Head Mistress of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls – January 1886 – August 1922.
Image of Miss Emily Beatrice Harrison courtesy of ‘The Mistress and Fellows, Girton College, Cambridge.’
Emily was one of thirteen young ladies who entered Girton College, Cambridge in 1877.
Born: 22nd October 1858, High Road, Tottenham, Middlesex.
Emily was privately educated at home by her parents. She continued her higher education at Girton College, Cambridge – entered Easter term 1877 – and left in the Michaelmas term 1880; she attained the standard of Ordinary Degree (Classic), in 1881. At this time Cambridge would not confer degrees to women, so, Emily had to wait over twenty years before finally, in 1904, she could officially receive her M.A. from Trinity College Dublin. Between 1904 – 1907 these ladies were known as the ‘Steamboat Ladies‘ due to their mode of transport.
Extra information and help courtesy of Jude Brimmer – Assistant Archivist – Girton College, Cambridge – www.girton.cam.ac.uk/library-archive.
Before Emily was appointed Head Mistress at the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls, in 1885, she was formerly a Classics Mistress of the High School for Girls, Exeter, Devon – 1881 – 1885.
Emily was an elected Committee member of the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society.
Emily was an elected Committee member of the Ipswich Branch of the Teachers’ Guild of Great Britain and Ireland.
Father: DAVID JOHN HARRISON, born 19th November 1820, Chelsea, Middlesex, baptised 17th December 1820, at St. James Church, Westminster, Middlesex. David was educated at Christ’s Hospital, Winchester. Matriculation – 26th April 1842, aged 21 years. Under the Will of Mr. Simonds, the founder of the Christ’s Hospital, Winchester, David, in August 1842 was selected to continue his education at Pembroke College, Oxford. On the 3rd June 1846, the B.A. degree was conferred on David Harrison. In June 1848, the Reverend David Harrison was licensed to be Curate at Tottenham, in the Diocese of London. On Sunday, 3rd June 1849, the Lord Bishop of London held a general ordination in St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Reverend David John Harrison, of Pembroke College, Oxford, was admitted priest. The Reverend David Harrison was granted the M.A. degree on the 25th October 1849.
In August 1850, the Reverend Harrison, Assistant Curate left the parish of Tottenham for St. Peter’s Church, Walworth. The congregation presented Reverend David Harrison with a copy of the “Encyclopaedia Britannica” in 21 volumes and a purse containing ten guineas. The volume of the work bore the inscription: – “Presented, with a purse of ten guineas, to the Reverend David John Harrison, M.A., by the congregation attending the parish church, Tottenham, on his leaving the same; in testimony of their affectionate esteem, and acknowledgement of his ministerial fidelity, ability, and usefulness.” The poorer inhabitants of the parish of Tottenham had also raised a subscription among themselves. They presented Reverend Harrison with a writing desk, with a leathern case, well fitted and furnished, as a token of their attachment and gratitude for the courtesy and kindness.
On Sunday, 26th September 1852, at St. Peter’s Church, Walworth, the Reverend David Harrison, a Curate, preached a Sermon on the occasion of the death of his Grace the Duke of Wellington, K.G., etc.
The Reverend David Harrison continued at St. Peter’s until December 1855, when instituted by the Bishop of London to the Perpetual Curacy of St. Paul the Apostle Church, Tottenham.
In January 1862, it was announced that the Reverend David John Harrison, M.A., to the Rectory of Ludgvan, Cornwall; patrons, the Countess Dowager of Sandwich and the Duke of Cleveland. In 1866, the Reverend David Harrison became a member of the Penzance Board of Guardians and in 1878 became chairman. In 1891 to commemorate the good feeling between the Reverend David Harrison and successive Boards of Guardians his portrait was painted and presented to him. Later, the Reverend Harrison handed the testimonial portrait to the Board Room. Reverend Harrison was a strict temperance and a member of the Penzance Teetotal Society.
Reverend David Harrison died on Friday, 10th March 1893 at the vicarage. He had been a diligent and earnest preacher at Ludgvan for 31 years. The funeral service was held on Tuesday, 14th March, at St. Paul’s Church, Ludgvan and read by the Reverend Richard Astley, vicar of St. Piran and St. Michael Church, Perranuthnoe and Reverend William Wriothesley Digby Wingfield, vicar of St. Gudwal Church, Gulval. The brief distance from the vicarage to the church was lined with schoolchildren of the parish. The coffin was of unpolished oak, enclosing a lead shell and laid beneath the shade of the trees at St. Paul’s Churchyard. The sides of the grave were lined with fir, moss and ivy and brightened by posies of primroses, daffodils, and narcissi and beautiful wreaths and crosses, in which narcissi, arums, and azaleas were placed on the coffin. Later the grave was covered by neat slabs of granite; the upper one bearing a crosscut out of the granite.
Mother: EMILY WILLATS HARRISON (nee Parsons), born 14th September 1827, Newington, Surrey, baptised 10th October 1827, at St. Mary’s Church, Newington – second daughter of George Parsons, a Royal Navy surgeon and doctor, and Mary Parsons, of Marlborough Place, Newington, Surrey. Emily Harrison died on the 20th April 1902, at the home of her son the Reverend David Percy Harrison, of The Vicarage, Ixworth, Suffolk. Laid to rest in All Saints Churchyard, Ixworth.
SIBLINGS:
Emily and David Harrison had twin sons born on the 6th March 1857 – one was stillborn.
DAVID PERCY HARRISON, born 6th March 1857, Tottenham. David was educated privately at home before continuing his education at Malvern College, he won an open scholarship to Pembroke College, Oxford, where in July 1877 he gained a Second Class – Honours, in Classical Moderations and Literae Humaniores. On the 23rd October 1879, the B.A. degree was conferred on David Harrison, after which he returned home to live with his parents and siblings in Ludgvan, Cornwall. In 1882, the Reverend David Percy Harrison was appointed Curate at Holy Trinity Church, Brompton. During his service at Holy Trinity Brompton, Reverend David Harrison resided at 4, Pelham Street, Kensington – two rooms, ground and first, and furnished for £40 a year. On the 28th April 1887, the M.A. degree was conferred on the Reverend David Harrison. In 1892, Reverend David Harrison left Holy Trinity Brompton and was appointed Vicar of All Saints Church, Ixworth, Suffolk. After his father died in 1893, his mother and sister, Rosamund Harrison moved into the Vicarage at Ixworth. In July 1895, Reverend Harrison was appointed Secretary of the National Society for Blackburne Deanery. In 1905, the Reverend David Harrison was appointed Vicar of All Saints Church, Lydiard Millicent, Wiltshire. His brother, the Reverend George Reginald Harrison succeeded David as Vicar of All Saints Church, Ixworth.
Reverend Harrison was a naturalist and a great authority on natural history. As a guest speaker, he often gave lectures on British birds sometimes travelling to London or Suffolk. He also had one of the finest collections of butterflies. The Reverend Harrison was proficient with his gun, and when he turned 80 he enjoyed a day’s shooting being an expert with his rifle just as he was in his youth.
Early in 1836, Reverend Harrison broke his arm in an accident. He appeared to recover and for a time was able to resume his ministry, but he sadly suffered a relapse and became confined to the Rectory for some months. The Reverend David Harrison died Monday, 11th October 1937, at The Rectory, Lydiard Millicent, Wiltshire, after an illness extending over several months. On Thursday, 14th October the Bishop of Malmesbury, the Rural Dean Reverend Eric Smith and the Reverend Norman Steward Willis, the Vicar of St. Mary’s Church, Purton officiated at the choral funeral service. Muffled peals were rung on the bells of All Saints Church, Lydiard Millicent after the service and during the evening. A memorial service was held at the church the following Sunday. A memorial tablet was later erected at All Saints Church by his family and friends.
GEORGE REGINALD HARRISON, born 1861, Tottenham, Middlesex. George was educated privately at home before continuing his education at college. Matriculation – 1st October 1879, aged 19 and entered Jesus College, Cambridge in Michaelmas 1879. In 1883, the B.A. degree was conferred on George. At an ordination held on Sunday, 23rd December 1883, at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, George Harrison, B.A., of Jesus College, Cambridge, was admitted into holy orders and ordained a Deacon by the Bishop of London. His Lordship also licensed George Harrison to a curacy at St. Mary’s Church, Hampton, Middlesex. On the 21st December 1884, George Harrison, B.A., Jesus College, was ordained a Priest by the Bishop of London, at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London. In 1886, the M.A. degree was conferred on the Reverend George Harrison. In 1893 Reverend George Harrison was appointed Curate at St. Modwen Church, Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, he had served nine years at St. Mary’s Church, Hampton.
Surrey Advertiser – Monday, 9th January 1893 – The Mistress and Fellows, Girton College, Cambridge’. – On Friday, 6th January 1893 an interesting presentation took place at Hampton, when the Reverend George Harrison, who is leaving the parish after nine years’ good work as Curate of St. Mary’s Church, was made the recipient of a purse of fifty guineas and a prettily engraved inkstand. The Chair was taken by, Mr. August Christoph Rudolph De Witte, who gave a few words as to the object of the meeting, before calling on the Vicar to say a few words. The Reverend R. Digby Ram spoke cordially of the excellent way in which Reverend Harrison had performed his numerous duties during the time he had been Curate of the parish. Mr. De Witte added his testimony to Reverend Harrison’s good work, and in the name of the subscribers handed him the gifts. The Reverend George Harrison said no words that he could utter would be at all adequate to express how deeply he felt their very great kindness, and how very much he appreciated that most solid and tangible expression of the estimation in which they held his work in the parish.
Reverend George Harrison served twelve years as Curate at St. Modwen Church, Burton-on-Trent. In 1905 he succeeded his brother the Reverend David Percy Harrison as Vicar at St. Mary the Virgin Church, Ixworth, and as curate-in-charge of Ixworth Thorpe, Suffolk.
Diss Express – Friday, 31st March 1905 – The induction of the Reverend George R. Harrison to the living of Ixworth took place on Friday afternoon by Archdeacon George Hodges, of Bury St. Edmund’s. There was a large congregation. Reverend John Sikes Sawbridge, of Thelnetham (Rural Dean), and Reverend Edward Simeon Burgess, of Pakenham, assisted in the service. The sermon was preached by the Archdeacon.
On Thursday, 4th May 1905, at St. Modwen Church, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire, George married Jessie Gertrude Jackson, born 1868, Burton-on-Trent, baptised 20th February 1868, St. Modwen Church, Burton-upon-Trent – daughter of Henry Hoskins Jackson, a brewer’s manager – Bass & Co. Ltd., and Eliza Jackson (nee Copley), of Moat Bank, Ashby Road, Burton-upon-Trent. The officiating clergyman was George’s brother, the Reverend David Percy Harrison.
Cornishman – Thursday, 4th May 1905 – MARRIAGE OF THE REVEREND GEORGE REGINALD HARRISON – An extraordinary amount of interest was taken in a marriage ceremony at Burton-upon-Trent on Thursday, when the Reverend George Harrison, vicar of Ixworth, Suffolk, and Miss Jessie Gertrude Jackson were united in the bonds of holy matrimony. For many years the bridegroom, who is a son of the late Reverend David John Harrison, rector of Ludgvan, was Curate of St. Modwe’s and during his residence in Burton gained the respect and esteem of all with whom he came in contact, whilst his bride is equally well known as the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hoskins Jackson, of Moat Bank. The officiating clergyman was the Reverend Percy Harrison, Rector of Lidiard Millicent, Swindon, assisted by the Vicar, Reverend H. B. Freeman, R.D. The Reverend Alexander Herbert Harrison acted as best man.
Jessie and George had two children – a son, Herbert Reginald Polhill Harrison, and a daughter, Alice Beatrice Harrison.
As a Conservative candidate in September 1909, the Reverend Harrison was elected as a member of the Rural District Council. George was also on the Board of Guardians of the Thingoe Union, and a member of Bury Oddfellows and Ixworth Rifle Club. During The Great War, Reverend George Harrison indefatigably paid visits to the bereaved and looked up and welcomed all soldiers from the villages returning on leave from The Front. From the beginning of the War, he conducted a daily intercession service on their behalf.
On Sunday, 6th January 1918, Reverend George Harrison had taken five services without a sign of an approaching serious illness.
Reverend George Harrison died after less than a week’s illness, on Sunday 13th January 1918, of pneumonia, at The Vicarage, Ixworth, Suffolk. On Wednesday, 16th January in the evening the body was reverently placed in the chancel of the church where a short service was conducted by his brother, the Reverend David Percy Harrison. The funeral service was held on Thursday midday and read by Canon Frederick Edward Warren, D. D., Rector of Bardwell, and Rural Dean. The coffin was then taken amid the winter snow and laid to rest by the side of his mother in All Saints Churchyard, Ixworth.
