Winslow History | Literary Institute, 1880-1886

Literary Institute, 1880-1886

The idea of a literary institute was first suggested as part of a debate about opening a public room in Winslow. Rev. Alfred Preston's Reading Room closed shortly before the correspondence below (which continued for several weeks after these letters).

1880: Buckingham Advertiser, 31 Jan
A PUBLIC ROOM FOR WINSLOW.
To the Editor of the Buckingham Advertiser.
SIR,- Allow me, through the medium of your valuable paper, to call attention to what I believe to be a long felt want amongst the inhabitants of Winslow.
I mean the erection of a room suitable for public entertainments, and which, at the same time, might be used as a Reading-room and Literary Institute.
In my opinion, Winslow is in reality a musical town, and the people are musical people.
This, I think, is partly proved by the fact that there is a well attended Choral Society, and also other musical institutions in connection with the various places of worship, all of which are being carried on with great zest and energy.
And yet, strange to say, week after week, and month after month slips by without a single evening’s musical entertainment to enliven the monotony of one’s every-day life.
How can we explain this? When in the neighbouring towns, and even in the adjoining villages - with much less musical talent - we read of concert after concert, and other entertainments quite foreign to us.
There may be other reasons; but I think nearly everyone will agree with me when I say that the main cause of this evil - for evil it is - lies in the fact that there is no suitable room at hand in which to hold such a gathering.
True there is an Iron Room commonly designated the Reading Room; but from what I can gather, its walls are never more to resound with music - at least of a secular character.
Thus we are obliged to fall back on the only other available place the Boy’s Schoolroom, in which several concerts have been held, but from what I can ascertain not only is this room too small for such entertainments - which are always well attended by the Winslowites - but it is very bad for sound, and consequently good singers are very loth to attempt to display their talents there.
And so it comes to pass that Winslow is entirely without a place suitable for anything in the form of an evening’s musical entertainment.
And now let me touch upon the subject of a Reading Room.
Such an institution did, I believe, exist in the Iron Room, under the presidentship of the Vicar, till the end of last year; but then only in a very primitive form, the hours only extending from six to ten, and the periodicals and magazines being of a rather limited character.
Comic papers - there were none. Smoking room. - there was none, and for these and other reasons the attendance gradually diminished, till at last the thing died out.
Now against this worthy effort I would not say a word.
Many, I know desired an evening’s amusement and instruction, and many thanks are due to the Rev. A. M. Preston for his kindness in throwing open his room to the public.
But still I think there should be one started on a more comprehensive scale.
Let there be more periodicals, more secular magazines, and if possible, debates or lectures every week.
And why should this desideratum not exist?
There are many gentlemen in and about Winslow, whose chief pleasure it seems to take an interest in, and further the objects of anything for the public good.
The great thing needed is, for some influential person to set the ball running by promising his interest and support.
Many, I know, would follow. Winslow people as a rule, go at everything they once put their hand to, with a zeal that can hardly be surpassed, and I believe sufficient funds could soon be realized to build a room suitable for both the purposes I have before mentioned.
And then when the object was once gained and the people found out the advantage of such an acquisition, I am sure they would feel that their money had been well expended, and the only thing to be wondered at was, that it had never been done before.
And now let me just say, in conclusion, that if, through this letter, the apparent lethargy of the townsmen of Winslow is at all dissipated, and the question opened up for discussion, I shall feel that my object in writing to you has been in a great measure realized.
I am, sir, yours faithfully,
PRO BONO PUBLICO.

