"Sheffield Evening Telegraph — Monday 7 January 1907
A LOVE TRAGEDY.
Tried to Die Together.
At the South Western Police Court, London, today, Alice Allen, 16. was charged with attempting to commit suicide. It is alleged that the accused and her lover, George Bastow, resolved to die together, as the girl's parents wore opposed to their marriage. Providing themselves with bottle of liquid poison they went to Wandsworth Common, and drank its contents. They were found by the police very ill, and were taken to a hospital, where Bastow is still lying in a dangerous condition. Tho girl was remanded.
[BNA:
[Reported more or less verbatim in many newspapers]
Leeds Mercury — Tuesday 8 January 1907
POISONED LOVERS. STRANGE STORY OF ATTEMPTED SUICIDE.
Alice Allen, good-looking girl of 16, living in the Stockwell-road, London has parents who oppose her marriage with a youth named George Bastow. For this reason she and her lover resolved to die together. Providing themselves with a bottle, labelled Spirits of Salts — Poison," they made their way to Wandsworth Common, where, sitting on seat, they shared the contents.
A policeman found them there on the night of January Ist, ill and half-unconscious. With assistance, he carried them to the Bolingbroke Hospital, where the young man is still lying in dangerous condition. The girl, who had admitted that they tried poison themselves, was brought up yesterday, at the South-Western Police court.
Mr. De Grey, however, was unable to extract any information from her, and suggested, as he remanded the case, that Miss Reade, the lady missionary, should speak to her.
[BNA:
"Daily Mirror — Tuesday 8 January 1907
HOSPITAL BEDS ON THE FLOOR.
Puzzled Wandsworth Doctor Has to Fit 785 Patients in a Space Only Big Enough for 658. There is probably no more harassed man in London to-day than Dr. J. B. Neal, resident medical officer of the Wandsworth Workhouse Infirmary. The hospital under his charge is certified to hold 658 patients. Yesterday morning there were 785 inpatients, each requiring careful nursing and attention, and the vital question Dr. Neal had to solve was how these 127 extra patients were to be properly accommodated. He told the Daily Mirror yesterday how he managed to get over the difficulty. " Instead of allowing the patients the regulation 850 cubic feet, we cannot give them more than twothirds of that amount, the distances between the beds being Oft. instead of Oft. " Fifteen beds have had to be rigged up on the floor for the convalescent patients, and the removal of these in the daytime causes a vast amount of increased work to the nurses."
The Wandsworth Union is now considering a scheme for the erection of a branch hospital at St. James's-road, Wandsworth Common. This will hold 600 patients, and will cost, as near as can be estimated, 250,000.
[BNA:
"Westminster Gazette — Tuesday 8 January 1907
BOLINGBROKE HOSPITAL, WANDSWORTH COMMON. S.W. 14,000 very URGENTLY NEEDED for EXTENSIONS now in hand. Only General Hospital (nearest over four miles away) for immense area containing 500,010 people. L o rd Wandsworth has very generously given a donation of iloo, and also offered a further if the balance of 13,000 is raised within three months. Cheques payable to Everarel G. Thorne, Chairman of the Building Com. mittee. Bankers : London and Scuth-Western Bank, Clapham Junction, SW.
[BNA:
Alice Allen, a good-looking girl of 16, living in the Stockwell-road, London has parents who oppose her marriage with a youth named George Bastow. For this reason she and her lover resolved to die together. Providing themselves with a bottle, labelled Spirits of Salts — Poison," they made their way to Wandsworth Common, where, sitting on seat, they shared the contents. A policeman found them there on the night of January 1st, ill and half-unconscious. With assistance, he carried them to the Bolingbroke Hospital, where the young man is still lying in dangerous condition. The girl, who had admitted that they tried poison themselves, was brought up yesterday, at the South-Western Police court. Mr. De Grey, however, was unable to extract any information from her, and suggested, as he remanded the case, that Miss Reade, the lady missionary, should speak to her. [BNA: "190718
South Western Star — Friday 11 January 1907
THE COURSE OF TRUE LOVE
Alice Allen (1(), bottle-wirer, of 11a, Stockwell-road, was charged on a warrant with "unlawfully attempting feloniously of her malice aforethought to kill and murder hertelf." — P.C. I9SY said that at 9 39 in the evening of New Year's Day he was called to Wandsworth Common and found prisoner and a young man named William Ba.stow sitting on a Iseat. Both were in greet pain. The girl said, "We've taken some poison." A bottle marked "Spirits of Salts — Poison "was lying on the ground near. Both were taken to Bolingbroke Hospital. At the hospital the girl said " We took it. as my parents were not willing for me to go with Widiant Bastow." He arrested her on her discharge from the hospital this morning. — Dr. Hughes, medical superintendent at the hospital, said the man would not he discharged before the end of this week." — Prisoner was remanded.
[BNA:
WANDSWORTH INFIRMARY ACCOMMODATION.
The scheme for the erection of a branch hospital at St. James's-road, Wandsworth Common, has been recently discussed by the guardians, but for some reason there appears to lie desire to avoid the expenditure of the 250,000 which it is estimated that the scheme will cost. This may or may not due to the fact that the elections are pending; but whatever it may he, it certain that the present system of accommodating patients at the infirmary is sadly in need of reform. An idea of the existing conditions, due only the fact that the infirmary is overcrowded, readily gathered from the fact that the present building certified to hold 658 patients, while at the present time there are just upon 785 patients whose condition necessitates careful nursing, attention, and efficient and healthful accommodation. To make room lor the 127 extra patients the regulation 6ft. between the beds has been reduced to 41/2ft ; but even this does not suffice, for no less than 15 beds have to be nightly made the floor and removed in the morning.
