Tables attractively set with tablecloths and flowers greeted members at the recent Edwardian Evening which opened with a welcome to Godfrey Hebdon, a well known local historian, who had come to give an illustrated talk on Edwardian Woolavington.
Godfrey told us he had first come to Woolavington in 1986 and, as part of the Millenium celebrations, having an interest in local history, had undertaken an update and revision of the History of Woolavington book previously produced by members of our WI in 1975.
He proceeded to give us a snapshot of the village during the period 1901 to 1910 extending to the commencement of the First World War.
At that time Woolavington was an agricultural based economy, having no electricity of mains water, but was by no means cut off from the outside world. There were 6 trains a day each way to Edington and Bridgwater (with connection to the main line) from Cossington station – a mere mile away – no problem for a population used to walking, where there was also a telegraph system. Local and national newspapers were available and postal services were excellent with 2 collections and deliveries each day. A letter posted in the morning could receive an answer in the afternoon.
Using various resources, including the 1901 and 1911 censuses, 1904 OS map and the 1909 Finance Act Survey Godfrey built up a pictorial and factual description of the village culminating in a virtual walk illustrated with pictures and postcards showing some local features such White Lion pub, the church and chapel, the Grange, windmill, Prince of Wales pub, Pool farm and the first Harvest Home which was held in 1908.
An interesting statistic showed over 50% of the inhabitants had been born in Woolavington, a further third were born in Somerset whilst incomers were around 10%. Certainly not the case today.
Godfrey was thanked for his absorbing talk and all agreed that we shall look at our village with renewed interest from now on.
An Edwardian style tea consisting of dainty sandwiches and cakes on pretty plates and tiered cakes stands was served by waitresses in black and white after which preliminary arrangements for Members' Night in June were discussed.
A thoroughly enjoyable evening was rounded off with the singing of some popular and
well-known Edwardian songs and choruses.