Mr Barry Stevenson, of Cowlinge conducted
an Antiques Roadshow for the History Society and displayed his encyclopedia
knowledge of all aspects of the contents of our attics and sideboards.
Whether he was looking at china, silver, wood, books or documents,
Mr Stevenson was able to tell the age and provenance of most of what
he called our 'little gems'.
It was evident throughout the evening that as well as being very knowledgeable,
he has a great love for his subject, and has not lost his enthusiasm
after what turned out to be his 290th Roadshow! The highlight of the
evening was a pack of printed, hand-coloured playing cards and a booklet
about the Hearth Tax, found by one of the members in a chimney stack
in Bury St. Edmunds. These had been dated by an expert at the V&A
at around 1630.
We were pleased to welcome a visitor from Haverhill at the meeting.
Mr Basil Rowland had discovered Baptismal Records of 1846 onwards
relating to the Wickhambrook Methodist Church while doing research
at the Cambridge Record office. A meeting will be set up for interested
parties to have a closer look. A visit to Gifford's Hall had to be
postponed because of snow.
On Saturday 20th March there will be a social evening for members
and friends when Neil Lanham of the Bumpstead Boys will talk on the
oral tradition of East Anglia, with song and story. Neil is interested
to meet anyone who has worked on the land as he is collecting reminiscences
from the area. Tickets (£6) are available from the Secretary
(820376) and include refreshments. This will take place in the W.I.
Hall, so places are limited.
New members are very welcome. Contact the secretary or have a look
at the village website.
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