Winslow History | Parish Reading Room, founded 1886

Parish Reading Room, founded 1886

Rev. Alfred Preston's Reading Room closed in 1879, and was followed by the Literary Institute which ran its own reading room (1880-86). That was a non-sectarian organisation in which Anglicans and Nonconformists co-operated, but wasn't financially viable. Mr Chinnery of Winslow Hall agreed to subsidise a new Parish Reading Room but only on condition that it was run by the vicar, Rev. H.A. Douglas-Hamilton. It continued on the same premises (14C Market Square). The people mentioned in the first report all appear to have been Anglicans and Conservatives. By 1891 Nonconformists were involved too.

1886: Bicester Herald, 3 Dec
WINSLOW PARISH READING ROOM AND WORKING MEN’S CLUB.
The premises situate in the Market-square, Winslow, were opened on Monday evening, November 29, as a parish reading room and working men’s club. There was a capital attendance of members present. Among them were- the Vicar (who is the manager), the Rev. T. Gwilliam, Dr. Newham, Messrs. C. Colgrove, G. George G. Ingram, G. Lee, J. Jennings, H. Sharp, R. Matthews &c. The Vicar commenced the proceedings and said that for the benefit of those who were not present at the meeting in the Yeates’ school, he would just say that the reading-room was open for the benefit of the parish, irrespective of creed. He then read the rules of the rooms, printed copies of which were distributed amongst the members. In conclusion he said he did think they had great cause to thank Mr. Chinnery for his kind help in starting the new institute.

Mr. Chinnery said he hoped the institute would prove a great success. He was very pleased to do all he could to help them; but the idea was not his, but the vicar’s. He thought they would find the rooms a great comfort, and hoped they would stick to them. Mr. Chinnery then went on to say that they required other public buildings- a public room and public baths- and although at present only a stranger amongst them, yet he had taken a house for 14 years; and when they could see their way clear he should be happy to subscribe. (Cheers.)

The Vicar said one reason why the Literary Institute felt through was because the members did not pay up their subscriptions, so the one thing they must insist on would be prompt payment.

Dr. Newham said, having been a parishioner for 30 years, he might, as representing Winslow, say he thought it was their duty to pass a unanimous vote of thanks as well to the Vicar as Mr. Chinnery for their kindness in starting this institute. They wanted a place of this kind badly, where a man could go into. He might go into a public-house, and personally, he (the speaker) had no objection to a man doing that, or having a game of cards, if he wanted; but he begged to submit that it was much better to come to a room like this. (Cheers.)

Mr. G. George seconded the vote of thanks, and the opening proceedings terminated.

1886: Winslow Parish Magazine, Dec

From the ashes of the late Literary Institute has arisen the Phoenix of an Institution to be called :
THE WINSLOW READING ROOM AND WORKMEN’S CLUB.
A house in the Market Square has (through the kindness of Mr. Chinnery) been secured.

It is intended that one large Room should be appropriated to Conversation, Games of Chess, Draughts, and Bagatelle, with the accompaniment of the Social Pipe. A smaller Room (on the same floor) for quiet Reading, and for the home of a good Library. Newspapers, daily and weekly, illustrated and otherwise, will be provided; and Ladies will be invited to use this Room during the day.

A Workman’s Room, with every comfort, is also to be supplied. Here, also, will be all the Games and Newspapers for their amusement, and the Fragrant Weed can be indulged in.

Regardless of Sectarian difficulties ALL will be welcome.

The Rev. H. A. Douglas-Hamilton will be the Manager, assisted by the Treasurer Mr. John Varney, and the Secretary Mr. Bonham. The Terms of Membership will be as follows:-

Members, One Shilling per month, or Two Shillings a Quarter. Working Men, Sixpence per month, or One Shilling per Quarter, payable in advance.

We hope to be able to chronicle the successful establishment of this great boon to the town in our next issue.

1886: Buckingham Advertiser, 12 Dec
Mr. Chinnery has presented the Winslow Reading-room with sets of Scott’s, Dickens’, Kinsley’s, and Thackeray’s works, beautifully half-bound.

