The inmates of the Wayland Union Workhouse at Rockland were not left out of the local celebrations for Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee.
The Norwich Mercury of the 2nd July, 1887 reported on the participation of the inmates in the festivities taking place the week before.
On June 21st, the inmates attended a Thanksgiving Service held at St Peter’s Church.
The next day, a ‘liberal dinner’ of roast beef, potatoes and cabbage followed by plum pudding was served to the residents in the dining hall of the workhouse. Each adult also received a beer allowance.
After dinner (which would have been served around mid-day), the residents were transported in waggons to a field in Great Ellingham to watch a cricket match. The waggons had been lent for the occasion by Mr T H Colman, the Chairman of the Board.
A tea of bread and butter with cake was provided to the inmates at five o’clock after which the gathering was entertained by the Rockland String Band who “played a good selection of music”. The Band was led by Cumberland born the Reverend James Fleming, who was then in his early thirties.
During the evening, the children received sweets, oranges, nuts and toys. Temperance drinks and sweets were provided by Mrs H Colman of Great Ellingham and Mrs Wilson of Hockham.
The evening was concluded by supper being served before the inmates returned to the Union Workhouse. Mr T H Colman, together with those who had contributed to the success of the occasion, received cheers and thanks from the recipients.
Those also assisting in the event were Mr Colman’s wife Elizabeth, Mr and Mrs Cobon of Great Ellingham and Mr and Mrs John Mannington of Rockland.
Sources:
Norwich Mercury July 2nd 1887
1891 census RG12/1550/79, RG12/1550/76