[BNA:
"Morning Post — Friday 18 January 1907
Borough schemes were stopped temporarily, but the London County Council Parks at Battersea, Blackbeatb, Brockwr) 1-park, Clapham-common, El thorn Park, Finsbury Park, Manor House Gardens, StreathamGommon, Tooting-common, and Wandsworth-common 272 men were found employment, doing an average of eight weeks- work each
[BNA:
"Morning Post — Wednesday 23 January 1907
Wandsworth common. Magdalen park ESTATE. HOUSES, artistically designed and thoroughly well built, delightfully situated In high and dry position, within minutes walk two railway stations. To lie LET SOLD. Rents varying *O, " r annum.For particulars apply HOLLOWAY BROS., office estate, or os above.
[BNA: "Morning Post — Wednesday 23 January 1907 Wandsworth common. — Magdalen park ESTATE. HOUSES, artistically designed and thoroughly well built, delightfully situated In high and dry position, within minutes walk two railway stations. To lie LET SOLD. Rents varying *O, " r annum.For particulars apply HOLLOWAY BROS., office estate, or os above. [BNA: STILL FREEZING. Waimer in London but Colder in the Provinces. Gone the bitter, searching east wind, but the great black frost is still with us. For nearly 70 hours the thermometer has remained below freezing point over the greater part of England. The Arctic snap has relaxed its hold somewhat on London, but the frost has tightened its grasp in most of the country districts. Yesterday morning the ice wave was very severe in the provinces. Sixteen twenty degrees of frost were registered in the Midlands, degrees being recorded Nottingham. The North of Scotland still remains the warmest spot in the British Isles. Londoners will probably polish up their skates this morning, and get ready for some week-end fun. Except ilanip stead, skaters wire prohibited yesterday from going on the ice the L.C.C. lakes and ponds. The ice generally had not reached the minimum thickness required the regulationsthree inches but some of the waters are expected to be thrown open this afternoon. The most goi-at-abl* ponds and lakes in the metropolitan districts are; Wandsworth Common Wimbledon .en ion (Welsh Harp) Snaresb ook Por'd) Clapton and vicinity of Lea Putney Larlstield Bourne End sea Park rock well Park Hackui y Marshes Leyton alar Lee Wsuihtead Park Common Tooting Common St. Juine'* Park Clungford (Connaught Hampton Court Hyde Park Kensington Gardena South Norwood Lake Richmond Park Chameleon Fog. When tbe east wind ceased yesterday a fog desoeoded upon Loudon. wae a mysterious jailor in many rmpc?etfl. About ihrod o'clock the afternoon it began to change colour like & chameleon. At the Strand end of Chaneery-laflie it assumed familiar pea huA; at the other end there was no fog all. Fog yellow," "fog white," "black fog," and fog" were aome of the message* received from different parts of London. Skating was Ln fuli swing throughout the entire Fen District yesterday. The sport general yceterday the Lower Thame* Valley. The pond* in Hampton Court Park were covered with ice about two inches thick, but skating wae not allowed on the deeper water. The Long Walter in Hampton Court Park, famous skating ground, wan covered with ice over two inchc* thick, but will not be allowed there until the ice ie least 31 inches thick. There has been no skating the Long Water since the gr.* [BNA: "Morning Post — Thursday 7 February 1907 EXTRAORDINARY POISONING CASE, Mr. Trout bock held inquiry at Battersea restorday with reference to the death of William Thomas, aged seventeen, bottle wirer, residing at Beaufo}|-road, Battersea, who died in Bolingbroko Hospital bunday lost from fho effect of poison taken under singular circumstances. Jane Hasten said Thomas was her adopted son. She had brought him up from infancy. Ho was acquainted with girl Alice Allen, but witness thought Allen's parents did not like it. On the evening of New Year's Day Thomas went out with the girl, saying he was going to music-hall. The next witness heard of them was at midnight, when the police informed her that they were both in Bolingbroko Hospital suffering from poison. Witness went to the hospital next morning and saw Thomas. She asked him why he did it, and all said was Through her mother." Witness: I said, "Who took it first?" and said, Alice." 1 asked him, Who took the most ? " and he said, I did." Annio Coles, a probationary nurse at Wandsworth I.'nion Infirmary, said she was on Wandsworth Common tho evening of January 1 when a roan and a woman came to her, and the latter asked witness to help them. She said : feel very queer." Witness said, "What has happened?" and the girl replied, have taken spirits of salts." Witness sat both of them a seat and tried to induce them to vomit, at the same time sending passer-by for policeman. She found bottle under the seat which had contained spirits of salts. Police-constable William Brice said he conveyed Thomas to the hospital, Allen walking there. He asked tho girl what she had done, and she said, have taken poison from that bottle." At the hospital she said, ''We took the poison because parents would not allow to keep company." Witness added that on January 7 girl was arrested and charged with attempting to commit suicide. After several remands she was bound over to be of good behaviour for twelve months. She promised not to do It again. Mrs. Alice Allen, mother of tho young woman, of High-street, Stockwell. said she had known Thomas for two years. He worked at the same factory her daughter, who sixteen years of age. At the hospital her daughter told her she took the poison because witness would not let her out with Thomas. Witness had corrected her daughter for being out late one night. The- daughter had answered she was out with Thomas, and witness said she could not allow such thing. Her obioction was that her daughter was too young. Alice Allen, reply to the Coroner, said she wished to give evidence. The Coroner : Do you wish to say anything about what you did ? Witness : Yes. The Coroner Who got the spirits salts ? Witnqps : I did, New Year's Day, and gave it to Thomas. He handed the stuff the Common and 1 drank some. The Coroner: Do you remember Thomas taking any ? Witness : No, sir. The Coroner : What did you mean to ? Witness : don't know, sir. The Coroner : Did you mean to die ? Witness: No, sir. The Coroner : Did you wish the man to die ? Witness : No, sir. The Coroner : You did it to frighten your mother Witness :We did, sir. The Coroner You thought it very grand thing at the time ? Witness : Yes. The Coroner, in summing up, said it was an old-established principle of law that wnere two persons agreed to commit suicide and one died thq survivor was guilty of murder. But they must be careful to see that there was a real intention to take lifethey must be satisfied that these two young things really meant what they were doing. It was evident that they wanted to do something striking, as suggested