May Meeting – Historian writer – Paul Jennings
Our May meeting started the best way with refreshments, on offer was hot and cold drinks and delicious chocolate covered flapjack. Followed by a few announcements and a vote on the resolution by members present. Then a 10-minute talk from Harry Bowen about his planned trip in 2027 to Euro Scout camp. His trip is self-funded hence the need to fundraise, as do each scout that participates. It proves to be an invaluable experience of learning, gaining independence, building confidence and teamwork for the scouts, which gives them a feeling of self-accomplishment and achievement.
Our main speaker Paul Jennings gave us an interesting insight into school life in Harrogate, going back to 1912, with highlights from his latest book. It featured facts about the high numbers of private school in the area, which attracted wealthy families locally, further afield and from overseas. Parents were also interested by the fact Harrogate spa town offered health benefits, a bonus to the education. Although there was a decline in private education establishments over the years, some remain in the area today, for anyone pursuing this route. On the opposite side of the coin, the labouring and poorer families, went to charity, voluntary and church schools. Back in those days they kept logbooks to record sickness, exams, punishment, and most all other events, they stopped in the 1980’s.
The ever-popular annual plant swap once again went down a storm. For the readers, the book swap table was there to browse or pick a book from the ones wrapped in brown paper on which had written a hint of its theme.
If you enjoy a lovely walk in the outdoors, why not join the June meeting on Thursday 11th June for a ghost walk in Harrogate town. Anyone taking part should meet outside the Pump Room Museum, opposite the Valley Gardens at 7-15 for a 7-30 prompt start. The walk will take about 60 to 90 minutes, then afterwards end the evening at the Barking George for a well-deserved refreshment.
