Amicable Benefit Society (1864)

Post date: Mar 27, 2013 1:34:4 PM

Extract from Maidstone Telegraph 4th June 1864

WATERINGBURY.—

This village was the scene of unusual rejoicing on Wednesday, being the day fixed for celebrating the 52nd anniversary of the Wateringbury Benefit Society. At half-past 10 the members, with their wives and friends, in number about five or six hundred, headed by the Yalding brass band, went from their head-quarters, the Duke's head, in procession to the village church, where the service was read and an eloquent sermon delivered by the vicar, the Rev. H. Stevens. Nothing could exceed the order and attention of the assembled congregation.

Service over, according the usual custom, they then in procession visited the residences of the different ladies and gentlemen in the parish, and returned at half past three to a large booth erected for the occasion. The members, having arranged themselves round a series of tables, groaning with the good old cheer of roast beef, &c, the chair was taken by Thomas White, Esq. who was supported the vicar (Rev H. Stevens), J. B. Jude, Esq , E. Goodwin, Esq., H. White, Esq, Lionel White, Esq., A. Fremlin, Esq., Messrs. Towner, Gilbert, &c. The usual loyal toasts having been proposed in appropriate terms, and duly responded to, the Chairman proposed the health of the Vicar, who returned thanks, and expressed the very great pleasure it gave him to be present; he was also pleased with the orderly behaviour of the members and their friends at church. The Chairman then, in a clear and eloquent speech gave a statement of the affairs of the club, offering good and sound advice in reference to the past and future management, and concluded by proposing " Success to the Wateringbury Benefit Club." The Rev. H. Stevens then proposed the health of the Chairman, and gave it as his opinion that the members had selected the right man for the position. This, with other toasts was heartily received. Mr. E. Goodwin and Mr. J. B. Jude, responding, gave some excellent advice, pointed out how to economise their resources, and offered to assist the committee, an offer cordially accepted. "The Army and Volunteers" was responded to by Mr. A. Fremlin, and "The Ladies" was given in appropriate terms by Mr. H. White.

After the departure of the honorary members and visitors, the members, with a large party from the parish, then paid their usual complimentary visit to the residence of the chairman, enjoying on the lawn a series of country and other dances. Nothing could excel beauty of this scene. The members then returned to their booth, and at 11 o'clock broke up, all having thoroughly enjoyed themselves.