1887: Buckingham Advertiser, 19 Feb
In connection with the Reading Room, a Free and Easy Smoking Concert was held at the Bell Room on Wednesday evening, when there was a large attendance, including Mr. H. J. Chinnery, who presided, Messrs. Willis, M. Lowndes, Cressy, Vaisey, C. Fiennes, C. R. Swain, Monk, C. Colgrove, W. J. Viccars, E. White, Dr. Newham, Revs. H. A. Douglas-Hamilton, S. T. Gwilliam, &c. The stage left from the Theatricals, was utilised for the performers who were accompanied by Mr. G. D. Day on the piano. Mr. Fiennes (who was the “star” of the evening) was first called upon and made his appearance in costume which in stage nomenclature would probably be called that of “the heavy father”… Mr. Fiennes next gave a funny piece, it could hardly be called a song entitled “You can’t do it”, and in response to loud demands gave three more verses of a decidedly Conservative character.- The Vicar then said he was quite sure they would not like to separate without thanking the friends who had helped them, more especially Mr. Swain who had come from Buckingham (a voice ‘He’s the best singer of the lot’) and Mr. Fiennes who had come from Newport Pagnell on purpose. They called it a free and easy concert but he was afraid Mr. Day would go away and say it was not very free for they had boxed him to the piano all the evening so he hoped they would give him a very hearty vote of thanks for his services. One thing he must say that they had had such a pleasant evening that they must repeat again it before long (cheers).- The meeting then gave three cheers and “he’s a jolly good fellow” for the chairman, and after singing the National Anthem, the meeting which commenced at at 8.45 concluded a few minutes after 11.

1887: Buckingham Advertiser, 15 Oct
A “Free and Easy” entertainment in connection with the Parish Reading Room, was held on Tuesday evening, at the Bell Rooms. Owing to other events in the neighbourhood, the attendance was not so large as on previous occasions, but those present spent a very pleasant evening. The Rev. F. W. Saulez presided in the absence through indisposition of the Vicar, and Mr. Day officiated at the piano.

1888: Buckingham Advertiser, 21 April,
Winslow Cricket Club.
A public meeting was held at the Reading Room, on Wednesday evening, with the object of forming a club for the town, the one in existence previously being restricted to members of the Reading Room. Among those present were the Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton (Vicar), Mr. R. Creasy, Mr. M. S. Lowndes, Dr. Newham, Mr. Warne, and Messrs. A. Fulks, J. Varney, C. Langley, Theo. King, Lewington, J. Walker, &c.- The Vicar was invited to occupy the chair, and in opening the meeting said- The principal thing was that the club was not restricted now to members of the Reading Room, as Mr. Chinnery had formerly stipulated it should be, but he (the speaker) having asked him to do away with that restriction this year, Mr. Chinnery had accordingly thrown his ground open [at Winslow Hall]. That of course removed a difficulty in the point of expense.

The next difficulty was to get a good secretary and treasurer. Last year the work was left a great deal to himself, and then Mr. Fulks took the secretaryship temporarily. With a little pressing he thought he would take it again (cheers). Mr. Fulks was a very good one, and deserved the applause they had given him. A treasurer was the next important thing, and he had much pleasure in saying Mr. Creasy had consented to take office (cheers.)

The first two items being satisfactorily disposed of, the next was the committee composed of six, he thought, if suitable to the club.- Mr Langley proposed a committee of six be chosen, which was seconded by Mr. Theo. King.- Mr. Warne suggested an odd number should be chosen, but the general opinion seemed to be that it did not matter.- Ultimately it was agreed that Messrs. Langley, Varney, King, Hurlestone, Lowndes, and the Vicar should form the committee, with the treasurer and secretary ex-officio.-

Messrs. Langley, and Varney then proposed that the Vicar be Captain.- The Vicar said he should be pleased to do all that was in his power for the Club.-

A lengthy discussion then took place as to the amount of subscription, it being first suggested as 5/- for the public, and members of the Reading Room allowed to supplement theirs to 5/-. This was objected to, Mr. Varney said 2/- was not allowing much for the use of bats and balls, and other material, and another thing, it was giving the Reading Room members rather an advantage over the Town.- 5/- was thought by several to be too high for the younger ones.- Mr. Creasy said there would be a good many expenses for the club- Mr. Warne remarked that there was no rent to pay.- Mr. Varney proposed that the subscription be 3/-, and that the secretary write to gentlemen in the neighbourhood asking for honorary subscriptions. He would qualify it that if any member liked to pay 5/- he could do so.- Mr. Langley said he could guarantee 40 members at that rate- Mr. Creasy proposed it be 3/6.- It was then put to the meeting, when 7 voted for Mr. Creasy’s amendment, and Mr. Varney’s proposition was carried.-