in penny novels, and did not realise what poison meant or what death really was. After consulting jn private the jury returned a verdict of death by misadventure, believing that neither intended to take his or her life bat intended merely to frighten the mother. [BNA: "Tower Hamlets Independent and East End Local Advertiser — Saturday 9 February 1907 Whilst there are many phases of the work of the London County Council that call for criticism, there is one that perhaps nearly all are agreed on — its management of our parks and open spaces. The County Council holds, in the name of the people of London, nearly 5,000 acres of public land. The exact extent of the parks and open spaces is 4, 966 k acres. Upon the acquisition and development of this vast property there has been a net capital expenditure of 1, 679, 629. The annual cost of maintenance is 2113, 368, which is equal to a charge of a little over a halfpenny in the pound on the rates. In other words, the upkeep of the parks costs the people of London considerably less than 6d. each in every year. Included in the sum quoted are the wages of an outdoor staff of 843 men and women. It is not necessary to enter into the history of the parks movement in London, full of interest though the recital would be. It must be borne in mind, however, that Londoners possessed many fine open spaces before the County Council came into existence in 1859, and that in this year the Council in fact, succeeded to the heritage of the Metropolitan Board of Works. Nor should it be forgotten that to this much-abused body London owes some gratitude for its action in preserving for the people many of the great stretches of common land within the Metropolis which were threatened nearly half a century ago. Among the open spaces which the Board of Works handed over to its successors were some of the most extensive of London's playgrounds, among them Battersea Park (199 acres), Clapham Common (2A.1), rooting Bee Common (154), Wandsworth Common (183), Blackheath (267), Hampstead Heath (240), Wormwood Scrubs (215), Finsbury Park (118), and Victoria Park (217). Of the W Iparks, gardens. Iand open spaces now under the control of the Council (excluding the nine small playgrounds and burial grounds maintained by I the County, though not owned by if), fifty; seven have been acquired by the Council Iitself since 1889. SOME RECENT ACQUISITIONS. It will be to the lasting credit of the' Council that it took the lead in the movement which resulted in Hainault Forestor all that remains of it — being secured for ever for the people. Although situated in the county of Essex, Hainault is within easy reach of the crowded districts of the East End, and it is impossible to exaggerate the importance to London of the acquisition of this great breathing-space. The Council contributed 1O,000 of the 21, 800 required to secure the estate, and it has undertaken the maintenance and control of the forest. Although the land has now lost much of its forestal character, l 2E4 of the 805 acres are still well wooded. Hackney Marsh, with its magnificent play-.ing-fields, extending over 339 acres, was acquired under somewhat similar circamstances in 1894, the Council contributing L.f.0, 090 towards the purchase-money of 75.000. Another important work carried: out by the Council was the dedication to the public for ever of Parliament Hill, that wide expanse of 267 acres, which adjoins Hampstead Heath. 150,000 of the 301.000 required for this purchase w::s paid by the Council. South of the Thames. Brockwell Park, a charming estate of 127 acres, with a fine mansion and a wonderfully picturesque old English garden. has been added to the people's possessions. By the addition of Bostal Woods to Bostal Heath, and of Peckham Rye Park to Peckham Rye, two other great open spaces have had their area practically doubled. It is sufficient to mention such well-known spots as Avery Hill, Eltham Park, Hilly Fields (Lewisham), Ruskin Park (Denmark Hill), in the South, and Golder's Hill, Marble Hill, Waterlow Park, and Springfield Park in the North, all of which have been acquired in recent years by the County Council. 25,000 Wanted N ATURAL HISTORY. The natural attractions of the parks have been fostered in one important respect by the Council. Every effort has been made to encourage the protection of wild birds; but not content with this, the Council has established aviaries in nine of the parks. There are also deer enclosures at Clissold Park, Battersea Park, Victoria Park, and Golder's Hill. The last-named even boasts the possession of an emu, while Battersea rejoices in an opossum to say nothing of a collection of owls. Elsewhere there are guinea-pigs. goats. and other four-legged creatures. Another way in which the Council has added to the amenities of the parks is by the provision of open-air concerts. During 1906 there were 1.204 band performances in sixty-nine places. The net cost of these was 10, 209. There are three bands in existence — two military and one orchestral — formed by 114 of the Council's servants, and at Brockwell Park there is a music library of 2,000 pieces. But the great attraction of the parks, at least to the juvenile section of the population, is the facilities which are freely offered for the playing of games. Young London is encouraged to take part in health-giving pastimes. It is scarcely necessary now to play football and cricket in the streets, for in the parks there. are 452 reserved cricket-pitches and 231 reserved football-pitches, besides many other places which are available without special permission. There are also seventy-four bowling greens, thirty-one croquet grounds, thirty-nine hockey fields, 476 lawn-tennis courts, and thirty-six quoit corners, in which the, delights of quoits may be enjoyed. Lacrosse is played in six parks, basket ball in four, and "spiropole" in one (Hilly Park). Hurling, "shinty, " and roller-skating are, also sanctioned, while skating is a great ' sport in the parks when at rare intervals, there is any ice. On Blackheath and at Clapham. Streatham, and Tooting Commons even golf may be enjoyed. But these diversions do not exhaust the pleasures of the parks. There are gymnasia for "grown-ups" and for children, bathing ponds for all, and running tracks for those of an athletic turn of mind. The sand pits, too, at Victoria Park, Peckham, Rye, and half a dozen other places have filled many a juvenile heart with delight. In the summer months boating may be enjoyed on the lakes in four of the parks. and two of these (Battersea and Victoria) even have their motor-launches. [BNA:
Daily News (London) — Saturday 26 January 1907
Fulham Chronicle — Friday 10 May 1907
There is doubt about the LCC's good fortue i particular. Let their folly be what it may the Council is never at a loss for defenders . . . the same body has been improving Wandsworth Common by burning the gorse which was about to come into flower.