1880: Buckingham Advertiser, 7 Feb
A PUBLIC HALL FOR WINSLOW.
To the Editor of the Buckingham Advertiser.
SIR.- The discussion opened by your correspondent Pro Bono Publico, is certainly a valuable one, but the slighting tone of the letter in reference to the Iron Room is rather calculated to jar upon the feelings of those who considered it a great boon to the public of Winslow, and profited by many interesting entertainments, musical and otherwise; your correspondent’s knowledge of the ways of Winslow life must be of the dimmest. Surely our population is not so large, but that the existence of the Reading Room at Winslow was within the knowledge of every inhabitant; but your correspondent only believes that such an institution existed. This expression implying so much uncertainty scarcely justifies your correspondent in his criticism, on its primitive character, for such a population as Winslow. How long does he think places should be kept open, lighted and warmed. And as to the limited character of the literature, it is within the writer’s knowledge that there were on the tables ten daily and ten weekly newspapers, besides a library of 400 volumes. Your correspondent’s mild approval of this worthy effort, the existence of which he only ventures to believe in, reminds me of the oft quoted chorister, who condemned his friend with faint praise. If he will take the trouble to make himself as well informed of the ways of Winslow folk, as he wishes to appear, he will find neither the absence of comic papers, nor the lack of smoking, led to the closing of the room. If those who bestowed an amount of passive opposition to the reading room, will now follow the example of the vicar by instituting this reading room “On a more comprehensive scale,” then the Winslowites will soon see Pro Bono Publico’s suggestion successfully carried out. Yours faithfully
A MEMBER OF THE READING ROOM.
Winslow, February 3rd.

To the Editor of the Buckingham Advertiser.
SIR.- I was pleased to see the letter in your last issue relative to a Public Room for Winslow, but I think your correspondent is rather mistaken as to the majority of the tradesmen of Winslow. It seems to me, during my stay in the town, that they would be the last to further any such institution as the one in question. If it were a matter of business, and one by which their trade receipts could be augmented, then I think they would as “Pro Bono” says, go at it with zeal and energy, but unless I am greatly mistaken, the result needed will not be achieved by their efforts. However, I shall only be too happy to do my part as a tradesman, and hope that the opinion entertained by me of my fellow townsmen, will turn out to be unfounded, as I feel sure the effort is a worthy one.
Yours truly, A WINSLOW TRADESMAN.

1880: Buckingham Advertiser, 14 Feb
A PUBLIC HALL FOR WINSLOW
To the Editor of the Buckingham Advertiser.
SIR.- I have been, more than once, credited with the letter signed “Pro Bono Publico,” in your issue of January 31st. I acknowledge that I have been working for many years for the public good, but I do not claim the above title, and only sign myself by the name you will find at the end of this letter.
The suggestions of “Pro Bono Publico” are delightfully Utopian in their character. Public-spirited individuals are to come forward to build a Hall, where lectures and debates are to take place; where a reading room, with all the accessories of periodicals and secular magazines, is to be located; and which shall also be a house for concerts, to surpass all the efforts of the villages in the neighbourhood.
As a plain man, I declare this scheme to be quite impracticable. Two strong reasons may be given for this opinion, viz, that such a public room would never pay; and that a simple reading room would not be supported in Winslow. Is it to be supposed for a moment that any person or persons will invest the large sum required without a proper return in the shape of interest? Can a reading room, pure and simple, be successful, when we consider how great is the influx into our town of all the current literature of the day! I think not. I have never known such an instance of success, but shall be willing to sit at the feet of “Pro Bono Publico” and learn from him.
I will not follow the example of “Pro bono Publico” in deprecating the efforts that have been made by the managers of the Iron Room. The measure of success may have been small, but the kindness of intention on the part of the Vicar when he built the room, the industry and perseverance shown by his co-workers in their efforts to amuse and instruct the public, shall always have my cordial praise.
There cannot be any necessity for the erection of a public room. Your correspondent “a member of the reading room,” says that the room is “to be instituted on a more comprehensive scale.” If to his former kindness in building the Iron Room, the Vicar is now willing to make it more useful to the parish, we shall have every reason to be grateful, and so we shall avoid an outlay which would be serious.
Your correspondent “Pro Bono Publico” has given his idea of the uses which a public room might be put to. Let me suggest a programme for the newly instituted Iron Room, which I hope will meet with the Vicar’s sanction.
A working man’s club might be formed. The present library utilized. Papers and periodicals provided, and the Room warmed and lighted so as to induce men to spend some part of their evenings there. At stated times, amusing and instructive lectures might be given by competent lecturers. Debates (non political and non religious) would be popular. Music should find a home, and the Choral Society - already possessing a name - should find a “local habitation.” Let the fine old glees and part songs of our English composers form at least an equal share with Moody and Sankey in the recreation of our working men. In short, let the fact be recognised that there are-
                                                          Sermons in stories,
                                                Books in the running brooks,
                                                And good in everything;
And then, I believe, an immense work for good will be done in Winslow; there will be no need for building and all classes will be drawn together for mutual recreation and improvement.
                                    I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
                                                            THOMAS NEWHAM. M.D.,
Winslow, 9th February, 1880.

