1895 Church Boys Brigade
From Lacey Green History
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THE CHURCH BOYS’ BRIGADE
NEW IN 1895. In 1895 the Church Boys Brigade was an entirely new feature introduced in the parish. A company was formed on October 26th. The officers being - the Chaplain; the Reverend William Robson, the Rev. B.J.Corder, Vice-chaplain; Mr. J.Webb, Captain.
LOOKING SMART
It is early yet to speak of results, yet a casual observer cannot but acknowledge the vast improvement in appearance of those who have become members as arrayed in their smart uniform they parade for church.
DRUM & FIFE BAND
At a considerable cost a Drum and Fife Band has been added to company, inspiring greater interest still in the work of the Brigade. Christmas Day was the first on which the Company paraded for Church, led by the band playing the well-known tune of “Onward, Christian Soldiers.”
HEADQUARTERS
The Company’s headquarters are at Lacey Green, and meet every Monday at 7 pm.
The Company meets every Monday at 7 pm, Wednesday at 7pm for band practice and games, Saturday at 6.30 pm parade. Church Parade alternate Sundays, Barrow’s Cross at 10 am.
CONCERT
A concert was given by the Company on Wednesday, November 16th, and resulted in raising £1-13s-9d.,which was devoted to the funds of the Brigade. This concert was highly appreciated by the audience, and the next concert will be looked forward to with still greater interest. The numbers have been steadily increasing, and some solid work has been done.
CREDIT
Great credit is due to our most indefatigable Captain for the way in which he has brought on the members. One thing has marked the Brigade throughout – the keen enthusiasm of the members themselves and their thorough enjoyment of the work.
PRIZEGIVING
At Parade. – On Saturday evening, January 7th, prizes were given to the following members for punctuality, good conduct and regularity of attendance: - Lance- sergeant C. Webb, Lance- Corporals F. Bristow, and A Ridgley, and Private H. Bristow, who gained first prizes (silver watch-pendants). Privates G. Wanstall, I. Hussey, W. Hussey, and T. Hussey, second prizes (silver scarf pins). Lance-sergeant W. Ridgley, Privates O Goodchild and H. Monger, third prizes (button-hole badges). The prizes were presented by Mrs Robson, who very kindly consented to be present for the purpose.
1899 FEBRUARY
The last month has been a very busy one, as the members, led by their captain, have been preparing for a concert to be held on Wednesday, February 8th. Difficulties have been encountered but are now happily overcome, and we can only hope, that their efforts may be crowned with success, as they deserve.
PRAYER OF THE CHAPLAINS
St. Paul’s injunction, “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ,” has, so far been faithfully fulfilled, as regards the inclement weather, for in spite of wind, rain, and snow the members have never been daunted and have been found in their places at the roll-call. That this salutary discipline may fit them for enduring hardships in their spiritual life, as good soldiers of their Divine Captain, so that at the Last Great Roll-call, they may be found faithful and true, at the post of duty, is the earnest prayer and wish of their Chaplains.
NEW MEMBERS
The following members have joined during the month:- No 51, Private J. West, No 49, Private F. Goodchild, No 53, Private C. Irving.
OLD MEMBER
We regret to have to announce that No 43, Lance-corporal W.C.Cook, having left the parish, has been struck off the Roll of the Company. He has been given a Fair Discharge Certificate.
IMPORTANT PART. The band was an important part of it. They practised twice a week, did route marches and camped, performed for their patrons and soon had 50 members. The band was trained by the schoolmaster, drill and parades by other adults. They gave concerts to raise funds
1899 PRIZE GIVING. At Parade on Saturday evening, January 7th 1899, prizes were given to the following members for punctuality, good conduct and regularity of attendance: - Lance- sergeant C.Webb, Lance- Corporals F. Bristow, and A Ridgley, and Private H. Bristow, who gained first prizes (silver watch pendants). Privates G. Wanstall, I.Hussey, W.Hussey, and T. Hussey, second prizes (silver scarf pins). Lance-sergeant W.Ridgley, Privates O Goodchild and H.Monger, third prizes (button-hole badges).