And yet the County Council is as blameless as ever. Nay, a writer in a morning paper can prove that the LCC is performing a distinct kindness to the Common.
This gorse was burnt to enable other gorse to grow.
"Morning Post — Thursday 25 July 1907
THE MORNING POST. THURSDAY. JULY 85. 1907. THE ROYAL VICTORIA PATRIOTIC ASYLUM. JUBILEE COMMEMORATION. VISIT OF THE KING AND QUEEN.
The Jubilee of the foundation and endowment of the Royal Victoria Patriotic Asylum, Wandsworth Common, as a national memorial for the benefit of orphan daughters of the nation's soldiers, sailors, and marines, was commemorated yesterday. The proceedings were graced the presence of their Majesties the King and Queen, who gave marked evidence of their interest in and appreciation of the beneficent work that has always been the great characteristic of the institution, which owed its beginning to the initiative of Queen Victoria. is hardly possible to assess by figures merely the value of that work, but some idea, at all events, is conveyed by the statement made by the Duke of Connaught, the President of the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation, that during the past fifty years no fewer than 2.413 girls have been admitted into the institution, receiving sound elementary education and a practical training fitting them to earn their own living in domestic employment, and that the most gratifying reports have been received from employers of those who have passed out — undoubted testimony the good service rendered by the girls.
As his Majesty emphasised, is impossible to overestimate the good that has been done, and it may confidently assumed, as it is certainly desired, that yesterday's Royal commendation will further stimulate public sympathy in this branch of philanthropic effort. A large and representative gathering was present, guests invited including Earl Nelson, General the Hon. Sir Neville G. Lyttelton. Admiral A. L. Winslow, Sir Henry Kimber, M.P., Colonel Sir E. W. D. Ward, Sir George Hay ter Chubb, Sir Richard Awdry, Sir William Lancaster, Mr. D. J. Shackleton, M.P., Mr. Koarley, M.P., Mr. G. D. Kelley. M.P.. Mr. A. H. Gill, M.P., Dr. Pollock (Head Master of Wellington College), Mayors of Wandsworth and Battersea, the Rev. H. B. Riley (Head Master Emanuel School), Captain Cooper-Key (Superintendent of Greenwich Hospital School). Colonel A. N. Murray (Commandant the Duke of York's Military School). Lieutenant Bosanquct, R.N. (Secretary of the Marine Society), Mr. A. Shirley Bonn, Canon Erskine Clarke, Mrs. Poulden, representatives of the Education Department of the London County Council.and the following members of the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation: Mr. W. Hayes Fisher (chairman), Lord Methuen, Admiral Sir Cyprian Bridge, Admiral Sir Nathaniel Bowden Smith, Sir Francis Mowatt, Colonel Sir James Gildea. Sir Frank T. Mar/.ials, Mr. Arthur Henderson, M.P., Mr. H. G. Fordham, Mr. C. H. R. Stansfleld. Mr. J. WillisBund, and Mr. F. B. Wyatt: while the committee of management of the Royal Victoria Patriotic Asylum was represented by Lady Harrison, Lady Walker, Mrs. Lyster, Mrs. Fox. Major-General W. B. Cumberland, and Mr. W. Castle.
in its power to succour and relieve, far the funds disposal will permit, the necessitous widows, orphans, and other dependents of your Majesty's Navy and Army. Speech by his Majesty. The King reply said: " I have to thank your Royal Highness for your loyal address welcome. No nobler use could have been made the Royal Patriotic Fund than by the establishment of the splendid work beneficence known the Royul Victoria Patriotic Asylum. impossible to overestimate the good which has been done your efforts afford careful instruction so many young girls between the ages of seven and sixteen. When they leave you they are qualified to take position in the world which enables them to earn their own living, and they are not likely to forget the careful training they have received at yonr bauds. l am confident that you fully realise the grave responsibility which attaches to your work, and that thorough investigation you are careful to acquire intimate knowledge of the circumstances of each case submitted to your care. Ifamiliar with the good work performed by your Corporation apart from this Orphanage, and of its constant endeavours to assist those whose husbands or fathers had met their death while in service. Ipray that by God's Blessing the success of your efforts may long be continued.-' The Queen Presents Prizes. Radge brooches and prizes were then presented by her Majesty. The names of the recipients were announced the Secretary, who stated that five of the girls who were sixteen years of age were leaving the institution, and they were to receive what was regarded the badge of honour. It was given for good conduct in special degree, and knew that it was highly prized every girl who possessed it. The other prizes included three gained for cooking in competition with girls from all the schools in the Metropolis, and five gained in religions Instruction in competition with girls in other schools the Diocese. The presentations over, the children, under the conductorship of Mr. Seymour Dicker, sang "Rule Britannia, " and they acquitted themselves admirably.