On the 1939 England and Wales Register, widow, Jessie Harrison was living at Glyngarth, Hindhead, Surrey with her sister Lucy Jackson, a retired hospital nurse, her brother Arthur Ivan Jackson, a retired doctor, and her widowed sister Mrs. Rosa Jane Wake (nee Jackson).
Jessie Harrison died on the 3rd January 1940, at Haslemere Hospital, Surrey, of Bramley Croft Lodge, Tower Road, Hindhead, Surrey and was laid to rest on the 9th January 1939, at St. Luke’s Churchyard, Grayshott, Hampshire.
Jessie and George’s son, Herbert Reginald Polhill Harrison, became an official of the Sudan Political Service and served as District Inspector. From 1954 – 55 Herbert served as the Governor of Khartoum.
RODEN STANLEY HARRISON, born 6th October 1861, Tottenham, Middlesex, baptised 5th March 1862, at St. Paul’s Church, Ludgvan, Cornwall. Roden was educated privately at home. Roden joined the Army and on the 14th January 1880, he graduated from Sandhurst Military College as a Gentleman Cadet to be Second Lieutenant with the Royal South Lincoln Regiment. In December 1882 Roden was ranked a Lieutenant of the Lincolnshire Regiment, 4th Battalion. During the Sudan Campaign of 1884, Roden was ranked a Captain of the Lincolnshire Regiment, 4th Battalion he was among those sent to rescue the besieged General Gordon. In May 1884, Captain Roden Harrison of the Lincolnshire Regiment, 4th Battalion, resigned his Commission and immigrated to Canada.
On the 28th July 1884, at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, Quebec, Canada, Roden, a farmer, of Winnipeg, Province of Manitoba, married Marion Simmons Meers, of England, born 27th April 1856, Mackay’s Court, Stoke, Kent, baptised 4th June 1856, – third daughter of William Simmons Meers, a farmer of 790 acres and employer of men and boys and Sophia Susannah Meers (nee Blackadder), of Hartridge House, Bexleyheath, and late of Mackay’s Court, Stoke.
The Cornish Telegraph – Thursday, 21st August 1884 – LUDGVAN – WEDDING FESTIVITIES – Few parochial events of the last quarter of a century will be more pleasantly recalled than that which took place on the 13th August 1884, when the marriage of Mr. Roden Stanley Harrison, third son of the Rector, the Reverend David Harrison was celebrated. The wedding took place in Quebec on the 28th July, and the news of it having arrived, the rector and his lady invited the scholars and teaching staff of the three public schools, and their intimate friends, to spend the afternoon and evening at the rectory. The Whitecross School marched to Churchtown Hill School, where they were joined first by the Girls’ Board School, and afterwards by the National Boys’ School. Then the complete procession, headed by the efficient Penzance Season Band, under Mr. Hosking, marched through the grounds of the Rectory into a spacious field at the rear. There the children were at liberty to do what they pleased and were all soon totally absorbed in the many healthful, vigorous and amusing games characteristic of English boys and girls, cricket, racing, swinging, etc., being indulged in. At length, however, the scene changed, for something still more attractive and enticing than the games began to appear – baskets, tea urns, etc., and the children instinctively left their games and soon seated themselves in rings upon the grass, waiting expectantly for buns and tea. Where a short time since reigned mirth and glee, there was the quietude which is eloquent of a good appetite and liberal provision. Having finished their meal, the children were soon in pursuit of their former occupations, and then the older guests found time for tea. The band played many choice selections during the afternoon, and the lively and enchanting music lent an air of festivity to the occasion. As evening approached the energy with which all had entered into games showed signs of being spent. All gathered around the band and seemed fully to enjoy its delightful strains. The children, too, sang very sweetly some of their songs. Then the rector expressed himself highly pleased with the manner in which the children had behaved and gratified at the way everybody had apparently enjoyed themselves. A vote of thanks was accorded by the teachers, scholars and friends for the bounteous and genial spirit shown by the rector. Three hearty cheers were given for the reverend gentleman and his lady, and sons and daughters, and especially for Mr and 
Mrs Roden Stanley Harrison, the former of whom had lived amongst the parishioners for many years and by frank and genial nature won love and esteem for all. Though far away he and his wife will have pleasure in the knowledge that they have the very best wishes of all for their future health, happiness and prosperity in their Canadian home.
Marion Simmons Harrison died on the 20th April 1885.
In 1885, Roden immigrated to the U.S.A. On the 7th December 1891, at a District Court of the United States, at Boston, within and for the Massachusetts District, Roden Harrison, a clerk, declared that it was his bona fide intention to become a citizen of the United States of America.
On the 21st April 1900, in Manhattan, New York, Roden, married Ellen Rollins Lindsey, born September 1873, Massachusetts – daughter of Edward Delano Lindsey, an architect, and Cornelia Howland Lindsey (nee Swift), of New York. On the 1900 Census, Ellen and Roden Harrison, a liquor merchant were boarders at 217, School Street, Somerville, Massachusetts, the family home of Joseph Home Mossman. Ellen and Roden divorced shortly after. Ellen Harrison returned to live with her parents in Westchester, New York, where she became a secretary for the Blind Society, she never remarried and died in 1944 and was laid to rest in a grave alongside her parents at Rural Cemetery, New Bedford, Massachusetts.
On the 26th September 1901, Somerville, Massachusetts, Roden married Etta Geraldine Mossman (nee Wolff), both of 217, School Street, Somerville. Etta was born in Quebec, Canada – the daughter of James John Fitzgerald Wolff, a doctor, and Isabelle Dodd Wolff (nee Taylor), of Quebec City, Quebec. Geraldine and Roden had one son – Gerald Harrison, born September 1899, Somerville, Massachusetts. Etta was first married to Joseph Home Mossman, born May 1852, at Berwick, East Susses. Etta and Joseph had one son. Etta Harrison died in 1939, in Winthrop, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.
On the 7th July 1896, at the United States District Court, Boston, Roden Harrison, of 163, Summer Street, Somerville, Massachusetts, applied for Naturalisation to become a United States citizen.
The Harrison/Mossman family moved from Somerville to Floyd Street, Winthrop, Suffolk County, Massachusetts, where Roden was a Hotel Proprietor. He became a judge for New York and Newport horse shows, and on one occasion held the record for the Patriots’ Day Paul Revere midnight ride held on the 18th-19th April from Boston to Lexington. Roden was the last hotel manager of the most prestigious Revere House, Bowdoin Square, Boston.
Etta Harrison died on the 17th January 1939, at her home in Floyd Street, Winthrop. The funeral service was held on the 19th January at Waterman Chapel, Boston.
In July 1939, Roden Harrison embarked the S.S. Laconia of the Cunard White Star Limited, at the Port of Boston, to sail Cabin Class to England via Galway and Belfast. He was 77 years of age and retired. Roden disembarked at the Port of Liverpool on the 17th July 1939. Roden was visiting his sisters Emily and Marian at their home – 33, Marine Parade, Gorleston-on-Sea, Suffolk.
On the 12th August 1939, Roden Harrison embarked the S.S. Laconia of the Cunard White Star Limited, at the Port of Liverpool, to sail Cabin Class to the Port of Boston, U.S.A.
Roden Harrison died Thursday, 25th May 1950, at his residence at the Hotel Lincolnshire. The funeral service was held on Saturday, 27th May, at the Waterman Chapel, Kenmore Square, Boston, Massachusetts.
Geraldine and Roden’s son Gerald Harrison was a pioneer radio broadcaster of sports events. First in 1926 when he instituted the broadcasting of sports events over the radio station WNAC. He joined WNAC and the Yankee network in 1930 as director of station relations. Gerald then became active in the operation of station WLEX in Lexington, which was moved to Lowell in 1934 as station WLLH. In 1932 in cooperation with others, he established WMAS in Springfield, the city’s first radio station. In 1944 he left the Yankee network to give full attention to operating stations WMAS and WLLH as president of both corporations. Gerald was past commander of Crosscup-Pishon Post, American Legion; vice president of the Massachusetts Broadcasters Assn.: a member of the Broadcasters Pioneer Club, Yacht Club of New York, Boston Yacht Club, Advertising Club of Boston and the Broadcasters Executive Club of Boston. The Boston Globe – Thursday, 28th March 1963.
Image of Marion Simmons Meers courtesy of Dave.
ALEXANDER HERBERT HARRISON, born 6th January 1863, The Rectory, Ludgvan, Cornwall, baptised 29th March 1863, at St. Paul’s Church, Ludgvan. Alexander was privately educated at home. He continued his education at Downing College, Cambridge, where he lived at Cavendish College the public hostel of Cambridge University. In 1887, the B.A. degree was conferred on Alexander. On Friday, 28th September 1888, Alexander Harrison, B.A., Downing College, Cambridge, was ordained a Deacon, at St. James Church, Colchester, Essex, by the Bishop of Colchester the Reverend Alfred Blomfield. He was licensed Curate to St. Mary’s Church, King’s Walden, Hertfordshire. In 1890, Alexander was ordained Priest at St. Albans, and in 1891, the M.A. degree was conferred on Alexander.
Reverend Alexander Harrison, B.A., was licenced to the Curacy at St. Mary’s Church, Hadleigh, Suffolk, in July 1891, by the Dean and Chapter of York. Between 1893 – 1905, the Reverend Alexander Harrison served as Curate at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Penn, Staffordshire, before moving to Holy Trinity Church, Eccleshall, Staffordshire where he served between 1906 – 1915.
In 1915, Reverend Alexander Harrison accepted the living at St. Mary’s Church, Lydiard Tregoze, Wiltshire.
North Wilts Herald – Friday, 2nd April 1915 – LYDIARD TREGOZE – THE NEW RECTOR – The living of Lydiard Tregoze, vacant by the resignation of the Reverend Ebenezer Humphrey Jones, has been offered by the patroness, Viscountess Bolingbroke, to the Reverend Alexander Herbert Harrison, M.A., of Downing College, Cambridge, curate of Eccleshall, Staffordshire, and has been accepted by him. By law, at least a month must elapse before he can be instituted, and certain repairs must be done to the house before he can come into residence and make acquaintance with the parishioners.
On the 21st June 1921, at St. Matthew’s Church, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, 58 year old Alexander, a Clerk in Holy Orders, of Lydiard Tregoze, Wiltshire, married 53 year old Emma Challands, born 5th May 1868, Nottingham, of 1, Pelham Crescent, The Park, Nottingham – daughter of the late Richard Challands, a lace manufacturer, and Sarah Elizabeth Challands (nee Goodwin), of Clumber Crescent South, The Park, Nottingham.
Emma Harrison became the organiser of the sale of poppies in the parish of Lydiard Tregoze.
After twelve months of failing health, Reverend Alexander Harrison died on Wednesday, 19th February 1936, in a London nursing home, at 20, Devonshire Place, from shock following an operation. He had been the Rector of St. Mary’s Church, Lydiard Tregoze for 21 years. The informant of the death was brother-in-law Sir Arthur Palmer Johnson, of 70, Maresfield Gardens, Hampstead, a solicitor and Town Clerk of Hampstead. Arthur was married in 1894, at Nottingham, to Emma Harriosn’s sister, Annie Challands.
After the death of her husband, Emma Harrison moved to Hurworth-on-Tees, Darlington, to live with her siblings. On the 1939 England and Wales Register, Emma, of private means was living at the home of her brother and sister-in-law, Robert Sydney Challands, a chartered account, and Frances Irene Stretton Challands (nee Cursham), of The Green, Hurworth-on-Tees. Sisters Beatrice Mary Challands and Nora Challands were also living with their brother.
Emma Harrison died on the 15th August 1954, of Cardio Vascular degeneration, at her home 27, Lenton Avenue, The Park, Nottingham. Her brother, Robert Sydney Challands, of Hurworth-on-Tees, Darlington was present at the death.
The ashes of Alexander and Emma are interred at St. Mary’s Churchyard, Lydiard Tregoze, Wiltshire. At St. Mary’s Church, Lydiard Tregoze a memorial plaque was erected to remember Reverend Alexander Herbert Harrison, M.A.
ALFRED LLEWELLYN HARRISON, born 24th June 1864, at The Rectory, Ludgvan, Cornwall, baptised 27th July 1864, at St. Paul’s Church, Ludgvan. Alfred was privately educated at home. On the 17th March 1880, Alfred Harrison, of Ludgvan Rectory, was placed in Class III among the junior students at the recent Cambridge Local Examinations, at the Plymouth Centre. Alfred was Admitted Pensioner at Trinity College, Cambridge on the 14th June 1886.
