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1890
February
Taken from the “Chatham News” February,1990
100 YEARS AGO
WHEN THE SALLY ARMY FOUGHT ANOTHER BATTLE
Being a member of The Salvation Army proved a hazardous business, this week 100 years ago. A parade through the centre of Wouldham turned into a riot as a gang of 30 youths jeered and hurled lumps of mud. And when two of the attackers appeared at Rochester Police Court, the chairman of the bench was clearly not on the side of the Salvationists. One Sally Army member was dragged out of the parade and kicked by the youths, the court heard. Another, who went to his colleague’s aid, was also set upon and had his cornet bent. But the chairman sharply rebuked another Sally Army member for pushing away some boys who were threatening some women. He went on to say that although he had a duty to protect The Salvation Army, they did bring trouble down upon themselves. A lot of people complained about the noise they made, with some justification, and they were often at the heart of disturbances. The two youths were each fined a shilling (5d.)
1903
October
22
Memorial Stones laid for new Naval & Military Home, Brook
1905
February
22
Naval & Military Home opened by the Mayor
1908
July
22
General Booth visited Chatham in the course of his Motor Car Tour, and broke a flag at the Salvation Army Home on the Brook, and gave an address to a crowded audience in the Town Hall
1916
June
Thurs 1
Welcome meeting for Adjutant & Mrs Doherty
Sun. 4
Very hearty welcome meeting – well attended
Thurs. 8
Special programme by Band and Songsters to pay for travel expenses – S/M Friend presided
Wed 21
Special programme arranged by bandsman Ben Friend
Wed. 28
Visit of Mr Monke, Rev. Cherney and singers from Central Hall
July
Wed. 12
Young peoples outing – held in football field. Day rather cold but everything went off satisfactorily.
12th to 26th
Officers on furlough. First weekend led by Captain Budge of Rescue House. Second by band.
August
Wed. 16
Home League outing to Loose Valley. About 25 went. We had tea in SA hall, Maidstone.
Sept.
9/10/11th
Very successful band weekend
23/24/25th
Senior harvest led by CO
Wed. 27
Visit of the Good Templers
Oct.
1/2
Young peoples harvest lead by YP workers
Wed. 11
Visit of Gillingham songsters
Thurs. 19
Councillor Taylor presided over Band and Songster annual
1919
Apr.
19/20/21
Easter weekend. Special services led by Staff Captain Kate Lee (known as the Angel Officer in Broken Earthenware), assisted by two lieutenants and 12 cadets from the Training Garrison. The open-air meeting on Easter Monday afternoon was followed by a victory tea. The Gillingham Band and Corps united with Chatham for the tea and evening meeting.
May
Thurs. 1
Very special holiness meeting led by Mrs. General Booth. Chatham Band and Gillingham Songsters assisted, all surrounding Corps united. Hall quite full. Maidstone Corps came in full force led by their CO Capt. Dora Booth. Chatham Band met Mrs. Booth at the station. This was the first time she had ever been met by a band when on such a visit.
Sun. 11
Farewell meeting of Commandant & Mrs. Riches after a stay of two years. Appointed to Middlesborough, Yorks.
Sun. 18
Welcome meeting of Adj. & Mrs. Thorpe from Kendall, Westmoreland
Sat./Sun. 31/1 (June)
Very special meetings conducted by Lt. Col. Milner assisted by Major Thomas. The object of the meeting was to secure candidates for the various branches of Army work.
July
Sat. 5
to
Fri. 11
Jubilee Celebrations
The Jubilee celebrations were carried out by the various sections of the Corps giving representations of the different phases of the Army’s work at home and abroad.
On Saturday evening the surrounding Corps of Gillingham, Strood and Maidstone united with Chatham, three separate open-air meetings were conducted. In the procession to the hall were Gillingham and Chatham Bands, Girl Life Saving Guards from Maidstone and a Chatham party in international costume. The indoor meeting consisted of a massed musical festival presided over by Brigadier Trounce.
On Sunday the meetings were conducted by Brigadier Trounce.
Monday evening representation was given of the Social Work and the evolution of Salvation Army bands.
Tuesday evening representation of the Training Home and Emigration etc…
Wednesday evening representation of the various branches of the Young Peoples War.
Thursday representations of Womens Social Work and the Naval and Military Work.
Grand finish on Friday evening with a special Holiness meeting.
August
W/E 2/3/4
Band visited Deal for the August Bank Holiday weekend
September
W/E 20/21/22
Harvest Festival celebrations. On Monday afternoon the produce was sold by Uncle M’Crea
W/E 27/28/29
Young Peoples’ Harvest Festival Celebrations
October
Sat. 25
Anniversary meetings led by Ensign Dalziel from DHQ. It was definitely established that this was the 46th anniversary. The Army opened fire in Chatham in the year 1873. This can be verified by publication, “The Life of the late Commissioner Dowdle”.
Mon. 27
Sectional Soldiers meeting led by Brigadier Trounce assisted by the Divisional Staff.
November
Mon./Tues. 10/11
Special demonstration, “Corn In Egypt”, or “Joseph and his Brethren”.
Wed. 12
Officers meetings conducted during the day by Colonel Hillary, followed by a united meeting in the evening.
1920
January
W/E 24/25
Meetings led by Adj. & Mrs. Dalrymple, Divisional YP Secretary
February
W/E 7/8/9
Meetings led by Divisional Commander Brigadier Trounce
Sun. 15
Afternoon and evening meetings led by Brigadier Shaw. Lecture on West Indies in the afternoon.
Sat. 21
Ten day campaign commenced by Commandant Livingstone
March
Sun. 7
Memorial service of Mrs. Commandant Harrison of the Naval & Military Home, conducted by Colonel Kyle
W/E 13/14
Meetings led by Lt. Colonel Edwin
W/E 27/28/29
Band Weekend conducted by Ensign & Mrs. Dalziel & Capt. Kitching. Monday evening programme given by Ensign Dalziel, Capts. Kitching & Grinstead.
April
Good Fri. 2
Day at the Cross led by Brigadier Trounce assisted by S/C Stewart & Capt. Bedford
W/E 3/4/5
Meetings led by Ensign Allen & Capt. Norman & six cadets from the Training College.
May
Sat. 2
Farewell meetings of Adj. & Mrs. Thorpe
W/E 8/9
Welcome meetings of Adj. Scalé and Capt. Eglington
Sat. 22
Young Peoples Councils in Chatham hall on Saturday afternoon & evening. These councils should have been conducted by Colonel Hillary, National YPS, but he was sent on a special mission to Russia. Colonel Spooner filled the breach assisted by Brigadier Allen, S/C Mc & S/C Newland. Brigadier Trounce, S/C Stewart, Adj. Dalrymple & Ensign Dalziel were present.
Sun. 23
Meetings led by Brigadier Trounce assisted by S/C Stewart
June
Fri. 4
Commencement of a special three weeks training campaign of 18 Cadet Sergeants from the TC under the charge of Commandant Wright & Ensign Allen. They were accommodated at the Naval and Military Home by S/C Huish
W/E 5/6
Visit of Major Colburn in connection with the Cadet Sergeants.
W/E 12/13
Visit of Commissioner Russell in connection with the Cadet Sergeants
Thurs. 17
Visit of Commissioner Whatmore & Colonel Pugmire in connection with the Cadet Sergeants
Wed. 23
Cadet Sergeants farewell meeting.
July
W/E 10/11
Young Peoples Anniversary conducted by Adj. & Mrs. Dalrymple, YP Secretary.
September
W/E 11/12
Special visit of a party of West Indian native officers en route to Southern Nigeria as a pioneer party to open out the Army work amongst the natives under the command of Brigadier & Mrs. Souter. The meetings were in the charge of Brig. Benwell of the Foreign Office.
