr. Daly was called in and treated the case, but the little fellow died on Friday. An inquest was held at the Pelican Arms (should be Inn) on Monday, when a verdict was returned of death from injuries accidentally sustained by burning.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of December, 1905.

1906 - DEATH OF LEONARD BEER > 'Profound regret was felt and expressed throughout the hamlet of Pamber Heath when the news of the death of Mr. Leonard Beer was known. He was the youngest son of the respected landlady of the Pelican Inn and was of a bright, cheerful, genial disposition. He was beloved by all who knew him and was a prominent member of the Church Lads' Brigade. His illness came on somewhat suddenly, and rapid consumption setting in brought this young life to an early grave. The funeral took place at the Tadley Congregational burial ground on Friday afternoon.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 24th of March, 1906.

1906 - MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR LEONARD BEER > 'Memorial Service - Pamber Heath Mission Room, always well attended, was crowded to its utmost capacity on Sunday evening, March 18th, the occasion being a memorial service for the late Leonard Beer, a member of the Pamber and Tadley Corps of the Church Lads' Brigade. The comrades of the deceased, to the number of 24, under their captain (Mr. J. Whistler), attended in uniform.' Family, friends and neighbours were present and Rev. F. J. Kidgell 'preached a soul-stirring, impressive, and eloquent sermon.' Hymns were sung, Mr. W. Yates presiding at the organ. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 7th of April, 1906.

1906 - GEORGE SIMPSON FINED FOR BEING DRUNK AT BURGHFIELD > 'Reading County Bench, Saturday - A Drunken Driver - George Simpson, of Pamber, pleaded not guilty to being drunk while in charge of a horse and cart at Burghfield on June 5. P.c. Butcher, of Mortimer Common, spoke to seeing the defendant in charge of a horse and cart at 10.30 p.m. He was helplessly drunk, and had to be taken to Mortimer Police Station. P.c. Fisher, of Burghfield, gave corroborative evidence, and the Bench inflicted a penalty of 5s. and 10s. costs, or seven days in default.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Berkshire Chronicle, 12th of June, 1906.

1906 - JOHN SMITH FINED FOR NOT HAVING A DOG LICENCE > 'Pamber Heath - At the Divisional Petty Sessions, at Basingstoke, on Wednesday, before Sir R. N. Rycroft, Bart (chairman), Mr. W. J. Cooper, and Mr. R. S. Wallis. John Smith was summoned for keeping a dog without a licence. Mr. Whittingham, of Reading, who appeared for the Inland Revenue Commissioners, said it was simple case of non-renewal. The dog was seen by the Excise Officer on the 2lst March, and the licence was taken out the 29th March. The usual notice was sent to the Defendant on the 31st December. In reply to the Chairman, Mr. Whittingham said it was not usual to give any further warning. The Defendant said he forgot to take out the licence. He had taken out a dog licence tor the last fourteen or fifteen years. Mr. Whittingham said the Inland Revenue Board did not regard it as serious case, because they offered to forego proceedings if the Defendant would pay a compromise fine. A fine of 1s with 4s towards the costs (part of which were remitted) was imposed; the Chairman telling the Defendant he would find it cheaper next time to take the licence out at the right time.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of June, 1906.

1906 - GEORGE BARTLETT SENT TO PRISON FOR THEFT > 'George Bartlett, a labourer, who belongs to Shinfield, was charged with stealing a purse containing £1 0s 8d, the property of William Broadhurst, labourer, of Pamber Heath. Evidence was given by Mr. and Mrs. Boadhurst, their daughter-in-law (Mrs. Alma Broadhurst, wife of Jesse Broadhurst, carter, who lives with them), and P.C. Pett, of Silchester. It appeared that on Sunday evening William Broadhurst was with the prisoner, whom he has known all his life, and they had some beer together, which Broadhurst paid for. The prisoner said he was hard up and Broadhurst allowed him go and sleep in an old cottage on his premises, as he had done before...Monday morning...At quarter to nine Mrs. Broadhurst took some things out of her pocket at the back of the house...She replaced all the things except her purse, which she forgot. This she left on the bricks...She locked up the house...and went across to her daughter's...she returned to her own house. She then saw that the prisoner had got up and was gone. She then thought that...she would go to Mrs. Cripps, a neighbour, and pay her for sixpennyworth of eggs, and putting her hand in her pocket she found her purse was not there. She then recollected where she had left it and went round to the back and found the purse was gone...Information was given to P.C. Pett, of Silchester, who traced the prisoner to...Sherfield Green, at which last place he found him...The constable then said, "I am making enquiries about some money that was stolen from Pamber Heath this morning, and I think you know something about it."...At the police cottage the constable found...underneath his belt, a sovereign. The constable charged him with stealing the purse...He pleaded not guilty...The magistrates committed him to Winchester gaol for three weeks' hard labour and ordered the sovereign to be returned to the prosecutor.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of June, 1906.

1906 - RICHARD BELL OF THE OLD HATCHET IN FARM TENANCY DISPUTE > 'A Farm Tenancy Dispute - Mrs. Martha L. Norris, residing in Sussex, brought an action against Richard Bell of The Hatchet Inn, Pamber Heath, to recover £18 15s., a quarter's rent of a farm, and £20 damages for not keeping the property in good condition...defendant conducted his own case, which was heard before a jury...defendant rented a farm at Cowfoot, Sussex, from Michaelmas to Michaelmas, at an annual rental of £75. His Honour asked how the case came within the jurisdiction of his Court, and was informed that defendant was now residing at Pamber Heath, where he was an innkeeper'. Evidence was heard from both sides and the result was as follows: '...the jury gave plaintiff a verdict for the amount of the rent, £18 15s. The counterclaim they struck out. His Honour made an order, with costs, accordingly, the sum to be paid in monthly instalments of £1.' ITEM 0384 Hampshire Chronicle, 23rd of June, 1906.

1906 - ANN BOWMAN ORDERED TO QUIT HER PAMBER HEATH COTTAGE > 'Possession of Cottage at Pamber Heath - Mr. Ebenezer Stacey applied for an order of ejectment against Mrs. Ann Bowman, the tenant of a cottage at Pamber Heath, for which she has been paying £1 per quarter. She had a quarter's notice to quit expiring on the 29th June, but as she did not go Mr. Stacey served and read over her the statutory notice, but Mrs. Stacey (should be Mrs. Bowman) said she should take no notice of it as there was no magistrates' name it. Mrs. Bowman said the notice to quit came by post, and she seemed to be under the impression that it was for that reason invalid. She went on to say that she had her garden planted, and she could not dig up her potatoes, beans, peas and onions before they came to perfection, and Mr. Stacey would come to no arrangement about them. She wanted what was right and what was her own. She had to work hard for her living and had no one to help her. The Chairman: You have got to go, but you can claim compensation for the unexhausted improvements of the garden. The Clerk told her she had better make arrangements with the landlord about the garden, and get out as soon as she could, at the latest within twenty-one days.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 28th of July, 1906.

1906 - JOHN SIMPSON FINED FOR AN UNLIGHTED BICYCLE AT PAMBER HEATH > 'John Simpson, labourer of Mortimer West End, who did not appear, was fined a similar amount (5s, including costs) for a similar offence (riding a bicycle without a light) at Pamber Heath at 10.15 p.m. on the 28th July. He was stopped by P.C. Pett, who found that he had no lamp on his machine. While they were talking someone came along and complained that he had been almost run into by the Defendant.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 11th of August, 1906.

1906 - ALBERT MONGER AND THE CASE OF THE FREE WATCH > A court case was brought by Hellis and Co. of Reading for non-payment of watches, which seemed to be sent to various people without being ordered, presumably in the hope of a purchase: 'Amusing Evidence...Albert Monger, of Pamber Common, near Basingstoke, another purchaser of a watch, gave evidence of a similar character. Asked if he had paid any money, he said: "Not a farden" (laughter). He added that he sent the watch back to Reading by the carrier, but the carrier brought it back saying he had not time to go to Hellis and Co.'s with it. He sent it a second time, but the carrier again brought it back saying he "could not find 'nor' a watch shop in that street" (laughter). Ultimately, witness took it himself, "me and my wife's brother, and glad to get rid of it" (laughter).' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Berkshire Chronicle, 14th of August, 1906.

1906 - PETER LONG DIES DAY AFTER ENTERING WORKHOUSE > An inquest was held at the Old Basing Union Infirmary on the body of Peter Long of Pamber, aged 70 years. 'From the evidence of Mr. Joseph Jibb, Relieving Officer, it appeared that the deceased applied for an order of admission to the workhouse, which he was granted. He was removed to the workhouse on Wednesday. The following morning he became ill and Nurse Charles at the Infirmary attended him. Dr. Meyrick, the Medical Officer, was sent for but the man died on Thursday morning. At the post-mortem examination the cause of death was found to be pericarditis. A verdict of death from natural causes was returned.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 8th of September, 1906.

1906 - WEDDING OF JAMES SMITH TO MABEL LAMBDEN > 'A very pretty wedding was solemnized at St. Saviour's Church, Mortimer West End, on Saturday, September 1st, between Miss Mabel Lambden of Stoney Hill, Mortimer West, and James Smith, son of Mr. James Smith, farmer, of Ashford Hill. The ceremony took place at 2.30 and was conducted by the Vicar (Rev. F. E. Rooke). The bride who was given away by her brother, Mr. Edwin Lambden, looked very pretty in a handsome dress of white silk with veil wreath of white heather and orange blossom. Her four bridesmaids were Miss Annie Wynn, Miss Annie Smith, Miss Alice Smith and Miss Kate Wyeth.' Mr. Archibald Wells was best man. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 15th of September, 1906.

1906 - DEATH OF MR. FROOME AT THE AGE OF ONLY 33 > 'On Wednesday in last week, after a long and painful illness, Mr. C. W. Froome passed away into the higher life. The burial took place at the Congregational Church cemetery at Tadley. The first part of the funeral service was conducted by the Rev T. W. Robilliard in the church.' A hymn, a reading and prayer was followed with another hymn. 'A short but very suitable address was given by the Rev. J. Kidgell, curate of Pamber Heath Church. At the close of the address, the coffin was taken to the grave and the service concluded' (with a hymn). 'The deceased, who was only 33 years of age, leaves a widow and three young children.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 15th of September, 1906.

1906 - OLD HATCHET LICENCE TRANSFERRED TO EDMUND RICHARDS > 'Divisional Petty Sessions, Wednesday...Transfers - The licence of the Old Hatchet, Pamber, was transferred from Mr. R. Bell to Mr. E. Richards, who has previously held licences in Portsmouth.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 20th of October, 1906.

1906 - HARVEST FESTIVAL HELD > 'The Mission Room at Pamber Heath was on Sunday a scene of cheerfulness, the occasion being the Harvest Festival. The room had been beautifully decorated' by numerous individuals. 'It was well the thanksgiving had been fixed late in the month, as many exquisite dahlias, which had bloomed after the recent heavy rains, were sent, and these and other lovely flowers, faded bracken, creeper, berries, moss, corn, fruit and vegetables, formed the main decorative material. The morning service was very well attended. Rev. F. J. Kidgell preached at the evening service, when the room was crowded to its fullest capacity.' Many local people had sent gifts. 'Mr. W. Yates ably presided at the organ and the singing was hearty and reverent.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 27th of October, 1906.

1907 - CLOSURE OF REV. FRANCIS JOHN KIDGELL'S MINISTRY AT PAMBER HEATH > The closure of the Rev. F. J. Kidgell's ministry at the Pamber Heath Mission Church was announced. There were "bright and happy" Christmas services. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 5th of January, 1907.

1907 - REV. THOMAS HINDE CUTHBERT COMMENCES HIS MINISTRY > Around this time, the Rev. Thomas Hinde Cuthbert, commenced his ministry at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath. ITEM SOURCE: Kelly's Directory of Hampshire, 1907.

1907 - YEW TREE LAUNDRY CELEBRATION SUPPER > 'A supper was given on Thursday in last week by Mr. (James) and Mrs. Smith, of the Yew Tree Laundry, Pamber, to celebrate the opening of a new laundry which has been built owing to the great increase of their work. All those employed on the building were invited, Mr. Wigley, of Silchester, being the builder. With the employees and friends, altogether over 30 sat down to the elaborate supper provided. After supper a most enjoyable evening was spent, and a hearty vote of thanks, proposed by Mr. Wigley, was passed to the host and hostess for their kindness.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 5th of January, 1907.

1907 - PAMBER HEATH SCHOOLCHILDREN ENTERTAINED > 'Children's Treat - With her characteristic kindness, Mrs. Oppé entertained the day scholars (numbering over forty) and the Sunday scholars (sixty) to a tea in the schoolroom on Saturday afternoon. From 3.30 to half past six, the young folks and their teachers, The Misses Hall, L. Saunders, L. James and K. Saunders, had a very happy time.' The 'capital tea' was catered for by Mrs. W. Benham. Afterwards, the day scholars 'sang several carols very sweetly', followed by "Bonnie Dundee", 'sung beautifully' by four elder girls from the Sunday School. 'Two huge, heavily-laden Christmas trees were unveiled' and presents distributed to all, suited to their ages and needs, provided by Mrs. Oppé and Mrs. Wiggett. 'Before leaving hearty cheers were given for Mrs. Oppé and others. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 12th of January, 1907.

1907 - WEDDING OF JOHN OPPÉ TO SARAH STEPHEN IN CANADA > 'The marriage between John Daniel Oppé and Sarah Jackson Stephen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Stephen, was solemnized on Tuesday at 502, Sherbrooke-street, Montreal, Canada, the residence of the bride's parents. Mr. J .D. Oppé is manager and director of Marconi's Wireless Telegraph Company of Canada, and is a son of the late S. A. Oppé  and of Mrs. Oppé, of Pamber Heath, Basingstoke. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 19th of January, 1907.