Alfred was described as small in stature, and whilst attending Trinity was coxswain to the Trinity crew. In November 1888, Alfred, of First Trinity, was cox for No. 1 Crew in the “Trial Eights.” The weather was dull and cold, but the two teams of eights were launched for the “Trails,” a dress rehearsal for the rowers, coxes, coaches and umpires to race the complete Champion Course from Putney to Mortlake. The annual race between the trial eights of Cambridge University took place on Saturday, 1st December 1888 over the Queen Adelaide course on the Ouse at Ely, the distance being three miles with only one slight bend midway. Alfred Harrison, of First Trinity, was the cox for Charles Simmonds Storrs crew, he weighed 7 stone and 4 1/2lb. On the 7th, 8th 9th and 10th June 1889, Alfred Harrison was cox for the First Trinity a First Division crew at the annual University Eight-Oared Races (“May Races”). At the end of the races, First Trinity was placed 2nd in the First Division of fifteen boats having not lost and with 2 gains. At the Henley Royal Regatta, Henley-on-Thames, on Friday, 5th July 1889, Alfred was the cox for the First Trinity crew, he weighed in at 7 stone 10lb.
Throughout his life, Alfred kept three trophies on display in his home disclosing that his crew were winners.
On the 15th June 1889, Alfred Harrison passed the Classical Tripos Class III, Division 3, and also in 1889, the B.A. degree was conferred on Alfred.
Three of Alfred Harrison’s brothers became ordained in compliance with the wishes of their parents. But Alfred was not inclined to study for the Church of England, instead, he left England and toured Canada for about a year. During his time in Canada, he sent notes of his journeys to a friend in England who wrote a book on “My Trip to Canada.” Next, Alfred travelled to The U.S.A., and eventually settled in Buffalo, Erie County, in the state of New York, where for several years Alfred conducted a private tutoring school where he taught Latin and Greek to fellow lawyers. He studied with several Buffalo attorneys before opening his own law office at the Erie County Bank Building, 16 Niagara, where he was associated with Attorney Milton Rabow.
On the 30th November 1896, at the County Court, Erie County, Alfred Harrison, an attorney, became a Naturalised Citizen of the United States of America.
On the 27th January 1909, at Buffalo, New York, Alfred married Alice Middleton Willcox, born 11th May 1871, Hornsey, Middlesex, baptised 12th July 1871, at St. James Church, Muswell Hill, Haringey – daughter of Thomas Norton Willcox, an accountant (and chess champion of Buffalo), and Clara Alice Willcox (nee Middleton), of East Aurora, Erie County, New York.
Thomas and Clara Willcox had immigrated with their five surviving children in 1886. Their last child, Rupert was born in 1889, Buffalo, New York. After their marriage, Alice and Alfred made their first home at Flat 2, 301, Bryant Street, Buffalo, New York.
In 1924 Alice and Alfred moved to East Aurora, where he became active in community affairs. He was a life member of “Blazing Star Lodge 694, F. and A.M.; a member of the East Aurora Kiwanis Club; East Aurora Fish and Game Club; East Aurora Chamber of Commerce; Lawyers Club of Buffalo, and the Erie County Conservation Society. For ten years Alfred served as a senior churchwarden at St. Matthias’ Episcopal Church, East Aurora.
On the 15th September 1928, at the Port of London, Alfred (64) and Alice (57), of 357, Main Street, East Aurora, New York, embarked on board the S.S. “Minnekahda,” of the Atlantic Transport Line. They arrived at the Port of New York on the 25th September 1928.
On the 13th September 1935, at the Port of London, Alfred (71) and Alice (64), of 63, North Grove, East Aurora, New York, embarked on board the S.S. “American Farmer,” of the American States Line, sailing Cabin Class. They had stayed at 33, Marine Parade, Gorleston-on-Sea, with sisters Emily and Marian Harrison. Alfred and Alice arrived at the Port of Boston, Massachusetts on the 23rd September 1935.
Alfred Harrison died three weeks after an operation on the 22nd October 1949, at his residence at 63, North Grove Street, East Aurora, Erie County, New York. The funeral service was held Tuesday, 26th October 1949, at St. Matthias’ Episcopal Church, East Aurora before burial at Oakwood Cemetery, East Aurora.
He had been a practising attorney for over 43 years in Buffalo and Erie County.
Alice Harrison died on the 14th June 1953, at Buffalo, Erie County, New York, and was laid to rest in the grave of her husband at Oakwood Cemetery, East Aurora.
Images of Alfred Llewellyn Harrison courtesy of Paul – Family note: My Mother knew them when she was a young women. I have a great picture of him playing the Ukulele at my 2nd Great Grand Mother’s 94th birthday party at his home in East Aurora, New York.
ROSAMUND EVELYN HARRISON, born 4th November 1865, The Rectory, Ludgvan, Cornwall, baptised 6th February 1866, at St. Paul’s Church, Ludgvan. Rosamund was educated privately at home. At the time of the 1939 England and Wales Register, Rosamund Harrison, of private means was living at the home of Sydney George Carnsaw, a railway accountant and Mary Frances Carnsaw (nee Wheeler), at 44, Bowood Road, Swindon, Wiltshire. Rosamund Harrison died in 1959 and was laid to rest in the grave of her father at St. Paul’s Churchyard, Ludgvan, Cornwall.
MARIAN CARLOTTA HARRISON, born 1st June 1867, at The Rectory, Ludgvan, Cornwall, baptised 21st August 1867, at St. Paul’s Church, Ludgvan. Marian was educated privately at home. Marian Harrison A.R.C.M., was a teacher of music and a conductor. She later moved to Ipswich and lived with her sister, Emily Harrison who was the first Head Mistress of the new Ipswich Endowed School for Girls. Marian became the Music Mistress at the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls. Marian taught and instructed in the Virgil Clavier method for pianoforte playing; both to the girls at the Ipswich Girls Endowed School and privately at home. Marian advertised in the local newspapers that she was proficient in the Virgil Clavier system – and by this method, perfect technique and accurate execution can be assured in about half the time of the usual methods.
Marian entered her pianoforte students into the London College of Music examinations held at the Town Hall, in Ipswich, every December. The London College of Music centre had been set up in Ipswich in 1895, and in 1900, Marian became their Ipswich representative. In December 1905, for the first time in Ipswich, the distribution of prizes for the candidates was held in public.
Evening Star – Monday, 18th December 1905 – EDUCATION IN MUSIC – For the first time in Ipswich the prizes and certificates gained by students at local examinations held under the auspices of the London College of Music were publicly presented at an invitation concert, which took place in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall, on Saturday afternoon, 16th December 1905. The programme was provided entirely by students, and there was a crowded audience, presided over by Mr. Frederick Fish, a member of the Education Committee. In opening the proceedings Mr. Frederick Fish said that he at first had some doubt as to his qualification for occupying the position of Chair, but he found a reason for acceding to the request that was made to him in the fact that music was a branch of education, and a very important branch. Anything that could be done to encourage it he thought should be done, and they should not forget that Ipswich now had a Mayor, Mr. Bunnell Henry Burton, a gentleman who had taken a great interest in musical matters, and one to whom the thanks of the people of Ipswich were due for all he had done for the encouragement of music.
Mr. William Richard James McLean, Music Bac, of the Examination Staff, then gave an address on the work of the London College of Music.
Marian Harrison, as the local representative told those gathered “The number of persons submitting themselves for examination, she said, was much more satisfactory this year, and there had been a steady increase during the last five years. Some candidates took all the grades and she thought that they generally did the best in the end, while some candidates received more good from failures than their successes. In conclusion, Marian urged the importance of scales and exercises in attaining the ability to play well.
Marian then presented an afternoon programme of piano and violin solos to illustrate the standard of efficiency in each of the various sections. After this, Mr. Frederick Fish distributed the certificates and prizes to the students.
On the proposition of Mr. William Crotch, a teacher of music, and seconded by Mr. Gathercole, a hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Frederick Fish for presiding and presenting the certificates.
In 1901, Marian, 33, and her sister, Emily, 40, travelled to the U.S.A. to visit their two brothers – Alfred in Buffalo, New Year, and Roden in Boston, Massachusetts. The ladies embarked R.M.S. “Saxonia,” of the Cunard Line – Master R. C. Warr, at the Port of Liverpool and sailed Saloon Class. They arrived at the Port of Boston, in August 1901. In September Marian and Emily embarked on the S. S. “Ivernia,” of the Cunard Line at Boston and returned to England arriving at the Port of Liverpool on the 23rd September 1901.
In 1904, Marian, 36, a music teacher, and her sister, Emily, 45, a head mistress of a school, travelled to the U.S.A. to visit their brother Roden Harrison, of 34, Lewis Wharf, Boston. The sisters embarked R.M.S. “Carpathia,” of the Cunard Line, at the Port of Liverpool on the 26th July 1904. They arrived on the 5th August 1904 at the Port of New York, New York.
Marian Harrison died Tuesday, 23rd January 1945, of myocardial failure due to broncho pneumonia, at her residence 33, Marine Parade, Gorleston-on-Sea, Norfolk. Laid to rest on the 27th January 1945, at Section W, grave 169, Gorleston-on-Sea Old Cemetery, Norfolk. Miss Lucy Ellen Jackson, a retired nurse, of Glyngarth, Hindhead, Surrey organised the funeral and made all the necessary arrangements.
Lucy Jackson lived at Glyngarth with her brother Arthur Ivan Jackson, a retired doctor, and her widowed sister Mrs. Rosa Jane Wake (nee Jackson). Another widowed sister, Jessie Gertrude Harrison (nee Jackson) lived at Glyngarth, until her death in January 1940. Jessie was the widow of the Reverend George Reginald Harrison – Marian and Emily Harrison’s brother.
Emily Harrison and her siblings were privately educated at home by their parents. The family also kept dogs – large St. Bernard and Mastiff dogs. At the end of 1888, the Reverend David John Harrison was summoned to court when the Harrison’s St. Bernard’s puppy bit a travelling draper.
Royal Cornwall Gazette – Thursday, 27th December 1888 – A CLERGYMAN AND HIS DOG – An action was heard by his Honour Judge Howard and a Jury at the Penzance County Court, in which Mr. Arthur Taylor, a travelling draper, of Penzance, sued the Reverend David John Harrison, the Rector of Ludgvan, and chairman of the Penzance Board of Guardians to recover £30 damages for injuries sustained by the bite of a dog belonging to the Reverend David Harrison. Mr. Wellington Dale appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. George Lee Bodilly for the defendant. On the 24th September 1888, Arthur Taylor visited Ludgvan, and called at a cottage close to the rectory. As he opened a gate to go out the Reverend’s dog, a large one, seized him by the leg without warning. The Reverend took Arthur Taylor into the house, where the wound was attended to. Arthur Taylor was afterwards obliged to consult a medical man, and for eight weeks was unable to pursue his employment. He should have no difficulty proving that the Reverend Harrison was aware of the mischievous propensities of the dog, and he asked the Jury to say that the amount claimed was not excessive. John Rogers, formerly a farmer at Ludgvan, gave evidence that whenever he visited the rectory the dog was secured before he entered the premises. John Hosking proved that the dog caught him by the calf of the leg, but he was not hurt. Eliza Mary Hicks, of Ludgvan, said about eight months ago the dog rushed at her but did not bite her. Evidence was also given for the plaintiff by Mr. William Hicks, Miss Hosking, Mr. Andrew Curnow, and Mr. John Trevenen, each proving that they had either been bitten or frightened by the dog. This was the case for the plaintiff. Mr. Bodilly for the defence said if he could prove that the plaintiff was on the Reverend Harrison’s premises where there was no thoroughfare, where there was no invitation for the public to come, and on which he was a trespasser, then be submitted that he had no right to recover. Further than that, he submitted that the plaintiff was in a place to which he had been warned not to go and that the Reverend Harrison had a perfect right to keep any dog he liked so long as it was on his own premises and referred the Jury to a judgment of Lord Chief Justice Tyndale, in which he said that if a dog was kept in a walled garden, a wrong-doer had no claim in a court of justice. He would have witnesses who would prove that the dog was a quiet one, and at the time he was alleged to have attacked several witnesses it was only a puppy. The Reverend David John Harrison, the defendant, on being sworn, said he kept dogs during the whole of that time – sometimes as many as four dogs, including three Mastiffs. The St. Bernard, which the plaintiff alleged bit him, was a year and nine months old, and was the best tempered dog he had ever had but was very playful. He had never been in the habit of allowing his dogs to go out alone, but they were always with one of his children or himself. With the exception of the dog, when a puppy, catching hold of the leg of the witness Trevenen, he never knew of its biting or frightening anyone else. Mr. James Mudge, surgeon, proved seeing Trevenen’s leg, but the bite was very small, and not the savage bite of a St. Bernard dog. Mrs. Hill, the wife of the defendant’s gardener, who lives in the cottage referred to, gave evidence to the effect that she had often warned travellers not to come to the house by the gateway mentioned. Alfred Llewellyn Harison, the defendant’s son, and Alfred Bishop, master of the Ludgvan National School, testified to the good temper, tractability, and playfulness of the dog.