To the Editor of the Buckingham Advertiser.
    SIR,- Had I known that my remarks on the late Reading Room would have called for such a show of feeling as your correspondent indulges in, I think, perhaps, I should have been more particular in citing facts which he appears to take so much to heart. Although I happened to say that I believed in the existence of that institution, yet my knowledge of the ways of Winslow life is not, perhaps, quite so dim as he would wish to imply. And certainly I know enough to justify me in my criticism on its primitive character. I say, sir, with all due deference to your correspondent, it was a primitive institution.
As to my remarks on the time of opening, which he seems so greatly to object to, there are, I am sure, many people who would take advantage of the opportunity of looking at daily papers for a short time every morning. And these would most likely become some of its best supporters. But the old reading room was only open in the evening. Then there is, as I have said before, the absence of both comic papers and a smoking room, without which no such institution is complete. And here let me ask your correspondent just to refer to my previous letter, and he will then see that I did not say that this alone was the cause of the room being closed, but “from these and other reasons.” And without “troubling to make myself as well informed of the ways of Winslow folk, as I wish to appear,” let me tell him that I am perfectly aware of the other reasons, but I did not think it worth while to bring them up in such a discussion.
There is one sentence, however, in your correspondent’s letter which I cannot quite understand. It is that in which he says there were ten daily and ten weekly newspapers. I do not for one moment question the verity of the statement, but still I must say that I was quite ignorant of there being more than half the number, at the most. As to the library of 400 books, the least said about that the better. It might do very well for a Sunday School library, but your correspondent must be aware that it does not contain the class of reading sought for at such places. But here let me stop. I have neither the inclination nor the desire to raise a discussion on the merits of the old reading room. I can confidently assure your correspondent that when I referred to it, I had not the slightest intention of wounding the feelings of those interested in it, but did so with the sole desire of proving that one on a more comprehensive scale was needed. Therefore if I have not accorded it the credit it deserves, I will cry peccavi and leave the subject.
And now let me briefly notice the letter of your correspondent signing himself “A Winslow Tradesman.” I think I had better answer him by the same remark that has been applied to me, viz. “that if he will take the trouble to make himself as well informed of the ways of Winslow folk as he wishes to appear,” he will find quite the opposite to be the case. I know the Winslow tradesmen are good men of business, but I am also certain they are most liberal. Take for example the fact that we possess a first-class Fire Brigade, in thorough working order, and one that can compete with many in the county, as recent facts plainly show. Then there is our annual Flower Show - the most important event in the year for Winslow, and one that necessarily involves considerable outlay and expense. Yet it is the tradesmen and inhabitants of the town and neighbourhood who support both these by their voluntary subscriptions. And when the forthcoming Agricultural Show was proposed to be held at Winslow, did not the people most readily come forward with pecuniary aid ! Surely your correspondent must confess himself in the wrong on this head. I am glad, however, he promises his assistance, and I sincerely hope many more will follow his example by doing their best to aid in promoting what every sensible person must acknowledge to be neither quixotic nor chimerical.
                                    I am, sir, yours faithfully,
                                                            “PRO BONO PUBLICO.”

Buckingham Advertiser: 27 March 1880
A PUBLIC ROOM FOR WINSLOW.- We understand that Mr. Silvanus Jones, of Winslow, has liberally offered £50 towards the erection of a Public Room in Winslow, on which subject much discussion has lately been prominent.

Silvanus Jones may have been "Pro Bono Publico". No new room was built.

The Literary Institute was formed later in the year, mainly by Nonconformists. Their first known venue (in March 1881) was the Boys' School, and later in the year they apparently met in the Girls' School, then the Crooked Billet, but occasionally they followed Dr Newham's suggestion and used the old Reading Room until it was removed in Nov 1883.

