Illustration by Christine Fuller
Annual Presentation
The Norwich Mercury of January 13th, 1872 reported on the 2nd January, the poor of the parish of Great Ellingham, received their annual presents from the Rector. The Rector had, however, since left the county.
The children of the National School were also presented with various articles of clothing, books etc by Mrs B Barnard and Mrs H Colman.
Generous Benefactors
“Mrs B Barnard” was Sarah, the (second) wife of local farmer Benjamin Barnard. The 1871 census shows Benjamin and 58 year old Sarah Barnard living in Great Ellingham. Although the census does not specifically say whereabouts in the village they lived, I believe they were at Great Ellingham Hall.
“Mrs H Colman” was 43 year old Sarah, the wife of another local farmer, Henry Colman. The 1871 census shows the couple to be living at Haugh (Haw) Farm in Great Ellingham.
The Christmas Tree was given by the Reverend Hurnard of Hingham. The tree was “well filled with useful articles of clothing, which was distributed to the children of the school“.
The 1871 census finds 62 year old William B Hurnard with his wife Frances and family at Gurneys Manor, Hingham. William Hurnard was curate of Great Ellingham.
Sources:
Norwich Mercury January 13th, 1872
1871 census RG10/1841/78; RG10/1841/94, 1871 census RG10/1824/96