Commemoration Tablet. Their Majesties were then conducted the Play Hal! and the Infirmary, and their return the front of the main building the King unveiled a mural tablet in commemoration of the jubilee of the foundation of the asylum. The inscription on the tablet was follows; His Majesty King Edward VII., accompanied by her Majesty Queen Alexandra, visited the Royal Victoria Patriotic Asylum 21th July, 1907, commemorate the jubilee of its foundation and endowment out of the Patriotic Fund 1857, by command of her Majesty Queen Victoria, as a national memorial, for the benefit of the orphan daughters of the nation's sailors, soldiers, and marines." As their Majesties left the building the band played God Save the King, " and the return journey was commenced amid the enthusiastic cheers of vast concourse of people.
Arrival of their Majesties.
The King and Queen, who were accompanied Princess Victoria, and attended Lord Colebrooke, Sir Arthur Davidson, Captain the Hon. Seymour Fortescue, R.N., and the Marchioness of Salisbury, arrived by motor car promptly noon. They were heartily cheered thousands of people who had gathered the vicinity, the crowd being very large on the long stretch of roadway, from which, looking across the railway, an excellent view of the asylum obtained. On the lawn in front of the well-known building the band from the Royal Hospital School at Greenwich played National Anthem. The Duke of Connaught, who was accompanied by the Duchess of Connaught, received their Majesties at the main entrance and presented members of the Executive Committee of the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation and the Committee of Management of the Asylum. The Queen had on a pale mauve flowered muslin dress, with insertions of lace, a heliotrope feather boa, and a toque with shaded velvet pansies. Princess Victoria was wearing a pale blue and whifcestrlpcd monsseline dress, a black hat with marabout plumes, and a pale blue feather ruff. The Duchess of Connaught's dress was of black and white striped silk.
Address from Wandsworth.
Before inside the building their Majesties were approached the Mayor of Wandsworth, who very fittingly presented address from the borough in which the asylum is situated. address stated:
We rejoice that your Majesties have shown in the welfare of this institution the same warm intorest with which it has been honoured by her late beloved Majesty Queen Victoria and many other membora of Koval Family, to whose sympathy nnd support it deeply indebted. The silo of the institution comprises 40 acres, formerly part of the common which is surrounded, and an open space is of groat value to the large population of the two adjoining Boroughs of Battersea and Wandsworth. During the years which have elapsed sine the institution was established this population has increased from about 60,000 to over 500,000, and is still rapidly increasing. is less than a month since your Majesties graciously opened in adjacent borough the Union Jock Club, also for the benefit of men serving the Army and Navy, and your presence on this Interesting occasion is another inatanco of the readiness of your Majesties to promote the success institutions established for the advancement the best interests of the Servioes of the Crown. The Kino's Reply. His Majesty handed th following reply: On behalf of the Queen and myself have to thank you for your loyal and dutiful address. I am glad take this opportunity of meeting the representatives who have been chosen by people to regulate the affairs of this important borough. The object of my visit to which you allude with much sympathy is one which must appeal to all those who have the welfare of their country heart. The men of Navy and Army have ever boon distinguished for bravery and devotion, and no public effort is more worthy of support than the endeavour to provide for the orphan girls of those who have died in th service of their country. Irejoice in the success of institution which bears the name of Queen Victoria, dear and ever to lamented mother. Iwish it every success in the future. Ishare with you th gratification which must all feel in the promotion of this worthy and patriotic object."
Record a Great Work.
A procession was then formed, and as the Royal party entered th large dining hall where the guests had assembled the thro hundred girls in the Orphanage, who were drawn on each side of the carpeted way, — sang the National Anthem. The children, dressed in their Sunday best, " and beaming with delight, made up charming and realistic picture. Their Majesties having taken up their positions on the platform, the Duke of Connaught read th following address May it please your Majesty, — I have, on my own behalf President and on behalf of the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation, to thank your Majesty for graciously visiting the Royal Victoria Patriotic Asylum In commemoration of the jubilee of its erection and endowment in 1857 by command of her Majesty Queen Victoria. Upon a mural tablet at the entrance of this building there is the following inscription: This Asylum for the Orphan Daughters of the Soldiers, Seamen, and Marines of the Realm is erected and endowed by commend of Queen Victoria from part of Patriotic Fund formed in 1854-55 by the Donations of the People of Great Britain and Ireland, the British Colonies and India, aided by many contributioos from other parts of the World. During the fifty years which have elapsed since 1857 2, 413 girls have been admitted into the institution, receiving sound elementary education and practical training fitting them to earn their own living in domestic employment. most gratifying reports have been received from employers of those who have passed out testifying to the good service rendered the girls. Since the Patriotic Fund was raised other funds have passed under its administration, and now the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation, of which I have the honour to be President, administers funds for the benefit widows, children, and other dependents of offleers and men of your Majesty's Navy and Army. During the fifty years which have elapsed since the foundation of the original Patriotic Fund 12, 164 widows, 15, 784 children, and 2, 216 other relatives of officers and men of your Majesty's Navy and Army have benefited to the extent of 3, 296, 927. At the beginning of this year there remained on the books of the funds 4, 102 widows, children, and other dependents, and I desire to assure your Majesty and your Majesty's subjects throughout the Realm that the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation is imbued with deep sense of its duty to do all that lies
On 30 Jun 2022, at 15:42, Philip Boys
Daily Telegraph & Courier (London) — Thursday 25 July 1907
PATRIOTIC ASYLUM JUBILEE. WS MAJESTY'S SPEECHES.