1880: Buckingham Advertiser, 13 Nov
FORMATION OF A LITERARY INSTITUTE.- On Wednesday evening last, a few persons interested in the scheme, met for the purpose of organising a Literary Institute for Winslow, when some very satisfactory arrangements were entered into. A suitable room has been secured, and Mr. W. H. French has engaged to lay the gas, while Mr. J. Ingram, who was present, kindly offered to provide a suitable table. Mr. W. Turnham places on the table games of chess, drafts, &c., and Mr. Day has no doubt of Mr. Wigley’s willingness to send round all the local papers of the district. With such valuable aid, the projectors found themselves able to provide gas, fuel, the daily and weekly London papers, &c., for the small subscription of 1s. per month, payable in advance. The season now being fairly on, it was decided to open the room with a musical entertainment of the “Free and Easy” kind, on Monday next, when it is hoped that a goodly number of respectable young men will attend to invest the necessary shilling and thus assist a movement which deserves the success we anticipate for it.

1880: Buckingham Advertiser, 20 Nov
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- On Monday last the Winslow Literary Institute was inaugurated by an entertainment, under the presidency of Mr. W. H. French, who, in opening the proceedings, disclaimed the idea of making a set speech, having come down solely for the purpose of giving some substantial expression of sympathy with the movement for mutual improvement, which the young men of Winslow were thus working out for themselves. He was glad to see around him several faces associated in his mind with the cause of progress in its different stages at our little town, and he made no doubt that from this modest commencement a successful institution would ultimately ensue. Later in the evening Mr. E. J. French made a suitable speech encouraging them to work for the cause, and the time passed pleasantly by with readings, songs, etc. Mr. Day accompanying on a harmonium. Coffee was partaken of at intervals during the evening. We append the programme:-
            Song…”The Cork Leg”…Mr. Sopham [=Topham]
Reading…Selection from “Valentine Vox”…Mr. W. Turnham
            Song…”In the Gloaming”…Mr. H. Hawtin
Reading…”The Troubles of a Night”…Mr. A. J. Clear
            Song…”The good Rhine Wine”…Mr. J. Warner
Reading…Selections from “Pickwick”…Mr. W. H. French
            Song…”The Schoolmaster”…Mr. Day
Song…”March of the Mulligan Guards”…Mr. W. Turnham
Recitation…”Advice to Young Men”…Mr. J. Ingram
Song…”The Minute Gun at Sea”…Mr. J. Turnham
            Song…”The Ghost”…Mr. Day

1881: Bicester Herald, 8 April
WINSLOW LITERARY INSTITUTE FESTIVAL.- On Thursday evening, March 31, the last day of the institute season, a first-class dinner was provided in the room, to which the following members sat down: Mr. W. H. French, who took the chair, and Messrs. R. W. Jones, jun., Jno. Ingram, E. J. French, James East, J. Turnham, W. Turnham, R. Coxhill, G. Turner, G. Day, A. J. Clear, F. Topham, G. Alderman, J. Colegrove, jun., J. Warner, G. Ratley, W. Olney, E. Illing, W. Dunkley, H. Roads, and W. Midgley. After the cloth had been cleared the Chairman referred to the excellent repast provided for them, and expressed the obligation they were under to Mrs. S. Jones, Mrs. J. Turnham, Mrs. W. Turnham, and Miss Simmonds for their kind assistance in various ways on the occasion. He congratulated the members on the success of the institute, and on having produced, without exception, the two best concerts that had been given in Winslow for which they were greatly indebted to the ladies who so kindly helped at the concert, and also to Mr. Goadby for his exhaustive lecture. The secretary, Mr. G. Day, read the balance sheet, which showed the financial position of the institute to be a very good one, there being a balance on the right side of over £3. Mr. Day then took his seat at the piano, and music, interspersed with more or less humorous prose, was the order of the evening. Songs were given by Messrs. W. Turnham, Day, Warner, Ingram and Topham, and readings and recitations by the chairman and by Messrs. Coxhill, Clear, and Alderman. Later on in the evening coffee was served and an address was given by Mr. R. W. Jones, who stated that, although he should not be resident in Winslow when the institute was next open, yet he heartily wished for its success, and should be happy to continue a member. Mr. Jones also spoke of the services rendered by the secretary in very eulogistic terms, and Mr. Day’s health was then drunk with musical honours. “Auld Lang Syne” and “God save the Queen” were then sung, and a very pleasant and convivial meeting was thus brought to a close.