1907 - ARTHUR LONG CHARGED > 'Mentally deficient - On Saturday last, at Basingstoke, before Mr. W. J. Cooper, a young man named Arthur Long was brought up charged with stealing a horse collar from the stable of Mr. Thomas Bowman on Thursday night. Mr. Cooper remanded the prisoner until Monday in order that enquiries might be made into his mental condition. On Monday the magistrate said he had a communication from the Governor of Winchester Prison stating that the prisoner was, in the opinion of the prison doctor, mentally deficient and not a fit subject for penal discipline. That being so he should discharge the prisoner as far as this case was concerned.' He was discharged. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 19th of January, 1907.

1907 - MR. HENRY WIGGETT SELLS A SPRING CART > Advertisement - 'For Sale, strong two-wheeled Spring Cart: new wheels and springs. - H. Wiggett Esq., White House, Pamber Heath, near Basingstoke.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of April, 1907.

1907 JESSE BROADHURST CHARGED WITH CRUELTY TO HIS WIFE > 'Quarrels of Husband and Wife - Jesse Broadhurst, of Pamber Heath, a carter in the employ of Mr. George Ford, was summoned by his wife Alma, who is his cousin, it being alleged that by persistent cruelty he had caused her to live apart from him, and she asked for an order of maintenance...The marriage took place at Herriard on the 16th April, 1906, and a child was born on the 17th July. The wife alleged acts of cruelty in the shape of assaults on various dates, but all these quarrels were patched up except the one which occurred on the 25th April...On Christmas Day he struck her four or five times on the arm with his clenched fist and pushed her onto the sofa. Her arm was bruised...On the 2nd February...Then he struck her in both eyes and made her nose bleed, and also accidently hit the baby, which bore a mark for a week...She replied that she would not go if he would go on better. After a time he promised to go on better and she then decided to stay...the defendant went out and said if she was not gone by the time he got back at night he would kill her...went home to her mother's. She had not been back to him since. She left because she was afraid of him...defendant declared that he had never laid hands on his wife but once, and that she had run him into debt to the extent of nearly £10...the Chairman said: we don't want to break up this marriage and we hope you will try and see if you can get on together. For the present we make no order at all, but we adjourn the case for four weeks.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: 4th of May, 1907.

1907 - JOSEPH MONARCH WELLS EMIGRATES TO CANADA > Joseph Monarch Wells, son of Joseph and Elizabeth Wells of Pamber Heath, set sail for Canada at the Port of Liverpool and arrived at the Port of Montreal, Quebec, on the 18th of June, 1907 aboard the ship Vancouver. He was 18 years old and his occupation was stated as a carpenter. ITEM SOURCE: Passenger list, 1907.

1907 - JAMES RAMPTON FINED FOR SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OF DAUGHTER > 'Irregular Attendance - James Rampton, labourer, of Pamber Heath, did not appear to answer a summons alleging that he had not caused his daughter Lily, aged 12, to attend school regularly. Mr. J. Jibb, school attendance officer, produced a certificate signed by the Head Mistress of Silchester School, stating that Lily was absent from school on the 13th June and her attendances since the 8th April had been only 58 out of a possible 93. The parents had been continually warned, and this summons was the last resort. Throughout her school life Lily's attendance had been very bad. Her mother came to him one night last week and expressed sorrow and promised amendment, and since the summons had been issued the girl had attended regularly, so he was in hopes that a small penalty would meet the case. The defendant was a hard-working man. A fine of 1s without costs was imposed, but Lord Basing said that if the defendant was summoned again of course it would be very different.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 29th of June, 1907.

1907 - WILLIAM RAWLINGS FINED FOR STEALING MOP HANDLES > 'Divisional Petty Sessions, Wednesday - Larceny of Mop Handles - Wm. Rawlings, of Pamber, chimney sweep, was charged with stealing a bundle of mop handles, value 1s., the property of Mr. John Stacey, wood dealer of Tadley...Evidence was given...Police-constable Pett to the effect that on the 25th of May, at 5.30 p.m., (Wm.) Bowman was walking through Pamber Forest, where he had been at work, and saw defendant carrying a bundle of mop handles. He walked behind him and then whistled to him, and the defendant then threw the bundle down in a ditch beside a meadow...Rawlings was a widower with several children. Recently part of his cottage fell or was blown down, and since then he had been living in a tent. He was passing through Pamber Forest, and being in need of firewood he took this bundle. Defendant was fined 10s.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 13th of July, 1907.

1907 - HENRY WIGGETT TO LET HOUSE ON SILCHESTER COMMON > Advertisement: 'To let (unfurnished), well built house standing high on Silchester Common; fine views; gravel soil; 5 bedrooms, 2 sitting rooms, offices, bath room (h. & c.); acetylene gas; garden and paddock 5 acres; 2 tennis courts; green-house; stabling; rent, £80 - H. Wiggett, Esq., White House, Pamber Heath, Basingstoke.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 13th of July, 1907.

1907 - ALFRED WEST FINED FOR HAVING UNLIGHTED CART > 'Unlighted Cart - At the Divisional Petty Sessions at Basingstoke, on Wednesday, Alfred West, labourer, was fined 5s, including costs, for driving a pony and cart at Pamber Heath without a light at 9.30 p.m. on the 2nd September. He did not appear, having gone to Farnham to pick up hops. P.C. Pett said that when he stopped the cart the defendant said the candle went out up by Rose's shop. "But you have no lamp here", said the constable. "No", the defendant replied. "I borrowed one, and when the candle went out I gave the lamp back." He should have borrowed another candle.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 21st of September, 1907.

1907 - REV. T. H. CUTHBERT TO LEAVE PAMBER HEATH > ' Pamber Heath Mission Room was crowded on Sunday last. The occasion was the leave-taking of the Rev. T. Cuthbert...his departure for New Brunswick (Canada) to take up work again after having spent 18 months' absence...For the last three months the reverend gentleman and his wife have done very acceptable work in Pamber Heath. During their stay they have, by their uniform kindness and quiet, manner, endeared themselves to the community at large, and great regret is felt at their departure...the clergyman thanked his co-workers and many friends, some not identified with the congregation, for all their kindnesses (especially during his critical illness after Easter).' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 23rd of November, 1907.

1907 - PRESENTATION TO REV. T. H. CUTHBERT AND MRS. CUTHBERT > 'As reported in our last issue much regret is felt at the departure of Rev. T. H. and Mrs. Cuthbert from Pamber Heath, and in order to show in a tangible form appreciation of their services, many friends had subscribed to a fund for the purchase of a testimonial to be given to Mr. and Mrs. Cuthbert. The appeal for subscriptions was liberally responded to, and a very handsome Queen Anne silver plated tea service was obtained. On Thursday evening, November 21st, Mr. William Yates (the organist at Pamber Heath Mission Room), after having delivered an excellent lantern lecture entitled "The Way to Heaven" to a large and appreciative audience, made the presentation in the name of the subscribers. He did this in neat little speech. The inscription on the service was: "Presented to Rev. T. H. and Mrs. Cuthbert by friends of Pamber Heath Mission Room, 1907." Mr. Cuthbert feelingly acknowledged the gifts and assured all friends how greatly he and his wife would prize them. For a length of time be dwelt on the kindness and helpfulness of one and all, and he particularly thanked the members of the choir and the Sunday School teachers for their services.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 30th of November, 1907.

1908 - MOTOR CAR STUCK FAST DUE TO POOR STATE OF THE ROAD  > 'Silchester - State of the Roads - When the frost broke up the roads in this neighbourhood got in a very bad state, and travelling was difficult matter, especially for heavy traffic...but the worst bit in our immediate neighbourhood is between the traditional Impstone at the corner of Silchester Common and the "Old Dripping Pan, Strawberry Gardens". It was along this bit, not far from the Pelican Inn, that a motor car got trapped - not with stop watches and police signals for exceeding the speed limit, but it got fast embedded in a slough of despond in the middle of the highway. It was with a good deal of lifting and heave-ho by men who gradually gathered on the spot...that the car was extricated from its awkward position...amongst other refreshments about a couple of gallons of Messrs. Simonds' celebrated Reading ale was requisitioned.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 25th of January, 1908.

1908 - CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM  CHAPMAN FINED > 'Unlighted Bicycle - At quarter past eight p.m., on the 5th February, P.C. Chandler, of Silchester, saw Christopher William Chapman, a labourer, of Tadley, riding an unlighted bicycle at Pamber Heath. He pleaded guilty to the offence and was fined 6s, including costs, and allowed a week to pay. ITEM 0371 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 22nd of February, 1908.

1908 - WILLIAM GRAINGER FINED FOR POSSESSION OF POACHING EQUIPMENT > ' A Clever Poacher - At the Reading County Bench on Saturday, William Grainger of Pamber was summoned under the Poaching Prevention Act for having nets and a ferret in his possession at Mortimer on February 5th. P.S. Godwin said defendant was a very clever poacher, who got his living by it all the winter. Many complaints had been made during the last six weeks by gamekeepers and owners about him. Defendant said "It was not a fair catch". Defendant, who had six convictions for various offences, was fined 10s 6d and 9s 6d costs, or seven days. ITEM 0371 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 22nd of February, 1908.

1908 - FORMER OLD HATCHET LANDLORD IN BANKRUPTCY HEARING > 'Bankruptcy Notices - Winchester - Bell, Richard,  Pamber Heath, Basingstoke, late of Homeland Farms, Cowfold, farmer. May 13 at 11.0 am, at The Castle, Winchester.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: London Evening Standard, 28th of March, 1908.

1908 - JETHRO WILLIAM HOBBIS EMIGRATES TO CANADA > On the 22nd of May, 1908 Jethro William Hobbis and family set sail on the Virginian at the Port of Liverpool for Quebec, Canada. They arrived on the 30th of May, 1908 at the Port of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. His occupation was stated as a farmer and the intended destination was Vermillion, Alberta, Canada. This family were living in a house in Silchester Road, Pamber Heath and Jethro's occupation had been a baker and breadmaker. ITEM SOURCE: Passenger list.

1908 - HOSPITAL SUNDAY PARADE PASSES THROUGH PAMBER HEATH > 'On Sunday last this annual parade for the good object of providing a fund to ensure a supply of hospital tickets in case of illness or accident for this district took place. The amount collected is considered good, being more than last year...The Tadley Gospel Temperance Band deserve the highest praise...The meeting in the morning was at the Impstone at 9.30., and the band then wended its way through Pamber Heath by Bowman's Brook...It was found that the total amount collected in church and in the boxes was £13 3s 6 and three quarter pence.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 5th of September, 1908.

1908 - CAPTAIN AYRTON TAKES CHARGE OF PAMBER HEATH CHURCH > Around this time, Captain Ayrton of the Church Army arrived in Pamber Heath to begin his ministry at the Mission Church.

1908 - CAPTAIN AYRTON HELPS AT MONK SHERBORNE > 'Monk Sherborne - Reading Room...Captain Ayrton, of the Church Army, came over from Pamber Heath and gave his services in attending to the lantern and slides. The lantern was also kindly lent by him for the occasion. The next entertainment will be held on Saturday, November 28th, and will be arranged by Mr. Webb.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 21st of November, 1908.

1908 - CONSERVATIVE ASSOCIATION LECTURE OFF TO A BAD START > 'Tariff Reform Lecture' - A lecture on poverty and unemployment, illustrated by lantern slides, took place in the Mission Room, Pamber Heath 'on Tuesday evening', given by Mr. Stephen White under the auspices of the West Hants and North Hants Conservative Associations. 'A political meeting in this hamlet does not usually pass off without incidents...they were more amused than surprised to find the door of the room locked and the key missing from the peg upon which it had been hung. The door having been forced open, the room was soon completely filled.' The lecture concerned the poverty in London and pictures of poverty there, as well as those of many foreign imported goods, were shown, the suggestion being that if only an import duty was to be levied then perhaps more goods would be made here and increase employment, so reducing poverty. The import of hops was of particular interest. The lecture continued for an hour and a quarter but was ended abruptly due to the constant interruptions by Mr. Stacey, who apologised, saying he was only asking about matters of interest to him. Reactions to the lecture are given below. ITEM 0371 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 12th of December, 1908.

1908 - PAMBER HEATH MEN COMMENT ON POVERTY AND UNEMPLOYMENT LECTURE > Following the lecture above: 'Some of the men of Pamber Heath grouped themselves round the motor-car, which was waiting outside the Mission Room to convey Major Vigors and the Lecturer back to Basingstoke. Their comments on what they had listened to were curious, if not suggestive. "They never zed nothin' about bread, lookee." "I wants to know what they be gwain to do wi' the staff o' life, 'sno." "They can keep out they foreign hops, if they be minded," said another. "I don't want to zee our hops grubbed up." "How about gloves and pianners! " This was from a man who was evidently inclined to take a comprehensive view of the subject. "The needsnt trouble thy head about gloves, or silks, or pianners, 'sno," said the first speaker. "We be moor concerned about our vittles." ' As the two men left in the motor-car: ' "Hurray!" shouted some of the natives, "Boo-oo," groaned the rest, and so visitors and natives separated from each other.' ITEM 0371 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 12th of December, 1908.

1909 - SERVICE OF SONG AT THE MISSION CHURCH > 'The people of Pamber Heath have for some time been without a resident clergyman but they are fortunate in having Capt. George Ayrton in charge of the Mission Church. He has organised weekly entertainments and is ably backed up in those undertakings by Mr. W. Yates, of the Post Office, Silchester. On Tuesday evening a good congregation assembled to hear a Service of Song entitled "Billy Bray". A choir of 12 in number took the singing parts. Mr. W. Yates presided at the organ. Capt. G. Ayrton gave the connected readings. These bright evening entertainments are most enjoyable and help to break the monotonous round of everyday life in country villages in the winter time.' ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 2nd of January, 1909.

1909 - GRAMOPHONE ENTERTAINMENT AT THE MISSION CHURCH > Mrs. Hume Winn kindly gave a gramophone entertainment at the Mission Church on 'Wednesday evening'. Miss Harrison was in charge of the gramophone and there was a crowded audience who were delighted with the lengthy entertainment. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 9th of January, 1909.