W/E 18/19/20
The senior Harvest Festival celebrations were held during this weekend under the leadership of the CO’s Adj. Scalé & Capt. Eglington. On Monday evening the sale of produce was conducted by Mr. McCrea.
W/E 25/26/27
The YP Harvest Festival celebrations were held during this weekend under the leadership of the CO’s and the YP officers and workers. On Monday evening the sale of produce was conducted by Mr. McCrea.
October
Mon. 11
Great rally in the town hall. This marked the opening of the Winter campaign. This was a most successful musical festival presided over by Mrs. Brigadier Trounce, DC, assisted by the Divisional Staff, S/C Stewart, Adj. & Mrs. Dalrymple and Ensign & Mrs. Dalziel. The Band & Songsters taking part were Upper Norwood Band, Chatham Band & Songsters, Gillingham Band & Songsters, Sittingbourne Band & Songsters, also pianoforte solos by Capt. Grinstead.
Mon. 25
United soldiers meeting led by Mrs. Brigadier Trounce assisted by S/C Stewart & the divisional staff.
November
W/E 6/7
Saturday evening was occupied by the Corps Cadets of the surrounding Corps making a series of bombardments led by the Divisional Staff, finishing up with a united meeting in the hall. The Sunday meetings were conducted by Mrs. Brig. Trounce and S/C Stewart.
W/E 27/28
Weekend meetings led by Ensign Dalziel.
1921
January
Wed. 19
Distribution of prizes to the young people by Brigadier Mrs. Trounce
W/E 29/30
Band weekend led by Hon. Bandmaster Smith of Southsea 1 Band.
April
W/E 9/10
Special visit of Staff Capt. & Mrs. Dalrymple
W/E 16/17
Visit of Southsea 1 Band. The weekend was a great success, taking into consideration the fact that the district was swept by a severe blizzard, which made outdoor work almost impossible.
Mon. 20
Musical festival given by the Gravesend ???. They were accompanied by their officer Adj. Medhurst.
May
Sun. 1
Farewell meetings of Adj. Scalé & Capt. Eglington. Proceeding to Folkestone after having a very successful stay at Chatham.
Sun. 8
Welcome meetings of Commandant & Mrs. Jeavons
June
Sat. 18
Young Peoples Councils conducted by Colonel Hillary, assisted by other officers from London with Staff Captain Bulterman (Holland). The divisional staff were represented by S/C & Mrs. Dalrymple.
Sun. 19
Meetings were conducted by Colonel Hillary assisted by S/C’s Bulterman & Dalrymple.
Mon.20
The surrounding Corps united with us for the farewell meeting of Brigadier Mrs. Trounce who is leaving the Division to take up an appointment in the Training College after having been DC for two & a half years.
August
W/E 27/28/29
Special meetings conducted by Colonel & Mrs. Bonnett, late of South America. Weekend meetings concluded with a Lime-Light lecture on the Monday evening.
September
W/E 3/4
The weekend meetings were conducted by Major K Stewart assisted by Adj. Gillespie. These meetings were of a welcome character, Major Stewart having been appointed DC vice Brigadier Trounce and Adj. Gillespie YP secretary vice Adj. Dalrymple
Mon. 5
Musical festival
W/E 10/11/12
Senior Harvest Festival celebrations conducted by Adj. & Mrs. Thorpe of Sittingbourne
W/E 17/18/19
Young Peoples Harvest Festival conducted by Commandant Dorey of the N & M League
October
W/E 15/16/17
These meetings were conducted by Col. Will Thompson, concluding with a lecture on Monday evening entitled “Peter McKenzie”
W/E 29/30
Weekend meetings were led by Adj. Dalziel, Divisional Secretary.
November
Mon. 1
Great rally in Chatham Town Hall in aid of the Division in the form of a Musical Festival, presided over by the DC, Major Stewart, assisted by the divisional staff. Items were rendered by the Dartford, Gillingham, Sittingbourne & Chatham bands & Chatham songsters. This meeting was a great success.
1922
February
W/E 25/26
Special meetings conducted by Commissioner R. Wilson
March
W/E 4/5
Weekend meetings conducted by Colonel Cook
April
(Good)Fri. 14
A Day at the Cross conducted by Staff Captain Gillespie.
May
W/E 13/14
These were the farewell meetings of Commandant & Mrs. Jeavons after a stay of one year, appointed to Canterbury
Thurs. 18
W/E 20/21
Welcome meeting of Commandant & Mrs. Titman, who were appointed to Chatham after a stay of two years at Dover
June
Sat. 10
This was the welcome tea arranged by the local officers. Five tables were arranged, the locals taking charge & finding the necessary helpers & food. Each tried to provide the best table, which resulted in having one of the best teas that have ever been arranged. It was a great success
Mon 20
Farewell meeting of the Divisional Commander, Major K. Stewart.
W/E 29/30
Meetings led by Brigadier & Mrs. Standing, the new DC.
August
Wed. 23
Farewell meeting for the Candidates of the Division for the Training Garrison including candidates Henry S. Frost, Sister Winnie May Waters of Chatham conducted by Brigadier Standing, DC.
Sun. 17
Senior Harvest Festival Thanksgiving services. Produce sold by Mr. McCrea.
Sun. 24
YP Harvest Festival Thanksgiving services. Produce sold by Mr. McCrea.
October
W/E
Meetings conducted by Staff Captain Early of DHQ
Sun. 29
Meetings conducted by Staff Captain Gillespie, DYPS assisted by Captain White of DHQ
November
Mon. 13
Brigadier Standing gave some of his interesting experiences of his “Early Days” in the Salvation Army at Worthing.
December
Wed. 13
An “At Home” & Christmas Tree was held to raise money for local needs. This was a great success. The sum raised was £22.
1923
January
W/E 6/7
The weekend meetings were conducted by the new DC and his wife, Brigadier & Mrs. Hadden. This was a very wet weekend but the spirit of the meetings was not affected by the weather.
Mon. 8
Massed musical festival in the Town Hall presided over by Brigadier & Mrs. Hadden & the Divisional Staff. The items were rendered by the Strood, Sittingbourne & Chatham bands and songster brigades.
W/E 13/14
The weekend meetings were conducted by S/Capt. Broome of the Emigration Department
Sun. 21
YP Annual meetings arranged by the YP workers. Musical items & singing by the YP Singing Company.
Mon. 22
YP prize distribution.
Wed. 24
Demonstration by YP Singing Company. Their usual excellence was maintained.
March
W/E 17/18
The meetings were conducted by Ensign Smith of Trade HQ.
Sat. 31
Easter Weekend
April
W/E 1/2
The Easter weekend meetings were conducted by the Ramsgate band. Their visit was a great success.
May
Wed. 9
Farewell meeting of Commandant & Mrs. Titman to take charge of Maidstone Corps.
W/E 12/13
Welcome meetings of Ensign & Mrs. Swindell from Sittingbourne
June
W/E 16/17
Farewell meeting of S/C Gillespie who has had charge of the YP side of the war in this division.
August
W/E 12/12
Weekend meetings were conducted by Commandant Haggard of the Social Work.
September
W/E 15/16
Harvest Thanksgiving Services (Senior)
W/E 22/23
YP Harvest Thanksgiving Services.
October
W/E 6/7
Weekend meetings were conducted by Major & Mrs. Early of DHQ
W/E 13/14
Weekend meetings were conducted by Commandant Sykes of Canterbury assisted by the Assurance Staff.
W/E 20/21
Weekend meetings were conducted by Commissioner Ridsdell assisted by Major Early of DHQ. The visit of the Commissioner was in conjunction with the Jubilee of this Corps, he having been in charge in the early days and DO a few years later.
