Feniton History Group held the 75th Meeting in the Nog Inn

Sadly, I missed the meeting due to a heavy cold, thank you to you all for taking the reins, see you do it so well you don’t really need me!

David told us about a talk he went to on Church screens. The speaker has written a book, and would be willing to come and give us a talk. We thought maybe in the Feniton church, later in the spring.
This has now been have provisionally booked the church for 20th Apr 2017.

Hugh brought along the account book of his grandfather’s market garden business and greengrocery round in Plymouth dating back to 1907, with wages listed and prices of items. The business is still being run by a descendant.

We had some more discussion on local place name pronunciations, such as the emphasis of ‘ford’ in Sidford, Colyford etc.

John  Masters explained how his locomotive restoration society are rebuilding a Bulleid Merchant Navy Class, named ‘General Steam Locomotive Co.’ 35011. He brought photos of the engine in its original and present rusty state.  The SW branch are to have their AGM at the Nog Inn on March 18th, about mid-day until 4.00pm. He would like us to put on a display of photos, layout plans etc relating to the 1960s. It was suggested that in the lounge bar would be best, and that we open it to others who may like to come and look.

Chris Saunders has notified us that the fund raising for the restoration of the Pattesons Cross Monument has reached its target. The monument looks very fine now the work is complete.

Alan has met someone who wants to find out something of the family of a Thomas Hardy who emigrated from Gittisham to Australia in 1850. Alan wondered if we can help. This Thomas Hardy started a winery in 1853 which is still running today and is very well known. To prove this, Alan brought along a bottle of Hardy’s finest Australian wine!

I had a rummage on Find My Past and have found a possible baptism for Thomas in Stockland, there is not one in Gittisham. Just ask if you would like the detail of the search. I have sent a copy to Alan and Brenda.
The following dates need to be noted for discussion at the February meeting.

The Train AGM, The Nog Inn.   Sat 18th March.
Talk in Church on Screens.       Thur 20th April
Rogation Walk Rogation walk. Sun 21 May 2017

It has been suggested that we invite the following people to share their interests with the Group: Jim Woodley, WW1 in Ottery, David on the Church Graffiti, Graeme on his local finds.

The Parish Council are applying for grants to restore and renovate the Lych Gate. So, 2018 might be a good year to mark this and perhaps have a History Weekend in the Village?

The next meeting will be on Thursday 2nd Feb. 2017.