1909 - THOMAS WEST FINED FOR BEING DRUNK AT THE OLD HATCHET > 'Drunkenness - 'Thomas West, a labourer, residing at Mortimer West End, was charged with being found drunk on the licensed premises of the Old Hatchet beerhouse at Pamber, on the 26th of December. Defendant said he was "guilty of being found there the worse for drink." Police-constable Chandler said that about 8 p.m. he heard some groaning in a shed belonging to the Old Hatchet beerhouse, Pamber Heath, and on looking in he found the defendant there asleep...as he could barely walk the constable saw him home...He appealed for leniency as he had a large family to keep. Fined 5s., including costs, and allowed a fortnight to pay. ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 9th of January, 1909.

1909 - BENHAM'S FAMOUS LARDY CAKE ENJOYED AT SCHOOL TREATS > Mrs. Oppé gave her annual two treats: one on Friday at 4pm for the day scholars, mothers and teachers and the other on Saturday at 5pm for the Sunday scholars, fathers and teachers. Mr. and Mrs. Benham catered for the events and there was an 'ample supply of their famous Lardy Cake.' Each adult and child received a present from a large Christmas tree. There were songs, games and much enjoyed by all. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of January, 1909.

1909 - CLOSURE OF PAMBER HEATH SCHOOL A HARDSHIP SAY VILLAGERS > Pamber Heath School is to close on Friday the 29th of January, 1909. The school was provided by the local Squire at the time, Richard Benyon, who gave £50 a year to fund it, as did the present Squire (J. H. Benyon) until it was taken over by the new County Education Committee. They are closing it to economise by ordering the children to attend other schools. Fifteen will go to Silchester School and eight to Tadley School. Miss Hall, who had been headmistress for 11 years since March, 1898 and held in high regard by all, was presented with a purse of gold, subscribed to by many, by Mrs. Oppé after the annual treat on Friday (see previous item). Miss Hall will take up the post of headmistress at the large Church of England Infants' School at Hawley on the 1st of February. The closure is considered a hardship by Pamber Heath people and it was supposed that if only a petition had been put in hand, the closure would not have come about. ITEMS 0103 & 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th and 23rd of January, 1909.

1909 - FAREWELL TO PAMBER HEATH SCHOOL HEADMISTRESS > A farewell gathering and presentation took place on 'Wednesday afternoon in last week' when villagers and friends assembled in the Schoolroom to bid farewell to Miss Hall, who had been headmistress for eleven years and was leaving for Hawley. 74 sat down to a tea catered for by Mrs. Benham, followed by songs, recitations and piano solos. A presentation was made to Miss Hall of a silver-backed hair brush and comb as a token of appreciation by the parishioners of Pamber and Monk Sherborne, not only for her work in the school but for her work as a Sunday School teacher, for being a member of the church choir and generally supporting the work of the church. A short farewell service followed. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of February, 1909.

1909 - PAMBER HEATH SCHOOL LOG BOOK CLOSED > With the closure of Pamber Heath School, the log book, which was started in 1887, was also closed. The book recorded many events at the school, mostly attendance, school reports and the items studied such as those used for object lessons. Other less mundane events were recorded, such as the scarlet fever outbreak in 1900, which resulted in the deaths of three pupils, and deep snow causing the school to close in 1901. There was also mention of the frequent late opening of the school after the summer breaks, due to families being away hop-picking late September into October. ITEM 0322 SOURCE: Pamber Heath School log book, document ref. 141M87/LB1, Hampshire Record Office.

1909 - 'I'LL VOTE LIBERAL TO DO AWAY WITH HOUSE OF LORDS' > A Liberal Party meeting took place in the School on ' Wednesday evening' and the prospective Liberal Party candidate for North Hants Mr. J. E. Wallis was present. The meeting was well attended and one of the main topics discussed was the House of Lords veto. Mr. Penny of Mortimer West pledged himself to vote for Mr. Wallis if he could promise the Liberal Party really meant to do away with the House of Lords. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 27th of February, 1909.

1909 - PETITION MADE CONCERNING BAD STATE OF THE ROADS > 'A petition dated December 19th last, and signed by certain inhabitants of Bramley, was read as follows...wish to draw your attention to the disgraceful state of the roads in this district during the winter months owing to the method of repairing them, by throwing gravel broadcast and leaving it to be rolled in by the traffic instead of employing a steam roller as in almost all other parts of England. Two particularly bad instances have been...and the road at Pamber Heath, which is at present quite impassable. In conclusion, we request that something be done in future years to remedy this disgraceful state of affairs.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 27th of February, 1909.

1909   - OLD HATCHET LICENCE OBJECTED TO ON GROUNDS OF REDUNDANCY > 'Basingstoke Town Hall - Wednesday - The other licence objected to on the ground of redundancy was the Old Hatchet beerhouse at Pamber...Supt. Reynolds said the Old Hatchet was an ante-1860 beerhouse, situated on the road leading from Silchester to Tadley. It was 180 yards from the Pelican alehouse and three-quarters of a mile from the Crown at Silchester...There were 63 houses within a quarter-mile radius of the Old Hatchet...The house contained a tap room...a sitting room...a cellar, pantry, kitchen, scullery, four bedrooms...and one small sitting room...stabling for three horses, and one open and one lock-up shed...The tenant informed them that he had paid no rent...The Pelican...was a much superior house altogether. In his opinion, both these houses were not required...the Old Hatchet did very little trade...The magistrates considered their decision...This licence will be referred to the Licensing Committee at Winchester and it will be granted provisionally.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of March, 1909.

1909 - FUNERAL OF MRS. J. B. HILL > 'On Saturday last, the mortal remains of Mrs. Hill, wife of Mr. J. B. Hill, who formerly resided at Basingstoke, and later on at Hook, were laid to rest in the burial ground at Tadley Congregational Church. The weather was very rough and stormy, but despite this Mr. J. B. Hill, the aged husband, attended the funeral, as also did Mr. Hill, junr., and Mr. R. Sterry Wallis, J. P., from Basingstoke. The service was solemn and impressive, concluding in the church with the hymn "Jesus, lover of my soul." Rev. T. W. Robilliard officiated. Mr. James Goddard was the undertaker.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 13th of March, 1909.

1909 - OLD HATCHET BEERHOUSE FORCED INTO PERMANENT CLOSURE UNDER LICENSING ACT, 1904 > 'Mr. Ernest B. Charles (Western Circuit) appeared to represent the Renewal Authority in the case of the Old Hatchet (beerhouse), Pamber, Mr. Henry White appearing for the owners and tenant. Superintendent Reynolds gave formal evidence, stating that a house offering better accommodation was situate 180 yards away. The licences were refused.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 29th of May, 1909.

1909 - COMPENSATION AUTHORITY INVITES CLAIMS > 'County of Southampton - The Licensing Act, 1904 - Notice as to Sending in Claims as Persons Interested in Licensed Premises - Notice is hereby given that the Compensation Authority...having decided ...to refuse the renewal of the licences of the premises specified below, all persons claiming to be interested in the said premises or any of them for the purpose of the payment of compensation...are required to send to the Compensation Authority notice of their claims before the 26th day of June 1909...Notice of claims must be given in the form annexed, and may be sent to the Clerk of the Compensation Authority at his office at the Castle, Winchester.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 5th of June, 1909.

1909 - MOSES RAWLINGS DIES IN THE UNION WORKHOUSE > Moses Rawlings, formerly of Pamber Heath, died in the Union Workhouse at Basingstoke on the 13th of July, 1909. Moses was born about 1826 in Stratfield Turgis, Hampshire, the son of William and Martha Rawlings. He married Amelia Rawlings in 1852 at Tadley, Hampshire. The couple came to Pamber Heath from Tadley around 1862 and lived in a small cottage situated in the Burney Piece (Bit). Moses worked as a chimney sweep and Amelia was a pedlar/hawker. The family were often in trouble with the law due to drunkenness and fights often broke out. He was still working as a chimney sweeper in 1901 at the age of 71 but he later was admitted to the Basingstoke Union Workhouse where he was to end his days. ITEM SOURCE:

1909 - NO COMPENSATION FOR OLD HATCHET BEERHOUSE BY COMPENSATION AUTHORITY > 'A supplemental meeting of the Compensation Authority under the Licensing Act, 1904, was held at the Castle, Winchester, on Tuesday, to receive suggested agreements in respect of referred houses...but in every case the agreement was not approved, the result being that every single case was referred to the Inland Revenue Authorities for award. The houses in question and counsel appearing were as follows...Old Hatchet, Pamber Heath, Mr. H. White.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 24 July, 1909.

1909 - PARSONAGE AND OLD SCHOOL HOUSE LET TO MONK SHERBORNE > James Benyon let the Parsonage and old school house to the parish of Monk Sherborne at an annual rent of 5 shillings. It is believed that at this time the church at Pamber Heath was without a curate-in-charge and because of the recent closure of the school the school house was also vacant. ITEM SOURCE:

1909 - ARTHUR GODDARD DRUNK IN CHARGE OF A HORSE AND CART > 'Drunkenness - Arthur James Goddard, of Silchester, pleaded guilty to being drunk while in charge of a horse and cart at Pamber Heath, on July 26th. This being the defendant's first offence, he was discharged.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 7th of August, 1909.

1909 - THOMAS SAUNDERS AND WILLIAM RAMPTON FINED FOR UNLIGHTED CARRIAGES > 'Highway Offence - Thomas Stacey and William Rampton...did not appear to answer an information that the timber carriages of which they were respectively in charge were on the highway unlighted at Pamber Heath at 9.40 p.m., on the 19th July...Police-constable Chandler said he asked the defendant's why they had no light. They said...had been hindered...Mr. A. J. Stacey said that one of the horses ran into a boy at Mapledurwell and that was the reason they were late. A fine of 5s. each was imposed, the Chairman remarking that the men ought to have borrowed a lamp.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Chronicle, 7th of August, 1909.

1909 - FAREWELL AND PRESENTATION TO CAPTAIN AYRTON > 'An interesting event In the history of Church work at Pamber Heath took place on Wednesday evening in last week, when a goodly number of Church workers assembled in the Mission Church for the joint purpose of bidding goodbye to Captain Ayrton and welcoming the new minister, Rev. W. S. Walford. Captain Ayrton of the Church Army, had been in charge of the mission church at Pamber Heath for about 12 months, during which time he has worked with zeal and the utmost devotion, and the people have responded well by attending the services on Sundays and also his week night entertainments both at Pamber Heath and Little London. A kindly letter was read from Miss Hall, who previous to the closing of the little day school at Pamber Heath by the County Education Committee, had worked with Capt. Ayrton in the parish. During the evening there was a short musical programme...A pleasing feature of the meeting was a presentation by Mrs. Oppee in well chosen words of a purse of gold subscribed for by the parishioners to Capt. Ayrton for his untiring efforts...Capt. Ayrton warmly thanked Mrs. Oppee...He also expressed the Rev. Walford's regret at not being able to be present.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 11th of September, 1909.

1909 - REV. WALTER SHELLEY WALFORD COMMENCES HIS MINISTRY AT PAMBER HEATH > 'The Rev. W. S. Walford has now arrived from Sydmondsbury, Bridport, and taken up the duties here. He preached for the first time on Sunday last. There was a crowded congregation in the evening and the service was bright and hearty.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 11th of September, 1909.

1909 - PAMBER HEATH MISSION CHURCH BECOMES ST. LUKE'S CHURCH > The church at Pamber Heath became known as St. Luke's Church around this time and I have researched but have been unable to find a newspaper report concerning this event. It seems that the new curate - Rev. W. S. Walford - was instrumental in bringing about the change of name but it would not be until later in October, 1910 that a dedication service for St. Luke's Church would take place - see the item later on this page.

1909 - FIR TREE COTTAGE LAND CONVEYANCE > The sale by auction documents in 1949 for 'Fir Tree Cottage' (now known as 'Treacle Cottage') at what is now the corner of Pamber Heath Road and Church Road, referred to '...a Conveyance on Sale dated the 19th November, 1909'. This is possibly the transfer of land prior to the building of the cottage. ITEM 0311 SOURCE: Sale documents, 1949.

1910 - CHRISTMAS CHURCH SERVICES WELL ATTENDED > Services at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath were well attended over the Christmas period. The Rev W.S. Walford preached at them all. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of January, 1910.

1910 - CHOIR SUPPER AT CHURCH COTTAGE > On 'Tuesday evening' a supper was held for the choir at Church Cottage, Pamber Heath. Captain Ayrton of the Church Army, who had charge of Pamber Heath before the coming of Rev. W.S. Walford, was present and a happy time was spent by all. After the supper, Rev. W.S. Walford presented the organist, Mr. W. Yates, with a bound copy of Handels Messiah, subscribed to by the choir. The boys and girls were given a little money present. There were recitations, songs and speeches given by Captain Ayrton, Rev. Walford and others. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of January, 1910.

1910 - SAILOR'S EXPERIENCE WITH WATER AND A LITTLE GIRL > '...journeying through Silchester. On Saturday week, a sailor travelled from Portsmouth with a little girl, and alighting at Bramley Station, proceeded to walk to Pamber Heath to visit his friends there. On reaching that part of the road known as the Withy Bed by the Brook the floods were out and the footbridge some 10 or 12 inches under water...Equal to the occasion the sailor took off his boots and stockings, rolled up his trousers and carried the little girl safely to the other side.' ITEM SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of January, 1910.

1910 - MR. T. OPPÉ GIVES A SPEECH AT MONK SHERBORNE > Mr. T. A. Oppé of Pamber Heath gave a speech 'Saturday last' at the Priory School, Monk Sherborne concerning the Liberal candidate for the forthcoming election. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 8th of January, 1910.

1910 - PAMBER HEATH RIFLE RANGE AT THE WHITE HOUSE > A 25 yard range at the White House, Pamber Heath, residence of Mr. Wiggett, is in use by the Pamber Heath Rifle Club and influential people of the neighbourhood are in support of it. Small rifles were used at first but Lee - Enfield service rifles were later supplied by subscription. The cup was presented to A. Cripps, winner of the rifle shoot, with a score of 821. Other good scores were: H. Wigley, 816, J. Bartlett?, 804, A. Wheeler, 785, Crawford Beer, 775. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 8th of January, 1910.