Mr. Bodilly and Mr. Dale having summed up the evidence, his Honour addressed the Jury and directed them on the points of law in the case. The Jury foreman intimated they had concluded that the dog had a vicious propensity to bite and that the Reverend Harrison was aware of the fact. They assessed damages of £15. His Honour said the execution of the dog would be stayed at the next court.
CENSUS
1861 6, Northumberland Row, High Road, Tottenham, Middlesex.
Emily was 2 years old and living with her parents, brothers, and maternal uncle.
David, 41, a Perpetual Curate of St. Paul the Apostle Church, Tottenham.
Emily, 33.
David, 4.
George, 9 months.
David Albert Parson, 28, a retired Commercial Clerk – Merchant, born Walworth, Surrey.
1 pupil – aged 17.
1 cook.
1 nursemaid.
1 housemaid.
1871 The Rectory, Ludgvan, Cornwall.
Emily was 12 years old and was living with her father, siblings, and maternal cousin.
David, 50, Rector of St. Paul’s Church, Ludgvan.
George, 10.
Roden, 9.
Alexandria, 8.
Alfred, 6.
Rosamund, 5.
Marian, 3.
Marian Catherine Parsons, 20, born Peckham, Surrey.
In 1871, Emily’s mother, 41 year old, Emily Harrison and 14 year old brother, Percy Harrison were visitors at the home of the Bevington family – 2, Ferndale House, Leyland Road, Lee, Kent.
1881 2, Ferndale House, Leyland Road, Lee, Kent.
Emily was 22 years old and was a visitor at the home of the Bevington family.
Mary Ann Bevington (nee Shelley), 50, a widow (of Henry Portsmouth Bevington, a leather manufacturer), born London
Rose Ethel Bevington, 24, born Surrey.
Samuel Shelley, a widower, born London
1 cook.
1 housemaid.
1 parlourmaid.
1891 17, Neale Street, St. Margaret’s, Ipswich.
Emily was 32 years old, and the Head Mistress of the (newly opened) Ipswich Endowed School for Girls. Emily was head of the household and lived with her sister and maternal cousin.
Marian, 23, a Teacher of Music.
Marian Catherine Parsons, 40, the Housekeeper.
1 boarder – Lilian Florence Power Cory, 25, a School Teacher, born Kensington, Middlesex.
1 female general domestic servant.
1901 23, Ashmere Grove, St. Helen’s, Ipswich.
Emily was 42 years old, and the Head Mistress of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls. Emily was head of the household and living with her sister.
Marian, 33, Music Mistress at Ipswich Endowed School for Girls.
1 female general domestic servant.
1911 21. Holly Road, Ipswich.
Emily was 52 years old, and the Head Mistress of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls. Emily was head of the household and lived with her sister.
Marian, 43, Music Mistress at Ipswich Endowed School for Girls.
1 female general domestic servant.
Emily Beatrice Harrison died Friday, 15th November 1946, of bronchitis and senility, at 56, Clarence Road, Gorleston-on-Sea, Norfolk, of 33, Marine Parade, Gorleston-on-Sea. Laid to rest 19th November 1946, in the grave of her sister Marian, at Section W, grave 169, Gorleston-on-Sea Old Cemetery, Norfolk.
Probate to Lloyds Bank Limited.
IPSWICH ENDOWED SCHOOL for GIRLS
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Ipswich Journal – Tuesday, 11th August 1885 – IPSWICH ENDOWED SCHOOL for GIRLS – The Governors have, out of 38 candidates, appointed Miss Emily Beatrice Harrison to the post of Head Mistress of the new Middle School for Girls, established under the recent scheme. Miss Emily Harrison is now an assistant mistress of the High School for Girls at Exeter and holds testimonials of high order. The school will be opened in January next and will be carried on at the premises lately occupied by Christ’s Hospital Day School. These premises are to be adapted to accommodate 150 scholars. The tuition fees have not yet been fixed, but it is understood that they will not exceed the tuition fees charged for the Middle School for Boys.
At the end of September 1885, preliminary notices were published in local newspapers for the new Girls’ Middle School, established under the Scheme for the Administration of the Ipswich Endowed Schools, which will be opened in January next, after the Christmas Holidays. The age limits for girls in the school are 7 to 16 years, inclusive. The school year will be divided into three terms. The Tuition fees will be £1 13s. 4d. a term for girls under 12 years of age, and £2 a term for girls above that age. There will be no charge for books. The education will be that prescribed by the Scheme, namely: –
Writing, Arithmetic, including Bookkeeping, Mathematics, Religious Knowledge, Geography, History, English Grammar, Latin, at least one Foreign European Language, Natural Science, Drawing, Vocal Music, Drill, and Needlework.
It was requested that names of applicants for admission be sent to Mr. George J. Notcutt, Clerk to the Governors, at 9, Museum Street, Ipswich.
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Ipswich Journal – Saturday, 1st August 1891 – GIRL’S PRIZE DISTRIBUTION – On Wednesday, 29th July, the Lecture Hall was filled to overflowing with the parents and friends of the girls attending the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls for their annual distribution of prizes afternoon. An excellent programme had been arranged, and the proceedings commenced with a vocal march, “In steady march along,” followed by a recitation, “The sad story of an old Doll.” A chorus entitled the “Song of the River” concluded the first part of the afternoon. Miss Emily Harrison, Head Mistress, then read the examiner’s report by the Reverend William Jowitt, rector of Stevenage, Hertfordshire. In the report, he had remarked that the staff had worked unsparingly under the serious disadvantage of buildings. The number of pupils had increased from 108 to 124 – a fact indicating the appreciation in which the school was held. There were good results in geography, but hardly sufficient attention had been given to physical geography. He was well satisfied with the singing classes, which were likely to give the valuable power of sight singing. In conclusion, he was of the opinion the school was one where girls would be taught to use their faculties conscientiously and respect themselves and each other. Dr. John Henry Bartlet, the chairman of the School Governors said he was entirely satisfied with the report. The prizes were then gracefully distributed by Mrs. Frances Anna Browne, of Ipswich School, Henley Road, Ipswich, who expressed the great pleasure it gave her to perform that duty. She understood that the head girl, Grace Bird had not had one bad mark during the whole of the five years she had been at the school, and during the last three years, she had not missed one day’s attendance. After the distribution, Dr. Bartlet thanked Mrs. Frances Browne very heartily for her kindness in consenting to distribute the prizes. At this point, a beautiful bouquet and a specimen of needlework were presented to Mrs. Browne by the girls, as well as another handsome bouquet to Miss Harrison. The second half of the programme proceeded with the chorus “Trip. Trip”; a pianoforte duet. The singing of another part song, “Merry June,” brought a very pleasant afternoon of entertainment to a close. The singing was under the direction of Mr. Charles Webb, and Miss Lilian Florence Power Cory presided at the piano.
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Ipswich Journal – Saturday, 30th July 1892 – DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES – On Wednesday, 27th July 1892, at the Co-operative Hall, the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls held their annual distribution of prizes afternoon. The chair of the Governors, Dr. John Henry Bartlet presided. An excellent vocal and instrumental music programme had been provided, the opening being a vocal march, “In the blissful summer weather” written for the occasion by a friend, this was followed by a recitation, “The Caliph and the Carver,” and a cantata, “Meadowsweet,” by G.A. Page, all well rendered. During the interval, the Chairman, in speaking of the great increase in the school’s numbers, said that the Governors hardly knew how to accommodate them. They really wanted a new site and a new building, and they looked to their fellow townsmen and townswomen to help them in the work they wanted to carry out. He was very pleased to see the continuous prosperity of the school, and in conclusion, Dr. Bartlet paid a high tribute to the kindness of the Head Mistress of the Ipswich High School of Girls, Miss Harriet Sophia Youngman, in attending that day to present the prizes. Miss Emily Harrison, Head Mistress, said that the school needed a library, and she would be pleased to receive gifts of books that would be helpful to the girls, or funds to provide such books.
Before presenting the prizes to the pupils, Miss Harriet Youngman said she agreed with Miss Harrison, that books were a great encouragement for students to learn the various subjects quickly and well. After the presentation Dr. Bartlet moved a vote of thanks to Miss Youngman for her address, mentioning that she had kindly set on foot a fund to provide a scholarship by which a pupil might pass from that school to the High School, to which she would be pleased to give a subscription. Miss Youngman duly acknowledged the compliment and was afterwards presented with a bouquet of flowers. The Mayor of Ipswich thanked the performers for the interesting entertainment and speaking of the necessity of a library for the school, said that Miss Harrison had stated that she has not even a book-shelf…..but she would have on the morrow £5 towards purchasing one! He then proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Dr. Bartlet for presiding. The second part of the entertainment commenced with an action song “Flower Bells,” by Form 1. The programme concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.
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E.A.D.T. – Thursday, 27th July 1893 – DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES – The annual distribution of prizes in connection with the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls took place on Wednesday, 26th July in the afternoon, at the Lecture Hall, in Tower Street. Dr. John Henry Bartlet, Esq., presided over the proceedings, which were very pleasing. The platform at the further end of the Lecture Hall had been covered with crimson cloth, and at a given signal the scholars, dressed in either cream or white, with blue sashes, filed in and took their respective places. A vocal march was followed by a German dramatic recitation adapted from Grimm’s Fairy Tale, “The Twelve Brothers,” and two songs, “Fairy Land” and “Pickles.” Miss Lilian Florence Power Cory, conducted throughout, with Miss Marian Harrison, the Music Mistress acting as accompanist. During the interval, the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, read a very good report from the examiner and referred to the satisfactory result that had followed the establishment of a cookery class. Some 20 girls had become members, and four had made themselves so proficient that extra prizes had to be awarded. The prizes were then distributed by Mrs. Anna Maria Packard, of Pembridge House, Anglesea Road, Ipswich. At the conclusion of the afternoon, a vote of thanks was, on the motion of the Chairman, seconded by Mr. Charles Henry Cowell, passed to Mrs. Anna Maria Packard for presenting the prizes.
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E.A.D.T – Friday, 27th July 1894 – PRIZE DAY – On Thursday, 26th July 1894 Miss Emily Harrison, as Head Mistress, welcomed parents and friends to the Tower Street, Lecture Hall for the distribution of prizes to the students of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls’. The scholars occupied tiers of seats at the back of the platform, their cream and white dresses producing a striking uniform effect. Dr. Bartlet, chairman of the Governors, presided, and Miss Nina Frances Layard, distributed the prizes. There was also present Sir Charles Dalrymple, M.P., the Mayor of Ipswich Mr. Samuel Richard Anness, and Messrs. R M Miller and S Alexander – governors. On taking their seats Miss Emily Harrison and Miss Nina Layard were presented with beautiful bouquets. A very interesting programme had been drawn up for the afternoon, commencing with some pleasing vocal marches, followed by a violin sole, “La Traviata,” by Miss C. Seager. A French dramatic recitation, “L’annee Nouvelle,” was gone through with vigour, and a stirring glee, “Oh, come with us and wander,” was very nicely rendered. Ball drill by Form I. had a very pretty effect and was received with considerable appreciation, and the first part of the programme concluded with a pianoforte solo by Miss A. Eyre, and a canon, “Look upward.” Miss Emily Harrison then read the report of the examiner, Mr. Robert Ewing, who wrote that he had examined the school orally on all the usual subjects. He also set arithmetic papers to all the girls, and papers on scripture, Shakespeare, and French to that portion of the upper school which had not entered for the Cambridge Locals. Mr. Ewing remarked when concluding that he felt that great credit was due to the teaching staff for the way in which the school is organised, in spite of difficulties as to classrooms. The results across the whole school showed great success and the examination results were good, but on a few subjects the examination results were disappointing. He had found the girl’s grammar was well known, and the pronunciation was very fair, the girls had neatness in their handwriting and the general penmanship was very good.