Another discussion took place with regard to honorary members, it being suggested that they subscribe not less than 10/6- Dr. Newham was in favour of allowing honorary members to give what they thought fit.- The Vicar would like to see a class formed for those like himself, who would pay and give their 10/-- Dr. Newham thought honorary members should be non-players, and that it was not worth while to dictate to them how much they should give. If anybody offered 2/6 he presumed they would take it.- Ultimately Mr. Langley proposed and it was carried, that players subscribe 3/- and 10/-, and honorary members give what they like.-

Mr. Creasy suggested trying to get a better ground.- Mr. Langley said they should never get a good club until they had their own ground, they might take one and let the grass keeping.- Mr. Creasy said other and smaller places had managed it, they might try, if not this year, perhaps next.- The general opinion seemed to be that this was best left alone, or the Club might find itself involved in a serious debt, the example of Buckingham being quoted.-

Mr. Langley then said he had got possession of some of the things belonging to the old Club which he would like to hand over. He could see 10 members of the old Club present, and thought with their consent he should be quite justified in doing so.- Mr. Varney seconded this, and it was agreed to.- A letter was read from the Leighton Club inviting Winslow to join in a competition for a challenge cup, entry fee 10/-, but it was thought best to leave this alone.- The proceedings then closed with a vote of thanks to the Vicar, proposed by Mr. M. S. Lowndes.

1889: Bucks Herald, 25 May
CRICKET CLUB.- A public meeting in connection with the Winslow Cricket Club was held in the Parish Reading Room on Tuesday evening, May 16th. The attendance was not large; it included Mr. G. R. Greaves (who occupied the chair), Mr. Rolf Creasy, Rev. H. C. Colyer, Messrs. Warne, Hawley, Walker, Fulks, Langley, Illing, Pass, &c. The accounts for the previous year showed a balance to the good of £5:14, and it was stated that the club was possessed of six new bats. This was justly considered a most favourable position, and considerable pleasure was expressed by those present. Mr. R. Creasy was chosen captain and treasurer, Mr. Warne, secretary, and the following were appointed the committee:- Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton, Messrs. Lowndes, Varney, Fulks, Langley, and Illing. It was decided to practise two nights a week, viz., Tuesday and Thursday, and it was announced that Mr. Chinnery had promised to have the whole field levelled, and so make it better for playing on.