1910 - ANNUAL SLATE CLUB DINNER AT THE PELICAN INN > A total of 35 people were present for the annual dinner of the Slate Club, hosted by Mrs. Beer at the Pelican Inn, Pamber Heath. The secretary, Crawford Beer, gave his report stating that there was a balance of £30 2s 4d., providing a dividend of £1 6s 2d to each member. There was a 'bountiful spread'. Songs were sung, toasts were made and it was considered 'a most jovial evening'. Rev. W.S. Walford and Dr Langley were present. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 8th of January, 1910.

1910 - AUCTION OF HOUSEHOLD EFFECTS OF THE LATE MR. J B. HILL > Advertisement - 'Short Notice of Sale on Monday Next - Pamber Heath, Near Basingstoke - Messrs. Gillman & Sollom are instructed by the executors of the late Mr. J. B. Hill to sell by auction upon the premises useful household furniture and effects, including brass rail bedstead, mattresses, feather bed, blankets, chests of drawers, marble top washstands, dressing glasses, 3 small "Sampler" pictures, bookcase, easy and occasional chairs, drawing room suite, carpets, kitchen & numerous miscellaneous effects. Sale at 2 p.m. punctually. Catalogues may be had at the Auctioneers' Office, 29 Wote Street, Basingstoke.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 8th of January, 1910.

1910 - NEW ORGAN AT ST. LUKE'S CHURCH, PAMBER HEATH > A new organ was used for the first time 'last Thursday' at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath. An 'American Organ' was purchased for use in the church, funded by subscriptions in response to private appeals by Rev. W.S Walford. Mr. Benyon gave £15. Rev. W. S. Walford has been in charge at St. Luke's for six months. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 19th of February and 12th of March, 1910.

1910 - PAMBER PARISH COUNCIL ELECTION > Elected to the Pamber Parish Council were: Benjamin Fell, Thomas Kimber, Charles Stroud, William Simpson, Arthur Smith and Alfred Bushell. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 19th of March, 1910.

1910 - WILLIAM STROUD & JOSEPH WELLS APPOINTED TRUSTEES > William Stroud of Pamber Heath was appointed as a trustee of the Adam De Ports Charity and William Stroud and Joseph Wells, also of Pamber Heath, were appointed as trustees for the Sympsons and Wheats charities. They will hold office for a period of four years. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 19th of March, 1910.

1910 - SUNDAY DELIVERY OF POST REQUESTED > Pamber Parish Council will write to the Postmaster General to request a Sunday delivery of post for the whole of the Tadley area. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 19th of March, 1910.

1910 - QUASI VESTRY MEETING AT CHURCH COTTAGE > 'The vestry meeting was held at the Church Cottage on Tuesday evening. A goodly number attended, among those present being Rev. W. S. Walford, who took the chair, Mr. Wigget, Mr. H. J. Whistler, Mr. W. Benham, Mr. James Yates junior, Mr. A. J. Goddard and Mr. W. Yates. Mr. Wigget presented the accounts, which were approved. Mr. Wigget was nominated vicar's actuate acting warden, Mr. W. Benham was elected to perform a like office on behalf of the people. The  following were elected acting sidesman: Misses Whisper, Lowe, Soper and J. Yates. Mr. T. Hunt was appointed bellringer. Several proposed improvements to the church were discussed.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 2nd of April, 1910.

1910 - EASTER SERVICES AT ST. LUKE'S  WELL ATTENDED > 'The service for Easter Day was specially bright and hearty. The little church was most tastefully adorned with plants and flowers by the willing band of workers and looked very pretty and effective with the morning sunshine shining in upon it. Services were well attended. Total for the day £4 10s 11d. The choir deserved our praise. Mr. Walford conducted the services throughout the day. There were crowded congregations and in the evening chairs had to be requisitioned although even then all that came could not get in.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 2nd of April, 1910.

1910 - PRETTY WEDDING OF MISS ROSA ANNIE CRIPPS > 'Marriage of Mr. Fred Stacey and Miss Rosa Cripps. - Admittedly one of the prettiest weddings that has ever taken place at the old Congregational Church was solemnised on Monday at Tadley Hill...The bride, Miss Rosa Annie Cripps, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Cripps, of Pamber Heath, is widely known. She has been assistant teacher at Aldermaston Schools for about eight years. On leaving the school she was the recipient of a handsome silver teapot, given her by teachers and scholars. The bridegroom, Mr. Frederick Stacey, second son of Mr. and Mrs. John Stacey, of Tadley Hill, is well known throughout the countryside. He was attended by Mr. Lennox Stacey, his younger brother. The bride, who was prettily dressed in cream Bodmin brocade, and tulle veil, with orange blossom, carried a bouquet of white roses, lilies of the valley and asparagus fern (the gift of an old school friend). She was given away by her step-brother, Mr. Fred Froome, and she was attended by five bridesmaids - the Misses Maud, Grace and Susie Stacey (sisters of the bridegroom), and Misses Edith and Lillie Monger (nieces of the bride)....The Rev. T. W. Robilliard officiated...A reception was held at their new home, Pamber Heath, where a jovial gathering of relatives and friends met, and festivities were also held at the bridegroom's home. Appealed is the list of presents...' ( A large list of presents and whom from is listed in the full article). ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 2nd of April, 1910.

1910 - FORMER OLD HATCHET BEERHOUSE RECEIVES £50 COMPENSATION > 'Hants Licensing - Division of Compensation for 28 Licenses - ...The committee then considered the question of the division of compensation in the case of 28 licenses. The total amount of the compensation allowed was £13,757, ranging from £50 in the case of the Old Hatchet, Pamber, to £1290 for the Forton Brewery, Alverstoke.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE:  Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of April, 1910.

1910 - DEATH OF THE REV. T. H. CUTHBERT IN CANADA > 'Mr. W. Yates has received a letter from Mrs. Augusta Cuthbert bringing the sad news, which was received with deep regret, of the death of the Rev. T. H. Cuthbert, Rector of Derby, N.B., Canada. The deceased clergyman had been subject to attacks of angina pectoris during the last three years and he had a fatal seizure on March 29th. He had just returned to the Rectory from a visit up river and spoke a few words to his family, after which he expired suddenly. The Rev. T. H. Cuthbert was curate-in-charge at Pamber Heath from January to November, 1907, and although only here for a short time he endeared himself to all, as was manifested by the tokens of goodwill he received on his departure for Canada. He leaves a widow and two children to mourn his loss, and to them heartfelt sympathy is extended. The funeral took place on the Friday following his death. There was a very large gathering at the service and lovely flowers were sent. At. Pamber Heath Church on Sunday evening touching references were made to the sad event by Rev. W. S. Walford from the pulpit.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 23rd of April, 1910.

1910 - SPECIAL SERVICE TO MARK THE FUNERAL OF THE KING > 'On Friday at 1 o'clock at the time of the funeral at Windsor a united service for this long and straggling parish was held at the Priory Church...The large congregation, which included people from the extreme ends of the parish, filled the sacred building to overflowing...All the clergy of the parish assisted in the service...The united choirs of the Priory, Monk Sherborne and Pamber Heath took part in the service. Mr. W. Yates, organist at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath, was at the organ..."God save the King" was sung...The day was observed as a day of general mourning throughout the parish. It may be of interest to mention that three generations of the Yates family were present at this service. There was little Jim Yates, who led the choir with Jack Benham, and his father, Mr. James Yates, who is also in the St. Luke's choir, while Mr. James Yates (the grandfather) was also in the congregation, having come over with one of the van loads from Silchester.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 28th of May, 1910.

1910 - PHILIP WEST CHARGED WITH SETTING FIRE TO POOR'S COMMON > More to follow.

1910 - FRED LONG BITTEN BY AN ADDER > 'A remarkable misadventure happened on Sunday afternoon to a lad named Fred Long, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Long of Pamber Heath. It appears he put his hand into a hole in the bank down by the forest, thinking it was a birds nest, and a large adder bit the back of his left hand and made it bleed. He hurried home and his father put the pony in the cart and drove him to Dr Daly, who treated the injury and gave him medicine. The boy's hand and arm were very much swollen and he was in great pain. He has been very ill in consequence and for a time his life hung in the balance. We are pleased to say that the boy is now making a rapid recovery and can eat now and was able to get out in the garden a little on Tuesday.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 28th of May and 4th of June, 1910.

1910 - THANKS FOR PETITION REGARDING PRISONER PHILIP WEST > 'Notice - Philip West, of Pamber Heath, and his relatives wish to thank all the kind friends who so readily signed the petition drawn up by Messrs. Brain and Brain, solicitors, to try and obtain his release from prison, where he was sent on what many believe to be a false charge of setting fire to the Poor's Common. They also desire to thank all those who offered money to pay the expenses.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 18th of June, 1910.

1910 - COUNCIL MEETING CONCERNING PARISH POUND > 'Pamber Parish Council meeting was attended by H. E. A. Wiggett, chairman, Mrs. C. Stroud, B. Fell A. Smith, A. Bushell, W. Simpson. With Mr. A. Kimber Clarke, the chairman was requested by the council to call the parish meeting in October or November in order to meet the feeling of the parishioners reference to the prosale of the parish pound.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 16th of July, 1910.

1910 - BIBLE RESTER PRESENTED TO ST. LUKE'S CHURCH > 'Another adornment to St. Luke's Church: On Saturday last Miss Cockerton generously presented to St. Luke's Church, a massive, revolving brass bible rester for the pulpit. This is only another proof among many of the kind thought and generosity of Miss Cockerton since her residence in the neighbourhood.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of August, 1910.

1910 - ST. LUKE'S CHURCH CHOIR SEASIDE OUTING TO COWES > 'The choir and church workers of St. Luke's had a seaside excursion on Monday last. The party travelled in the old time style in carriers vans to Basingstoke and thence by train to Southampton Docks and boat to Cowes. A party of between 30 and 40 had a most happy time.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 27th of August, 1910.

1910 - LARGE ONION ON VIEW AT THE PELICAN INN > A one and three-quarter pound onion, measuring sixteen inches in circumference, was on view at the Pelican Inn. The owner was not stated. Large vegetable marrows were also on display. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 24th of September, 1910.

1910 - CURACY FUND > 'The vicar acknowledges in the parish magazine the following contributions to the curacy fund. In addition to Mr. Benyon's handsome subscription of £75, viz. Mrs. Oppé £10, Mrs. Cockerton £5, Mr. H. Wiggett £5.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 24th of September, 1910.

1910 - DEDICATION SERVICE AT ST. LUKE'S CHURCH > ' St. Luke's Church Dedication Services - The earnest progressive work at this church under the ministry of the Rev. W. S. Walford. M.A. was again evident on Sunday last, when special services were carried out in connection with the dedication festival of the little church. The building was beautifully decorated with flowers and bracken in the glory of its autumn tints, artistically arranged...The services were attended by full congregations...On Tuesday, St. Luke's day, there was a celebration of Holy Communion at 11.a.m., and a special service in the evening.' ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 22nd of October, 1910.

1910 - BAD LANGUAGE TO A PONY RESULTS IN FINE > Eli Rose, a travelling grinder, encamped on Pamber Heath, was fined 10 shillings, including costs, for using obscene language. From the evidence of PC Chandler, he had been seen thrashing his pony and shouting bad language to it while driving at a 'tremendous pace' along the Silchester to Tadley road 'Saturday last at 8pm'. 'He was making use of bad language to his pony and witness could hear him half-a-mile away. Eli said it was only his boy singing. He had a boy in the trap.' Eli was said to have been drinking and police had received several complaints about his conduct since. He did not appear in court but his wife did, saying 'her husband was getting his living and had six children to keep'. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 29th of October, 1910.

1910 - HARVEST FESTIVAL > 'The harvest festival at St. Luke's Church took place on Sunday last. The little church looked at its best in its beautiful festal garb. A lovely supply of white chrysanthemums and other flowers, autumnal foliage and corn, fruit, vegetables and hops were used for the decorations, which were undertaken by Mrs. Hunt, Mrs. Saunders, Mrs. Fulford, Miss Hunt and Miss. J Parris.  Services were attended by full congregations and in the evening extra chairs had to be requisitioned. Mr. W. Yates presided at the organ in a most able manner. The singing was unusually bright and hearty led by the choir of 20 voices. Collections in aid of the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading amounted to £2 4s 2d. The offerings of fruit,vegetables etc. were sent to the Church Army Labour Home, Reading.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 5th of November, 1910.

1910 - ARTHUR LONG CHARGED WITH POACHING AT BRAMLEY > 'William Long, a young man of Tadley, and Arthur Long, 16, of Pamber Heath, were charged at the Divisional Petty Sessions at Basingstoke on Wednesday with trespassing in search of game on land in the possession of Mr. H. Welch-Thornton...P.C. Boswell, of Strathfield Saye, said: On Tuesday, November 29th, about 5 o'clock, I was with Frederick Jones, a keeper, concealed in little Devonish Wood...Two carts came along...We heard stones coning into the trees from a catapult...brought down a pheasant...I saw William Long running away...I saw Arthur Long come out of the wood...I followed and saw Arthur Long throw something down beside the road. It was a bird...The magistrates retired for a few minutes to consider the case...We fine Arthur Long 5s. and 9s. costs, and William Long (on account of a previous conviction) 10s. and 9s. costs. ITEM 0388 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 17th of December, 1910.

1910 - REV. WALTER SHELLEY WALFORD LEAVES PAMBER HEATH > Around this time, the Rev. Walter Shelley Walford finished his ministry at St. Luke's Church and left Pamber Heath.

1911 - NEW PAMBER PARISH OVERSEERS' BOOK BEGAN > A second book for recording payments and receipts by the overseers of the parish of Pamber was started. The first book covered the period between 1889 and 1911. The second book covered the period between 1911 and 1927. Both books are now lodged with Hampshire Record Office. ITEM 0326 SOURCE: Documents ref. 68M72/DU34 Parish Overseers' receipt and payment book, Pamber 1911-1927, 68M72/DU33 Parish Overseers' receipt and payment book, Pamber, 1889-1911, Hampshire Record Office.