1881: Bucks Herald, 29 Oct
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- On Tuesday evening last the members of this society commenced their second season by holding a supper in their room, situate in Church-street, when thirty sat down to the tables, Mr. Geo. Wigley taking the chair, and Mr. S. Jones the vice-chair. After supper a social entertainment was held, consisting of readings, recitations, songs, and instrumental music, a very enjoyable evening being spent.

1882: Bucks Herald, 25 Feb
ENTERTAINMENT.- On Monday evening an entertainment of a high class character was given in the Reading Room, kindly lent by the Vicar, on behalf of the funds of the Winslow Literary Institute. The chair was taken by Captain Verney, R.N. The main part of the programme was a series of selected poetical readings given by the Rev. C. W. Stubbs, M.A. [vicar of Granborough], entitled “Poetry and Life.” There were interspersed with critical and explanatory remarks, and were given with clearness, force, and vividness. The musical part of the programme was appropriately chosen to fit in with the readings, and fully merited the praise accorded to it.

1882: Bucks Herald, 8 April
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- On Tuesday evening last about twenty-eight members of this society met in the room at the rear of the Crooked Billet Inn, and wound up the season with an excellent supper, provided by Host Hawtin. Mr. G. D. E. Wigley occupied the chair, and Mr. James East the vice-chair, and among others present were Mr. George George, Mr. W. S. Neal, Mr. John Ingram, &c. After the tables were cleared, Mr. Day, secretary, read a statement of the accounts, showing a balance in hand of nearly £11. A pleasant evening was spent in speeches, songs, &c.

1882: Bicester Herald, 29 Sep
WINSLOW LITERARY INSTITUTE.- The room used by this society during former winters having been found much too small, the committee have secured a house situate in Horn-street, and intend opening it for the season on Monday, October 2nd.

1882: Bicester Herald, 20 Oct
WINSLOW LITERARY INSTITUTE.- A business meeting was held on Tuesday evening, Oct. 17, in the Reading room, which was kindly lent by the vicar for the occasion. The purpose of the meeting was to elect a new committee. The following gentlemen were chosen – Messrs. G. George, E. J. French, Jno. Ingram, W. Neal junr., R. Coxill, J. Varney, jun., W. Stevens, H. Roads, G. Ratley, and H. Coldrey. The Rev. J. Riordan and Mr. Wm. Turnham were also proposed, but declined. Mr. Geo. Day was reappointed secretary.

1882: Bicester Herald, 3 Nov
WINSLOW LITERARY INSTITUTE READING ROOM.- The Committee of this society having taken the premises on the Market-square known as the Roundhouse (recently purchased by Mr. William Turnham), commenced the season on November 1. The rooms, though small, are somewhat snug, and well situated. The reading-room is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and is supplied with the following newspapers and magazines – “Standard,” “Daily News,” “Daily Telegraph,” “Daily Chronicle,” “Echo,” “Punch,” “Fun,” “Funny Folks,” “Graphic,” “Cassell’s Magazine,” “Chamber’s Journal,” “Harper’s Magazine,” “Builder,” “English Mechanic,” “Dispatch,” “Exchange and Mart,” “Detroit Free Press,” “Alliance News,” “Musical Times,” “Phonetic Meteor,” “Phonographic Reporter,” “Phonetic Journal,” “Boys’ Own Paper,” “Youth,” and most of the local papers. The smoking-room is open from 6 to 10 p.m. Chess, draughts, and dominoes are provided. The attendance on the first night was very good, about 40 becoming members, and there is little doubt that the rooms, from their central position, and the fact of the reading-room being open all day, will be largely patronised.

1883: Buckingham Advertiser, 27 Jan
CONCERT.- The second concert of the season on behalf of the Literary Institute was held in the lofty and spacious Iron Room (which was kindly placed at the disposal of the Committee by Mr. J. L. French,) on Thursday evening, January 18th, and was largely attended, most of the gentry in the neighbourhood being represented. The concert was a highly successful one and reflected considerable credit on all concerned, the only fault, perhaps, to be found being that it occupied nearly three hours, for which a number of young men in the back seats were, however, chiefly responsible, as they insisted upon nearly every piece being repeated, thus annoying both the performers and audience.