Among the many oeretoonies which the King end Queen have honoured by their presence in this fast waning season, none surely has been of greater interest, or more picturesquely conceived, than that which took place yesterday at the Royal Victoria Patriotic Asyhim. It may be recalled that his Majesty accompanied Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort at the laying of the foundation-stone in 18.57, and it was in recognition of this notable anniversary in the of the institution this Royal visit was promised. The event naturally occasioned the ut most enthusiasm in the distract, and there was a profuse display of flags from the houses Dear the asylum, while on Wandsworth-common large crowds were assembled, who gave hearty welcome. On either side of the main entrance of the imposing building, which is such familiar object to all travellers on the London and South-Western Railway. two large Union flags were draped, and on the lawns before it the band of the Royal Hospital School at Greenwich was stationed. The King and Queen, accompanied by Princess Victoria, and attended by Lord Colebrook., Colonel Sir A. Davidson, and Captain the Hon. Seymour Fortescue, came from London in motor-care. Meanwhile the Duke and Duchess of Connaught had arrived, and! his Royal Highness, in his capacity of president of the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation, formally received their Majesties. With the Duke of Connaught were the members of the corporation, including Mr. W. Hayes Fisher (chairman), Admiral Sir Nathaniel Bowden Smith ichairman of the Committee of Management), Admiral Sir Cyprian Bridge, Earl Nelson, Sir William Lancaster, Alderman A. Barnes, Mr. H. G. Fordham, Colonel Sir James Glides, Mr. Arthur Henderson, M.P., G ILord Methuen, Sir F. T. Menials, Sir Francis Moran, Mr. C. H. R. Stanafield, Mr. J. W. Willis Bond, and Mr. F. B. Wyatt. Of the Committee of Management there wens present Mr. W. Castle, .major-General W. B. Cumberland, Lady Harrison, Lady Walker, Mrs. Lyster, and Mrs. Fox. The Queen accepted lovely bouquet of malmaisons from Wreath Bayley, the girl who has been longest in the school, and Mabel Poole, as a representative of the chief prise-winners, offered another of roes to the Duchess of Connaught. The scene within the huge dining ball that met the oyes of their Majesties was singularly pleasing. On either side of the broad redcarpeted way the little " Daughters of the! Brave" were drawn up in triple line. A very large proportion of those now in the institu' tion lost their fathers daring the South African War, and there are few of the campaigns that the responsibilities of Empire have thrust upon us in recent years which are lot recalled in the roll of the 300 bright-faced little inmates. In the first line were the youngest girls, all wearing new blue serge skirts and red and white strip ed cotton blouses. The older girls in the two lines behind them had similar skirts and blue and white plates blouses, all having a bright new red tie. The costume has been modified to meet present ideas since the foundation, for there were ladies present who could recall the straw " coal-scuttle " bonnets, with green strings and " curtains "of earlier days. Under the conductorship of Mr. Seymour Dicker, musical director of the London County Council day' training colleges, the girls sang two verses of the National Anthem, and at the last note turned with soldierly precision to face the King and Queen, who had now reached the Her Majesty worn dress of painted muslin in a very soft shade and bold patterning of mauve, inserted and trimmed with fine lice. A feather boa exactly corresponding in shade accompanied it, and the toque was of heartsease, shaded from pale heliotrofe to deep purple. A dream of pale blue and white mouaseline was worn by Princess Victoria, with a ruff of blue feathers, and her hat of crin had blac brim and white crown, and was trimmed with a Izsge cluster of white marabout, tipped with black. The Duchess of Connaught was in black and white striped silk, and in her black bat was a sweeping white ostrich plume, while she had a white feather stole. Among others on the dais were Admiral A. L. Winslow, representing the First Lord of the Admiralty, General the Hon. Sir N. G. Lyttelton, Colossal Sir E. W. D. Ward, Sir H. Kimber, M.P., the Mayors of Battersea and Wandsworth, Admiral H. P. de Kantaow, Sir George Hayter Chubb, and Mr. T. J. Taylor, chairman of the Education Committee, London County Comma The Duke of Connaught read the fellowiag address: May pleas- your Majesty, Ihare on my own behalf, as president, and on behalf of the Boys! Patriotic Pond Corporation, to Unlink roar Majesty for geliciortely visiting the Royal Victoria Patriotic Asylum in oommemoration of the Jubilee of its erection and endowment in 1E67, by command of her Majesty Queen Victoria. Upon a mural tablet at the entrance of this build- them is the following inscription: Thin asylum for the orphan daughters of the soldiers, seamen, and marines of the realm is erected and endowed by coirenand of Queen 'Mora from part the Patriotic Fund formed le 185446 by the donations of the people of Great Britain and Ireland, the British Colonies, and aidel by many contributions from other parts of the solid. Dorms t_e fifty years which have elapsed since 1167. 2, 413 girt, _are been admitted into the Piste'slieu reeeiving a sound rlomentary education and a practical training fitting them to earn their own living i domestic employment. The most gratifying reports bare born received from employers of those bare gamed out, testifying to the good service rendered by the;irls Since the Patriotic Fund was raised otter funds have passed under its administration, and now the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation, of which Ihays the honour to be president. administers twenty-one hmds for the benefit of widows, children, and other tiei — enri, ltS of Akers and men of your Majestyn Navy and Army.. Dunn, . fift years which have elapsed elute the foundation the original Patriotic Fund, 12, 164 — Hosts. 15.784 otoldron, and 2, 216 other relatives of officers and men of your Majesty's Navy and Army base benefited to the extent of 3, 296, 927. At the het:innate of this yisar there, remained on the books of the funds 41(2 widows, 4, 522 children, and 221 other dependents. and I desire to assure your Majesty and your Majesty's subjects throughout the realm that the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation is imbued with deep sense of its duty to do all that lien in its poser to suercur and relieve, as far as the funds at Alerted wdl permit, the neoessitoue widows, sepias', and Mher dependents of your Mayesty's Navy sad Army.