1889: Buckingham Advertiser, 1 June
On Thursday evening, May 23, a public meeting in connection with the Cricket Club was held in the Reading Room. The place was crammed, and many were unable to obtain admission. Among those present were Messrs. Creasy, Warne, Varney, Langley, Illing, Fulks, Pass, Bird, J. Walker, O. [Theo?] King, Thos. King, Levington [Lewington], H. Roads, W. S. Neal, and Revs. H. A. D. Hamilton and J. S. Colyer.
On the proposition of Mr. Warne, Mr. Geo. R. Greaves, J.P. was selected Chairman.
In opening the proceedings the Chairman said this was entirely a Cricket Club question, and they did not want any to vote unless they were members, or intended to join the club. He was glad to see so many going to join (laughter).
Mr. Warne, secretary, then read the minutes of the last meeting, and said this meeting arose out of a Committee-meeting held on the Saturday previous, when letters were read from the Rev. H. A. Douglas Hamilton and Mr. M. S. Lowndes, resigning their seats on the Committee. He, as secretary, was instructed to see them and ask them to re-consider their decision, but, should they confirm it, he was instructed to call a meeting by bill. He had received a letter from Mr. Lowndes, who said he hoped to be able to assist the Committee, but could not continue to sit with them. Mr. Hamilton’s letter they had heard.
The Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton said he was quite ready to explain his conduct in writing that letter. It was a matter that he felt very deeply, not that he had anything against Mr. Creasy. He might just state that the history of the Cricket Club- Six years ago they had no club; and although they had not him to thank for the ground but Mr. Chinnery, yet he obtained it for them, and, after all he had done, it seemed very unfair to be found fault with in his absence. Some fault was found with him for being away on that day, and it was said it was specially fixed to suit his convenience, but unforeseen circumstances would arise, and he was called away. What he felt most was to be deprived of his office in his absence. Fault was found with him because he was not in his place in the field, but, if they looked at the score book, he was absent from one match, and that was all. It was said he did not attend regularly at the practice meetings, and of course it was impracticable for him to attend them all, but he came as often as he could. If the club liked to appoint another Captain of course it could do so, but he was not going to be found fault with in his absence. Therefore, he thought it better to resign.
Mr. Langley said no fault was found with the Vicar, that he heard.
The Chairman said nothing was said about Mr. Hamilton.
The Rev. J. C. Colyer said he heard what was said, and told the Vicar, and he should have acted in exactly the same way as the Vicar had done.
The Chairman- What were the faults?
Rev. J. C. Colyer- First that he did not attend on practice nights, and second that he was absent from a match.
Mr. Langley- The Chairman said “Who has attended the most”? No fault was found, and he could assure the Vicar, that there was no ill-feeling on the subject.
Mr. Creasy said he was surprised to hear Mr. Hamilton say fault was found with him.
The Chairman said no fault was found with Mr. Hamilton for not attending that night.
The Rev. J. C. Collyer said some fault must have been found or else Mr. Lowndes would not have resigned.
The Chairman said certainly some fault was found with Mr. Lowndes.
Mr. Langley said he had not the least idea of being insulting.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton- If you want me to continue playing, I shall only do it on the condition of occupying the post that I did before. It is only right after all I have done.
Mr. Creasy said he should object to that. He never heard of a club guaranteeing that a man should be captain for ever and aye, but he was quite willing to resign, and leave it to the option of a general meeting if necessary.
The Chairman said no it was not necessary, what was the good of holding a meeting if they were going to have another one next week, and upsetting all the arrangements. There certainly was no feeling towards the Vicar.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton- Different accounts have been brought to me by several of the members (Voices “Name”).
The Chairman- I was there myself and heard everything.
Mr. Langley said no doubt Mr. Colyer inferred something, but he was quite wrong, nothing was said about Mr. Hamilton but was respectful.
Mr. John Walker said that was so.
Mr. Langley said all this was thrown upon him and yet he was as innocent as a child. He simply said that Mr. Lowndes had not attended one committee meeting, and he would appeal to the Chairman whether he had insulted Mr. Lowndes. The general talk was that he would get thrown out of his situation over it.
The Chairman- I knew nothing at all about your situation, but you certainly were not insulting.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton- Why did you propose Mr. Creasy for captain?
Mr. Langley- I did not propose him, I only seconded it.
The Chairman said they asked him to be captain first, but he said no. He should want to go in and do it thoroughly if he did. Then Mr. Creasy was asked. Mr. Hamilton’s name was not mentioned.
Mr. Langley said he was sure he did not want to insult Mr. Lowndes.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton- He feels it very much however.
Mr. Langley- I am glad he feels the position he is in.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton- I do not wish to have any more disturbance about it; I can have my cricket without the club.
The Chairman- I am sorry you should take it in that light.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton- As an old member of the club, I feel it very hard; if I had been old and worn out, I should not have taken much notice.
Mr. Creasy said he thought the name ought to be mentioned.
Rev. J. C. Colyer said if that was Winslow way, truly it was a queer one. He supposed he was the culprit, but one of the “swells” certainly spoke of the Vicar in an unkind way (cries of “No, no”).
The Chairman- no unkind feelings were expressed towards Mr. Hamilton certainly.
Mr. W. Dunkley- It was said he didn’t attend the practices.
Mr. King- No, that was about Mr. Lowndes.
Mr. Langley- It was asked who was the best man.
Mr. John Walker- Yes, and they said Mr. Greaves.
The Chairman- And then they said they’d have Creasy.
Mr. W. Saving- Years ago we had a cricket club, Mr. Greaves, and we did not used to squabble like this- we used to go in and win (laughter).
The Chairman- That’s right enough Saving.
Mr. Langley, after remarking that he believed he was the first to suggest having the club, and had done a deal in his humble way to assist it, called attention to the fact that a threat had been made of taking the field away from them.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton- No.
Mr. Langley- Yes, by Mr. Colyer.
Rev. J. C. Colyer said he did say it would serve them right if the field was taken away, and he thought it would. He had been a member of other clubs, and he did not think one of them would turn away an old university man, and what he might call a “swell cricketer” for a new comer of two years.
The Chairman said it was a most improper feeling.
Rev. J. C. Colyer said he did not say take the field away, he only said it would serve them right.
The Chairman- Yes, that was a most improper expression to make.
Mr. Warne said, as quite an independent man, he should like to say that he was quite sure that Mr. Creasy was not chosen Captain on any personal grounds. It simply turned on who was the most regular at practices.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton said he did not see why the Captain need stand about practices.
The Chairman- It is open to the members to elect a fresh Captain every year.
Mr. Warne- Mr. Creasy was not in favour of electing a Captain for the year, but only for the match, and he did not want to serve when proposed, neither did I, but we were the only men in the room, and we had to take office.
The Chairman inquired if Mr. Hamilton had made up his mind not to sit on the Committee.
Mr. Hamilton- Yes, quite.
Mr. Langley- I hope, and I’ll say it to your face, Mr. Hamilton, that you won’t take the field away from us.
Rev. H. A. D. Hamilton- I shall have nothing to do with it, but I cannot say what Mr. Chinnery will do when he hears of it.
Mr. Langley- I believe Mr. Chinnery to be too much of a gentleman to do anything of the sort (cheers).
Various names were suggested for the two vacant places on the Committee, but for different reasons none were appointed, and it was agreed that the Committee should have power to add to their number as circumstances might require.
A hearty vote of thanks to the Chairman was carried on the motion of Mr. Illing, and the meeting concluded.