November
W/E 3/4
Weekend meetings were conducted by the Sittingbourne Young Peoples Band. Our own band being on a visit to Maidstone Corps rendering a programme of music and song to the prisoners in the prison chapel on the Sunday afternoon.
W/E 18/19
Farewell meetings of Ensign & Mrs. Swindell after a stay of six months. Appointed to Margate Corps.
W/E 24/25
Welcome meetings of Ensign & Mrs. Airton appointed from Margate.
1924
March
W/E 8/9
Special meetings in connection with the Jubilee Celebrations of the opening of Chatham Corps. This Corps was opened by the Army Mother in the year 1873.
The weekend meetings were opened on Saturday by a march through the main street of the band assisted by the other comrades during the afternoon advertising the forthcoming meetings. This was followed by a massed musical festival in our own hall. The programme included items by the Gillingham and Chatham bands and Strood and Chatham songsters, the chair being occupied by Brigadier Gallaher.
On Sunday the meetings were conducted by the Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Higgings, in the Empire Theatre (kindly lent free of charge by the management). In the afternoon the Chief gave a lecture entitled, “70 Nations, 1 Flag”. The Mayor presided supported by members of the Town Council. The meetings were well attended and much appreciated. The expenses were covered, but very narrow margin was left on the credit side. Brigadier Gallaher remained for a ten days campaign.
April
W/E 12/13
Meetings were conducted by Divisional Commander Brigadier A. Hadden.
May
Mon. 6
Lecture by Lt. Colonel Hillary entitled, “S.A. Work in the West Indies”.
W/E 24/25
Lt. Colonel Slater of the Foreign Office, late of China, pioneer officer. Meetings included a lecture on, “Our Work Among the Chinese”.
June
W/E 7/8/9
Whit. Weekend. Visit of Watford Band. The visit was a great success in every way. On Monday afternoon an open-air was held on Rochester Esplanade, followed by a public tea in our hall and concluding with a musical festival.
Wed. 11
Officers Councils were held during the day followed by a great public farewell meeting of the DC Brigadier Hadden, retiring from active service, and Major Early, Divisional Chancellor appointed to Scotland.
July
Sat. 5 to Thurs 10
Special campaign meetings conducted by Lt. Col. Elbourne arranged as a result of his previous visit on Sat. & Sun. May 31 & June 1.
September
Mon. 8
Meeting led by Major R. Kimpton, the Divisional Chancellor
November
Adj. & Mrs. Fred. Craven took charge
1925
March
Self Denial results – £215
May
Electric light installed. Turned on by the Mayor, Alderman Billinghurst
Easter W/E
Visit of Luton Citadel Band. Good weekend but expenses too high. Easter Monday the band occupied the band stand in the Victoria Gardens.
Billets:
Mrs Belton, 100 Luton Road
Serg. Major Seaton, 13 Waghorn Street
Hon. B/M Durrant, 33 Earnest Street
Sec. J. Hudson, 45 Herbert Street
A. Hudson, 10 Leopold Street
Bro. Jones, 56, Otway Street
Mr. Friend, 33, Henry Street
Bro. Bastoon, 12, Fredrick Street
Bro. Cook, New Road
Bro. Golding, 48 Charter Street
Band Master Friend, Chatham Hill
JPRL Friend, Imperial Road
Mr. Abnett, High Street
Mr. Abnett (Senior), Rainham Road
Officers, 98, Luton Road
YPSM Goodwin, 106, Rochester Street
Mrs. Redgrave, 20 Mount Road
Mrs. ????, 47 Ordinance Street
Mr. Minks, Rainham Road
September
W/E 6/7
Senior Harvest Festival, Adj. Boal & Leaupes
W/E 13/14
YP Harvest Festival conducted by Staff Captain Grafton
Fri. 26
Renovation of the hall, Senior & Junior completed. Work very well done & great credit is due to Mr. Hunt, HQ contractor
October
Wed. 1
United Soldiers meeting conducted by the Divisional Commander
Sun. 11
Sunday morning meeting conducted by Captain & Mrs. Frost
W/E 24/25
The weekend meetings were conducted by the Divisional Commander, Major Rohu.
November
W/E 14/15
Farewell meetings of Adj. & Mrs. Graver to the Cambridge Heath Corps to take charge.
W/E 21/22
Welcome meetings of Captain & Mrs Coutts from Newcastle.
December
Sun. 13
Meetings were conducted by Major Blow, the National YP Secretary for Great Britain.
1926
January
W/E 16/17
YP Annual conducted by Brigadier Hatcher
W/E 30/31
Bandsman & Mrs. F.S.Lee & Bandsman A. Axford. Musical programme Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.
February
Mon. 8
Congress Hall Octet Party, Lewis Harrison in the chair.
Wed. 10
Col. G. Holmes. “The Romance of a Missionary”. The Mayor of Rochester, Alderman Dale in the chair
Sun. 28
Lt. Col. Gustave Isely. Self Denial £205. Drop due to N. & M. Home, total being £10.15.0 down
March
Sat. 20
“At Home”. £7.15.0 raised. Corps debt.
April
(Good) Fri. 2
St. Albans band. Gillingham united with us. Two good festivals
May
W/E 1/2
Major & Mrs. Rohu. Tea table talk to locals on Sunday afternoon.
Wed. 5
Partnership festival Gillingham and Chatham Songsters
Fri. 28
Partnership festival Gillingham and Chatham Songsters
June
W/E 5/6
Farewell of Capt. & Mrs. Frost for Japan.
July
Mon. 19
Welcome of Adj. & Mrs. Durman as YP Secretaries
During CO’s furlough meetings were conducted by Adj. Wilkinson – Pembroke House, Commandant S. Clark, Adj. W. Friend (Home on furlough) & Capt. Noble of Strood.
August
W/E 21/22
Lt. Col. Nicholson.
September
Sun. 12
Senior Harvest Festival
Sun. 19
YP Harvest Festival
Sat. 25
Indian girls with Adj. Khushi
Sun. 26
Lt. Comm. Hoe
Mon./Tues.
Film at Town Hall
October
W/E 23/24
S/C Beckett
November
Sat. 20
53rd Anniversary
Sun. 21
Lt. Comm. Unsworth. Chairman at 3.00pm Brig. Gen. Odain CBE
W/E 27/28
Bandsmans’ Councils. Major Penn, S/C Stoburt
December
Wed./Thurs. 8/9
Sale of Work. First day Miss. Billinghurst with Alderman Billinghurst.
Second day Mrs. ??? Brabazon & Mr. F. Dugan
Wed. 15
Lt. Col. Chapman. “The Social Services of the Salvation Army”.
1927
January
Sat. 8
??? Male Voice Party
February
W/E 5/6
IHQ Staff Songsters. Saturday chairman – Mr. Petchey, Malvern Road, Sunday chairman – Paymaster Cdr. Ratcliffe
Sun. 27
Senior Self Denial Sunday – Brig. Hatcher
March
Sun. 6
YP Self Denial Sunday – Brig. Rees
April
(Good) Fri. 15
Dartford Band. Gillingham united
Wed. 20
Presentation of 150 new bibles by YP Corps
Mon. 25
Partnership festival, Chatham and Gillingham
May
Mon. 2
Partnership festival, Chatham and Gillingham
Wed. 11
Massed festival – Gillingham, Strood, Sittingbourne & Chatham – in aid of Pembroke House.
Farewell to Ensign & Mrs. Coutts
Thurs. 12
Welcome of Capt. & Mrs. Beavan
W/E 18/19/20
YP anniversary led by C.G. & YP Locals.
Sat. aft. held open-air meetings in main street. Good return. £7.15.0 for weekend. Best for a long time.
July
Fri. 1 to Tues. 14
Visit of Ensign Williams and 5 Cadet Sergeants (Women) for International purposes. They rendered splendid service and expenses were more than covered.