The King's reply was as follows: Sir — l thank you, your Royal flightless, for your loyal address of welcome. No nobler nee could have been made of the Royal Patriotic Fund than by the establishment of the splendid work of beneficence known as the Victoria Patriotic Asylum. It is imposat to overestimate the good done by your efforts to afford careful instruction to so many young girls between the ages of seven and sixteen. When they leave you they are qualified to take a position in the world which enables them to earn their own living, and they are not likely to forget the training received at your hands. I am confident that you fully realise the grave responsibility that attaches to your undertaki lig, and that thorough investigation and careful inquiry ace made into the circumstances of each case submitted to your care. I am familiar with the good works performed by your corporation, apart from this orphanage, and your constant endeavour to amain those whose husbands or fathers have met their death while in my service. Ipray that by God's blessing the success of your efforta may long be continued. Colonel Young then stepped forward, and announced that the Queen had most graciously toesented to present thirteen of the chief gained by the girls during the year. To five of them had been awarded for good conduct the much-coveted and greatly-prised badge of the school, met as a brooch; three were gained in open cookery competitions with girls from all the schools in London and fits in equally open competition with the schools of the diocese of Rochester, were given for foligious knowledge. The happy nailed forward by sum and tie WOKE 'with the kindest of amass, handed to each her, :, prize. Then the children /Lang " Rule IBritannia" with a charming effect of a Bolt chorus, and the Royal party left the dais to 'impact the infirmary and the play hall, proceeding thence to the front of the building, Inhere his Majewty unveiled a mural tablet with following inscription: Nano= Krim Pima's VII., accompanied by grim visited the Royal Victoria Patriotic Asylum, 24th July, 1907, to oommernorate the Jubilee of its foundation and endowment out of the Patriotic hind in 1857, by command of HER MAJESTY QUEEN VICTORIA
as
NATIONAL MEMORIAL
the benefit of the Orphan Daughter
of the Notion's Sodom flokilera, and Marmon. Great gratification was afforded to the Borough Council of Wandsworth by his Majesty's ready consent to receive at the Asylum an address from the mayor aldermen, and councillors. This was presen tedtod by the mayor, accompanied' by representatives of the council, and expressed warm welcome, and mentioned that the site of the institution comprises forty acres, formerly part of the common, by which it is surrounded, and as an open space is of great value to the large population 'of the two adjoining boroughs of Battersea and Wandsworth. During the fifty years which uave elapsed since the institution was established this population has increased from about 60,000 to over 600,000, and is still rapidly increasing.
The King handed the following reply: On behalf of the Queen and myself I thank you for your loyal and dutiful address. I am glad to take this opportunity of meeting the representatives who have been chosen by my people to regulate the affairs of this! important borough. The object of my visit to which wni allude with so much sympathy is one winch mast appeal to all those who hare the welfare of this country at heart. The men of my Navy and Army have ever been distinguished for bravery and devotion, and no public effort is more worthy of support than an institution which endeavours to provide for the orphan girls of those who hays died in the service of their country. Irejoice in the success of an institution which bears the name of my dear and everto-be-lamenteu mother. Iwish it every success in the future, and Ishare with you the gratification which we all must feel in the promotion of Lam worthy and beneficent object.
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BABY ENDANGERED AT YORK ROAD
Summoned for driving two horses attached to a van to the common danger, Harry Castle, of 23, Ram-square, Wandsworth, pleaded guilty. — Mr. F. G. Hamblin, of 36, Cicada.road. Wandsworth Common, said his wife was pushing a perambulator containing their baby along there'd at 11 Rm. on July 27. Defendant was driving a van in the opposite direction. The road was perfectly clear at the time. Defendant was not driving very fast, but he collided with the perambulator and overturned it on the pavement. Fortunately the baby was not hurt, but the "pram' was damaged to the extent of about Defendant did not stay to see what happened, but whipped up his horses and drove on. He stopped by someone, and witness saw he had been drinking, though he was not drunk. — Defendant: The policeman allowed me to go on. — Mr. Francis fined Castle lOs., and ordered him to pay 10s. damages. "
CYCLING ON FORBIDDEN GROUND
H. Sheppard, of 35, Borrodaile-road, Wandsworth, A. Ball, of 431, York-road, Wandsworth, and a young man described simply as Jeffrey, of 98 Aslett-street, Wandsworth, were summoned for cycling on a footpath on Wandsworth Common on July 20. Mr. Carter prosecuted on behalf of the London County Council. — Jeffrey and Sheppard, according to the evidence of a common-keeper, aggravated their offence by racing. The speed was not less than 15 miles an hour — Jeffrey denied he was riding fast, and mid he believed the road was open to cyclists. --Defendants were each fined 3s. and 2s costs.
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[Subject of Illustration.]
A POLICEMAN found young woman, clad only in a night-gown, asleep on one the eats on Wandsworth Common early in the morning. He awakened her only after considerable trouble. It was then he learned that she had been walking in her sleep. She knew nothing of how she got the common. She is employed housemaid in a house three-quarters of a mile away.
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Fulham Chronicle — Friday 13 September 1907
Fulham Chronicle — Friday 13 September 1907
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"Daily Mirror — Friday 4 October 1907
LONDON AT PLAY. How the L.C.C. Caters for the Pleasure-Seeker.
SPORTS AND PETS.
A striking illustratinn of the vngtnecq and many-sidedness of the work of the London County Council is revealed in the pages of the annual report, prepared by the clerk (Mr. G. L. Gomme), and published last night. No inconsiderable portion of the big orange volume — it consists of 465 pages — is devoted to a recital of the provision made for pleasure-seeking Londoners.
Here, for instance, is a guide for golfers: Golf links are provided on Blackheath, Clapham Common, Streatham Common, and Tooting common. Golf practice is allowed on Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill, and putting golf on hilly Fields and Wandsworth Common.