1911 - THIRD 25-INCH ORDNANCE SURVEY MAP PRODUCED > Third edition of 'Pamber Heath'. The village is named as Pamber Heath (was previously shown as Pamber Common) and shows that much building had taken place in the Burney Piece (Burney Bit) area. No road names were given. The Red House and its estate is detailed as is The White House. Footpaths and the location of wells were shown. Houses and other buildings are detailed. ITEM 0102 SOURCE: Copy of map.

1911 - ELLEN MONGER ASSAULTED BY FATHER-IN-LAW > Assault on a daughter-in-law: At the Basingstoke Petty Sessions on Wednesday, David Monger, labourer of Pamber, was summoned, but did not appear, in respect of an assault on his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Ellen Monger, wife of Charles Monger of Pamber, during an argument about the taking away of the boy and girl who were at Ellen's home at the time. She said she had been married about 11 years and had two children - a boy and a girl. 'The husband's father, who lives in Tadley came to her house at 2.30pm and enquired for the husband but was not at home. The defendant said he would take the little boy but she refused to hand him over and said that he should not take the little girl because she belonged to William Stacey. Defendant then hit her on the right side of her face with his fist causing a bruise. Albert Broadhurst of Mulfords Hill, Tadley, brother of the complainant, said that he was at her house when the father-in-law came and said he would take the boy and also made a remark about the girl to the effect that she was to go to her father William Stacey.' David was fined £1 including costs. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 4th of February, 1911.

1911 - WILLIAM BENHAM BAKES CELEBRATED STANDARD BREAD > William Benham advertised that he bakes the celebrated Standard Bread, which can be obtained from him at Pamber Heath. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 18th of February, 1911.

1911 - PAMBER HEATH POST OFFICE OPENED AT MR. BENHAM'S SHOP > 'Postal improvements: Pamber Heath can now boast that it has its own post office, which is a great boon to this hamlet. Only a pillar-box hitherto existed and parcels and orders etc. had to be dealt with either at Tadley or Silchester, each a mile distant. Now we have a 'full-blown' post office opened at Mr. Benham's shop. We hope soon to say the telegraph has been also connected.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 25th of February, 1911.

1911 - REV. E. DIGGES LATOUCHE COMMENCES HIS MINISTRY > 'At St. Luke's Church on Sunday last the Rev. E. Digges Latouche M.A., Dr. of Trinity College, Dublin, commenced his ministry at Pamber Heath.' He came into residence the previous week. 'There were good congregations both morning and evening. Dr. D. Latouche, whose degree of doctor of letters was obtained by his recently published book Christian Certitude, has been elected to deliver the Donellan Lectures at Trinity College, Dublin for the current year. He is both a student and practiced debater who has been doing important evangelistic evidential work in the north of England. For reason's connected with Mr. Latouche's health, he has been led to work in the south. Up to recently, he had been curate of St. John's, Bradford'. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 25th of February, 1911.

1911 - FIRST PAMBER HEATH SCOUT TROOP FORMED > 'Pamber Heath Boy Scouts: A movement in connection with St. Luke's Church to raise a troop of boy scouts is making good progress and a good number of boys has been enrolled. The Rev. D. Latouche and Mr. Wiggett are working energetically in the movement.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of April, 1911.

1911 - GIRL FOUND WANDERING AT KINGSCLERE SENT TO INDUSTRIAL HOME > 'Children's Court - Phoebe Dowling, aged 13 years, was brought up for wandering without a fixed place of abode under the Children Act, at Kingsclere, on the 6th March...girl came to the police station...she was wet through...said she came from Basingstoke...slept in a lodging house the night before..had no father, and did not know where her mother was. She had been living with gipsies, one of whom, Mrs. Cole, was living in a van on Pamber Heath and called at the police station to make inquiries respecting the girl...the mother had given the girl to her about four years ago of her own free will. She went out on the 6th of March and did not return...the father and mother were both dead, and she was now anxious to have the girl back. The Bench committed the girl to the Devon and Cornwall Industrial Home.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 8th of April, 1911.

1911 - ST. LUKE'S CHURCH PROGRESSING FAVOURABLY > 'St. Luke's Church - This church is progressing favourably under the Ministry of the Rev Digges La Touche, Litt. D. the last two collections for the Church Missionary Society, which are taken on one Sunday in the month, realised nearly £4...The services on Easter-day were bright and hearty, and attended by crowded congregations. The collections during the day amounted to £4 11s. 6d.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 22nd of April, 1911.

1911 - INQUEST ON LOUISE WARD AT THE PELICAN INN > 'An inquest was held on Wednesday afternoon at the Pelican Inn by Mr. Spencer Clarke, the County Coroner on the body of Louise Aubrey Ward, the four-month-old child of Horace and Blanche Ward of Pamber Heath, which died on Tuesday morning. From the evidence of the mother and Dr Langley, it was clear that the child, which was weakly from birth, has suffered from jaundice and death was due to purely natural causes. A verdict to this effect was therefore returned.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 9th of September, 1911.

1911 - ST. LUKE'S CHURCH CHOIR OUTING TO WINDSOR > 'Choir Outing: A more successful and enjoyable outing it would be impossible to conceive than the trip participated in by members of St. Luke's choir on Wednesday. Favoured with brilliant weather, the party started from the Parsonage shortly after nine-o-clock in Messrs Lovegrove Brothers' motor cars, for the Windsor Castle with the Rev. Digges Latouche in charge.' They arrived at ten minutes to eleven and viewed the sights of Windsor, toured the Castle, Royal Stables, Riding School and Curfew Tower. They had lunch at one-o-clock and tea at six-thirty in the Castle restaurant. Some boys were put into the ancient stocks, some went on the river while others preferred to stroll. 'Thanks were due to Mr. Arthur Goddard for making all the arrangements and carrying out every detail so well.' A very enjoyable time was had by all. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 30th of September, 1911.

1911 - HARVEST FESTIVAL > 'Harvest festival at St. Luke's Church: Harvest thanksgiving services were held on Sunday last...attended by crowded congregations, especially in the evening. ...hearty singing. Rev Digges Latouche Litt. D. conducted the service in the morning. Preacher in the evening was Rev. A. E. Alder M.A., St. John's, Reading. Decorations were most beautiful and artistic, carried out by Mrs. Wiggett, Mrs. and Miss Waldron, the Misses Cockerton, Mrs. Hunt, the Misses. Davidson, the Misses Benham, Parris and Yates and Mrs. Latouche. Collections amounted to £3 1s 2d, devoted to local hospitals.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 14th of October, 1911.

1911 - FREDERICK PERCY SMITH'S TRUANCY RESULTS IN FINE > 'Pamber Truant Schoolboy: At the Petty Sessions in Basingstoke on Wednesday, John Smith, hire carter, was summoned to Court but did not appear in respect of the truancy of his son, Frederick Percy, 13 years old, who had only attended 15 times out of a possible 102, according to a certificate put in by attendance officer J. Jibb. 'J. Jibb said he thought the grandfather was unaware that the boy had absented himself from school...The chairman asked: "You don't think the boy goes out with the horses?" Mr. Jibb: "No, he stops at home." A fine of five shillings including costs was imposed and the Court threatened to send the boy to an industrial school if his attendance did not improve.' ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 28th of October, 1911.

1911 - GOSPEL TENT MISSION CREATES GREAT INTEREST > Missioners, Mr. G. Titcombe and Mr. G.B. Gladwick, caused much interest in Pamber Heath with their Gospel Tent mission, which closed on October 26th after a stay of 5 or 6 weeks, owing to the weather and other reasons. The Tent was filled each evening and on Sundays many could not gain admission. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 11th of November, 1911.

1911 - WOODEN TENT ERECTED > Following the success of the gospel tent mission above and the necessity to halt meetings due to the weather, it was decided to obtain a wooden building for a permanent gospel meeting room. I was told that a building was obtained and brought on a horse and cart (presumably in flat sections) and erected on a piece of land donated by Henry Monger near the entrance of Burney Bit on the south side. The building became known as 'The Wooden Tent'. The exact date and year of erection is not known, and may be never known, but believed to have been soon after the gospel mission above. ITEM SOURCE: Verbal testimony in connection with documents, maps and photographs.

1911 - MR SIMPSON PRODUCES A FINE CROP OF POTATOES > Mr. Simpson of Pamber Heath was so delighted with his fine crop of potatoes that he collected 125 of them and stored them in a 'Cupid match box' as a sample for display purposes, which could be viewed at the home of the Gazette's correspondent at Silchester. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 18th of November, 1911.

1911 - EVENTS IN AID OF THE BENDINGO FUND > Events to raise money for the Bishop of Bendingo's Mission Fund were as follows: Special services were held on Tuesday and Wednesday in the parish to raise £150. Takings amounted to about £108. On Tuesday, a well-attended parish tea was held in the church cottage, the provisions having being kindly given so that the takings were clear profit. At 5.30. a sacred concert was given at St. Luke's Church and an address at 7 o-clock by Rev. Canon Bridges M.A., who was on tour in England on behalf of the Bendingo Mission, Australia. On Wednesday, there was an influential gathering at Mrs. Oppé's, followed by a service at St. Luke's Church, which included songs, organ recitals etc. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 23rd of November, 1911.

1911 - MUDDY CHURCH ROAD RECEIVES SOME GRAVEL > Due to the kindness of Mr. Benyon, gravel was put down in Church Road, Pamber Heath, which had previously been in a very muddy state. ITEM 0178 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 30th of November, 1911.

1912 - PELICAN SLATE CLUB DINNER > 'The Pelican Slate Club dinner took place on Tuesday evening in last week, the hostess, Mrs. Beer, providing an excellent repast. Dr. W. J. Langley proved a most genial chairman. The report showed receipts amounting to £49 0s 1d and expenses £9 4s 1d, each member receiving a share of £1 2s 4d. A very enjoyable evening was spent in toast and song.' ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 13th of January, 1912.

1912 - CHOIR TREATED TO TEA AT CHURCH COTTAGE > 'Through the kind invitation of the Rev. E. Digges La Touche and his mother, the St. Luke's Church choir and church workers were entertained to a beautiful tea in the Church Cottage, Mr. and Mrs. Benham catering very nicely. A most enjoyable evening followed. ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 20th of January, 1912.

1912 - EVERARD DIGGES LA TOUCHE LEAVES PAMBER HEATH FOR MISSIONARY WORK > 'The Rev. E. Digges La Touche, Litt.D., who has had charge of St. Luke's Church for some little while past, is now leaving to take up mission work in the Bishop of Bendingo's Diocese, Australia. On Sunday last he preached his farewell sermons to crowded congregations.' He was presented with a cheque for £6, with a list of subscribers, at a gathering on 'Monday evening' and it was said that it was Dr. La Touche's wish that the money be devoted to the Bendingo Mission Fund. 'On Tuesday morning Dr. La Touche left Pamber Heath carrying with him the good wishes of all classes in the neighbourhood for his future welfare.' ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 20th of January, 1912.

1912 - REV. ERNEST EDWARD SKUSE APPOINTED AS THE NEXT CURATE OF ST. LUKE'S CHURCH > 'The Rev. E. E. Skuse succeeds the Rev. E. Digges La Touche at St. Luke's, Pamber Heath.' ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 3rd of February, 1912.

1912 - HENRY WIGGETT TO LEAVE PAMBER HEATH > 'Parish Council - The annual meeting was held on Wednesday, 17th inst., at Pamber Heath...The Council received with regret the resignation of Mr. H. E A. Wiggett (chairman), who is shortly leaving the neighbourhood. Resolutions of appreciation and thanks were unanimously passed for the services rendered by Mr. Wiggett, both on the Parish Council and also as the representative of the parish on the Rural District Council and Board of Guardians. Mr. Wiggett, in responding, said that it had always given him pleasure to render any service he could for the good of the parish.' ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 27th of April, 1912.

1912 - PAMBER HEATH RESIDENTS CONTRIBUTE TO 'TITANIC' FUND > 'On Sunday at St. Luke's Church the collections during the day, which amounted to £4 8s 2d, were in aid of the 'Titanic' fund.' ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 4th of May, 1912.

1914 - REV. EDWARD AUGUSTUS HOPKINS BECOMES CURATE AT PAMBER HEATH > The Rev. Edward Augustus Hopkins became the resident curate at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath around this time.

1912 - DEATH AND FUNERAL OF MRS JULIA FELL > 'The death of Mrs Julia Fell took place at Strawberry Gardens, Pamber Heath, on the 13th inst., at the age of 70 years. The deceased had been very ill for about three weeks. Much sympathy has been expressed for the grieving husband and family. Mr. Fell was for many years Police Constable at Baughurst, but on retiring on a well earned pension came to live at Pamber Heath. The funeral took place at Pamber Priory on Friday in last week. The coffin was conveyed from the house to the church in a hearse. Many beautiful wreaths were sent...The service was impressively conducted by the Rev. E. A. Hopkins.' ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 24th of August, 1912.

1912 - WILLIAM STROUD DIES AT THE AGE OF 72 > William Stroud, grocer of Pamber Heath, died on the 23rd of October this year at the age of 72, after a long illness. William was born in Tadley in 1840, the son of Barzillai and Sarah Stroud. In 1861 he was one of two footmen at The Vyne, Sherborne St. John, where it is believed he met his wife to be, Jane Wickens. The couple married in the village there in 1866 and had moved to Pamber Heath by 1871, William becoming a grocer and baker. The couple had several children and contributed greatly to village life but Jane's untimely death through illness in 1891 was a sad time for William and his family. William was prominent in the village and in 1895 was elected as the first Pamber Parish Council chairman. He married again in 1898 to Jessie Hastings of Reading. William was a trustee of two charities in 1910 and his shop was situated at what is now 18 Pamber Heath Road He left a wife and seven children. ITEMS 0116, 0119, 0120 SOURCE: Census Returns, verbal testimonies, BMD certificates and other documents.