1889: Buckingham Advertiser, 26 Oct
Winslow Cricket Club.
The final meeting for the season of the Committee of this club was held in the Reading Room on Saturday last. The treasurer (Mr. R. Creasy) presented his accounts, and the balance sheet was ordered to be printed and published for the information of the subscribers. After providing a good stock of materials, and for the ordinary working expenses, the club, owing to the liberality of the subscribers and especially to the kindness of Mr. H. J. Chinnery, who had provided a ground free of charge, the Club was able to wind up the season with a considerable balance in hand. It was reported that Mr. Chinnery would have additional ground laid down for the next season. Arrangements for a concert in connection with the Club were left in the hands of Mr. Creasy, the date either before or after Christmas to be dependent on the Flower Show concert. It was decided to hold the next Committee meeting, preliminary to the annual general meeting for the election of officers and committee, in the first week in March. The following is a summary of the receipts and expenditure. Balance in hand at commencement of season, £5/14/11; subscriptions of honorary and playing members, £21/19/11; paid for printing and stationery, £1/4/6; ground man, £2/11/-; umpire and scorer, £2/0/1; new articles, £15/1/8; repairs, £1/6/5; quit rent, 2/-; incidentals, 5/8/-. Leaving a balance.

1890: Bucks Herald, 8 March
THE CRICKET CLUB.- The annual meeting in connection with this club was held at the Parish Reading-room on Monday evening, Mr. H. J. Chinnery in the chair. There was a good attendance. Mr. Warne, the hon. secretary, read the balance-sheet for the season, showing subscriptions, &c., amounting to £21:19:11, and expenditure £19:5:10, leaving a balance to the good of £2:14:1.- It was resolved that Mr. Rolf Creasy be re-elected captain, and Mr. Hurlstone was appointed treasurer, Mr. Creasy saying he could not find time for both. Mr. Warne was re-elected secretary.- Mr. Langley proposed that the vicar, Rev. P. Eliot, be chosen one of the vice-presidents, which was seconded by Mr. T. P. Willis, and agreed to. Messrs. Fulks, Langley, Illing, and Varney were re-elected on the committee, with the addition of Mr. Pass.- A vote of thanks to Mr. Chinnery for the use of the field was passed, on the proposition of Mr. Willis, and Mr. Chinnery, in reply, said he purposed, with the consent of Mr. Wigley, taking away the hedge, and so enlarging the field.- This announcement was received with much applause, and the meeting shortly afterwards terminated.