Dr. Bartlet observed that in 1886 Miss Emily Harrison commenced with only 50 pupils, and this year – eight years since – there were 113. Mr. Ewing’s report showed that the School was in a high state of proficiency. Before presenting the prizes, Miss Nina Layard addressed a few encouraging words to the scholars, who, she remarked, had done exceedingly well during the past year.
After the presentation of prizes, a hearty vote of thanks having been accorded Miss Layard, they went through a number of pretty drills and gave interesting dramatic recitations which were much appreciated, the afternoon’s proceedings closing with the singing of the National Anthem.
Ipswich Journal – Saturday, 10th August 1895 – ANNUAL PRIZE DISTRIBUTION – On Thursday, 8th August, in the afternoon, the annual distribution of prizes to the successful pupils of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls took place at the Lecture Hall, in Tower Street. Mr. Walton Turner presided. The proceedings began in front of a crowded hall by the vocal march, “Where the Mountains Slope.” Miss Emily Harrison, the Head Mistress read the report of the examiner the Reverend Robert Ewing, which stated the school as a whole showed steady progress, and most of the weak spots noticed in the previous year had been removed. The general management appeared to be admirable. Before distributing the prizes, Miss May Deane, a nurse at the East Suffolk and Ipswich Hospital, delivered an interesting address, impressing upon her hearers the advantages of cultivating their minds by reading good works – history, poetry and biography. After the distribution of prizes, by Miss May Deane, the second part of the entertainment was gone through in a creditable manner.
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Ipswich Journal – Saturday, 1st August 1896 – PRIZE DISTRIBUTION – The midsummer prize distribution to the scholars of the Ipswich Girls’ Endowed School took place on Wednesday, 29th July, at the Lecture Hall, Tower Street. Dr. John Henry Bartlet presided over a crowded Hall. The proceedings began with a programme of songs, marches, glees, and recitations, including a French dramatic recitation, “La Revolte des Fleurs.” Miss Emily Harrison, Head Mistress then read the Examiner’s Report, which concluded that he was quite satisfied with the steady progress of this well-managed school. Mrs. L Cobbold then distributed the prize after offering a few words of encouragement to the successful scholars.
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Evening Star – Wednesday, 28th July 1897 – PRIZE DISTRIBUTION DAY – On Wednesday 28th July, in the afternoon, the distribution of prizes in connection with the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls took place at the Lecture Hall before a large number of parents and friends. During an interval of the music programme Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, read the report of the Examiner, the Reverend Robert Ewing, M.A., vicar of Trowbridge. The Reverend Ewing stated in his report that the school contains over one hundred girls divided into six forms, but for most subjects Forms VI. And V. were taken together. These forms answered very creditably in scripture, history, and geography. French translation was very well done, and the parsing showed an accurate knowledge of the French syntax and irregular verbs. He thought the work at the school altogether was very satisfactory, and the girls were industrious and eager in their subjects. Mrs. Adela Harriette Cobbold then distributed the prizes. The Mayor of Ipswich, Mr. Felix Thornley Cobbold presented the prizes for regular attendance.
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Evening Star – Saturday, 15th May 1897 – COOKERY CLASSES AT CHRISTCHURCH MANSION – On Friday, 14th May, in the afternoon, the pupils of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls’ who attended the Cookery Classes at Christchurch Mansion, under the supervision of Miss Elizabeth Cicinia Wade-Gery, during the last session, completed for prizes and certificates. Mrs. Lucy Elizabeth Bartlet and Mrs. Augusta Janet Steward, Mrs. Charlotte Elkington and Miss Burton most kindly acted as judges. In the evening the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison held an “at home” at the Mansion, to which the Governors of the school, their friends, and the parents of the pupils were invited. The Mansion’s Hall was tastefully decorated, and in the adjourning rooms, there was an exhibition of pupils’ work, including needlework, botanical specimens, and some school review books. The girls were all dressed in cream or white, the elder girls wearing their school sashes, and it made for a very bright and animated scene. During the evening the pupils presented a programme of music and recitation, with Miss Marian Harrison – Music Mistress and Miss Mabel Kate Goldsmith at the pianoforte. Light refreshments were liberally dispensed, all the eatables, including sausage rolls, rice buns, rolls, and so forth, having been cooked by the children, and very nicely cooked, too! The parents of pupils and friends of the school were very much pleased at having the opportunity of seeing the excellent arrangements for teaching at Christchurch Mansion, and of judging for themselves the standard of work attained by the pupils.……
Evening Star – Saturday, 21st May 1898 – DRILLING AND GYMNASTIC DISPLAY – The annual drilling and gymnastic display took place in the Y.M.C.A. Gymnasium on Friday, 20th May, in the afternoon. By the kind invitation of the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, there was a large attendance present, including Mr. Charles Henry Cowell, Mr. Robert Maplestone Miller, and Mr. Walton Turner, and other friends and family interested in the school. The programme consisted of the bar-bell, dumb-bell, and club-drill, gymnastic exercises on the ladder, parallel bars, rings, and rope, and figure marching. The whole display was under the direction of the instructor, Mr. Thomas William Hayes Standwell.
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Ipswich Journal – Friday, 29th July 1898 – DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES – On Wednesday, 27th July, the Mayoress of Ipswich, Mrs. Emily Paul, distributed the prizes to the successful pupils of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls, at the Lecture Hall, Tower Street. Mr. Henry Woods Packard – governor and ex-chairman of Ipswich School Board presided. A capital entertainment was given before an appreciative and large audience. The programme opened with a vocal march “The March of the men of Harlech” – Rimbault. The first part of the programme concluded with a well-rendered unison song “The Holiday on the Rhine” – Schumann. A pretty bouquet was presented to the Mayoress as she ascended the platform. Miss Emily Harrison, Head Mistress read the report of the examiner, the Reverend George R. Christie, M.A., chaplain of Magdalen College, Cambridge. An excellent report was given and concluded with a few general remarks, the Examiner added that the spelling and reading were above average and that he was especially pleased with the reading and recitation of some of the girls in the lower classes. A word of praise as to the order and discipline, and the very excellent arrangements made by the principal and other assistants for the conduct of the examination concluded the report. Miss Emily Harrison referred to the honour done to the school by the success of one of their girls in winning a scholarship to the High School, and the musical success of Mildred Pepper, and thanked those who had rendered assistance. The prizes were then distributed by the Mayoress, Mrs. Emily Paul. After the distribution of prizes, the second part of the programme proceeded with, the first item being “Down in a green and shady bed” – K. Boundy. The afternoon concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.
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E.A.D.T. – Thursday, 27th July 1899 – ANNUAL DISTRIBUTION – On Tuesday, 25th July, the annual distribution of prizes to the pupils of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls was held at the Lecture Hall, the afternoon was attended by a large number of family and friends. The programme opened with a vocal march, “Let the hills resound” – B. Richards, the girls entering and taking their places during the performance. The first part of the programme ended with the unison song, “Who is Sylvia?” – Schubert. Dr. John Henry Bartlet – Chairman of the Governors, the Mayoress of Ipswich, Mrs. Charlotte Elizabeth Ridley, and the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison then took their seats on the platform. Emily Harrison began by reading the report of the examiner, Mr. George R. Christie, M.A., of Magdalene College, Cambridge, which concluded that during the year there had been much good work done in the school. The care and pains expended on the teaching of the girls were worthy of all praise, and Miss Harrison and her assistants might fairly be congratulated on the large measure of success which had attended their efforts. Dr. Bartlet, in a brief address to those gathered, said it was highly creditable to the Head Mistress and her staff that year by year they had to offer congratulations to Miss Harrison on the success of their work. One reason for not prolonging he remarked that he felt the days of “chairmen” would soon be over! The Mayoress of Ipswich, Mrs. Charlotte Ridley prefaced the prize distribution with a capital address to the parents and pupils and was heartily applauded. After the distribution of prizes, the second part of the programme continued, with Miss Emily Alice Carey conducting, and Miss Marian Harrison presiding at the piano. The proceedings concluded with “God Save the Queen.”
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E.A.D.T. – Saturday, 28th July 1900 – ANNUAL PRIZE DISTRIBUTION – The annual entertainment and distribution of prizes in connection with the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls took place on Wednesday, 25th July, at the Lecture Hall. Despite the intense heat, parents and friends were large in attendance. The pupils, all dressed in white, occupied tiers of seats on the platform, which was prettily decorated with flowers, and the view presented from the body of the hall was charmingly bright and interesting. The afternoon began with a programme of solos and concerted pieces conducted by Miss Marian Harrison, Music Mistress with Miss Emily Alice Carey at the piano. The Chairman of the Board of Governors, Dr. John Henry Bartlet, introduced the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, and Miss M. Burton, who had kindly consented to distribute the prizes. The afternoon concluded with the singing of “God Save the Queen.”
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Ipswich Journal – Saturday, 17th February 1900 – SALE OF WORK – SOUTH AFRICAN BOER WAR – On Wednesday afternoon a sale of work in aid of the War Fund was held at the Girls’ Endowed School, Foundation Street, Head Mistress Miss Emily Harrison. There were four stalls, on which were displayed goods made or given by the girls attending the school. £19 10s. was realised by the sale, and after expenses have been paid the surplus will be sent to the War Fund.
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E.A.D.T. – Saturday, 16th June 1900 – GIRLS’ ENDOWED SCHOOL – The annual gymnastic and drilling display took place on Friday, 15th June. There was a large and appreciative audience, who showed much interest in various clever and pretty exercises performed by both the gymnastic and drilling classes. The programme concluded with a single-stick drill by six senior girls, and marching free exercises by all the drilling class, who looked very effective in white dresses and their school colours. All the girls worked well and vigorously and did great credit to their instructor, Mr. Ernest Palmer, who, himself, performed two very clever set pieces on the parallel bars and vaulting horse.
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Ipswich Journal – Saturday, 11th May 1901 – GYMNASTIC EXHIBITION – During the afternoon of, Thursday, 9th May, at the Y.M.C.A. Gymnasium, the pupils at the Ipswich Endowed School, Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, gave their annual drilling and gymnastic display, under the direction of their instructor, Mr. Ernest Palmer. There was a large and appreciative audience of parents and friends present to watch the performances of marches, gymnastics and exercises. The most effective was the flag march and dumbbell drill.
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E.A.D.T. – Thursday, 1st August 1901 – PRIZE DAY – During the afternoon of Wednesday, 31st July, the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls,’ held their annual Prize Day in the garden attached to Gainsborough House, Bolton Lane. The arrangement made for holding this celebration in the open air was greatly appreciated by a large company of townspeople assembled in response to invitations sent out by the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison. The guests were provided with seats on the sloping lawn, while forms covered with scarlet cloth were set out for the children on the tennis courts below. At four o’clock, tea was served, the pupils acting very prettily and courteously as waitresses. Amongst those present were the
The Mayoress of Ipswich, Mrs. Ida Paul then distributed the prizes. Sir Charles Dalrymple afterwards returned thanks for an excellent tea, the beautiful surroundings under which they had all met, and the pretty entertainment that they had just seen and heard. It was his pleasant duty to proposed a vote of thanks to the Mayoress for having so kindly and graciously distributed the prizes. Mr. Samuel Alexander seconded, and the motion was carried by acclamation. The Mayor, in reply, said it fell to him to respond to the vote of thanks. It was not because the Mayoress was short of words, or unable to speak to the point – as he knew by experience! It was, he was sorry to say, the Mayoress had temporarily lost her voice. The Mayor spoke in humorous terms of the higher standard of education he believed the pupils of the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls enjoyed under the tuition of such a capable mistress as Miss Harrison. In conclusion, he wished teachers and scholars a happy and healthful holiday. Mr. Walton Turner proposed a vote of thanks to Miss Harrison and her assistants. Mr. Robert Maplestone Miller seconded, and, referring to the fact that Miss Emily Harrison and her sister, Miss Marian Harrison proposed to visit America during the ensuing holiday, expressed hope that they would have a pleasant journey and a safe return. Miss Emily Harrison briefly returned thanks, and the afternoon closed with the singing of “God Save the King.”
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E.A.D.T. – Friday, 12th December 1902 – EAST ANGLIAN DAFFODIL SHOW – The Honourable Secretaries, Messrs. John Andrews and Arthur Edward Stubbs intimate that the scholars of the Middle School for Boys and Endowed School for Girls at Ipswich have, through the kindness of Reverend Thomas Edward Cattell and Miss Emily Beatrice Harrison, been able to place amongst the scholars over 1,200 bulbs for competition at the above East Anglian Daffodil Show to be held in the Public Hall, Ipswich, on the 22nd April next year. Each competitor has been supplied with five bulbs instead of three bulbs as last year, and that is owing to the kindness of leading English, Scotch, and Irish bulb growers.
