1983-Sep-pg64_A Visit to Wells in 1896

1983-Sep-pg64_A Visit to Wells in 1896

This article came from the Chronicle published Sep 1983. Page 64

 

A VISIT TO WELLS IN 1896

Author: L.A.Denner

 

An account of a visit to Wells on May 14, 1896, as written by Annie S. Holloway, aged 18, of St Mary’s Lands Farm, Corscombe, Dorset, in her diary.

‘Father took Lily (sister), Charlie (elder brother) and I to Wells Agricultural Show. We drove to Yeovil Junction to catch the 8 a.m. train, and Mr Perham from Thornford and Mr Smith joined us at Sherborne. After changing trains at Templecombe, we passed through lovely pasture land, especially in the Wincanton vale. We went through Evercreech Junction, Glastonbury, and Street, and some friends joined us at Pylle. We met more friends at Wells and made up a large party. Had lunch and then looked over the cathedral, which is a grand old building. I had been there once before, when I went up on the highest tower. There was a service being held as it was Ascension Day, such lovely singing. Waited to hear the clock strike twelve. Inside the cathedral could be seen, high up on the wall, first an old man, life size, sat in a niche in the wall, who would strike with the heels of his boots against some bells, and then further on in the wall were men on horseback going round all the time the clock was striking. Such a crowd of people had come in to see it. The Bishop’s Palace and. grounds were lovely and had a moat round and a drawbridge. The Show was held in the park and was very good. Uncle Willis had a tent and some refreshments, as he is the agent for Calthorpes Cattle Cake. Sat in the grandstand to watch the horse show and racing. Reached home at 10.15 p.m. after a very enjoyable day.’

(After 67 years of technological progress, it is now impossible to make this journey by public transport! – L.A.D.)