Christmas in Bremhill

Before the Victorians ‘created’ Christmas, with its decorated trees, crackers and cards, the festivity was a more restrained occasion. However, it was still a cause to celebrate.

During the time Rev. William Lisle Bowles was village vicar in Bremhill, there were often community celebrations. These were provided by Bowles and his wife who spent large sums of money to ensure their flock at the very least had a festive meal. In 1819, 55 girls attending Mrs Bowles Sunday school had a Christmas lunch of beef and pudding at the Parsonage. Meanwhile, at the two local pubs, 'the parochial choir and 50 poor men and women had a substantial dinner of beef and beer; and on the same day, bread and soup was distributed to upwards of 200'.  Those who had subscribed to the local 'penny a week club' also received their share of a distribution of blankets, stockings, cloaks, shirts, shifts, petticoats, handkerchiefs, shoes and dresses. 'At this meeting, the clergyman [Bowles] addressed some of his assembled parishioners, in a speech replete with the most affectionate admonition.' Hopefully, this well-meaning advice did not distract too much from the festivity of the day and his parishioners still had fun.

From our very own Dr Louise Ryland-Epton.