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E.A.D.T. – Friday, 3rd April 1903 – GIRLS’ GYMNASTICS – On Thursday, 2nd April, at the Y.M.C.A. Gymnasium, a very attractive gymnastic and drilling display was given by the girls of the Ipswich Endowed School, Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison. Under the tuition of Mr. Ernest Palmer, the girls had attained a high standard and presented a skilful, smart performance which concluded with a Wand Drill.
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Evening Star – Friday, 15th April 1904 – GIRLS’ GYMNASTICS – The annual display of drilling and gymnastics by the pupils attending the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls took place on Thursday, 14th April, at the Y.M.C.A. Gymnasium, which was crowded to the doors with spectators. About a hundred girls took part in the physical exercises, and thanks to the excellent training they had received from Mr. Ernest Palmer, the instructor, the standard of proficiency was decidedly high. This was especially noticeable in the Indian Club drill and the parallel bar exercises. Miss Emily Harrison, the popular Head Mistress, received many congratulations on the smart performances of her pupils.
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Evening Star – Tuesday, 26th July 1904 – IPSWICH ENDOWED SCHOOL FOR GIRLS – PRIZE DAY – The annual distribution of prizes to the pupils attending the Ipswich Endowed School for Girls took place on Monday, 25th July, in the Lecture Hall, which was filled with parents and friends. Mr. Charles Richards Steward presided, with support from Mrs. Mary Berners, of Woolverstone Park, Suffolk, Alderman Charles Henry Cowell, Mr. Robert Lacey Everett, Alderman Walton Turner, and Mr. Samuel Abbott Notcutt – Clerk to the Governor, and Miss Emily Harrison, Head Mistress. Mr. Charles Steward, in opening the business part of the programme expressed hope that that was the last occasion on which they would be assembled in a building that was not their own. In her report, Miss Emily Harrison said they had made a great point of Nature Study, adopting a new method for dealing with a very old subject. They had been very industrious, collecting plants, roots, etc., and classifying them, and Mr. Frank Woolnough had given them useful lectures in the Museum. They had also visited the Park and been down to the Gipping in pursuit of their investigations. Emily was also pleased to say the Old Girls’ Association still flourished, and they had had some pleasant outings in connection with it. With regard to school games, they had had a good season of hockey, and since then some very successful tennis in the Arboretum. She urged parents to allow no school work after nine o’clock at night, and it was very important that the girls should eat well especially breakfast. Mrs. Mary Berners then distributed the prizes and certificates. The Chairman, Mr. Charles Steward said that Miss Harrison and her staff deserved the gratitude of both pupils and the Governors for their admirable work. He wished Miss Emily Harrison and her sister Miss Marian Harrison, who were going to America, a pleasant journey and a safe return. Alderman Charles Cowell proposed a vote of thanks to Mrs. Mary Berners for presenting the prizes. He also joined in wishing Miss Emily Harrison a happy voyage and hoped she would not stop in America. They wanted her back in Ipswich! Mr. Robert Everett seconded the motion, which was carried amidst acclamation. In the course of the afternoon, a pleasing programme of music was provided, opening with a song “Autumn Wind,” and concluded with a dramatic recitation, adapted from Tennyson’s “Princess.”
Evening Star – Friday, 1st June 1906 – GIRLS’ MIDDLE SCHOOL, IPSWICH – ATHLETIC SPORTS – On Thursday, 31st May in the afternoon, a Sports event was held in connection with the Endowed School for Girls’ on the Boys’ Middle School ground, at Park Road, Ipswich. The weather was all that could be desired by both spectators of whom there was a large number and competitors – events included: – 100 yards, hoop race, skipping race sack race, 220 yards, egg and spoon race, bicycle race – four laps, three-legged race, flower gathering race, slow bicycle race, quarter-mile race, obstacle race, hockey dribble, stone gathering, ball throwing and hockey drive.
Miss Emily Harrison, the Head Mistress, was the referee, and the exertions of Misses Marian Carlotta Harrison and other ladies in various official capacities, had much to do with the afternoon’s success. At the conclusion, Miss Bertha Lucy Kennett, Head Mistress of the Girls’ High School, distributed the prizes.
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Evening Star – Friday, 14th September 1906 – EDUCATION IN IPSWICH – NEW MUNICIPAL SECONDARY SCHOOLS – The new Municipal Secondary Schools in Ipswich opened on Thursday, 13th September, and there is every indication that the Education Committee has devised a well-thought-out scheme, which will be for the benefit of the town at large. The boys from Bolton Lane premises will now meet in the spacious and splendidly equipped school on Tower Ramparts, which used to be called the Higher Elementary School and were soon allotted their classrooms. Mr. Pollard Wilkinson, B.A., B.Sc., F.R.A.S, is the Head Master, and he has under him a thoroughly qualified staff of 18 masters, including the old Higher Elementary and most of the Middle School teachers, with three student teachers.
Miss Emily Beatrice Harrison, the Head Mistress at the Girls’ Secondary School – occupying the old Boys’ Middle School premises in Bolton Lane – occupying the old Boys’ Middle School premises – had one serious trouble to contend with on Thursday. More young ladies were present at the opening than the building could accommodate, with the result that the old school in Foundation Street had to be utilised for 60 of the 350 attending. Fortunately, a scheme is on hand for an extension of the building, bringing the front almost flush with the entrance railings, so that an additional eight classrooms, new lavatories, and cloakrooms can be erected. The numbers present include nearly 200 from the old Higher Elementary School and about 90 Middle School girls. Miss Emily Harrison has a teaching staff of nearly 20 under her. The instruction of the girl pupil teachers will also be carried on at the old Girls’ Middle School in Foundation Street.
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Evening Star – Thursday, 25th July 1907 – ANNUAL DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES – The first annual distribution of prizes in connection with the recently-formed Municipal Secondary School for Girls, at Ipswich, took place on Wednesday, 24th July, in the fine hall of the Ipswich Boys’ Secondary School, as Tower Ramparts. The school hall was crowded with parents and friends of the students, who evinced great pleasure at the excellence of the various items of a diversified programme rendered by the scholars, who were all dressed in white and wore the school colours. Mr. Lewis Moir, Vice-Chairman of the Governors of the Secondary School presided and was supported on the platform by the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, Mr. Felix Thornley Cobbold, M.P., Mr. John Henry Grimwade, and Mr. Robert Thomas Whiting. The Chairman expressed pleasure at seeing their two important schools – the Middle and Higher Grade, united for the first time. He held the opinion that all classes of honest children should come together for educational purposes. It was better for all that the better off and the poorer should mix, and receive the instruction to fit them for their future careers. He was also glad to find that there would be religious tests for either teachers or children. No Denominational teaching could be given in any secondary school receiving grants, and he agreed with the regulation. The great thing they could teach children today was the importance of character. Miss Emily Harrison presented her report. The girls’ nature work had been highly spoken of, and The Colonial Educational Conference had asked for it for an exhibition and now she believed the same work was at Madras on exhibition. This, she thought, was rather an honourable position for a school. On another matter, Emily told the audience that one of her very first pupils in Ipswich, Miss Anna Elizabeth Monk, had been appointed Head Mistress of Alderley Edge High School, Cheshire.
The first part of the programme consisted of a unison song, “October,” by the school; and a recitation, “The Walrus and the Carpenter,” by Lewis Carroll, by Form I. drills exemplifying the Swedish system and a wand drill, under Mr. Ernest Palmer, instructor. Miss Marian Carlotta Harrison conducted the musical portion of the programme. The prizes were then distributed to the students by Mr. Felix Thornley Cobbold, M.P., after which Miss Harrison was presented with a nice bouquet and a buttonhole of carnations to Mr. Felix Cobbold.
Upon the proposition of Mrs. Elizabeth May, seconded by Mr. John Henry Grimwade, Mr. Felix Cobbold was heartily thanked for his attendance. In reply, Mr. Felix Cobbold moved a vote of thanks to Miss Emily Harrison and her colleagues. That institution, as a school, was one of the best they could have. He should send a copy of that day’s programme to a friend of his in the Education Office, so he could see what could be done in Ipswich. The vote was heartily carried.
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Evening Star – Thursday, 9th July 1908 – GARDEN PARTY AT IPSWICH – ST. HELEN’S CHURCH – On Wednesday, 8th July, a Garden Fête in aid of the funds of St. Helen’s Church, was held in the charming and picturesquely grounds at “Holme Wood,” 324, Woodbridge Road, Ipswich, the residence of Mrs. Alice Ransome. The conditions were not by any means favourable and the first part of the afternoon programme had to be abandoned, “Al-fresco teas” were out of the question; it was too wet even for the performances of two scenes from “The Water Babies,” which were to have been given by girls of the Ipswich Municipal Secondary School. These young ladies were terribly disappointed.
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Evening Star – Saturday, 21st November 1908 – GIRLS’ EDUCATION – On Friday, 20th November 1908, the annual prize-giving in connection with the Ipswich Municipal Secondary School for Girls was held in the School Hall, Bolton Lane. There was a large attendance of parents and friends and a capital programme of music, and recitations was given by the scholars. The proceedings commenced with the singing of the old Harrow School song, “Forty Years On.” 
A dramatic recitation “The Trial of the Knave of Hearts,” from “Alice in Wonderland,” was much appreciated, and all filled their parts beautifully. At the prizegiving, the Mayor of Ipswich, Mr. Francis Charles Ward presided and was supported by Miss M. H. Wood, LL.D. Principal of the Cambridge Training College for Women, Miss Emily Harrison, Head Mistress, the Reverend Edward James Gilchrist, Mrs. Elizabeth May, Mrs. Florence Harriet Nussey Cullingham, and Mr. Robert Thomas Whiting, a Governor. During her report, Miss Emily Harrison alluded to one branch of their schoolwork, and that was Nature study, as their fame had spread beyond the borders of Ipswich. Madras had quite a large assignment of exhibits on permanent exhibition, and she had received flattering comments on their work from the promoters of the exhibition. Specimens of the girls’ work were also in Australia and Shanghai. The girls had brought honour to their school. Emily continued to say that as soon as it could be done, there would be beds for flowers, and botany work properly arranged for the girls to work at, and plants for study and ornament in the greenhouse. Miss M. H. Wood distributed the prizes. The Reverend Edward Gilchrist proposed, and Mrs. Elizabeth May seconded, a vote of thanks to the Mayor of Ipswich and Dr. Wood.
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E.A.D.T. – Wednesday, 28th July 1909 – ANNUAL DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES – Owing to the large number of scholars now attending the Ipswich Municipal Secondary School for Girls, and the limited capacity of the School Hall, the unusual course had to be taken of devoting two days to the annual distribution of prizes. Tuesday, 27th July afternoon was devoted to the lower half of the school when there was a large gathering of parents and friends, who thoroughly enjoyed the excellent programme of songs and recitations by the girls dressed in white and cream, with a bow of the school colours of green and blue. These were most creditably performed, and reflect the highest credit upon Miss Emily Harrison, the Head Mistress, and Miss Marian Carlotta Harrison, the Music Mistress. Mrs. Florence Harriet Nussey Cullingham presided during the interval and called upon Miss Emily Harrison to present her annual report. Emily said the school now had gardens and had done well for a first year. The best garden was that kept by II Upper Form. Emily said she should like to be able to make her girls useful housewives and good cooks. The gentlemen no doubt would agree with her, but they did not give her the means of carrying that wish out. Schools of that size in other places had attached to them fine kitchens with cooking apparatus, where girls could be trained to earn their living in domestic life. She would see the training properly carried out if the town would give her the opportunity. But they were already cramped for room in that school; in fact, the school was not half big enough. Emily Harrison was then pleased to welcome Miss Burton to distribute the prizes. The Reverend Edward James Gilchrist expressed thanks to Miss Burton and Mrs. Florence Cullingham and also to Miss Emily Harrison.
E.A.D.T. – Thursday, 29th July 1909 – THE PRIZE DISTRIBUTION COMPLETED – The second day’s proceedings in connection with the annual distribution of prizes at the Ipswich Municipal Secondary School for Girls was characterised by the same pleasant features which attended the first day’s. There was, if anything, a larger attendance on Wednesday afternoon, which was devoted to the upper half of the school. The programme of songs and recitations was almost entirely different, but the same praiseworthy remarks can be made, that the scholars’ performances reflect the highest credit upon Miss Emily Harrison, Head Mistress, and Miss Marian Carlotta Harrison, the Music Mistress.