1890: Buckingham Advertiser, 8 Nov
The final meeting for the season of the Cricket Club Committee was held on Tuesday evening in the Winslow High Schoolroom, when there was a good attendance. Among those present being the Rev. P. H. Eliot, and Messrs. Greaves, Creasy, Warne, Langley, Hurlstone, Pass, Fulks, and J. Varney. Mr. Hurlstone, the Treasurer, produced his account, showing a balance in hand, and which was examined, allowed, and ordered to be printed and circulated amongst the members. It was stated that the supply of sound cricketing material was unusually small. Eleven matches had been played, six of which had been won, and five lost. No less than 83 members were reported as having paid their subscription for the year. In regard to the question of uniting football with cricket, it was decided that the Committee would gladly personally to contribute to the support of football; but that it would be undesirable to amalgamate the two games under one governing body, and on one ground. It was determined that, if possible, a smoking concert, for the members of the Cricket Club, should shortly be promoted. Mr. Warne was thanked for the use of the room, and the proceedings terminated.

1890: Buckingham Advertiser, 8 Nov
MEN’S CLUB AND READING ROOM.- At a meeting held in the Reading Room on Thursday week, the Vicar in the chair, it was deemed advisable to recognise the club. H. J. Chinnery, Esq., was re-elected President, and several other gentlemen Vice-presidents. A Working Committee was at once elected, consisting of the following members with power to add to their number- Messrs. Adkins, Brown, Lomas, Lorkin, Pass, and Stevens, with Mr. J. Varney as treasurer, and Mr. Wm. Warne as hon. secretary. The rules of the club having been recast, it was decided to re-open on Saturday, November 1st, at 7p.m Daily and weekly papers, periodicals of different descriptions, the use of a library, bagatelle and other games, debates, lectures and concerts are the advantages offered to members. All those who are of the age of 16 years and upwards are eligible, and any information with regard to election or rules of the society, will be given by any member of the Committee. The Club will be open on week-days from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Sundays from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. The subscription will be 1/6 quarterly or 1/- monthly, payable in advance. The club meets a want, and with its working Committee of its own working members, to be annually elected, should prove a boon to the parish.

The Bucks Herald added: It was resolved to ask several gentlemen of the town and neighbourhood to assist the Club... The Committee arranged to provide a reading room with daily, weekly, and illustrated papers and magazines; also a library, and a smoking and games room, where bagatelle, chess, cards, draughts, dominoes, and other games could be played. To add to the interest and usefulness of the club it was decided that there should be occasional debates, concerts, and readings and it was announced that refreshments were to be obtained on the premises. The club, thus re-formed, met on Saturday evening for the first time with a very fair body of members.

1891: Buckingham Advertiser, 7 Feb
PARISH CLUB.- A meeting of the Committee of Management was held on the 29th inst., at the Club Room, when five new members were elected to the club, and Messrs. A. O. Fulks and Thurnan [=Turnham] were chosen on the committee of management. It was resolved to hold another free concert on Friday, Feb. 10th, admission to which would be by ticket. A vote of thanks was given to Messrs. Lomas and Lorkin for their successful efforts in promoting the last concert. It was resolved to ask the pecuniary aid of townsmen to carry on the object of the Club and Reading Room.

1891: Bucks Herald, 7 March
PARISH CLUB.- At a meeting of the committee held on Tuesday last, it was resolved to re-arrange the library so as to make it more generally useful to the town; and the Vicar, with Messrs. R. Dickens, Lorkin, Pass, and J. Varney were appointed a sub-committee to draw up rules for the better management of the library. The whist handicap in the ”A” tournament was ordered to be re-played. The committee decided to promote another of the club concerts, Messrs. Lomas and Pass to be responsible for the programme, and thanks were given to Messrs. Lomas and Varney for their successful efforts on the occasion of the last.

1891: Buckingham Advertiser, 10 Oct
PARISH CLUB AND READING ROOM.- The annual business meeting of the members and subscribers was held on Wednesday night at the Reading Room. The Vicar occupied the chair, and was supported by Mr. T. F. Vaisey, Mr. Warne, Mr. Pass, Mr. Turnham, Mr. A. O. Fulks, &c. Mr. Warne, hon.sec. made a brief report stating that one general and ten committee meetings had been held at which harmony had prevailed, and the decisions had been unanimously arrived at. There had been a fair average attendance at the room, especially during the winter. One lecture and several concerts had been successfully carried out in connection with the Club and Reading Room, and he had to express the thanks of the Committee to the Vicar for the use of a room in which to hold them; as also to Mr. Chinnery for kindly giving them the Reading Room free.- Mr. Vaisey proposed and Mr. Turnham seconded the adoption of this report-