Fri. 6
YP outing by steamer to Sheerness. (Watch this next year)
August
Bank Hol.
Band away at Deal for weekend. YP band on duty at home. Corps went by chara. On the Monday but owing to wet weather plans were spoilt completely.
Tues. 2 to Sat. 23
Officers on furlough. Meetings led by Social officers N. & M. Home, Band and Songsters.
W/E 27/28
Major Pimm for weekend
September
W/E 17/18/19
Sen. H.F. – Brig. Hawkins conducted
W/E 24/25/26
YP H.F. – Adj. Durman conducted.
October
W/E 15/16
Visit of Whitsable band. A very successful weekend. Good crowds and finance good.
Oct./Nov.
Great Salvation Siege conducted. Special marched, meetings etc. A great stir up but comrades did not rally as hoped. Col. Edwin & party from IHQ came for Nov. 5/6. Brig. Colbourne & Staff Officers 11/12. The siege resulted in 11 converts.
November
W/E 26/27
S/Capt. Hal Beckett led.
December
Thurs. 15
Gift Sale of Work. This was taken up in a very hearty manner by all and was a splendid success. I have attached a list of stall holders and accounts for the day. Mrs. Freeman, Constitution Road opened the sale and Rainham band gave a programme in the evening. Sis. Mrs. Bannister will do all the shops for you and does well with goods and money.
Wed. 28
Poor Childrens’ Tea. This was worked in conjunction with the Slum Officers. 350 children sitting to tea in our hall. Attached you will find details.
Xmas playing
This is almost a failure. A great opportunity is lost. Band don’t seem to rally up as they might. I organised a singing party and did a few pounds for the corps.
1928
Go to top
Self Denial.
A very easy time for the CO, requires organising and the corps do the rest. See Briefs for full details. Cards are also at DHQ. An increase of £19.0.0
Good Friday
Canterbury band came for the day. We carried on the following routine.
11am Meeting, 2pm Open-air at Town Hall, 3pm Festival. Public tea at 4.30pm. 6.15pm Open-air, 7.30pm festival.
We raised £11.7.6 for the day with only £1.11.4 expenses, leaving a very good profit for the corps.
May
W/E 5/6
Farewell of Ensign & Mrs. Beavan. Appointed to Marylebone.
W/E 12/13
Welcome meetings of Capt. & Mrs. Simmons, appointed from Seacombe (Lpl. Div.)
1930
Go to top
16 May
It is very difficult to sit down and write the history of a two years stay as I have been asked to by the DC, who, at the inspection recently held, discovered that this book had not been kept. When I have put something herein I will hand the same to the Secretary, “Who is responsible for its accurate and safe custody”. (See instructions on cover)
During the first Summer we introduced a new activity by getting the band & songsters to miss alternate practices and render a programme in the open-air as attached. These programmes were given out in the afternoon prior to the visit and chairs were borrowed from the various houses so that by the time the sections had arrived to take their seats for the festival interest was created. Not only did this venture pay for itself but many new people came to the hall as a result. It was repeated during the second Summer.
In November 1928 on a Friday a fire broke out in Rhode Street where two little children were burned to death. Before long a poster was placed in many places stating that the S.A. Band would play in the streets on Saturday (the next day) for a Fire Victims Fund. The outcome was that before the weekend was over £120 had been raised. We buried the two children and furnished the homes again for the families benefit. The Borough Treasurer, Mr. Auchinley, accredited and retained the accounts. This ready assistance gained us much progress.
A mens cadets campaign was held in November 1928 but not in 1929. Cadets came every third weekend for the second half of the session in pairs for both 1929 and 1930. This is a good idea. A cadet for each Self Denial effort was also of assistance. The Corps are fond of cadets.
The undermentioned (a letter from DHQ informing the CO that the corps had been raised to a “B” grade) speaks for itself. I was surprised, but of course extremely happy it should be raised during my command & pray earnestly that God will continue to bless the Corps through my successors.
Each of the two Christmases we have been in Chatham we have raised enough to feed 200 old & poor people giving them a real Xmas dinner, as follows. Hot roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, potatoes (baked) and greens and gravy, Xmas pudding and sauce, a mince pie and cup of tea each. Every butcher in town will give 10lbs of beef, Barnes will give the potatoes, Hales will give the greens, Varney will give the Yorkshire puddings, Mrs. Seaton will beg money for the Xmas puddings & Mannings, the bakers will make them and cook all the food for any officer who will ask. Bourne & Simmons, Bakers gave & will give 100 mince pies each. This is a great idea & should be kept up. Cossey (The Sailors Rest) Military Road, will loan all the crockery.
Re: Armistice day service
So that the Army might come to the front I would advise always that the officer get in touch with the British Legion Secretary and co-operate with them. This has done much good in our over two years stay. I have conducted a service in the Town Hall as well as taking an active part in the Remembrance Service at the Cenotaph.
General Edward Higgins received a Public Welcome in the Town Hall on February 17 1930. Sir Robert Gower presided, Admiral Stirling, representing the dockyard workers, and the Rector of Chatham, Rev. Aubrey O Standen were the speakers who made him welcome. The General received the Aldermen & Councillors in the Mayor’s parlour & Council chamber as well as about 50 of the local tradesmen who were introduced to him by the Mayor of Chatham, Alderman Whyman. All the ministers supported the General who said afterwards to me that the gospel hall and tremendous platform were equal in sincerity and enthusiasm to anything he had experienced in the country.
During 1929 a ballot was taken in the town for the Sunday opening of cinemas. We strenuously opposed this, conducted over 50 open-airs in 16 days in which I spoke unsparingly against it & led the campaign against it & received the co-operation of all the ministers. Although we lost this campaign the Chatham Christian Council, comprised of all the ministers was formed as an outcome.
I could go on scrawling away about various happenings during our stay in Chatham, but trust that the work that has been done and the soldiers and recruits that have been made will be the best record of the history for theirs is the opportunity to make history for eternity.
We give God all the glory for any success obtained and are grateful to Him and the Army for allowing us to be there to work for Him these two years.
May 16
Farewell of Ensign & Mrs. Simmons – appointed to Swindon 1.
Ensign & Mrs. Parkhouse appointed to Chatham from Hull 1. May their stay be mightily used by God.
August
W/E 30/31
Meetings conducted by Commissioner Turner & also presentation of 250 new song books given by Sis. Mrs. Bates, a soldier of the Corps. A very fine gift we think.
September
W/E 27/28
Meetings conducted by Commissioner Jeffries, Major Climpson & S/M and 4 cadets. A very blessed time to our own souls.
October
W/E 18/19
Meetings conducted by Ensign & Mrs. Beavan, late officers of this corps. Splendid weekend – 14 souls – Amen
November
Sun. 2
Meetings conducted by Brigadier George Gratton A.N.S. Prayer meeting till 9.00pm. A very good Sunday
December
Instead of the Christmas Day dinner to old people this year 2/6 tickets & 3/- parcels were given away, reaching about 500 people & very poor and needy cases.
1931
January
Sun. 4
Visit of DC Major Edwards for the weekend & he was much appreciated, happy meetings
February
Sun. 1
Special visit of Colonel Hancock from India for 8 days. Very interesting
Sun. 15
Weekend led by Ensign Upperton & Capt. Cooper from Japan.
Sat. 21
Major House led the weekend meetings. (YPS Pro tem)
March
Self denial was well taken up this year. A job to find the soldiers districts for collection, but sorry to say we did not reach our target, but we done our best.
Sat. 28
Visit of Colonel Starling for the weekend. The meetings were well attended & the people were blessed.
April
(Good) Fri. 3
Good Friday – Canterbury Band and Songsters came for the day & Major Edwards DC led services afternoon and evening. Great crowds gathered for the night meeting.