In an interval, the prizes were distributed by Dr. Francis Charles Ward, the vice-chairman of the Education Committee. The chair was taken by the Reverend Edward James Gilchrist, who remarked that he was glad indeed at the constant progress which was made by the school during the past few years. He earnestly hoped that the girls would take full advantage of the opportunities which were given to them there, for he believed that for every girl and every boy, there was an honourable sphere of service waiting for them in the world which they would only fail to reach either by cowardice or idleness. The Reverend Gilchrist hoped the work of that school would be such that it would prepare them for the work which was already prepared for them. Mrs. Elizabeth May, the vice-chairman of the Governors of the School, proposed, and Mr. Robert Frederick Jackson, a member of the Education Committee, seconded a hearty vote of thanks to Dr. Francis Ward, the Chairman, Miss Emily Harrison, and her staff.
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Evening Star – Monday, 13th June 1910 – “THE MASQUE OF EMPIRE” – GARDEN PERFORMANCE AT IPSWICH – The Victoria League, founded nine years ago in memory of Queen Victoria, has for its aim the promotion of mutual understanding, help, and intercourse between all citizens of the British Empire. The attainment of this ideal is rendered less difficult because the Victoria League is absolutely outside all party politics. On Saturday, 11th June the Ipswich and East Suffolk branch of the Victoria League held a garden performance of “The Masque of Empire” at Red House Park, Ipswich the home of retired Royal Naval Lieutenant Commander, Mr. Cecil Brook Palmer. On a charming lawn at the side of the mansion, where the shade of magnificent trees provided a suitable and very picturesque site for the pageant of Empire. As junior associates of the Victoria League, the Municipal School for Girls, Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, were invited to perform in the masque with marching and dancing. At the close of the masque, everyone dispersed to tea, which was catered for by Mr. Cook, of Wingfield Street.
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Evening Star – Tuesday, 26th July 1910 – SECONDARY GIRLS’ SCHOOL – PRIZE DISTRIBUTION AT IPSWICH – On Monday, 25th July 1910, the annual prize day was held for the pupils of the upper school of the Ipswich Municipal Secondary School for Girls. Pot plants gave a touch of colour to the School Hall. The girls performed an ambitious musical programme for their parents and friends, which commenced with the unison song, “Forty Years On,” by T. Farmer, which the singers heartily entered into.
Mr. William Rowley Elliston presided and was supported by the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, and Mrs. Lawrence who presented the prizes. Lovely bouquets were presented by Grace Bird, Olive Oxborrow, and Nora Craven to those on the platform. Miss Emily Harrison gave a verbal report concerning the year’s work of the school. She also appealed to the parents to keep their girls at that school for the full term of four years, unless they had been to a similar school before. A girl could not receive all the necessary education if she left earlier than at the end of her seventeenth year means self-denial on the parent’s part, but she did not see why the extra time should be grudged. Emily Harrison referred to the buildings, she stated that a new botany room had been added, and the playground was to be concreted. Because the Governors were anxious to keep up the standard of the school, they now had a Physical Drill Mistress, who was very popular and Swedish drill was employed. It was a privilege for Ipswich children to possess such facilities for the development of mind and body. They had also Nature Study, and the girls had corresponded with others abroad through the Victoria League. In Conclusion, Emily Harrison thanked the staff, and referred to the new flag they had purchased, as well as the pictures on the walls, from the results of the penny concerts they had held. Mrs. Lawrence then presented the prizes to the winners, and she urged the girls to make the most of their opportunities at school.
The entertainment was resumed with a pianoforte duet, “Fingal’s Cave,” and the evening with the evergreen “Land of Hope and Glory,” and the National Anthem.
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E.A.D.T. – Friday, 18th April 1913 – GIRLS SPORTS – SUCCESSFUL GATHERING AT IPSWICH – On Thursday, 17th April 1913, the fourth annual sports day in connection with the Ipswich Girls’ Municipal Secondary School was held on the splendid playing fields, at Sidegate Lane. The afternoon was fine, and there was a large attendance of parents and friends, who thoroughly enjoyed the excellent programme provided. Mrs. Charlotte Elizabeth Ridley was to undertake the presentation of the prizes, but she had been in bed for three weeks, and the doctor would not allow her to come. Instead, Mr. William Rowley Rowley Elliston was called upon by the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison to distribute the prizes to the girls. Mr. Elliston expressed pleasure at being able to be of assistance, and the proceedings terminated with cheers for him, Miss Emily Harrison and Miss Meakin, the Sports Mistress. The events of the afternoon included: – high jump, long jump, 100 yards race, hurdle race, half mile handicap, quarter mile handicap, one-legged race, three-legged race, four-legged race, sack race, egg-and-spoon race, cloak-room race, wheelbarrow race, chariot race, slow bicycle race, skipping race, circular skipping, house relay race, and tug-of-war.
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E.A.D.T. – Wednesday, 30th July 1913 – PRETTY CANTATA AT IPSWICH – The annual distribution of prizes took place on Tuesday, 29th July, in the afternoon, at the Ipswich Municipal Secondary School for Girls, in the presence of a crowded attendance of parents and friends. The performance of a cantata entitled “The Goblin Market” preceded the prize giving. It is founded on Christina Rosetti’s poem and set to music by V. Ricci. At the prize giving Mr. Clement Cobbold presided he was supported by the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, Mrs. Charlotte Elizabeth Ridley, and the Reverend Edward James Gilchrist. Beautiful bouquets were presented to Miss Emily Harrison and Mrs. Charlotte Ridley by Miss N. Ogle and Miss Dorothy Muriel Povah, and a buttonhole to the Chairman by Miss D. Catchpole. A letter was read from the Mayoress of Ipswich, Mrs. Florence Mitford Ransome, who was regrettably unable to attend. But they were all glad to hear that the Mayor, Mr. Edward Colby Ransome was sufficiently strong again to go away, and he had their best wishes for a speedy recovery. During her annual report, Emily Harrison said one of the most important events had been the quinquennial visit of the Board of Education’s Inspectors in April when much of the work was favourably commented on. She asked all the girls to wear the school hatband, as she desired them to be proud of their school and to be seen in its colours. She hoped next term to begin special classes in domestic work, with a practical cooking course for those not taking a higher academic course. Emily Harrison, said she was struck by a remark of a Chinese Education Minister at a prize-giving in a large school such as that in Foochow, in China, and he said to the girls that “education was of more importance for women perhaps than for men, because women, as mothers, were the earliest trainers of all their future citizens, and the earliest impressions were the most important and needed the most skilled knowledge to be imparted aright.” The Chinese Minister was right, and English women should lead in this matter by sacrificing much for their daughters. Mrs. Charlotte Ridley then presented the prizes. She also thanked the girls for the work they did in the doll dressing for her, and she explained the pleasure these dolls gave to children.
At the conclusion a vote of thanks was given to the Chairman, Mr. Clement Cobbold and three cheers for Miss Emily Harrison and Mrs. Charlotte Ridley were given and acknowledged.
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E.A.D.T. – Friday, 22nd May 1914 – ATHLETIC SPORTS AT IPSWICH – The fifth annual sports day of the Girls’ Municipal Secondary School were held on Thursday, 21st May, at Sidegate Lane, Ipswich, in the presence of parents and friends of the pupils. The weather was ideal, the sun shining from a perfectly cloudless sky. The curious centipede race, with its zig-zagging movement, caused great amusement, as did the obstacle race, in which each competitor had to catch hold of a bun – dangling from a string – by the teeth and crawl under a netting, and then for home. During the afternoon Mr. Ganzoni entered the grounds with Mr. Clement Cobbold, and was accorded a hearty reception. The events of the afternoon included: – high jump, long jump, 100 yards race, hurdle race, quarter mile handicap, one-legged race, three-legged race, four-legged race, sack race, fishing race, centipede race, blindfolded race, flower basket race, obstacle race, dribbling hockey ball, slow bicycle race, house relay race, visitors’ race, and tug-of-war. At the conclusion, the Mayoress, Mrs. Dora Elsie Pipe presented the prizes.
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E.A.D.T. – Wednesday, 29th July 1914 – PRETTY JAPANESE OPERETTA – The distribution of prizes at the Municipal Secondary School for Girls took place on Tuesday, 28th July, in the school hall. The Reverend Edward James Gilchrist presided and supporting him were Mrs. Elizabeth May, Major Henry Marshall Barnes and Mrs. Louisa Gibson Barnes. The afternoon proceedings opened with a charming operetta, “The Japanese Girl, O Hanu San,” of which the libretto is by Miss Jeanie Quinton Rosse, and the music by Mr. Charles Vincent. The whole was brought to a close by the singing of the Japanese National Anthem and a processional dance and chorus.
Miss Emily Harrison, the Head Mistress, in the course of her report, said that the numbers had increased considerably this year, being 340, against 310. Last September 69 fresh pupils were admitted, and next September she was afraid, if the numbers desirous of securing admission equalled that number, some would have to wait before they were admitted. By next year she hoped the alterations and new buildings would be completed. These would give them a larger hall, a new art room, which was much needed, and one extra classroom. The cookery classes had been working most successfully, and all girls who stayed to dinner had been able to have hot dinners twice a week if they wished. The school had been divided into six houses, according to the position in the town in which the pupils lived. Their colours were those of the rainbow, and each house had its own. During the Spring term, an interesting visit was paid by some twenty girls to the poultry farm of Major Henry Barnes at Stonecroft; six prizes were awarded by him for essays on the visit. In closing her report, Emily Harrison referred to the enforced wearing of the school hatband by all pupils. They ought, she said, to be proud of the town Secondary School and of seeing its colours – dark green and light blue – worn by a yearly increasing number of girls in the town and neighbourhood. Mrs. Louisa Barnes then presented the prizes and certificates to the successful pupils. Prior to doing so little Miss Olive Catchpole presented her with a lovely bouquet.
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E.A.D.T. – Monday, 10th August 1914 – IPSWICH MAYORESS’S GARMENT SCHEME – By invitation of the Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, all mistresses, former and elder pupils, parents and other ladies interested in Mrs. Dora Pipe, the Mayoress of Ipswich’s Garment Making Scheme for the wounded are welcome to attend the Ipswich Municipal Secondary School for Girls, Bolton Lane, between 10 and 11 a.m., on Monday, 10th August 1914 to form a working party.
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E.A.D.T. – Tuesday, 17th November 1914 – GRATEFUL BRITISH SAILORS – Captain Valentine E. B. Phillimore, R.N., D.S.O., and officers of H.M.S. “Alsatian,” extended their sincere thanks for the gifts of mufflers, etc., sent by Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, and the Municipal Secondary School for Girls and the ladies of the Ipswich for the crew of their ship. The gifts will be much appreciated during the coming Winter.
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E.A.D.T – Friday, 7th May 1915 – ATHLETIC SPORTS DAY – The athletic sports in connection with the Ipswich Girls’ Secondary School took place on Thursday, 6th May, at the Sidegate Lane ground. A large gathering of parents and friends assembled and followed the various competitions with keen interest. The flat races were well contested with close finishes. One item, the chariot race, attracted considerable attention, owing to the waywardness of the blindfolded pairs, coupled with the frantic efforts of the drivers to guide them over a winding and intricate course. The circular skipping competition also proved most interesting, the efforts of the participants to evade entanglement with the rapidly encircling rope evoking loud applause. The events of the afternoon included: – high jump, long jump, 100 yards race, hurdle race, quarter mile handicap, one-legged race, three-legged race, four-legged race, sack race, egg-and-spoon race, cloak-room race, wheelbarrow race, chariot race, slow bicycle race, skipping race, circular skipping, house relay race, and tug-of-war.
At the close of the afternoon Miss Emily Harrison, the Head Mistress, presented the senior and junior championship cups. Emily also announced that the winning team in the house competition was the Nelson House, with Warwick House being second. Emily said she noted with pleasure that the ardour of the girls had not waned on account of there being no prizes, adding that at such a time as the present, there were so many calls upon the pockets of those who had presented prizes in previous years that they would not have been justified in expecting gifts this year.