1883: Bicester Herald, 16 March
WINSLOW LITERARY INSTITUTE.-LECTURE.- On Friday evening, March 9, a scientific and experimental lecture, entitled “Earth, air, fire and water,” was given in the Iron Room by Mr. W. H. Ray (formerly of the Polytechnic, London) of Winslow, on behalf of the Literary Institute. Owing to some misunderstanding with regard to the necessary appliances, the lecturer was compelled to omit the more advanced experiments. Those shown were of an interesting character, among them being the production of carbonic acid gas from sulphuric acid and marble, oxygen and hydrogen gases, burning iron in water, magnesium lights, boiling spirits at a low temperature, the expansion and contraction of air by heat and cold, &c. The futility of attempting to extinguish burning spirits (such as benzoline) by water was also demonstrated, and some useful advice was given with regard to fires, and also relative to ventilation. The thanks of the rather small audience were expressed by Mr. E. J. French, who occupied the chair in the absence of the Rev. R. C. Allen, who had been announced to preside.

1883: Buckingham Advertiser, 1 Dec
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- On Tuesday evening, Nov. 20, a members’ entertainment was held in the Yeates’ School. Mr. Geo. Wigley presided. There was a good attendance. The following gentlemen obliged with song: Messrs. G. Ingram, Wake, W. Turnham, Stevens, Day and Saunders. Readings were given by Messrs. E. J. French, Coxill, A. J. Clear, and Alderman. Mr. G. Day officiated at the piano. At the close votes of thanks were accorded to the chairman, and to the Vicar for kindly allowing the use of the school. A business meeting was afterwards held, when Mr. W. Stonhill was elected on the general committee, and a committee of twelve gentlemen were appointed to carry on the debating class for the season.

1883: Bucks Herald, 15 Dec
DEBATING SOCIETY.- On Tuesday last a meeting of this society (which is in connection with the Literary Institute) was held in Yeate’s Schoolroom, when a lively discussion took place on the Bradlaugh question. [Charles Bradlaugh, M.P. for Northampton, was a declared atheist and could not take his seat because he would not take the parliamentary oath.] The chair was taken by Mr. George Wigley, who, after reading the rules of the debate, called upon the Rev. H. A. Douglas Hamilton, vicar, to move the proposition for the evening, “That the meeting approves of the exclusion of Mr. Bradlaugh from the House of Commons.” Mr. J. Hillyer moved as an amendment “That the meeting considers Mr. Bradlaugh a fit and proper person to take his seat in the House of Commons.” The proposition was supported by Mr. W. Neal, jun., and Mr. John Varney, jun., and the amendment by Mr. H. Coldrey, Mr. T. Saving, the Rev. J. Riordan, Mr. E. J. French, Mr. W. Turnham, and Mr. R. Coxill. The Vicar having replied to the proposition, the Chairman put it to the meeting, when the amendment was carried by a majority of over 2 to 1.

1884: Bucks Herald, 12 April
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- The last of the series of entertainments in connection with the Institute was held in the Yeates’ School on Tuesday last, when Mr. E. J. French presided. Pianoforte and vocal duet, songs, readings, and recitations were given by Miss Langley, Miss Roads, and Messrs. Turnham, French, Day, Bonham, Wake, Wilkins, and Coxill. We must congratulate the Literary Institute on the superior character and style of their entertainments during the past winter, which have in every case been largely attended and greatly appreciated. The thanks of the members are certainly due to the Vicar for his kindness and liberality in granting the use of the school for the purposes of the Institute.- A business meeting was held at the close, at which it was decided to keep the premises in the Market-square open during the summer, and, in place of the customary winding-up dinner, it was resolved that the session should be concluded with a conversazione and promenade concert. An Athletic Club was also proposed for the summer, which met with the cordial approval of the members.

1884: Bicester Herald, 9 May
WINSLOW ATHLETIC CLUB, in connection with Winslow Literary Institute, has through the kindness of Mr. John Turnham, a practice field, which is put in proper order for athletic exercises.