Mon. 6
Easter Monday. The Songsters and part of the Band returned the visit & went to Canterbury & had a very nice time.
Sat. 25
Chalk Farm Band visited us for the Sat. Festival in the Central Hall. 1,300 people gathered & in the afternoon Bandsmens Councils were conducted by Major Edwards, DC in the S.A. Hall
May
W/E 2/4
Ensign Dumpleton paid a weekend visit & a very good one.
Sat. 16
Col. & Mrs. Sladen conducted the weekend meetings assisted by Com. Ward, DYPS and a very splendid time.
June
W/E 6/7
Commissioner Longdon led the weekend & was a great blessing to the people.
W/E 13/15
Assurance Staff visit the weekend. Adj. Rook and Cadet led.
July
W/E 4/5
Officers & Sergeants from the Training College conducted 3 day campaign.
Wed. 15
Presentation of new band colours.
W/E 18/19
Staff Captain & Mrs. Joslin and family for the weekend.
August
Sun. 23
Ensign & Mrs. Brooks from Kenya Colony on furlough conducted the weekend meetings.
September
W/E 5/6
Southall 1 Songsters for weekend. Major & Mrs. Edwards, DC also was with & a very good time.
W/E 19/20
Senior Harvest Festival meetings.
W/E 26/27
YP Harvest Festival meetings.
October
W/E 30/31
Commandant & Mrs. Ward YPS conducted all the weekend meetings. Late march on Sat. with band.
November
Mon. 2
Started the 4 day campaign. Open-airs every night & a very bright and happy time the people were blest.
Sat. 14
Congress Hall band for the Sat. Town Hall was taken by not wise was not a success financially.
W/E 29/30
Weekend conducted by Major & Mrs. Climpson of the Training College.
December
Fri. 4
Sale of Work on day brought forward because of officers farewell. Realised £24 net profit.
W/E 5/6
Farewell of Ensign & Mrs. Parkhouse. Appointed to Margate December 6/7 1931
Adjutant & Mrs. Nye having returned from overseas service in Jamaica took charge of Chatham Corps. A very nice welcome meeting. Ensign Simmons called in.
Christmas
About 50 parcels & 2/6 obtained from Mr. Long, Grocer, High Street, were given to poor people. A list of those who received has been kept.
Tues. 29
A tea was given this year to 250 children the whole of the costs of the same being born by the “Daily Mirror”. The various tradespeople served us well. Goods purchased as follows:
Bread – Mark Packer, Grocery – Mr. Batts, Sweets – Bro. Overy, Oranges – Mr. Hales, High Street, Crackers etc… – Mr. Long, Christmas cake – Mr. Simmons, Cakes – Jaspers and Scotts, Milk – Mr. Bourne.
Tables and chairs borrowed from the Central Hall 10 doz. Cups, saucers and plates from Mr. Simms, Flags/Bunting from Town Hall (see R.L.Honey esq.) Woolworths gave a splendid lot of toys. Thanks letter of appreciation were sent to all concerned. Cash received and all a/cs paid by 21/1/1932.
1932
January
Sun. 24
YP Annual. Had a very good weekend led by YPSM Sis. Florence Hales. Wednesday prize giving chairman Mr. Chas. Finn. Splendid crowd. Every child received either a book or toy.
February
Mon. 1
M II Submarine disaster.
The CO, Adj. Nye, together with Commandant Hooton of the N & M home visited all the relatives living in Chatham, Gillingham and Rainham, which visits were much appreciated.
One widow (Rainham) who was in great distress was provided with bedstead, mattress and bedding etc… begged by the CO.
Sun. 7
Visit of Adj. & Mrs. Caddy
Adj. & Mrs. Caddy of SAAS (Gillingham) did us a very good weekend. Good meetings
Wed. 17
Visit of the Chief of the Staff.
The Chief of the Staff and Mrs. Mapp visited Chatham on Tuesday 17. The visit was a great success and enjoyed by all. Programme as follows:
Tea with officers at the N & M Home – 5.00pm
Meeting with officers after – 6.00pm
Soldiers meeting in the Citadel, 40 at mercy seat – 7.45pm
Spirit was excellent. Hall nicely full, 319 present.
Billets. Chief & Mrs. Mapp with Mrs. Sayer, “The Tons” Maidstone Road.
Col. Williams with Mrs. Freeman, 9 Constitution Road.
DC & Mrs. Edwards at officers quarters.
Thurs. 18
Visit of songsters to Medway Institution
The songsters and CO gave a musical programme in the Medway Institution which was much appreciated by the inmates and spoken well of after.
March
W/E 19/20
Visit of Colonel & Mrs. Cloud
This visit was a proper old timer. A great success in every way and much appreciated. A number of comrades came out for consecration in the morning and there were seekers at night. In the afternoon the Colonel gave a lecture on “The SA in Newfoundland”, which was much enjoyed. The Colonel & Mrs. Cloud billeted with the COs.
Mon. 21
The SD ingathering for this section of the Division was held at Gillingham again this year. The Chatham Songsters were present. This year we raised £136.11.10 against £141.16.10 for last year, which we locally considered very good under the circumstances.
Fri. 25
Day at the Cross – Good Friday
Very good meetings were held in the afternoon and evening under the leadership of the D.C. Major Edwards. A good spirit prevailed, all enjoyed the meetings. Chatham band and songsters provided music and song. No refreshments were run this year.
The subject “Seven words from the Cross”.
Speakers for the afternoon: Adj. Hunt, Capt. Graham and Commandant Ward.
Speakers for the evening: Adj. Howarth, Adj. Nye, Mrs. Major Edwards and Major Edwards.
The lantern was used for hymns and Mrs. Ward’s solo.
W/E 26/28
Easter Weekend.
Saturday, Sunday and Monday the Senior Band were at Rye Corps. Had a good time.
The C.O. had a charabang on Monday and took the wives to Rye for the day, all returning together at night. Had a good time.
April
Wed. 6
The Home League did a Special meeting in aid of the Light Account and did well. They raised the splendid sum of £6.0.0. I wish to place on record my sincere appreciation of the same.
Wed. 13
The Rainham Young Peoples Corps visited Chatham and gave a fine display of living pictures of “Pilgrims Progress” raising for us the sum of £1.8.0.
W/E 23/24
Visit of Brigadier Summus
Brigadier Kate Summus and a Sister Skinner from Penge Corps visited for the weekend. We had a very enjoyable time. Visit was a success in every way.
May
Mon. 2
Visit of Milton Regis Corps.
The comrades of Milton Corps came and rendered us a good programme which was much appreciated by all present.
Tues. 5
To
Mon. 23
Visit of N.H.Q. Special Campaign – Major Charles Ward
It was rather unfortunate that this campaign was arranged for this time of the year. Whit Sunday holidays coming in between and the Songsters had arranged to go away to Margate for the weekend. (May 14/15/16).
Generally speaking the campaign was not a success.
Results: 2 new cases, 5 comrades came forward and 11 young people.
Sun. 29
Visit of Royal Tunbridge Wells Band
This visit for the day, Sunday, was a great success and greatly enjoyed by both the Corps and the visiting band.
The rain hindered the morning open-air and the indoor meeting, but about 165 were present. For the afternoon programme, at which Mrs. Herbert Hales presided (Donation £1) the hall was full and for the night meeting the hall was crowded. One soul surrendered. The following were the billets (food only). All the men were delighted.
D/S/Leader Jones 5, B/M Preston 2, Songster Leader Friend 2, Secretary Hudson 2, H. B/M Durrant 2, A/S/M Holder 2, Serg. Major Goodwin 2, YPSM Elliott 2, YP Treasurer Woodger 2, Band Sec. Hales 2, P.P.B.S. Crouch 2, Sis. Mrs. French 2, Sis. Mrs. Simmons 2, Mrs. G. Hudson 2, Sis. Sissie Bishop 2, Sis. Mrs. King 2, Bandsman Bishop 2, Bandsman Burrell 2, Sis. Mrs. Arnott 2, Bro. Hardy 2, Sis. Mrs. Bardon 2.
