In our last post, our Chairman explained a bit about who we are today, but did you know that
the charity has its origins in 'The Voluntary Old People’s Welfare Committee' established in Sturminster Newton in 1938?
Just recently I was dealing with some archive, and I came across a dusty old ledger, bound in red, with each page meticulously hand typed. On closer inspection I realised that this was an account of meetings and reports for a whole decade, between 1965 and 1975. Now, in this modern age, we must adhere to data protection legislation and destroy documentation outside our policy timescales, however, this historic ledger appears to have been repeatedly archived due to its historic significance.
Reading the ledger has been like looking through a window into the past, and it provides much inspiration from looking at the fundraising activities of the time. I'm particularly fascinated by the goings on of the Silver Thread Club. I've been trying to ascertain if such a club is still in existence locally, so if you have any information I would love to hear from you.
The ledger holds detailed accounts relating to all the social activities, clubs and events of the day, together with meeting minutes and finances relating to the charity itself.
I'd like to share a little with you...
An excerpt from the meeting minutes of the 21st of April 1967 relating to the parish of Shillingstone
"One very welcome piece of news in the village had been that two widowers were getting married. Everyone in the village was delighted. The senior club went on a theatre trip to Salisbury. They had a very enjoyable evening."
An excerpt from the meeting minutes of the 17th of January 1969 relating to the Silver Thread Club
"Mrs Donaldson reported that 120 members had attended a Harvest Supper in October with decorations by the Young Farmers. The meal was of cold roast ham, with salad and creamed potatoes, followed by fruit salad and cream, and cheese and biscuits. This was followed by an exciting evening of variety entertainment."
Isn't that just delightful? Suffice to say that this wonderful ledger will continue to be treasured as part of our long and colourful history!
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