The following table shows the number of places at which various other games may be playeo and the number of the pitches, courts, or rinks provided: — No. of No. of Pitches, Courts, Places, or Rinks. . . . 14 6S . . . 42 451 . . . 2U 26 38 234 . . . 22 34 . . . 5 10 . . . 35 450 . . . 14 25 Games. Bowls Cricket Croquet Football Hockey Lacrosse Lawn tennis Quoits As everyone knows, the Council has paid considerable attention to the provision of a stock of animals and birds at parks and open spaces where suitable accommodation is available. Fallow and red deer, it is intelesting to observe, are kept in the enclosures at Battersea, 'victoria, and Finsbury Parks and Avery Hill. axle Council is now the happy possessor of about-50 Swans. I90 Geese (8 varieties). 650 Ducks (19 varieties). 7 Storks. Pheasants, doves, pigeons, guinea-pigs, and squirrels are also incluued among many other things over which the Council's parental care is exeiLised. Powers of control in regard to structure and maintenance are exercised by the L.C.C. over the following places: Theatres Music Halls Art Galleries Town Hails Assembly Rooms Dill' Halls Exhibitions Hotels Institutes Halls (Mission) Coming to figures, a total expenditure under Capital Accounts for the year of .3, 707, 262 is found.
Among the thousand and one duties devolving upon the L.C.C. are those of licensing racecourses in the County of London within ten mites of Charing. Cross, payment of the costs of prosecutors and witnesses at quarter and petty sessions and at the Central Criminal Court, and authority, at the request of one or more Volunteer corps, to purchase and hold land for military purposes.
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ST. JOHN'S SCHOOLS, USK ROAD.
The distribution of girls' prizes took place at the, shove schools on Friday evening. The chair was, taken by Mr. J. J. Taylor, and Mrs. Taylor distributed the prizes with the exception of those for swimming, which were presented by the Rev. Hughes, LLD. Mrs. Hughes and Mr. and Mrs. Palmer were among the visitors present. The schoolroom had been tastefully decorated for the occasion by the staff, and it was packed with relative.; and friends of the children and not a few old pupils of the school, some of whom now hold pormible positions in other schools. The chairman, in hi 9 opening remarks, said he noted with satisfaction that the average attendance was 87.2.
It was also most gratifying to learn that so many were to receive prizes for good conduct and punctuality in attendance. The labours of the head mistress, Mrs. M. L. Chandler, LLA., end the staff under her must have been very great. Patience and painstakig alone could have produced the following report from the Government Inspector A high standard of discipline and attainments is taken by the head teacher, and the results are in consequence highly creditable, and merit special praise in the first class."
The chairman also observed that a branch of the "Children's Guild of Courtesy" had been formed.
In conclusion. he said he was sorry to hear that the portion of Wandsworth Common allotted for hockey was so far away that they were unable to avail themselves of it. He hoped that in the near future the London County Council might be prevailed upon to allow them a portion nearer home.
_ _ _ The prizes were then distributed, after which an entertainment was given by the scholars, which appeared to please every one present. At the conclusion of the programme the chairman said the parents ought to be proud of their children, who had attained such a state of proficiency, which nothing but kindness and mutual good feeling between teacher and pupil could bays brought about. The Rev. James Hughes, in presenting the prizes for swimming, said this was only the commencement of teaching the art to the girls, who at first appeared to rather dread the ordeal, but who soon acquired the necessary confidence. Some of them were now able to swim 100 yards with and many of them 50 yards. He had reason te believe he might be able to present more prizes for next year.
The entertainment programme was as follows: Pianoforte solo, Mice M. Norton; action song, "The Tailor and his Mouse, " girls in Standard II; recitation, "Little Red Cap, " Mary Smith and girls of Standard III: action song, "Snowflake., " Standard IV; drill, Ball Drill, Standard II; fan song and drill, music "Country Girl, " Twehe Elder Girls; song, "The Child and the Butter. fly, " Standard It " Roaa'n Dream " — fa glimpse of fairvlandl — Characters: Rosa, V. Nine; Mother Hubbard, E. Woods; Jack and Jill, H. Buckingham and A. Pett; 80-Peep, A. Knowehion; Little Boy Blue. E. Cook; Contrary Mary, V. Parker; Miss Muffet, J. Barnham; Cinderella, L. Sommerville; Don't Dare, K. Campbell; Tom the Piper's Son, F, Winter: Red Riding Hood, R. Deeding: Queen Maio, Elsie Buckingham: action song, "Fairy Circle., " Standard IV: song and dance. "Gypsies, " Standard II!: drill, "Bed-time, " Standard II: song, " Dolly's Good-night, " Stan' dard 111: part singing, "A Merry Christmas, " the school choir. the following is the primlist: GIRLS. PEtzes. STAND tan IT — Bessie Lanslwy. Julia Verken.. May rhate. Th, mas, Alice Janes, Gladys Flatware Anstrai. Svori.ann ITT — Emily Target% Daiay Woodr, FlNieJohn oo, Lily Mote. Connie Merryfield. ri oar Ayre., Bettie Buckingham, Kate Franklin, Annie Potts STAVD4RI) IV. — .Tana Barnhart), Camp. Winitie Floe;chem. Targett, Tins Sommerville. Chrh.vio White, Etta.' ernith. Bertha Ayres. STANDARD V. — Ethel Clark, AliPe Franklin, Green Johns, " Lydia Perry, Annie Knownidea, Mary Amon. STA VI. — LIICT Jonee. Lily ROW Edith Cook, Daisy Dsnison. ST 1, V Elsie Buckingham, Maggie Ayliug, Mabel Root. Screim. PRI/PA. — Lily Thompson and Ethel Clark (no ronduct marka Init during the year), Elaw Bucking. ham (top girl in the @chop!). — Mind Mountain varde), Elsie Birk in@ sm (100 yards). Mabel Root (50 yards), Annie Sales (50 yards).
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