Total income for £6.11.4. Band travelling £3.
June
Sun. 5
Visit of Staff Capt. & Mrs. Joslin
The visit of Staff Captain and Mrs. Joslin and their two daughters Olive and Norah was a great success, a very enjoyable weekend having been spent.
The programmes were not sold owing to the Tunbridge Wells Band being with us the previous weekend.
On another occasion the Staff Captain desires the programmes to be sold for 6d each which will admit to both Saturday night and Sunday afternoon programmes.
Mr. Knell of Kent Electric Power Co. took the chair on Sunday afternoon ( £1 donation). Total income £4.2.6. Staff Captain & Mrs. Joslin billeted with Bro. & Sis. Austin. Olive and Norah with Bro. & Mrs. Williams, Dale Street.
Mon. 6
Inauguration of Life Saving Guards
Major and Mrs. Edwards were with us and presided on this occasion a good crowd gathered and a splendid programme was rendered.
21 Guards all in full uniform took part in the service also Leader Ena Seaton, Assistant Leader Eva Warner and Chaplain E. Hales were commissioned.
Sun. 12
Visit of Adjutant Lucy Howarth, Div. Sec.
A very nice weekend. On Sunday afternoon the Adjutant enrolled 40 new Junior Soldiers and commissioned a number of YP Singing Company and YP Band members.
W/E 25/27
YP Anniversary 1932
The young people and their workers under the leadership of YPSM Florrie Hales rendered a good weekend. The sum of £2 was handed over to the YP Corps.
July
W/E 2/4
Home League Weekend
This was an entirely new venture for Chatham Corps but we had a splendid weekend in every way. A good spirit prevailed.
August
Wed. 3
Fatal Accident to YP Band Member Alex Ottoway
On Wednesday August 3 a great shadow was cast over the Corps by the sudden promotion to Glory of YP Band Member Alex Ottoway, by an accident, being run over by a Maidstone and District Omnibus.
Alex, who was about 14 ½ years of age was laid to rest with full Salvation Army Honours on Monday 8th inst., the YP Band providing the music. Memorial Service was held Sunday 14th inst.
Sun. 14
Promotion To Glory of Bro. Albert Jarrett
On Sunday Aug. 14th Chatham Corps sustained a very heavy loss by the Promotion to Glory after about 20 years of suffering, one of our oldest comrades, Bro. “Bert” Jarrett.
Although Bro. Jarrett had not been to the Hall in person for many years, yet such was the influence of his life that nearly every Sunday his name was mentioned in some way of another.
It was the CO’s privilege to spend many hours with Bro. Jarrett during the last few weeks, an experience for which he will ever be grateful.
Bro. Jarrett was laid to rest with full S.A. Honours on Sat. 20th inst.. Memorial Service Sun. 21st.
Wed. 24
CO’s talk on the West Indies
The CO’s, in their West Indian uniforms gave a talk on their experiences in the West Indies, also showing many exhibits, the same being enjoyed by all present.
Mon. 29
Inauguration of Sunbeam Brigade.
The CO in the absence of the DC presided on this occasion, 14 Sunbeams were inaugurated on this occasion and Leader Irene Gould and Serg. Doris Smith were commissioned. A splendid programme was rendered.
September
Harvest Festival Effort 1932
This effort considering the times was a good success. The amount raised being £55, an increase of 8/6 upon last year.
October
Sat. 8
Divisional YP Band & Singing Company Festival
This festival was held this year in Chatham Citadel. Major & Mrs. Fenwick presided A.D.C’s.
Chatham Corps sold 100 tickets @ 4d each.
Chatham, Gillingham and Sittingbourne YPBands & Chatham & Sittingbourne YP Singing Companies rendered the programme, which was much enjoyed by a fair crowd who were present with us.
Sun. 9
Major & Mrs. Fenwick remained with us for the Sunday, good and profitable time. 3 souls at Mercy Seat.
W/E 15/16
Visit of Margate Band
This visit was a real “Great” affair, both for the visiting band and for the Chatham Corps. Coming as it did in a dark hour we hope and pray it may prove a blessing and inspiration to us all. Bandmaster Rigden and his men laid themselves out to be a blessing and they were successful in every way.
I understand record attendances and profits the Band leaving us with about £10 clear. We were disappointed that there were no souls, which would have made our joy complete. Every man was delighted with his billet (sleeping included) which were as follows:
Song/Leader Beb Friend 2, Band Sec. W. Hales 2, YPB.L. Elliott 2, Dep/Song/Leader Jones 2, Corps Sec Hudson 2, Sis. Mrs. King 2, Hon. B/M Durrant 3, Bro. Cook 2, Bro. Williams 2, ADJ. & Mrs. Nye 1, Bro. Austin 2, Mrs. Fisher 2, Comm. & Mrs. Clarke 1, Bro. Bob Friend 2, Mrs. Oliver 1, Bro. Waghorn 2, Bro. Baston 1, Mr. Chas. Finn 2 for food, Mrs. Simmons 2 for food. Programmes cost 10/3 for 500. Band travelling £3.
The Chatham Band marched the Margate Band up to the Station at night, everyone happy.
Chairman Saturday night Mrs. Chas. Finn.
Chairman Sunday afternoon Bro. Rigden Snr. – Margate.
Best thanks to all.
W/E 22/23
Visit of Staff Captain & Mrs. Andrew Jones – I.H.Q.
The above visit opened up with a great promise of success. Splendid open-air Saturday night and a well appreciated meeting inside.
Sunday it teemed with rain all day. Open-Airs were out of the question and the inside meetings, although good in spirit were poor in numbers owing to the wet.
As this had a great effect on the finance the S/C very kindly would not take any travelling expenses. This was appreciated.
W/E 29/30
Visit of Envoy (ex convict) Roberts and “Tommy”
The visit was a great success in every way
November
W/E 19/20
Farewell of Adj. & Mrs. Nye (sudden and unexpected) after 11 months stay.
W/E 26/27
Welcome meetings of Commandant Annie Tanner & Captain Edith Whiteman, appointed from Hove. Found things very difficult after unfortunate difficulty resulting in loss of 10 local officers!
December
Wed. 14
Home League small sale of work. Result £5.4.7.
All sections contributed one item to the programme.
Xmas playing with depleted band, who worked excellently brought in £12.0.0. YP Band also raised £10. Chiefly in copper.
31/Jan 1
Watch Night Service conducted by Captain Harris (Cadets Bandmaster) & Captain T. C. Carter from William Booth Training College. 53 present. Several consecrations made. Lecture on experiences on Finland & S.A. work there by Capt. Carter on Sunday afternoon. Very interesting and helpful weekend.
1933
January
Mon. 9
Visit of Major Olive Booth with party of Naval and Military Leaguers Major & Mrs. Hooton assisting.
Self Denial effort £135.4.11. Seniors £115.3.10, YP £ 20.1.1.
W/E 14/15
Young Peoples Annual.
Special programmes throughout the weekend.
Wed. 18
YP tea & prize giving. Mr. Friday from Maidstone presented the prizes.
February
W/E 18/19
Weekend meetings conducted by Major Pike. Weather exceeding cold. Snow somewhat affected the attendances.
March
Sat. 25
Brigadier & Mrs. Salisbury (D. Commander) conducted the Self Denial ingathering. 510 present.
Frid. 31
Brigadier Livingstone conducted a ten day campaign.
Splendid meetings.
Salvation 2, Backsliders 8 (on roll), Holiness 1, YP 8
Brigadier & CO put in 24 hours visitation during the Special Campaign.
