Little Common WI

AS MEMBERS and newcomers with friends arrived in the hall for the January meeting, there seemed to be a lot to talk about. Also the raffle table and sale of unwanted gifts was very popular.

President Pauline Rosner soon quietened members down and the singing of Jerusalem was pleasant as always...correspondence and financial matters were then dealt with.

Arrangements are in hand for the fashion show to be held at the February meeting at 2pm. There will be a ploughman's lunch beforehand at 12.30pm, 4.50 inclusive - please come and bring a friend!

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Pam Waters told of an hilarious, though troublesome, time experienced by some members who were asked to travel by coach to the Richard and Judy show on Sky TV, which will be shown in a few weeks time.

Well-known curator of Bexhill Museum Mr Julian Porter gave a very interesting talk with slides on the history of Bexhill and Little Common.

Showing old maps and photos of past times, we were given facts and dates of events which made one realise where so many local names of roads, buildings and areas originated.

130 million year old dinosaur remains have been found, also stone tools in Broadoak Park and a silver penny dated 772 AD from King Offa's reign.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The first minister church was built on the site where St Peter's Church now stands in Bexhill Old Town.

Barracks were built on Belle Hill for thousands of soldiers. In Napoleon's time, Hanoverian soldiers were stationed there, hence Barrack Road and Barrack cemetery. Gangs of smugglers abounded and fights among them occurred.

Dragon infantry had to intervene - some smugglers were captured and sent to Australia. There actually is a Bexhill in New South Wales.

Julian Porter related happenings and dates from prehistoric to present times without hesitation or notes.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Members were reminded of the new museum which is to open soon.

Eurwen Innes thanked Julian for his fascinating talk, saying she knew of a Hastings in Australia as well.

February 18 meeting, 2pm, Fashion Show. Also a ploughman's lunch has been arranged for 12.30pm, 4.50 inclusive. Enquiries 01424 845688.