We have had two excellent evening visits
this summer, both taking place in beautiful weather. The first, in
June, was to Hengrave Hall, where Clive Paine was
our guide around the house, inside and out, and the chapel. The hall
was built by Thomas Kitson, (described by Clive as the 'del-boy' of
his day) who made his fortune trading in London and moved to Suffolk
to impress natives by building a stunning house. The front of the
house was recently restored and the colour of the coat of arms and
other decoration can be seen to great effect.
Other highlights of the visit were a fascinating look at the Chapel
where members of the Kitson family are buried in elaborate tombs,
and the room where Queen Elizabeth the first slept when she came to
stay. Our outing in July was to Pakenham Water Mill,
where we had a guided tour of this working mill, and heard about its
history and restoration in the company of Clive Blanshard, one of
the volunteers, known to many as a former head of Wickhambrook School.
Both visits were well attended and much enjoyed. There is no meeting
in August.
Secretary
Dorothy Anderson
01440 820376
Events Secretary
Gillian Cooper
01440 820052
Next
Meeting
Tuesday 16th September
Education in Suffolk 1550 - 1770 by Nick Sign
7.30pm in W.I. Hall new members are very welcome
Published in The
Scene : Issue No. 206 : September - October 2003