1912 - PAMBER HEATH RIFLE CLUB SUCCESS > 'The Pamber Heath Rifle Club were successful in two matches shot off on the evening of the 10th inst...the first against Binfield...the other against Fovant, in Wilts. Mr. Wiggett, to whom the formation of the club was originally due, has now in his care the Binfield Club, so that the Pamber Heath Club can congratulate themselves on winning against their first instructor.' ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 21st of December, 1912.

1914 - ALBERT RAMPTON ACCUSED OF ASSAULTING LADY ARTIST > Reading Petty Sessional Court - Saturday: 'Miss Emily Maria Eardley Childers, the lady artist, of London, has been staying with friends at Pamber Heath...it is alleged, was attacked in a lonely wood there by a man with a loaded gun as she was about to commence sketching...she heard someone walking behind her...the accused who was carrying a gun...He made improper overtures and she was extremely indignant and walked away. Prisoner followed and threatened to shoot her. Pointing the gun at her, he told her it was loaded. She went up to him to prevent his shooting her, purposely pulled the trigger and discharged the shot. He then knocked her down and assaulted her. When she screamed he stuffed bracken in her mouth. She struck him with a haptpin...she put her finger in his eye. The accused followed her to within 300 yards of Impstone Cottage, Pamber Heath, the residence of Mrs. Waldron, with whom she was staying...Charles Soper, a gardener in the employ of Mrs. Waldron...At her request he went for the police...The accused declared he was not guilty.' ITEM SOURCE: Nottingham Evening Post, 12th of January, 1914

1914 - ALBERT RAMPTON CLEARED OF ALLEGED ASSAULT ON LADY ARTIST > 'At Berks Assizes on Tuesday, Albert Rampton, bricklayer's labourer of Pamber Heath, was found not guilty of a charge of assaulting Miss Emily Maria Eardley Childers, of London, an artist, in a wood at Aldermaston, and was discharged. It was alleged that the accused threatened to shoot Miss Childers unless she consented to his proposals, and that in a desperate struggle his gun exploded. In an sworn statement the accused declared he had never seen the prosecutrix until he was taken into her presence three days after the alleged offence, and that he had not been in the woods for two months. The Judge said he agreed with the jury's verdict.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Tamworth Herald, 17th of January, 1914. (Item appeared in many newspapers nationwide)

1914 - MRS WOODWARD IN HOUNDS SHOW SUCCESS > 'The genial squire of Bramley will be pleased to hear of the success of his pack of otter hounds...Mr. Thornton's Culmstock pack took first and champion in unentered dog hound class at the Rugby Otter Hounds Show...first prize for couple of unentered bitches, walked by Mrs Woodward, Pamber Heath.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 14th of March, 1914.

1914 - START OF THE GREAT WAR > This year on the 4th of August saw the beginning of the Great War in which around 75 people from Pamber Heath were to serve.

1914 - WEDDING OF ALICE ROSE MONGER TO ERNEST WILLIAM BOWMAN AT MORTIMER > 'Wedding - On August 1st the wedding took place of Miss Alice Rose Monger, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Monger, of Pamber Heath (and late of Aldermaston Firs) and Mr. Ernest William Bowman, fourth son of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Bowman, of St. John's Road, Mortimer. The ceremony took place at St. Mary's Church, Mortimer, the Vicar (the Rev. Baskerville Mynors) officiating. The bride was attended by two bridesmaids - Miss Lizzie Monger (niece of the bride) and Miss Ethel Bowman (sister of the bridegroom). The bride was given away by her brother-in-law, Mr. Arthur Smith, and Mr. Godden was groomsman. The wedding presents were numerous and useful.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 15th of August, 1914.

1914 - RELIEF COMMITTEE ANNOUNCES SUGAR AVAILABILITY FOR JAM-MAKING > 'The Relief Committee have struck upon another plan to increase the cottagers' store of provisions. Notices are put up that sugar can be obtained at Mr. Benham's, the Pamber Heath Stores, and at Mrs. Stroud's shop, at the price of 2 1/2d. per lb. by bona fide jam makers. This should prove a boon to those who have plenty of plums and other fruits.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 29th of August, 1914.

1914 - 500 GARMENTS FOR THE SOLDIERS MADE BY THE LOCALS > 'The work-party, which was organised at the Impstone Reading Room, has been working most energetically, and the result is that about 500 garments have been consigned to various addresses. On Wednesday afternoon, the weekly working party assembled, about 50 being present...The workers were also given much pleasure by the entertainment of the Misses Kitcat, of Aldermaston, who gave selections on the violin and piano. The Rev. E. A. Hopkins of Pamber Heath sang several songs, accompanied on the piano by Mrs. Hopkins.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 17th of October, 1914.

1914 - FREDERICK SMITH IS BEST MAN AT WEDDING OF GEORGE BAKER > 'Wedding of Miss (Florence Dorothy) Attwell and Mr. George Baker - On Saturday at the ancient church of St. Mary, Silchester, where many of the village folk and friends of the contracting parties had assembled...Mr. Fred Smith jun., of Pamber Heath, acted as groomsman.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 17th of October, 1914.

1915 - FORMER PAMBER HEATH MAN JOSEPH WELLS ENLISTS IN CANADA > Joseph Monarch Wells, son of Joseph and Elizabeth Wells, Pamber Heath, who emigrated to Canada in 1907, enlisted in the Canadian Over-Seas Expeditionary Force on the 17th of May, 1915 at Moose Jaw, Canada. His date of birth was stated as the 13th of March, 1889 at Pamber Heath, Hampshire, England. His occupation was a porter, C.P.R. and he was single. ITEM SOURCE: Attestation document, 17th of May, 1915.

1915 - GILBERT WEST KILLED IN ACTION IN FRANCE > Gilbert West, son of Walter and Fanny West of Pamber Heath, was killed while on active service in France on the 9th of May, 1915. His body was not recovered. This is the first loss of a villager, fighting in the services. Newspaper report: 'Killed in Action - The sympathy of the countryside goes out to Mr. and Mrs. Walter West, of the Fans, Pamber, in the death of their son, Private Gilbert West, of the 8th Division. Private West was called up on the Reserve in August, and has been through many engagements, including Neuve Chapelle.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 19th of June, 1915.

1915 - PHOEBE WEST CONVICTED > 'Schoolmistress assaulted. - At the Basingstoke County Bench on Wednesday..., Phoebe West, of Pamber, wife of a soldier serving at the front, was summoned by Maud Evelyn Thatcher, head teacher of Silchester School, for having assaulted her on July 20th. She pleaded guilty. The evidence was...Miss Thatcher caned the defendant's son for misconduct. His younger brother ran out of school. Shortly after the defendant arrived and demanded the boy. Miss Thatcher refused to let him go, whereupon defendant, remarking "You have thrashed my boy and I will thrash you", took her by her hair with both hands, dragged her out into the lobby, and slapped her face. An assistant teacher came out got defendant away and put her out of doors, but she rushed back and hit Miss Thatcher over the eye with her fist..she was fined 10s., and if it occurred again she would be sent to prison.' See also another news item in 1922. ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 31st of July, 1915.

1915 - EVERARD DIGGES LA TOUCHE KILLED BY TURKISH BULLET > Former curate of St. Luke's Church, 2nd Lieut. Dr. Everard Digges La Touche, who had emigrated to Australia in 1912 for mission work and had enlisted as a soldier, was sadly killed at Gallipoli while on active service with the Australian Infantry Force on the 7th of August, 1915. He had begged leave to join the attack at Lone Pine, Gallipoli after arriving there on the morning of the 6th of August, 1915. At 5.30pm on the same day he went over the parapet with the first rush, only to fall mortally wounded within a few seconds. He managed to roll back down the slope of the spur and crawl back into the Australian lines. He had been shot in the intestines and died 12 hours later on the 7th of August, 1915. ITEM SOURCE:

1915 - GALLIPOLI CAMPAIGN CLAIMS ANOTHER VILLAGER'S LIFE - HARRY OPPÉ > Another life with a connection to Pamber Heath has been claimed in the Gallipoli campaign. It was only in August that the village lost Everard Digges La Touche. Harry Oppé of Pamber Heath, son of Mrs. Pauline Oppé and of the late Mr. Sigmund Armin Oppé, was killed while on active service in Gallipoli on the 6th of November, 1915. Newspaper item: 'Roll of Honour, Killed in Action...Oppe - Killed in action, on the 6th inst., in the Dardanelles, Harry S. Oppé , Lieutenant, 11th Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment (attached 6th Battalion), fourth son of the late S. A. Oppé, and Mrs. Oppé, of Pamber Heath, Basingstoke, aged 35.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 20th of November, 1915.

1915 - GALLIPOLI CAMPAIGN CLAIMS A THIRD VILLAGER'S LIFE - FRANK BENHAM > Yet another life with a connection to Pamber Heath has been claimed in the Gallipoli campaign. It was only last month in November that the village lost Harry Oppé. Frank Benham, son of Thomas and Annie Benham of Pamber Heath, was killed while also on active service in Gallipoli, on the 15th of December, 1915. ITEM SOURCE:

1915 - PHILIP TULL IN BUSINESS AS SHOE REPAIRER > Kelly's Directory of Hampshire for 1915 listed Philip Tull of Pamber Heath as a shoe repairer. ITEM 0314 SOURCE: Kelly's Directory of Hampshire, 1915.

1916 - EVIDENCE OF EARLY SCOUTING MOVEMENT > Pamber Heath boy in Scout uniform. ITEM 0042 SOURCE: Photograph of Charles Stroud and family with date verified by a family member shown in it.

1916 - JAMES HERBERT NEWMAN KILLED IN ACTION IN FRANCE > James Herbert Newman, son of Mrs. Anne Newman of 'Forest View', Pamber Heath, and of the late Dr. Henry Newman of Hadleigh, Suffolk, was killed while on active service in France on the 13th of February, 1916. Newspaper report: 'Roll of Honour, Killed in Action...Newman - Killed in action, in France, on the 16th ult., James Herbert Newman, Company Sergeant-Major, 2nd Batt. Royal Warwickshire Regiment, son of the late Henry Newman, of Hadleigh, Suffolk, and of Mrs. Newman, Forest View, Pamber Heath, Basingstoke, aged 44.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 4th of March, 1916.

1916 - FLOODING CAUSED BY BLOCKED DITCH RESULTS IN COMPLAINTS > 'The annual assembly of the Parish Meeting was held at Pamber Heath on Thursday in last week. There were about a dozen parishioners present. Mr. E. J. Lawes presided. The charity accounts were presented. Several complaints were made that a ditch by the main road at Pamber Heath had been blocked up by slabs placed across it and that flooding of the adjoining property had been the result. The Clerk was instructed to notify the owner and request him to remove the obstruction at once.' ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of April, 1916.

1916 - PAMBER ASSISTANT OVERSEER COMPENSATED > 'Pamber Parish Council - A meeting was held at Pamber Heath on Thursday in last week. The following members were present: Messrs. E. J. Lawes, W. Simpson, J. Kimber, F. Hunt and A. Smith, with the Clerk (Mr A. T. Kimber). The Chairman (Mr J. Rattray) having left the neighbourhood and resigned his office, Mr. E. J. Lawes was elected to preside. The election of a new Chairman was left over to the next meeting.' The usual business was transacted and due to the impending considerable loss of income by the assistant overseer as a result of the suspension by an Act of Parliament in preparing new voters' lists: 'By a unanimous resolution it was decided to increase the salary of the assistant overseer by £5 per annum.' ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of April, 1916.

1916 - COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, OVERSEERS AND TRUSTEES ELECTED > 'Pamber Parish Council - The annual meeting was held at Pamber Heath on Thursday, the 20th inst. Present - Messrs. W. Simpson, A. Smith, E. J. Lawes, J. Kimber and F. Hunt, with Mr. A. T. Kimber (clerk). The Rev. E. A. Hopkins was also present and was elected Chairman for the ensuing year. Messrs. E. J. Lawes and F. Hunt were appointed overseers. The Clerk presented the financial statement for the year, and cheques were signed for expenses 17s 8d. Mr. A. Smith, of Pamber Heath, was elected Trustee for Adam de Port, Sympson's and Wheat Charities, in place of Mr Rattray, resigned. The Clerk was instructed to communicate with the District Sanitary Inspector re complaints from Pamber Heath of the very bad state of the ditches near Impstone.' ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 29th of April, 1916.

1916 - RICHARD SAUNDERS AT THE RURAL DISTRICT TRIBUNAL > 'Basingstoke Rural District Tribunal - Mr. W. Benham, of  Pamber Heath Post Office, appealed for the exemption of Richard Saunders, his baker, single. This case was adjourned from the last sitting in order that the man might be medically examined. It was now stated that the man had been passed by the doctors. The tribunal granted conditional exemption till August 1st, with the intimation that it will be useless for him to make a further appeal.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 3rd of June, 1916.

1916 - FREDERICK LONG FAILS TO GAIN MILITARY EXEMPTION AT TRIBUNAL > 'Basingstoke Rural District Tribunal - Frederick Long, of Pamber Heath, 19, casual labourer on farms (for whom Mr. A. J. Kingdom appeared), produced a doctor's certificate stating that he was bitten by an adder five years ago. He said that the poison still remained in his system and caused pain in the back and left arm, especially in hot weather. It sometimes felt as if an adder was crawling across his back! The Medical Board had passed him for general service, so the tribunal dismissed the appeal.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 15th of July, 1916.

1916 - GEORGE TULL FAILS TO GAIN MILITARY EXEMPTION AT TRIBUNAL > 'Basingstoke Rural District Tribunal - Mr. G Ford and Sons, timber merchants, of Mortimer West End, applied for the exemption of five married men - ...George Tull, 31, of Pamber Heath, timber haulier. When the war broke out he had 40 men; he now has 30 men and three boys. The appeal in respect of Tull was dismissed.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 15th of July, 1916.

