Enid Clarke (nee Smith)

It is with sadness we hear of the death of Enid Clarke on Sunday 27th September 2020 , aged 100 years.

Enid moved to Carbrooke at the age of 3 months , with her parents Cecil and Winifred in 1920. The family ran the village shop in Church street, before moving to 'Striped Cottage' in Broadmoor Road, and later to 'The Post Office' on Shipdham Lane, where they ran the Post Office until 1980's.

Enid reached the amazing milestone of 100 years, and was Carbrooke's oldest resident. Last April, Carbrooke Heritage Group, were privileged to celebrate with the Smith family, at a family reunion.
Enid married 'Jack' Clarke and had two sons, Paul and John. She was involved in all aspects of Carbrooke throughout her life, attending the village school, and church, and being involved with the social life in Carbrooke. She was a talented artist, and had several pieces of work displayed in London galleries. She specialised in miniatures, and some of us have the honour of owning one, as they were donated as raffle prizes for village events.
Enid had a great pride in her village, and was a wealth of information, for the heritage group, often lending photos and items for our archives.
She will be greatly missed, and we send our condolences to her family and friends.

John Moray Smith in Carbrooke

I am looking forward to reading this new purchase, which I discovered  whilst doing a Google search for the eccentric artists who were friends of Revd George Chambers, and stayed at Carbrooke  Vicarage for a while during 1920/30's. We have a number of pieces by them in the church, including our Nativity figures. I didn't realise how much work they did in Norfolk, especially mural panels that are dotted around the city.

There is also a panel of theirs in the 'The Flying Fish' Pub, Carbrooke. http://www.citybookshopnorwich.co.uk/product/4459/John-Moray-Smith--The-eccentric-Norwich-artist-who-brought-individuality-to-our-pubs-with-extraordinary-panels-showing-local-scenes-through-the-ages-Paul-Burall

Upcycling our Heritage

It is great when bits of Carbrooke Heritage are rescued and reused as would have been in the past. For example the old church at Carbrooke Parva (Caudle Springs ) was pulled down and the materials used to extend our church in the village. When the Commanderie was dissolved, the materials were used to build or renovate other structures in the village.

Roger Weston tells how he rescued the old school gate posts;

This was rescued by me over twenty years ago, when the spoils from excavations in the school playground were removed and dumped in a local rubbish pit. I realised this section of masonry was too good to be buried and lost so I recovered it and it has been a central feature in our garden.

You probably have a copy of the old sepia postcard showing mothers waiting for the children to come out of school, if so you will see the gates had three masonry pillars and this section of the gates is from the central pillar having a hinge pin on two opposite sides.

I often wonder if other remnants of that impressive portal were saved by any other Carbrooke residents and like ours; hopefully are used as a garden feature or incorporated into some similar feature.

Roger has enclosed the photos of the post as a garden feature. Also the photo of the posts in situ outside the school early 1900's

Sale of Wood Farm 1823

 http://www.carbrookehistory.co.uk/FarmSaleCatalogues/Carbrooke%20Woodfarm%20advert%201823.pdf One of our Group members has found this newspaper cutting for the sale of (Wood Farm?) in Carbrooke 1823

Carbrooke Celebrations for end of Crimean War 1856

These days, the Crimean war may not be a well known part of British history, although many of us may have heard of 'The charge of the Light Brigade', and of Florence Nightingale, a nurse in the Crimean War, who recognised the importance of cleanliness and kindness in military nursing, which was later introduced into general nursing. It is hard to know how much Carbrooke people would have known about the Crimean War in 1856, but this piece published in 'Norfolk Chronicles', details how they celebrated the ending of the war. (Thanks to DS, Carbrooke)