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E.A.D.T. – Wednesday, 28th July 1915 – PRIZE DISTRIBUTION BY MRS. KATHLEEN CAULFIELD – Owing to the war and the feeling that festivities would be out of place, those in authority at the Ipswich Girls’ Municipal School decided that the annual prize distribution should be on a smaller scale this year, and instead of the two-day proceedings, one day alone was taken, and in addition, the parents and friends were not invited. On Tuesday, 27th July, the newly extended hall was filled with pupils, and over them one of the Governors, Mrs. Elizabeth May, presided, supported by Mrs. Kathleen Mary Caulfield, who had kindly consented to distribute the prizes and address a few words to the scholars. The proceedings opened with the singing of the Russian National Anthem, and this was followed by a rendering of A. Goring Thomas’s “Night Hymn at Sea,” which was all the more impressive in that it was accompanied by a somewhat severe thunderstorm! At the conclusion of the proceedings, the girls sang C. Sibley’s song, “Call of the Motherland,” and finished with F.E. Flecker’s new version of the National Anthem. The singing was well executed and reflected credit not only upon the singers but upon their teacher and conductor, Miss Marian Harrison, A.R.C.M. Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, gave a brief report, and said that two events had materially affected them – one was the great war, and the other was the fine alterations which had been carried almost to completion. Certainly, with the extensions of classrooms, the enlarged hall, and the new art room, they should do better work. Like all other schools, they had taken some share in war work. Comforts had been knitted, such as 154 scarves, socks, and other oddments, clothes made for Belgian children, plus money raised to help many of the relief funds organised in connection with the war, without neglecting the ordinary charities they supported. As usual, they sent up their needlework to the London Institute for the Advancement of Plain Needlework. They also entered 63 girls for the Royal Drawing Society examination. The cookery classes were still working successfully, but the games had been rather upset owing to the military authorities taking possession of the playing field.
Mrs. Kathleen Caulfield began her address by saying that when Miss Emily Harrison invited her to be present that day she asked her to bring a message. Last Year, on the 4th August, when war broke out, the call came to the men, who were wanted to protect their hearths and homes, to succour Belgium and aid France in their peril. And then there was another call to the women, that the strength of a nation depended upon the spirit of its women. And then there was a third call to the children to be worthy of the great and noble Empire’s past and of the great future. Let them take as their battle cry, “Prepare, Prepare.” Remember the optimistic frog who, finding itself in a pail of milk, swan round and round until he churned the milk into butter and was saved. Mrs. Caulfield then distributed the prizes. A vote of thanks to Mrs. Caulfield and to the Head Mistress and staff concluded the proceedings.
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At the beginning of August 1915, the Ipswich Girls’ Secondary School was gratefully thanked by the Committee of the Broadwater Hospital, Ipswich, for the gifts of knitted socks.
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E.A.D.T. – Thursday, 19th October 1916 – MILLS’ SCHOOL – FRAMLINGHAM – PRIZE DAY – The annual prize distribution in connection with Mills’ Grammar School, Framlingham, took place on Wednesday, 18th October, in the afternoon, in the St. Michael’s Rooms, two years having elapsed since a familiar function was held. The chair was occupied by Mr. Francis Wilfred Stocks, M.A., Head Master of Framlingham College, the presentation of the prizes being performed by Miss Mary Elinor Stocks. The Head Mistress, Miss Ellen Mary Fisher gave her report to an extremely good attendance of parents and friends. Miss Emily Harrison was an invited guest and gave details of a comprehensive and detailed report as to an examination of the School held in July. Emily gave a good account of the work that had been done in every form, the only criticism she did make being with respect to the mathematics, the standards attained by the girls in certain forms in this subject being rather unequal. Emily passed comment on the good standard of the literature and history – the best work in the School. She was impressed by the tone of the School and its brightness and readiness to answer in all classes. Emily had also visited the kindergarten and saw the good work done by a most capable mistress. Emily concluded by congratulating the Head Mistress, Miss Ellen Fisher and her staff on the good work that the School had accomplished during the year.
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E.A.D.T. – Friday, 28th July 1916 – PRIZE DISTRIBUTION BY THE HON. ROSAMUND HANBURY – The Ipswich Girls’ Secondary School annual prize distribution afternoon was held on Thursday 27th July, and attended by a large number of the parents and friends.
As has been the case at many schools this year, prizes were dispensed with, and in their place certificates were given. The Hon. Rosamund Agnes Bateman-Hanbury, making the presentation to the girls. In the course of her annual report, Head Mistress, Miss Emily Harrison, told the audience that the certificates which were being distributed that day were designed by one of their senior pupils, Eva Maud Temple, and finished by another, Elsie Ada Mace. Emily Harrison continued to say there had been several improvements during the year. The Kew Art Room had been in use and the school kitchen had also been more conveniently fitted up. In the Cambridge Local Examinations, the school had secured 18 senior and 16 junior certificates. In the Royal Academy of Music examination Winifred Girling gained distinction in the higher division, and in the lower Sybil Pledger passed. In needlework 152 certificates were given by the London Institute of Plain Needlework. In drawing the school secured 63 honours and 45 passes. Miss Emily Harrison also briefly sketched the ever-pressing problem of the education of their boys and girls, the best way to fit them for life, not only that they might be a blessing to others. When speaking of education, they must remember the purpose for which they were working. Was it to turn out wage-earning machines or to make intelligent citizens with human sympathies and honourable impulses? The school days were the sowing days, and the more perfect the habit the more complete the character, and the more complete the character the fuller the destiny.
The Hon. Rosamund Hanbury having distributed the certificates, congratulated the recipients and also the girls who had designed such charming certificates.
Both before and after the ceremony the scholars provided a really capital programme of recitation and song, under the direction of the Music Mistress, Miss Marian Harrison, A.R.C.M., with Miss Emily Harrison acting as accompanist. The concert finished with the singing of “Marseillaise” and the “National Anthem.”
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Evening Star – Saturday, 31st March 1917 – GIRL GYMNASTS – On Friday, 30th March 1917, Miss Emily Harrison presided at the Ipswich Secondary School for Girls first Gymnastic Display. Under the care of Miss L. Morgan, the girls have been brought to as near perfection as possible, and before a large attendance of parents and friends, had the opportunity of showing their own skill and, incidentally, the care which their gymnastic mistress had devoted to their well-being.
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The Mayor of Ipswich, Mr. Valentine Colchester, in a few brief remarks, exhorted the girls to do their best at school, and in their life afterwards. Let them train themselves to be worthy women of their great Empire. The Right Reverend Henry Bernard Hodgson, D.D., Lord Bishop of the Diocese then distrusted the certificates to the girls.
During the afternoon, the senior singing class, under the able direction of Emily’s sister, Marian Harrison, A.R.C.M., gave an excellent musical programme to the guests.
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IPSWICH AND COUNTY WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE SOCIETY
Emily Harrison was a member of the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage formed in 1906/1907. The Society was an entirely free and independent organisation, not affiliated to any other society, militant or otherwise. They agreed to pursue a strictly educational policy. Compared to the population of Ipswich their membership numbers were quite small. The Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage meetings were held at the Co-operative Hall, the Art Gallery, the Town Hall Library and the Ipswich Public Hall. They also held monthly Drawing Room meetings and, during the summer, Garden meetings. They relied on subscriptions and donations, they held rummage sales and had guest speakers where admittance was through the purchase of tickets. Guest speakers included Mrs. Selina Cooper, Miss Muriel Matters, Miss Edith Palliser, Mrs. Nellie Alma Martel, Sir John Cockburn, Mr. Harold Baillie-Weaver; Mr. Alexis Aladin, in 1915, an ex-member of the Russian Duma (where the money raised was in aid of the Belgium Soldiers’ Fund and the Poland Fund), and in November 1908, at the Public Hall, Miss Sylvia Pankhurst.
ELECTED TO THE COMMITTEE OF THE IPSWICH AND COUNTY WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE SOCIETY
Evening Star – Saturday, 10th October 1908 – On Friday, 9th October 1908 – VOTES FOR WOMEN – A meeting was held by the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society at the Library of the Ipswich Town Hall. Mrs. Marie Therese Hossack presided as chair at a flower-decked table. The hon. secretary, of the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society, Miss Constance Andrews, who wore a badge with the words “Votes for Women” stated that a great deal had been done wards forwarding the cause of women’s suffrage in Ipswich during the past twelve months and that a formal committee needed to be established. It was decided to ask Miss Mary Caroline Coulcher to act as President for the forthcoming year, and Mr. Alexander Gibb, J.P., to act as treasurer, with the assistance of Miss Margaret Gale. Emily Harrison was elected by ballot to constitute the Committee of fourteen ladies and gentlemen.
Evening Star – Wednesday, 1st June 1910 – VOTES FOR WOMEN – PROPOSAL TO DISSOLVE AN IPSWICH SOCIETY – On Tuesday, 31st May 1910, Emily Harrison attended a meeting of the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society, held at the Town Hall. A crisis has arisen in the fortunes of the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society, which was founded a few years ago for propaganda work of a strictly non-militant character in the cause of “Votes for Women.” One of the rules of the Society is that its officers shall not associate themselves with the work of the militant section of the Suffragettes, and it is this rule which had led to the present impasse. Until recently the President was Mrs. Maud Welfitt Norman; the Secretary was Miss Palmer; and the Treasurer was Mrs. Florence Harriet Nussey Cullingham. Mrs. Maud Norman and Miss Annie Elizabeth Palmer allowed their names to be used in support of the meeting at Ipswich recently addressed by Miss Christabel Pankhurst, and their action was seriously criticised and traversed at the annual meeting held about that time. Subsequently, Mrs. Maud Norman and Miss Annie Palmer resigned their offices, and Mrs. Florence Cullingham also withdrew from the work of the Society. A meeting was quickly arranged to discuss the situation thus created. Out of the hundred and twenty members, no more than thirty were present on the Tuesday evening at the Ipswich Town Hall. Mrs. Catherine Ann Griffiths was in the Chair and was supported on the platform by several members of the Committee, including Miss Annie Palmer and Mrs. Florence Cullingham. A letter was read from Mrs. Maud Norman, in the course of which she said: “After a great deal of serious consideration, I have decided to resign the Presidency. I think that it would be better for the future peace of the Society that a President should be found who cannot be suspected of unduly favouring militant methods.” Miss Emily B. Harrison, M.A., said that she thought that a non-militant Society would gather a great many people who were utterly disgusted with militant antics and that the cause would make unmeasurable progress through such a Society.
No Nominations for the vacant offices having been received, a motion was made to forthwith dissolve the Society; but Mr. Kavas Jamas Badshah successfully objected that that was not on the agenda, and could not, therefore, be properly discussed. After some further argument, a number of names were mentioned, and Miss Mary Elizabeth Everitt, of Rheinheim, 288, Norwich Road, was elected hon. secretary, in succession to Miss Annie Palmer. It is understood that another meeting will be held shortly, at which the question of winding up the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society will be fully discussed, and some decisions reached.
E.A.D.T. – Friday, 18th July 1913 – PILGRIMS FOR THE VOTE – MARCHING LADIES AT IPSWICH – On Thursday, 17th July 1913, Emily Harrison was one of the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society ladies mustered on St. Margaret’s Green to give a very cordial reception to the women pilgrims forming the Great Yarmouth contingent on the road to London. The marchers had left Woodbridge shortly after noon and had held a meeting en route at Martlesham. The women pilgrims reached the neighbourhood of the Ipswich Workhouse at five o’clock, where a large party of sympathisers from Ipswich. A large crowd had gathered on St. Margaret’s Green to watch the proceedings and see the Suffragists start their march to Lattice Barn. Emily and her fellow Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society ladies had decorated a wagonette in readiness for those who did not feel equal to the long walk to Lattice Barn. About 80 ladies marched together to the appointed place where there was an interval for greetings and conversation. Emily and the Ipswich party had two banners in red, green, and white, inscribed “The union of all who love in the service of all who suffer,” and another “No militancy.” In the procession back to Ipswich they were joined by the Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, and Southwold banners, and together they made a brave show and the public displayed considerable friendly interest. At the Co-operative Hall a large party took tea together, and in the evening held a meeting in the large hall, where the Ipswich and County Women’s Suffrage Society had tastefully decorated the platform for the occasion.
The speakers were Miss Mildred Katherine Pope, of Somerville College, Oxford; Mrs. Katherine Juliah Felicite Vulliamy, of Maitland House, Cambridge; and Miss Waring, B.A., the organiser in charge of the route. The proceedings were quite harmonious.
The following morning at 10 o’clock a special service was held at St. Margaret’s Church, after which the Pilgrims and their friends assembled in the open space near the church, and at about noon they started their journey to Dedham, via Barrack Corner and London Road.
SOURCES:
Images of Alfred Llewellyn Harrison courtesy of Paul.
Image of Marion Simmons Meers courtesy of Dave.
Image of Miss Emily Beatrice Harrison courtesy of ‘The Mistress and Fellows, Girton College, Cambridge.’
Images of the Mayors of Ipswich courtesy of Mr. A. Gilbert – Ipswich Borough Council.
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