1916 - PRIVATE ARTHUR LONG LISTED AS A CASUALTY > 'Casualties - ...Private A. (Arthur) Long, 10321, Pamber Heath.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 5th of August, 1916.

1916 - CHARLIE HUNT KILLED IN ACTION IN FRANCE > Charlie Hunt, son of Mrs. Olive Hunt of Pamber Heath and of the late Mr. Charles Hunt, was killed while on active service in France on the 20th of August, 1916. He was serving with the 2nd Battalion, Hampshire Regiment. Buried at the Cambrin Churchyard Extension in France. ITEM SOURCE: Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

1916 - THOMAS LONG GAINS CONDITIONAL MILITARY EXEMPTION AT TRIBUNAL > 'Basingstoke Rural District Tribunal - Conditional exemption was granted to Thomas Long. 34, married, Pamber Heath, on the ground of serious domestic hardship.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 9th of September, 1916.

1916 - FRANCIS SAUNDERS FAILS TO GAIN MILITARY EXEMPTION AT TRIBUNAL > 'Rural District Tribunal - Mr. Ford (Messrs. Ford and Sons, Mortimer West End) applied in respect of Francis John Saunders, 25, single, Pamber Heath, employed as a steersman on a traction engine used for the hauling of timber. A month's exemption had been previously granted and Mr. Ford now stated that it was difficult to get men for this class of work. They were already seven or eight men short, and one tractor was standing still. Exemption refused.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 9th of September, 1916.

1916 - WILLIAM HUNT KILLED IN ACTION AND A DOUBLE LOSS FOR OLIVE HUNT > William Hunt son of Mrs. Olive Hunt of Pamber Heath and of the late Mr. Charles Hunt, was killed while on active service in Iraq on the 31st of December, 1916. Tragically, this was the second loss of a son in the war by mother Olive Hunt. ITEM SOURCE:

1917 - THOMAS OPPÉ KILLED IN ACTION IN FRANCE > Thomas Armin Oppé, another son of Mrs. Pauline Oppé of Pamber Heath, and of the late Mr. Sigmund Armin Oppé, was killed while on active service in France on the 20th of May, 1917. This sadly means that there are now two mothers in Pamber Heath who have lost two sons each in the war. Newspaper item: 'Roll of Honour, Killed in Action...Oppe - Killed in action, on May 20, Thomas Armine Oppé, Second Lieut., Cameronians, fifth son of the late S. A. Oppé and Mrs. Oppè, Pamber Heath, Basingstoke, aged 36.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 2nd of June, 1917.

1917 - TADLEY SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN (PAMBER HEATH CHILDREN INCLUDED) > ITEM NUMBERS 0004 & 0006 SOURCE: Lists of people appearing on them. (Date approximate).

1918 - ALFRED LONG CHARGED WITH BEING A MILITARY ABSENTEE > 'An 18 year-old was handed over by magistrates to military authorities after being charged with being and absentee. Alfred Long had been approached by a policeman in Pamber Heath and asked his age. He said he was 18 and worked "up in the firs gravel digging." Asked if had anything to show he was exempt from military service, he said "No" and was taken into custody. The court heard Long had not received his call up papers but the teenager was not prepared to prove he was exempt from the call up and was given to military authorities. Magistrates imposed no fine because they agreed the matter was not the boy's fault.' ITEM SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 18th of May, 1918.

1918 - REV. EDWARD AUGUSTUS HOPKINS JOINS THE ARMY > On June the 12th, 1918, Rev. Edward Augustus Hopkins of Pamber Heath enlisted in the army at the age of 34 in Whitehall, London, as a soldier with the rank of private. The regiment he was assigned to was the Inns of Court Regiment and the unit was the Inns of Court O.T.C. (Officer Training Corps). ITEM SOURCE: British Army WW1 Service Records.

1918 - FRED SMITH KILLED IN ACTION IN FRANCE > Fred Smith, son of Edward and Margaret Smith of Pamber Heath, was killed while on active service in France on the 19th of September, 1918. ITEM SOURCE:

1918 - MRS WOODWARD SELLS TWO JERSEY COWS > 'For Sale - Two good JERSEY COWS, second calf and fourth calf - Mrs. Woodward, Pamber Heath, Basingstoke.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 26th of October, 1918.

1918 - JOHN TULL, SON OF AARON TULL DIES > Around September of this year, John Tull, a son of Aaron Tull, who grew up in Pamber Heath and married Elizabeth Bartlett of Silchester, passed away, leaving his wife and many children to mourn his loss. John Tull was the brother of Stephen Tull of Pamber Heath. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 29th of November, 1930, in conjunction with the General Register Office Index of Deaths and Census information.

1918 - SYLVANUS PIKE KILLED IN ACTION DAYS BEFORE WAR ENDED > Sylvanus Pike, son of Neptune and Patience Pike of Forest Lane, Pamber Heath, was killed while on active service in France on the 2nd of November, 1918. Sadly, his body was not recovered. With the end of the war only days away, Sylvanus was unfortunate not to survive the war. He was serving with the 1st Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment and was aged 21. ITEM SOURCE: Commonwealth War Graves commission.

1918 - END OF GREAT WAR > This year on the 11th of November saw the end of the Great War. Peace celebrations were held locally with marches and bands parading around the area.

1919 - REV. EDWARD AUGUSTUS HOPKINS LEAVES THE ARMY > On the 7th of February, 1919, Rev. Edward Augustus Hopkins of Pamber Heath left the army, having served in the Inns of Court O.T.C. unit and was transferred to the reserve force. ITEM SOURCE: British Army WW1 Service Records.

1919 - MRS. E. MONGER OF BURNEY BIT CLAIMS RECORD > Mrs. E. Monger claimed to have the largest number of family members engaged in the First World War after 'Daily News' offered £250 prize for person with the most members serving. She says she had nine sons, four girls and 15 grandsons. ITEM 0103 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 29th of March, 1919.

1919 - ARMISTICE COTTAGE LAND CONVEYANCE > The sale by auction documents for 'Armistice Cottage' in Burney Bit referred to '...a Conveyance on Sale dated the 14th October, 1919. This is possibly the transfer of land prior to the building of 'Armistice Cottage'. ITEM 0311 SOURCE: Sale documents, 1949.

1920 - CRAWFORD BEER BECOMES LANDLORD OF THE CROWN, SILCHESTER > Crawford James Beer, son of the landlady of the Pelican public house, was the landlord of the Crown public house at Silchester in 1920. He may have been so earlier than 1920 but this is the earliest record found so far. ITEM SOURCE: Kelly's Directory of Hampshire, 1920.

1920 - MEMORIAL HALL ERECTED > Around this period, the 'War Memorial Reading and Club Room' was erected. George Monger, who had leased the former parish gravel pit for surface cultivation in 1889, agreed to give up a portion of the land there subject to an adjustment to his annual rent. See the item about the leasing agreement under 1889 in these Event pages. The new hall was built close to Pamber Heath Road and of wooden construction. SOURCE: Pamber Parish Council minutes.

1920 - JACK BENHAM WEDS ALICE HUNT > Herbert Jack Benham, known locally as 'Jack Benham', married Alice May Hunt during the March quarter within the Basingstoke registration district. Herbert, a baker, was the son of William and Lucy Benham of Benham's Post Office and Stores of Pamber Heath. ITEM 0330 SOURCE: General Register Office Index to Marriages as well as other documents.

1920 - THOMAS PARRIS CAUGHT POACHING AT SILCHESTER > Thomas Parris, a labourer of Pamber Heath, who did not appear, was summoned for having trespassed in search of game. Frederick Smith, gamekeeper for Mr. A. Newnham Davis of Silchester, said that on Sunday February 29th, at noon, he saw the defendant with a lurcher dog in Inhams Copse. The dog chased a rabbit and drove it to earth and the defendant tried to get it out with a stick but failed. On leaving the wood, he ran away but the gamekeeper overtook him and told him he would be summoned. He had warned the defendant on the previous Tuesday, when he had four dogs with him. He was fined £1. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 20th of March, 1920.

1920 - ROBERT LOUIS WARD IN TROUBLE OVER HIS MOTOR CYCLE > Robert Louis Ward of Pamber Heath was summoned to appear in court for not having a motor cycle licence and also for not having registered it. PC. Toms saw Robert on the 27th of March with a motor cycle No. 1.B. 666 and when questioned, said that the motor cycle belonged to him and he had it since June of last year. When asked about whether it had been registered in his name, Robert said: 'No, I didn't know I had to'. When questioned about the local taxation licence he replied: ' My boss always takes out a licence for me but I don't know whether he has done so this year or not'. PC Toms saw the defendant again on Friday the 2nd of April, who said: 'My boss did not have a licence for me, so I have taken one out', at which point he produced a licence that had been issued at Basingstoke Post Office on March 29th. Robert was a wood cutter and was at present working at Chandlersford for his employer, a Mr. West of Henley. The Bench imposed a fine of £3. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of May, 1920.

1921 - LIONEL WAKEFORD WEDS FLORENCE WEBSTER AT IBSTONE, BUCKS > This is the wedding report of Lionel Wakeford who later would move to Pamber Heath and become a prominent member of the local community: 'A Pretty Wedding - About four miles from Stokenchurch, on the Chiltern Hills, in the small quaint old Church of St. Nicholas, situated in the village of Ibstone, Bucks., a marriage took place, interesting on account of the distance the principals had travelled to make the contract. Mr. Lionel Thomas Wakeford arrived home from Jessleton, B. N. Borneo...Miss Florence A. Webster arrived from Singapore...The marriage took place on December 4, 1920...Mr. Horace Wakeford, brother, acted as best man. The small bridesmaids were Kathleen Tice and Monica Davis, nieces of the bridegroom...a reception and lunch was held at the residence of the Rector...Later the happy couple left for High Wycombe, on route to London, with the good wishes of all.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: The Straits Times, 17th of January, 1921.

1921 - HARRY COTTRELL WEDS LILY MERRINGTON > Harry J. Cottrell, son of Charles and Elizabeth Cottrell, married Lily E. Merrington, within the Basingstoke registration district, during the March quarter of 1921. Harry grew up in Pamber Heath and, around 1905, was living with his parents at 'Jasmine Cottage', The Glen. He attended Silchester School. Harry was a bus driver. ITEM 0330 SOURCE: General Register Office Index to Marriages as well as verbal testimony from his daughter.

1921 - LEONARD STROUD AND FAMILY EMIGRATE TO CANADA > Leonard and Amelia Stroud of 2 Rose Cottages, Burney Bit, Pamber Heath decided to emigrate to Canada for a new life abroad. They embarked on the Canadian Pacific ship Metagama at the port of Liverpool, bound for St. John's, Canada. Their daughter Grace was only 17 months old and would have no memory of life in Pamber Heath as time went on. Leonard and Amelia were both 23 years old. Leonard is the son of Charles and Alice Stroud of Rose Cottage, Burney Bit. ITEM SOURCE: Passenger list, 1921.

1922 - PHOEBE WEST FINED FOR BEATING TENANT WITH A STICK > An assault took place on the 13th of March, 1922 after an argument about being asked to quit rented accommodation. A young married woman named Maud Long had been given notice to quit by Mrs. Phoebe West but Phoebe's husband told her not to go until he told her to. Maud went to pay her rent to Phoebe, who lived nearby. Maud told Phoebe that she would not leave the cottage and Phoebe used language which Maud later wrote down to show the court, as she was ashamed to repeat it. Phoebe said Maud had used language which put her into a rage. Maud went indoors and Phoebe followed and beat on her door with a stick. An attack followed minutes later when Maud was going up to where her husband was working. Maud said 'she would do and say as she liked', resulting in a blow on the arm from Phoebe, as she tried to protect her head from injury. When Maud's husband came along afterwards, he was told by Phoebe: 'You can either have the stick too or the contents of a bucket of water', at which point he went away. Mabel Long, wife of Arthur Long, had witnessed the assault from her kitchen window. Phoebe, who had been convicted in 1915 of having assaulted the schoolmistress, was fined £1. She refused to pay, saying she would sooner go to Winchester Jail. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of April, 1922.

1922 - TOM WEST FINED FOR POOR SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OF SON > Tom West of Pamber Heath was summoned for the poor school attendance of his son Albert, aged 14. Tom stated that Albert had an influenza cold and then a bad throat. Albert had been absent 24 times between December 19th and March 17th. Tom, who had been fined three times previously for similar offences, was fined five shillings with a week to pay. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st of April, 1922.

1922 - PAMBER PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS > The election of councilors took place at No.1 Ravenscot Farm on Monday, Miss Blanche Wills Chandler of Basingstoke being the returning officer. The results were - Mr. E. F. Oppé 78, Mr. G. H. Middleton 68, Mr. W. Green 67, Mr. F. Stacey 67, Mr. James Smith 66, Mr. J. Kimber 64. They were all elected to serve. Those not elected were - Mr. E. J. Lawes 63, Mr. Charles Stroud 63, Mr. F. Hunt 59, Mr. S. J. Rye 51, Mr. Arthur Smith 38 and Mr. W. Simpson 31. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 8th of April, 1922.

1922 - PAMBER PARISH COUNCIL ANNUAL MEETING > 'Parish Council - The annual meeting was held at the Memorial Hall, Pamber Heath. Present - Councilors E. F. Oppé, F. Stacey, W. Green, G. H. Middleton and J. Smith, with the Clerk (Mr. A. T. Kimber). A letter was read from Rev. E. A. Hopkins, retiring chairman, requesting the Council not to re-elect him for the ensuing year. The Clerk was instructed to send a letter of thanks and appreciation to the Rev. E. A. Hopkins for the splendid service rendered to the Council and the parish generally during his term of office of the past six years. Mr. C. Stroud was co-opted Chairman for the ensuing year. Messrs. E . J. Lawes and W. Benham were appointed overseers.' A financial statement was presented. 'It was reported that stiles at Pamber Green were in a dilapidated condition.' ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 29th of April, 1922.