NORFOLK CHRONICLE, 5 July 1856

PEACE FESTIVITIES

The inhabitants of Carbrooke being desirous that the poor should not be forgotten on the restoration of peace, a liberal subscription was raised by the principal inhabitants of the parish, with a few of their friends, and Thursday, June 26th, being the day fixed for the occasion, early in the morning the bells, as usual, sent forth their merry praise[e], followed by the firing of guns at various intervals during the day. Preparations were going on in different parts of the village in erecting arches and a good display of flags and mottoes, whilst the flags of our brave allies floated in the breeze, and persons were busily engaged arranging tables for all. Preparations being ready by three o’clock, the poorer classes, who were to partake, began to arrive in family groups and family parties, and by the time they had taken their seats, the band struck up “O the Roast Beef of old England”, and at four o’clock 500 well ordered and neatly attired men, women and children were regaled with roast beef, plum-puddings and a bountiful supply of beer. Grace was appropriately chanted. After dinner the health of the Queen was proposed and drank with three times three hearty cheers, followed by other toasts. which were kindly responded to. The Watton band performed well the usual tunes on such occasions. The company sang “God save the Queen”, and “Rule Britannia”. The persons employed as carvers and waiters also sat down, in a commodious booth, to the same English fare. After dinner the rustic sports began with a donkey race, followed by boys and girls running for varius prizes, jumping in sacks and jingling matches, climbing the pole, and dancing. In the evening some good fireworks were displayed, which excited much delight, and the festivities concluded with a large bon-fire, which terminated a day of mirth and amusement to the inhabitants of Carbrooke and adjoining villages, from 2,000 to 3,000 persons being present.

Carbrooke Heritage News - Updated Website

Carbrooke Heritage Website,  is in the process of being updated.  There is lots of updated information. Please  take a look,  feedback welcome, especially if you have stories, photos or comments to add.

www.carbrookehistory.co.uk

Carbrooke Heritage News - Carbrooke Parish Armour

 There have been rumours of pieces from a suit of armour in Carbrooke for decades, with some residents claiming to have seen it, but in more recent years, it appeared to have been lost. However during the 2018 Heritage Festival in the church, whilst looking for something else, a member of the PCC found what she recognised as the missing armour. We were delighted to have rediscovered it.

It was sent to Norwich Museum, who also sent it to the Royal Armourer, as it was of such interest. It had been presumed to have been Medieval given Carbrookes links with Knights Hospitallers, but instead it was dated to the mid-late 1600s by Norwich Museum, which was very enthusiastic about such a rare find. The armour has been professionally conserved for the village by the museum at a cost of almost £2500.00

The village of Carbrooke has 13 pieces from a suit of Parish Armour dating from the English Civil War period (1642-1651).

What is Parish Armour?

Every village in England was required to send young men to fight in the Civil War, as Pikemen. These conscripts, clad only in leather jerkins, were ‘cannon fodder’ in the battles and had to fight mounted cavalry, who were armed with swords and other lethal weapons – and wore armour.

Those villages which could afford it thus purchased a suit of armour for their soldier, usually made by the local blacksmith. Hence the concept of “Parish Armour”; it remained the property of the parish.

Mike Botting, volunteered to make and donate a cabinet in which to display the armour; and to obtain sponsorship from local people and businesses to defray the cost of conservation. He also donated the model 'Knight' for display purposes.

Should you wish to make a donation towards the restoration of unique local artefact, please contact Mike, Donations of £200 will be acknowledged by a plaque on the cabinet itself, while smaller donations will be listed on a board adjacent to it.

Please make cheques payable to Carbrooke Heritage Group, or you can make BACS transfers to Carbrooke Heritage Group’s account at Lloyds Bank, sort code 30-92-88, account number 01300405. Please write “Parish Armour” on the back of your cheque, or in the “reference” box in your bank transfer. Any amount which you can afford would be greatly appreciated.

The Armour is on permanent display in the church, and can be viewed whenever the church is open, or by arrangement.gg

Carbrooke Heritage News - July 2020

 Another ebay find of the Chapel on Broadmoor Road ( now no longer standing, and replaced by homes).

Carbrooke Heritage News - July 2020

 Pleased to find this postcard on ebay! Not only does it show my first Carbrooke home, but there is a message on the back of the card. Postmarked 1909, so the photo must have been taken before that.