Mr. Pass next gave the report of the Library Committee (recently formed) reporting that they had come to the decision to spend no more money on the old books, but to make a fresh start. A balance of 18/2 had been received from Mr. Dickens, the late treasurer of the library, and they hoped to get a grant to buy new books, and so fill up the vacancies in the shelves and put the library on a good footing.- The Vicar said it was a grant from the Rebecca Hussey Charity. A lady having collected £5, it was met with a grant of £7 10/- from the Charity, making £12 10/- altogether, and they hoped soon to be in possession of new books to that value.- Messrs. Warne and Lorkin seconded the adoption of the report.-

The old committee was re-elected with the substitution of the name of Mr. John White for that of Mr. W. H. Stevens.- Mr. Warne resigning the secretaryship, and Mr. Varney the treasurership, owing to pressure of other engagements; a vote of thanks was accorded both gentlemen for their services, and Mr. Pass was appointed hon. sec., with Mr. F. Lomas for treasurer.- Mr. Varney produced his accounts showing subscriptions from most of the gentry in the neighbourhood; members’ subscriptions, £5 6 0; sale of papers, £1 7; from treasurer of old library, 18/2. The expenditure was £11 4 7½, and the treasurer had not only paid his way but has also cleared off an adverse balance of £12.- Mr. Warne proposed and Mr. Lomas seconded that the accounts be adopted and circulated, which was agreed to. A vote of thanks to the Vicar, proposed by Mr. Turnham, concluded the business.

1891: 13 Oct
A meeting was held at the "Parish-rooms" to form a football club.

1892: 22 March
Members of the cricket club presented a clock to Dr Rolf Creasy, who was leaving Winslow.

1892: 12 Sep
AGM of the football club at the Reading Room.

1892: 4 Oct
Annual members meeting reported income of £10 13s 3d and expenditure of £13 13s 5½d, with some subscriptions not yet paid. It was decided to ask Mr Chinnery if the new Gymnasium could be connected to the Reading Room.

1893: Buckingham Advertiser, 14 Oct
PARISH CLUB AND READING ROOM.- The annual general meeting of the above club was held at the Rooms, on Monday evening last. The Rev. P. H. Eliot occupied the chair, and amongst those present were- Messrs. Varney, Warne, Fulks, Illing etc. Mr. Pass (hon.sec.) and Mr. F. Lomas (treasurer) read the report and balance sheet of the year, which showed a satisfactory state of the club. The election of officers then followed, Messrs. Lomas and Pass being re-instated as secretary and treasurer; committee, Rev. P. H. Eliot, Messrs. Varney, Illing, A. Fulks, J. White, W. Turnham, Brewer, Adkins, Lorkin, Harris. After the business was over, a smoking concert was held, songs being sung by Messrs. Lomas, Warne, and Watson, and a recitation given by Mr. Turnham. A vote of thanks to the Vicar for presiding, and the singing of the National Anthem, brought a very enjoyable evening to a close.

1893: Buckingham Advertiser, 4 Nov
DEBATING SOCIETY.- The preliminary meeting of this society was held at the Parish Reading-room, when most of the members were present. Mr. Turnham being elected chairman, a revision of the rules took place, and it was decided to hold the meetings of the association on Wednesday evenings instead of as previously on Monday evenings. Mr. Harris was again elected hon sec., and a programme of impromptu speeches and papers is to be drawn up.

1894: Bucks Herald, 20 Oct
... There is only one thing I regret, and that is, that the Reading Room is practically a failure.

1895: Buckingham Advertiser, 2 March,
CRICKET CLUB.- The annual meeting was held on Thursday, February 21st, in the Parish Reading Room. H. Bullock, Esq., was unanimously elected Chairman. The treasurer (Mr. A. O. Fulks) was asked to present his report for the year, which after various expenditures, including ground-man’s wages £4/15/-; cricket materials, and rent for ground, £8/10/-; showed a balance in hand of £9/11/9, this being considered excellent, as the ground having been in previous years let to the club rent free [Presumably the departure of Mr Chinnery from Winslow Hall caused this change]. It was resolved to re-elect all the members of last year’s committee including the ground committee. Mr. A. O. Fulks was again elected treasurer for the year. Some difficulty was experienced to get a suitable person to take the secretary’s place.- After two or three names had been submitted to the meeting, it was agreed to leave the matter in the hands of the committee.- A vote of thanks to the Chairman terminated the proceedings.