1922 - DISPUTE CONCERNING THE PUBLIC GRAVEL PIT > During April and May there was much debate concerning the use of the public gravel pit at Pamber Heath, having been given over to surface cultivation and the fact that parishioners no longer seemed to have the right to extract gravel as originally intended. However, respondents to the original letter, published in the Hants & Berks Gazette on the 1st of April by Frederick Stacey, found and quoted original legal documents concerning the pit and the conclusion was that the pit seemed to have been exhausted by 1889, hence its use for surface cultivation rather than gravel extract. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 1st and 29th of April and 13th of May, 1922.

1922 - SALE OF WORK A GREAT SUCCESS IN SPITE OF WEATHER > A sale of work was held in the Silchester Band Hut and not at the White House in Pamber Heath as intended due to the uncertainty of the weather. The sale was a great success with stalls, side-shows, tea, folk dancing and Old English songs by Tadley schoolchildren, followed by general dancing 'until a late hour'. £48 15s 3d was raised for various causes including £9 7s 6d paid for the copper for the War Memorial Room at Pamber Heath. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 24th of June, 1922.

1922 - PAMBER HEATH CRICKET TEAM ON TOP FORM > Several matches were played recently, some being on land at Pamber Heath. Villages played against were Monk Sherborne, Padworth, Aldermaston and Pamber End. Pamber Heath won every match and in some cases with great success. The team was made up of from villagers and altogether some twenty local men played at the various matches with great skill. Players included such names as W. Potter, J. Benham, W. Upton, Rev. E. Hopkins, C. Stacey, P. Stroud and L. Ward. ITEM 0304 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 10th and 24th of June, 8th and 22nd of July, 1922.

1923 - CLARA WEBB HAS A CONFECTIONERY SHOP > In this year, Mrs. Clara Webb was a confectioner operating from Oakdene at Pamber Heath. It is not known when she first began trading but was still a confectioner there in 1931. Oakdene was the name of the bungalow in Pamber Heath Road where Nellie James kept a shop from the mid 1930s to the mid 1960s. Jack Stroud, village postman between 1937 and 1940, remembered delivering letters to Nellie James at the bungalow there with the address stated as Oakdene, Pamber Heath. He did not recall Clara Webb but remembered Nellie James taking the shop over from someone else. The shop became known as James's Shop then Oakdene Stores, before finally being called Oakdene Newstore, which closed in 1998. A new house now stands on the site. It is almost certainly the place where Clara Webb had her confectionery business. ITEM SOURCE: Kelly's Directory of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, 1923 and ITEM 0314 SOURCE: Kelly's Directory of Hampshire, 1927 and 1931, verbal testimonies and other documentation.

1923 - DEATH OF STANLEY BENHAM > Stanley Benham, son of William and Lucy Benham of Pamber Post Office and Stores, died at the young age of 18 years. Stanley was buried at Silchester Parish Church on the 28th of May, 1923. ITEM 0324 SOURCE: Burial register, Silchester Parish Church.

1922 - REV. EDWARD AUGUSTUS HOPKINS TAKES UP A NEW POST IN ASHLEY > 'The Rev. E. A. Hopkins, who from 1907 to 1912 was curate at Fareham, and afterwards worked at Pamber Heath, has joined the staff of Milton parish, and will be in charge of the church at Ashley.' ITEM 0384 SOURCE: Hampshire Advertiser, 13th of October, 1923.

1923 - HEATH END TELEPHONE EXCHANGE OPENED > A telephone exchange serving the Tadley area was opened on the 26th of March, 1923. It may have been years later that lines reached the Tadley side of Pamber Heath Road. The earliest known subscriber in 1929 at Pamber Heath was Stanley James, motor cycle dealer, Bowmans Brook, Tadley, with the number Heath End 28. ITEM 0387 SOURCE: British Telephone Directory, 1929.

1923 - JAMES STROUD SADLY DIES OF TUBERCULOSIS > James Leonard Stroud, a coal miner of Wales, had developed tuberculosis and was staying with his uncle, Barrie Stroud, grocer, of Pamber Heath, very likely to try and improve his health in the country air. Unfortunately, he lost the battle and died on the 28th of May, 1923. He was only 20 years old. ITEM SOURCE: Death certificate.

1923 - ANDREW BROADHURST OFFERS TREE WORK > 'Dangerous trees, felled, lopped or topped. Testimonials - A. J. Broadhurst, Pamber Heath.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 23rd of November, 1923.

1924 - REV. CHARLES BOTHWELL-BOTTON COMMENCES HIS MINISTRY > Around this time the Rev. Charles Bothwell-Botton commenced his ministry at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath.

1925 - DEATH OF ELIZABETH WELLS AT PAMBER HEATH > On the 23rd of July, 1925, Elizabeth Wells, wife of Joseph Wells, died at her home of 'Shirley Cottage', Pamber Heath Road. She was 65 years old and had been born about 1860 in Tadley, Hampshire, the daughter of William and Elizabeth Saunders. She married Joseph Wells at Tadley on the 23rd of May, 1887. The funeral took place at the Tadley Old Meeting, Tadley Hill on the 25th of July, 1925. ITEM SOURCE:

1925 - F. WARD SELLS STEAM ENGINE AND COVERED LIVING VAN > 'For Sale, Eight Horse-Power Portable Steam Engine, by Brown and May, in good condition; seen at Sywell Wood, near Red House, Hannington. Also Covered Living Van, standing at Tea Caddy Farm, near Sywell Wood. - F. Ward, Pamber Heath, Basingstoke, Hants.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Northampton Mercury, 2nd of October, 1925.

1926 - REV. CHARLES BOTHWELL-BOTTON LEAVES PAMBER HEATH > Around this time the Rev. Charles Bothwell-Botton left Pamber Heath at the closure of his ministry at St. Luke's Church.

1926 - REV. THOMAS BRIGGS COMMENCES HIS MINISTRY > Around this time the Rev. Thomas Briggs commenced his ministry at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath.

1926 - RONALD HERBERT STROUD EMIGRATES TO CANADA > Ronald Herbert Stroud, son of Charles and Alice Stroud of Burney Bit, Pamber Heath, emigrated to Canada. He boarded the ship S. S. Arabic at the port of Southampton on the 15th of March, 1926 and arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on the 23rd of March, 1926. His destination was Toronto, Ontario and he was stated as being a farmer. His journey from Halifax inland was via the Canadian National Railway. His age was stated as 20 and his fare was paid by 'Govt.' ITEM SOURCE: Passenger List, S. S. Arabic, 23rd of March, 1926.

1927 - JACK BENHAM IS LANDLORD OF THE PELICAN > This year it was recorded that Jack Benham was the landlord of the Pelican public house, Pamber Heath but may have been so earlier. He had been working as a baker in 1920. ITEM 0314 SOURCE: Kelly's Directory of Hampshire, 1927.

1927 - PINE VIEW, PAMBER HEATH, FOR SALE > 'Freehold residence with outbuildings and garden.' ITEM SOURCE: Sale catalogue - Nicholas, Berkshire Record Office, Ref. D/ENS/B9/11, 23rd of April, 1927.

1927 - REV. THOMAS BRIGGS LEAVES PAMBER HEATH > Around this time the Rev. Thomas Briggs left Pamber Heath at the closure of his ministry at St. Luke's Church.

1927 - REV. ALFRED GEORGE BARLEY LEAVES LYDDINGTON FOR PAMBER HEATH > 'Curate's Removal - The Rev. A. G. Barley terminated his curacy here last week, and removed to Pamber, near Basingstoke.' ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Grantham Journal, 16th of July, 1927.

1927 - EDGAR JAMES LAWES DIES OF FATAL GUN-SHOT WOUNDS > 'Edgar Law (should be Lawes), a farmer, of Pamber, near Reading, was found on Wednesday in a barn suffering from gun-shot wounds, with a shot-gun lying beneath him. He died later in the Royal Berkshire Hospital. ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Gloucester Citizen, 15th of December, 1927.

1928 - DEATH OF WILLIAM BENHAM, BAKER & GROCER > William Benham, baker and grocer of Benham's stores in Pamber Heath, died this year, aged 57 years old. He was born in 1871 at Aldermaston, the son of George and Hester Benham. He spent some of his childhood years living at Mortimer West End and his father worked as a plate layer on the railway. He grew up to marry Lucy Soper in 1895 and by 1899 was working as a shopkeeper with his brother Thomas in Silchester. In 1900 he and his brother Thomas were bakers and grocers at their new shop located in High Road (Silchester Road), Pamber Heath, where William was to spend the rest of his life. William and Lucy had four children - Kathleen, Jack, Hector, and Stanley. The couple were highly respected in the local community and Benham's 'famous Lardy cake' was a product of the excellent standard of baking at the Pamber Heath premises. William and Lucy would often cater for various tea parties at Pamber Heath School. In 1911, a Post Office was opened at the shop - a welcome addition for the local people. Sadly, William and Lucy had a difficult time in 1923 with the loss of their son, Stanley, at the young age of 18. William was buried at Silchester Parish Church on the 3rd of March, 1928 and will be fondly remembered for years to come by the people of Pamber Heath for his valuable contribution to village life. He leaves his wife Lucy and three children. ITEM 0324 SOURCE: Burial register, Silchester Parish Church, various verbal testimonies and other documents.

1928 - OBITUARY AND FUNERAL OF WILLIAM BENHAM > 'He was of a kind and generous disposition, always ready and willing to assist in any good cause, particularly at St. Luke's Church, where for many years he had been churchwarden. He had also been overseer of the parish and was a brother of the R.A.O.B. (Royal Ancient Order of Buffaloes), Calleva Lodge No. 5392, from which body Mr. Benham chose his own bearers...Mr. Benham had a long illness and the end came on Feb. 29 at the comparatively early age of 57...The funeral took place amongst every token of respect and sympathy on Saturday at Silchester Church...The Worthy Primo and Officers and about 30 brothers of the Lodge attended...There was a lovely array of about 50 floral tributes.' ITEM 0383 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 10th of March, 1928.

1928 - HARRY BAILEY COMMENCES HIS CARRIER BUSINESS > Around this time Harry Bailey commenced his carrier business between Reading-Basingstoke and district. He lived at 'Shirley Cottage' in Pamber Heath Road. ITEM 0380 SOURCE: Reading Mercury, 7th of June, 1958.

1929 - SILCHESTER TELEPHONE EXCHANGE OPENED > A new telephone exchange at Silchester was opened on the 29th of March, 1929. The new exchange was located at the junction of Soke Road and Silchester Road. The telephone posts and lines extended to Pamber Heath and the first known subscriber there in 1929 was George Naish, Builder with the telephone number of Silchester 23. ITEM SOURCE: 'Around Tadley - fact and fable', 1999 and ITEM 0387 SOURCE: British Telephone Directory, 1929.

1929 - TELEPHONE CALL OFFICE ESTABLISHED AT BENHAM'S SHOP > A telephone call office was established around 1929 at Pamber Heath Post Office in Silchester Road at the premises of Benham's Bakery and Grocery shop. The telephone call office was a place where a telephone company installed a telephone that members of the public could use to make calls, long before the installation of the public telephone boxes that would follow in later years. The telephone number was Silchester 31. ITEM 0387 SOURCE: British Telephone Directory, 1929.

1929 - BUILDING WORK UNDERWAY AT ST. LUKE'S CHURCH > During this year, building work was underway to make improvements to St. Lukes' Church at Pamber Heath. The builder was George Naish of Pamber Heath. The work would be paid for by fundraising and generous gifts. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of November, 1929.

1929 - BARRIE STROUD WEDS WINIFRED IVENS > Grocer Barrie Stroud, son of widow Jessie Stroud of Stroud's Shop, Pamber Heath, married Winifred Eva Ivens of Caversham, Reading, on the 1st of June, 1929 at Caversham Parish Church. The witnesses were Alfred Leonard Ivens and Stephen Ivens. Barrie was 29 years old and a bachelor. Barrie's father William had died in 1912. SOURCE: Marriage certificate and other documents.

1929 - SALE & GARDEN PARTY > 'A very successful sale and garden party was held in June at the residence of the Misses Kitcat when the large sum of £75 resulted. The money raised was in aid of the fund for the additions and improvements to St. Luke's Church.' ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of November, 1929.

1929 - DEDICATION BY BISHOP AT ST. LUKE'S CHURCH > Following improvements and additions at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath, a dedication service was held 'on Sunday afternoon', conducted by the Bishop of Southampton. The alterations included a new battlemented porch at the west end, a stained glass Gothic window, the whole of the windows being reset with leaded cathedral glass in diamond-shaped panes, the large classroom being let into the main building with a graceful archway affording thirty more seats, matchboard paneling of the nave being stained in dark oak, the walls being distempered in cream, complete reseating with dark stained and polished chairs fitted with hat rails, book boxes and kneeling pads, repainting of the exterior and belfry and provision of a new large radiating stove (given by Mrs. Oppé). The estimated total cost was in excess of £216, paid for by fundraising and generous gifts. The work was carried out by Pamber Heath builder George Naish 'to the complete satisfaction of all concerned'. 'For the dedication service the church was filled. Miss Kitcat presided at the organ. The Bishop and clergy robed at the Parsonage'. A procession from the church entrance commenced proceedings and hymns were sung followed by Evensong. The dedication service was next, followed by further hymns and an address by the Bishop. 'His fervent and inspiring address will live long in the minds of the people'. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of November, 1929.

1929 - MRS. HECTOR BENHAM  WINS FIRST PRIZE AT WHIST TOURNAMENT > Mrs. Hector Benham of Pamber Heath won first prize at the Conservative Whist Tournament held at the Conservative Club in Basingstoke, with a score of 186. The first prize was a voucher with the value of £12 10s. The Pamber Heath and Tadley people had been conveyed by W. Kent's motor coaches to the venue, where 40 tables were engaged in the contest. Players from Silchester also attended, being conveyed by Messrs. Lovegrove Bros' motor vehicles. Miss Saunders of Silchester House scooped the second prize. 'What most concerns Silchester and Pamber Heath is the fact that success attended the players from this district'. ITEM 0332 SOURCE: Hants & Berks Gazette, 6th of November, 1929.

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