Some buildings very similar, others have disappeared altogether.

Carbrooke VE Day Celebrations 2020

 

Where will you be on 8 May 2020?

75 years ago, the country was preparing to celebrate the end of WW2, with street parties.

As we are living through history, and trying to defeat another common enemy (CV 19), let us commemorate, all those who lived through the difficult days of WW2, and those who gave their lives.

We appreciate those difficulties and fears ourselves now, so let us take an opportunity to lift the gloom, with a 'Garden Party'

From 4-6pm Friday 8 May

Decorate your windows, fences, gardens in red white and blue. Set up a picnic table in your garden, or outside your house, have a 1940's style picnic, dress in the style of the day, play 1940's music.

But please remember to maintain the social distancing rules.

Record the event for posterity, by sharing a photo with us.

Celebrating VE Day 2020

 If things had been different, we would have been celebrating VE Day on 16th May in the village hall, with a 1940's style party, and launch of a Crafted Timeline.

As we cannot be together on that day, here are some suggestions from Breckland Council as to how we can celebrate at home.

Breckland Council

27 April  · 

The weekend of May 8th – 10th is the weekend to commemorate and celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day, marking the end of the war in Europe.

To help you prepare your day, we are sharing party pack to get you started while you #StayHomeSaveLives.

The online pack includes...

- wartime recipes your family can try out

- party bunting you can cut out and make

- posters for your windows

- colouring templates for your children

- a fantastic VE competition set by Dan Snow the BBC History Guy

- A Spotify wartime playlist featuring Dame Vera Lynn and other wartime musical greats

You'll have everything you need to celebrate at home, whilst remembering and celebrating our wartime generation

Find out more at https://ve-vjday75.gov.uk/plan-your-ve-day-party/ #VEday #VJday #OurBreckland

Carbrooke Church; Covid-19 - Action Group

We have established an Action Group to assist those who are unable, on medical advice, to get out. We can help with essential shopping, bank or postal transactions, and collecting prescriptions. If there is someone near you who might be vulnerable, please pass on our details to them.

A reminder that just inside the church door there is a Food Bank Box. Please leave cans, bottles, jars or packets of food...or take them if your need becomes great.

The church is open during the daytime, often with a lit candle, as a place for quiet reflection. All are welcome to spend a while away from the stresses and strains around us.

Thank you and stay safe!

Carbrooke St Peter and St Paul Church. Contact Mark on 07935334610 or mgward@aol.com

Carbrooke Heritage News - NEW Handicraft Group

 NEW Carbrooke Handicraft Group,

This Friday - 14th February 10.30 -12.30 Carbrooke Village Hall.

If you are interested in sewing for pleasure, making small items for local charities or getting involved in a community handicraft project, please join us to discuss ideas over a cup of tea.

Learn new skills, share ideas or offer help and advice.

Small charge to cover costs.

Carbrooke Heritage News - November 2019

Carbrooke Heritage Group have a stall on Saturday 30th at the Bazaar. We will have the recently published books for sale - 'Carbrooke School at War', aswell as the lovely Carbrooke Heritage maps and several copies of the Carbrooke History books (2013).

All great Christmas presents.

Come along to find out more about Carbrooke Heritage on our stall.

Carbrooke School Log Transcription: Book Launch: Friday 8th November 2019

Lovely village event today which was very well attended. It was a Village Tea Party to celebrate the Book Launch of "A Village School at War", The log book of Carbrooke School during the Second World War. It makes for fascinating reading . There was music and refreshments and many reunions and sharing of memories.

Thanks everyone who attended our book launch, it was a lovely afternoon, great village atmosphere.

Thank you Carbrooke school pupils for reading excerpts, UK Ukelele Band for music, Paul Weatherill for military vehicles, and to setters up and caterers.

Also Carbrooke Parish Council for grant towards publication, and Carbrooke Village Hall for the venue.