The Special Band & Songster Brigade visiting Gillingham somewhat affected our indoor attendances on both Sundays.
April
Fri. 14
Good Friday
The Day at the Cross was a real success in every way.
Morning conducted by CO, Afternoon & Evening Brigadier & Mrs. Fenwick, assisted by officers from Snodland, Strood, Hoo, Rainham and Green Street.
Good attendances. No results.
Sat. 15
Easter Saturday the Home League gave service of song entitled “Footprints”
Sun. 16
Easter Sunday evening the Senior Songster Brigade gave “From Bethany to Calvary” in song & special reading by Adjutant Jacobs, W.S.W.
W/E 22/23
Weekend meetings led by Captain Buzza, Divisional helper.
May
Wed. 3
Farewell meetings of second in command Captain E. Whiteman who was transferred to the Bristol Division to be married to Captain Robinson and appointed to Keysham.
W/E 6/7
Visit of new Divisional Commanders (Brigadiers & Mrs. Salisbury). Open-air meetings hindered through heavy rain but a splendid day resulting in 11 seekers.
Thurs. 11
Wedding ceremony of Captain Amos Woodger to Lieut. Beatrice Hudson in Citadel conducted by Adjutant Beavan.
W/E 14/18
Farewell weekend & finish up of Commandant Annie Tanner after six months stay. Appointed to Trelaw, South Wales.
Adjutant Harrold Watson appointed from Douglas Isle of Man & Lieut. H. Boyd from the I.T.C.
October
Adjutant Watson & Lieut. Boyd farewell.
Capt. & Mrs. Arthur Smith appointed from Deal. A good welcome afforded.
Sun. 15
Home League Rally. Colonel Simmons leading. 420 present.
W/E 28/29
Visit of Tunbridge Wells Band for the Sunday. Rather a poor day from a weather point of view but we had a good congregation every thing considered & a very happy and successful time resulted. Two souls at the mercy seat.
December
Thurs. 14
Xmas sale held in St. Pauls Schoolroom for which we paid £1. Opened by Mrs. A. G. Auger. The Mayor presided. We had a good time. The Corps rallied well, considering we only had a few eeks to arrange the effort. We did £24.0.0.
1934
January
Deal band for a weekend. Had a nice time. DC led meetings. Cleared about £5.
March
S.D. total £145.2.6. an increase of £10.10.0.
Easter W/E
Usual “Day at the Cross” good crowds all day.
Marylebone band visited us. Sat. festival, Sunday afternoon festival. Monday we went to the Rochester Esplanade (permission needed for this from Strood officers) Public tea @ 5pm which was not a success.
A very good weekend, cleared about £8.0.0.
Many of our people go away Easter which makes it bad for billeting etc. Worth the effort.
May
W/E 27/28
The Chief of the Staff (Commissioner H. W. Mapp) did us this weekend. We had our own hall throughout the weekend. Sat. night Soldiers meeting 410 present. Good holiness meeting. Afternoon lecture “The S. A. & the secret of its success”. The Mayor presided & many local people supported. A great weekend. 5 souls.
Billets:
The Chief billited with the Dean of Rochester, Dr. Undskill) at the Deanery, Rochester.
Col. Williams with ??? Freeman, 5 Constitution Hill.
No expenses apart from printing. A real good Blood and Fire weekend.
July
W/E 15/16
Catford Band did us a good weekend, spiritually excellent. Playing good & funds good, did £14.0.0. for the weekend. Exes. £6.15.0.
A lot of hard work for little profit.
August
Bank holiday. This was the dockyard holiday & I found it not advisable to try anything other than an ordinary weekend.
October
Wed. 17
Mrs. General Higgens did a Home League Rally, this happening a few days before her retirement was an important event. We had the Ebenezer Church, Clover Street. There was a congregation of 1,150 present & 350 stayed for the public tea. It was really a great day, we cleared about £12.0.0. on the effort.
27 October
to
5 November
Sixty-First Anniversary Celebration.
Advertised as “Ten Tremendous Days”
This was really quite an experiment but wewnt very well indeed. The following were the special arrangements.
Sat./Sun. 27/28 October – Regent Hall Band
Mon. 29 October – Col. Booth for Lecture, “The Life of the Founder”.
Tues. 30 October – Musical night all Senior Sections. Trumpeter Sheard (of Hanley) presided and played his cornet.
Wed. 31 October – Mr.Hugh Redwood did the meetings in the Ebenezer Church. 1000 attended. Collections £11.0.0., no Exes.
Thurs. 1 November – YP night. Chatham and Gillingham YP sections united at Chatham
Frid. 2 November – Old Time prayer meeting.
Sat./Sun. 3/4 November Commissioner Allister Smith, the DC did the weekend.
Mon. 5 November – Birthday tea. Cutting of Birthday cake by Major Halsey, who was the CO at Chatham in 1882. The Mayor presided at a service where soldiers brough their gifts (birthday gifts). We raised £26.0.0. A splendid sum I thought.
A souvenier programme was published with a message from the Mayor, the General, the DC & Gipsy Smith etc. The CO’s photographs etc. Price 6d. These went fairly well
Altogether we raised £70.0.0. which £40.0.0. was profit & cleared £45.0.0. off the Corps debt. During the Anniversary Celebrations 3,500 people in all attended the meetings. An effort which could be repeated with great success & profit annually I feel sure.
November
W/E 23/24
The Penge Songster Brigade did us a great weekend. Good crowds. Exes. £6.10.0. Songster Leader L. Hurren. Not much financial profit attached to this effort.
1935
January
Xmas playing total was £14.0.0. This was a good increase on previous years. The officer felt that he did not get very good support from the sections.
YP band did £13.0.0.
February
W/E 2/3
The Assurance Songsters did this weekend. We had good crowds but somehow could not seem to get hold of the money. The Exes. were heavy, £11.0.0. which is in my opinion too much for Chatham. We just cleared ourselves.
Self Denial.
Collected £142.3.0. An increase of 6d on 1934, which was an increase of £10.10.6 on 1933. The officer suggested that the absnce of a Cadet to help was a handicap and urged future officers to make early application for a cadet helper.
March
Tues. 12 to
Mon. 18
Brigadier T. Otten did a campaign. Considering the SD period it was a success. There were 12 adult seekers and 3 juniors.
Easter
We did not have any visiting sections this year. The billeting is difficult, this is the chief trouble. Brigadier Fenwick A.D.C. conducted “A Day at the Cross”. Attendances fair, morning 98, afternoon 100, evening 175. We provided tea and cakes, this is sufficient. I catered for 50 people and found this ample food.
May
Wed. 1
A “Sale of Work” on a small scale was held, considering the short time the people had it was successful & very acceptable to me. The following did stalls:
Guards, handerchiefs. Guard Ldr. & Chaplain
Bro. & Mrs. Cook – Variety stall
Bro. & Mrs. Blackman – Sweet stall
Mrs. Bannister – Needlework stall
Mrs. Durrant – Variety stall
Songsters – Fruit, Flowers and Vegetable stall
Home League – Refreshments and teas
Bro. Bob Friend – 3 side shows
About £15.0.0. was raised. Mr. & mRs. Fred. Simmons opened the sale. They were officers here about five years ago.
W/E 18/19
Adjutant & Mrs. Nutter were welcomed to Chatham from Bootle, Liverpool.
Had a very good weekend & received a real warm welcome.
Adjutant broke down in health and went on sick furlough.
Major McDowell & Capt. Russell did the S.D. and then farewelled.
1936
April
Thurs. 2
Adjutant & Mrs. John G. Gardner welcomed from Deal. Had a very good welcome under the circumstances.