Books available for £5, contact carbrookeheritage@gmail.com for more details.

Throughout the years school headteachers have had to keep a school diary, and Carbrooke school is no exception.

During the second world war, the Headmistress, Miss Mary Norton, kept a fascinating record of daily life and events in Carbrooke, during the years of the war through her entries in the school log: a much admired headmistress, with an obvious care for the children in her charge.
Daily life went on as usual, admidst the highly unusual events bought on by war, particularly the kind involvement of locally based American troops.
The Heritage Group have transcribed, and printed Carbrooke school log, adding background photos and information.
As we begin commemorations for the start of WW2, we hope this is a fitting tribute, and launch the book with a traditional village tea party in the village hall.
Carbrooke Heritage Group would like to thank Carbrooke Parish Council, for funding the printing of the books.

To find out more visit our website Page

http://www.carbrookehistory.co.uk/School%20Logs.htm

Carbrooke Heritage News September 2019

 FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH - Advice and support.

Thursday 19th September Carbrooke church at 7pm.

Family history research is becoming increasingly popular, but where do. we make a start? Come along to this presentation for suggestions, advice and guidance.

For those who already have the 'bug', get some further help or share your own.

Please bring along details of any brick walls you've encountered in your research.

Presented by Mark Ward.

No charge (donations welcome). With tea & biscuits.

Carbrooke Heritage News July - Jan Godfrey

It is with great sadness, that we have to report the death of Jan Godfrey. Jan was one of the founding members of the Heritage Group, amongst so many other things in our village and our local area. Here is a photo of her interviewing some Carbrooke school pupils,at the time of the school archaeological dig c1996. She lived in Carbrooke almost all of her life and attended the school, she was also extremely involved with the establishment of the village green. We shall miss her greatly, particularly her knowledge and advice of local heritage.

The funeral of Jan Godfrey, will be held in Carbrooke Church on August 6th at 2pm, and will be conducted by the Bishop of Lynn. 

Carbrooke Fete 29th June 2019

Carbrooke Village Fete held on the 29th June made a net profit of £2820.25, to benefit the village groups,.

Many thanks to all those who donated items, gave their time, or supported us by attending on the day.

Next year we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the millennium green, we are already planning the event, please consider volunteering.

Date for next years fete 4th July.

27 April 2019 2pm - Smith Family Reunion - Longevity in Carbrooke

 Lovely afternoon in the Village Hall, celebrating with the Smith family of Carbrooke.

A brief history of the Smith family in Carbrooke. Enid Clarke, Nora Lund, Betty Cocker & Brian Smith.

The Smith Family part of Carbrooke Village life since 1920

Enid was 3 months old when her parents Cecil & Winifred moved to Carbrooke & took over the Village Shop in Church Street, Lived there in the Village Shop in Church Street and the Thatched Cottage in Broadmoor Road before settling in their home in Church Street again

Nora, Betty & Brian born in Carbrooke as was Geoffrey who died in 2002. Their father Cecil was a Master Carpenter. Examples of his work can be seen here in the Church Including the High Alter Table. Cecil Active Participant in Village Life & Member of Carbrooke Church Choir, Carbrooke Cricket Team, Clerk to the Parish Council, Church Warden

In 1936 Cecil & Winfred took over the Post Office which was moved to their house.

Cecil became Post Master until his death in 1967 & Winifred carried on until she retired aged 87 .

Enid,Nora, Betty, Brian & Geoffrey all went to the Village School

Betty Married and moved away and has come down from Scotland for this reunion.

Nora went to America as a War Bride & has flown Back from USA

Enid & Brian have both stayed in the Village

Brian with Renee has always supported events in the Village and Brian played Cricket for the village team Betty was the Scorer.

Enid has been a great supporter of Village life and has put Carbrooke on the world map with her widely acclaimed Miniature paintings

Fellow of the Royal Miniature Society (celebrates her 100 birthday this year) Not many villages can boast of having 4 members of one family born in the village with a total age of 377 present today