Good Friday
A Day at the Cross was conducted by the D.C. (Brigadier & Mrs. Salisbury. The attendances were only fair on account of the quick change of officers. The day’s meetings resulted in six seekers. Refreshments were provided for the visitors but only 11 stayed.
May
Sun. 24
Visit of Dartford Songsters and everything went off well, a good day with a good spirit prevailing.
June
Fri. 12
We went on our furlough after fixing the meetings as follows:
I wrote to the T.C. to ask if they could send someone to do my corps whilst I went on furlough. I agreed to their fixing for this and had my furlough when it suited them to send Adjutant Nesbitt, Captain Whent and two sergeants.
These officers lived at the quarters and kept things on the move and we found everything at top speed. Only their travelling was to be found by the corps.
July
Wed. 8
YP Outing to Sheerness
Wed. 15
Home League outing to Southend.
September
W/E 12/13 & 26/27
Harvest Festival Effort
This effort was a good one and we raised £60 an increase of £6 on last year.
October
W/E 10/11
We had a visit from the Norland Castle Band. They did us a very good weekend. Two souls knelt at the mercy seat.
Billets as follows:
Mrs. Norman Phillips 2, Mrs. Durrant 2, Mrs. Jones Jnr. 2, Mrs. Chas. Hales 2, B/Sgt. Williams 2, Mrs. Fisher 2, Mrs. Bob Friend 2, Mrs. Crouch 2, Mrs. Cook 2, Mrs. G. Hudson 2, Mrs.Elliott 2, Mrs. Oliver 2, Mrs. Jones Snr. 2. N&M Home 2 for bed and breakfast then to Mrs. Gould for dinner etc., Mrs. Grizzell for bed and breakfast and then to Mrs. C. Goodwin for dinner etc., N&M Home 1 for bed and breakfast and then to D.B.M for dinner etc.
Everyone enjoyed their visit and they went home ever so happy.
Tues. 20
A home League Rally was conducted in the Ebenezer Church, Clover Street by Mrs. Colonel Thomas. Approx. 700 attended. We arranged it to suit the women for shopping, but would not do it again as the women went out to tea instead of staying, so that whilst we catered for approx. 400 only approx. 300 stayed. The evening programme was held in our own building. A packed house.
December
W/E 12/13
A visit of the Assurance Band – Billets as for Norland Castle. A good weekend spiritually but only cleared £2.10.0. for the whole weekend.
Xmas playing very poor.
1937
January
Thurs. 28
The new Divisional Commander, Major Allen, presented the “Silver Star” to mothers of officers. A fine meeting.
February
Mon. 22
Lt. Comm. Barrett conducted a meeting and everyone felt the presence of God very near.
March
Self Denial was a very good success. £143 – approx. £8 increase on the previous year.
Fri. 26
Good Friday – “A Day at the Cross” was led by Major Avery DYPS. Captains Neave & Dell D.H.Q. and Corps Officers from surrounding Corps. In the evening a programme entitled, “From Olivet to Calvary”, was arranged & thoroughly enjoyed. Our band and songsters took part in the evening programme.
Sun. 28
Easter Sunday. The D.C. was with us for the day. We had a good time and 5 seekers at night.
April
Sat. 10
Woolwich Temple Band was with us for the evening. A real stir up for us. Their music was appreciated.
May
W/E 15/16/17
Whit. Weekend. Captain Perkins and eleven cadets (Women) from the I.T.C. were with us – Our own people did not rally round, hence a very poor weekend.
June
Thurs. 3
Farewell after a very difficult and hard 14 months stay.
Fri. 4
Welcome Meetings of Major & Mrs. Stevens from Hadleigh Farm Colony.
July
W/E 18/19
YP Anniversary – YPSM Laycock
Splendid weekend. Arrangements of meetings, programmes were all that could be desired. Finance much in advance of previous occasions.
W/E 25/26
Major Avery of D.H.Q. conducted the meetings.
Wed. 26
General Evangeline Booth visited Chatham.. The Central Hall was packed. 1,600 present. Collection £16.0.0. Corps portion NIL.
Sat. 31 Death of YPSM Laycock. Serious loss to the Corps. Was taken ill the previous Sunday during the Holiness meeting. He was given an S.A. funeral on Thurs. August 5 and a Memorial Service on Aug. 8.
September
Thurs. 5
Farewell of Major & Mrs. Stevens who have been appointed to India
W/E 11/12/13
Welcome to Major & Mrs. Noble from London. This coincided with the Senior Harvest Celebrations.
W/E 18/19/20
YP Harvest Celebrations conducted by YPSM Hales & YP workers. They put up a great effort. (YPSM Laycock died at the end of July) and the new YPSM had only been appointed a few days.
Harvest effort. The change of officers right on the Senior Harvest was unfortunate and to have raised £1.13.7. above the basic figure I feel is good. We raised £55.3.7.
October
W/E 9/10
Musical party from Luton (Beds). Meetings were well attended and were enjoyed by all.
Billets:
Mrs. Crouch 2, Mrs. Phillips 2, Mrs. Fisher 1, Mrs. Chas. Hales 2, Band Sgt. 2.
On Sunday the inauguration of the “Sunshine Hour”. Different comrades responsible for programmes
Tues. 19
Home League Rally. Ebenezer Congregational Church. Mrs. Commissioner Barrett, Mrs. Colonel Thomas T.H.L. Secretary, Brig. & Mrs. Allen, D.C. were present.
I wrote 20 churches to unite but as last year only 5 responded. (Sisterhoods).
Zion Baptist, Clover Street Ebenezer Congregational Church, Dale Street Mission, Magpie Hall Road Zion, Chatham Hill Congregational Church.
We arranged for 200 for tea but only 146 stayed for same. We charged 8d but found that some of the locals only put in 3d. This should be watched.
Wed. 27
Band Festival and Pageant, “Our Band of other days”. Fine crowd present. Band did well. They wore their festival tunics for the first time. Very smart.
Fri. 29
Half night of prayer in connection with “Everyone Welcome” campaign.
Sat. 30
Open-air, everybody in mufti. Caused a stir and helped our meetings.
November
Tues. 2
Vist of D.C. in connection with the campaign
Thurs. 4
Songsters responsible for the meetings.
Sat. 6
Illuminated Cross at open-air drew a good crowd.
Mon. 8
Remembrance service. Well attended.
Thurs. 11
Armistice service. Poorly attended.
W/E 13/14
Captain Warner with us for the weekend. Had a good time. 1 seeker.
W/E 27/28
Corps Cadets did the meetings. Had a good weekend.
December
W/E 4/5
Major Smith with us. A good weekend hindered by the weather.
W/E 11/12
Major Martin and Officers from the W.S.W. did the meetings. Good crowds and 1 seeker.
Sun.19
Carol Service in evening. Enjoyed by the soldiers.
Xmas Day
Service well attended. 73 present.
Sun. 26
Family night. A representative of each section took part. Mrs. Major Noble did the address.
Carolling Effort
Band worked well. Had more collectors than previous years and this was a good help. We were “Rained Off” several nights.
7th, Luton District – £1.3.1.
14th, Maidstone Road to Bournville Avenue – £1.19.1 ½.
16th, New Road – £1.0.0
17th, Luton Road – £1.16.9
18th, High Street (Pubs. etc.) – £1.13.0
19th, Dale Street district – £2.16.0.
20th, Castle Rd. etc. – £1.16.0.
21st, Institution Rd. etc. – £0.19.6.
23rd, Ordinance Terrace etc. – £1.11.6.
24th, High Street (Pubs. etc.) – £2.16.0
Late carolling – £0.15.7 ½.
Wed. 29
Corps social. Good crowd present.
1938
January
W/E 8/9/10
Brigadier Smith conducted the weekend. We had a real good time.
Sun.23
YP Annual. Good meetings led by YPSM Hales
Tues. 2