1884: Bicester Herald, 5 Sep
WINSLOW LITERARY INSTITUTE ATHLETIC SPORTS. The first public competition in connection with Winslow Literary Institute Athletic Club (of which Mr. J. Colgrove, jun., is the secretary) took place on the club ground on Thursday, August 28. The programme was limited to three events, and of these only two came off in consequence of there not being sufficient entries. The results were- 100 Yards Handicap: First heat: F. Sear, 1; J. Brise, 2. Second heat: W. Stonill and W. Young equal. Third heat: W. Walker,1; W. French, 2. Final: First, 10s., F. Sear; second, 5s., W. French: - Quarter Mile Handicap: First, 10s. W. Young; second, 5s., E. Illing; J. Brise a very close third.- Mr. G. Day was the starter, and Messrs Turnham and Colgrove, the judges.- In the evening the ground was lit with gas, and dancing was kept up to a comparatively late hour to the music of a piano organ.

1884: Bucks Herald, 22 Nov
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- We are pleased to learn that William Selby Lowndes, Esq., jun., has kindly consented to act as president of this society. We understand that there is a deficiency on the year’s returns, which it is proposed to remove by a concert to be held on New Year’s Day, 1885.

1885: Buckingham Advertiser, 11 July,
ATHLETIC CLUB.- A dance in connection with this club was held in their ground on Thursday, July 2, and was extremely successful. The committee (Messrs. G. D. Day, W. Turnham, W. Stonhill, J. Colgrove jun., and E. Illing), had announced it for the previous Thursday, but the weather was so bad on that day, that it was impossible to hold it. On this occasion the day was everything that could be desired. Messrs. Watts and Son, of Buckingham, supplied the music.

1885: Bucks Herald, 14 Nov
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- The annual meeting of this Institute was held on Friday evening, Nov. 6th, at the Yeates’ School, where there was a good attendance, including a number of ladies. The Vicar had been announced to take the chair, but in opening the meeting the Secretary, Mr. G. D. Day, said he was compelled to be absent, and Mr. E. J. French was asked to fill the post. The proceedings commenced with an entertainment in which Miss Langley gave three songs; the Rev. J. Riordan recited Othello’s speech; Mrs W. Turnham sang “The Old Brigade,” and gave a reading from the Bab Ballads; Mr. Day a harmonium solo and a reading; Mr. A. J. Clear a reading, “A Night of troubles;” and Mr. H. Roads a violin solo. The business meeting was afterwards held, when Mr. Day read the statement of accounts, showing a balance against the Institute of £4:15:9, which, under the circumstances, was not considered unfavourable. The election of a Committee, &c., was then proceeded with, Mr. M. S. Lowndes being re-elected president. The Rev. J. Riordan moved the re-election of Mr. Day to the secretaryship, remarking that to him the prosperity of the Institute was mainly due. It was agreed to limit the number of the Committee to nine, including the Secretary, and after some discussion, to place the Revs. H. A. D. Hamilton and J. Riordan on without balloting them. This left six members to be balloted, and the following were proposed:- Messrs. E. J. French, Turnham, Grummitt, Varney, Clear, Colgrove, Hucklow, Illing, Bonham, Wake, Eales, and Rev. J. S. Poulton. The result was the election of Messrs. E. J. French, Turnham, Clear, Illing, Bonham and Wake.

1885: Buckingham Advertiser, 23 Oct
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- A meeting convened by circular was held in the Reading Room, on Thursday evening, to discuss the possibility of re-opening the institute this winter. There was a good attendance of members, and Mr. John Varney, jun., was appointed Chairman. The balance sheet was read by Mr. Day, the secretary, and showed up to date a deficit of about £2 10/-, but as Mr. Day pointed out, the receipts included some extraneous and special items that could not reasonably be expected again (including good subscriptions from W S. Lowndes, Esq., H. J. Chinnery, Esq., H. R. Lambton, Esq., G. R. Greaves, Esq., Rev. S. T. Adams, &c.,) and he estimated that the ordinary subscriptions would not meet the working expenses by £8 or £9. On the motiion [sic] of the Rev. J. Riordan, the accounts were passed, and considerable discussion took place as to best course to be pursued. It appeared to be the general opinion that it was a pity to close the Institute altogether, and the best plan was to try for less expensive premises. The old room in Church Street [i.e. the Girls' School] was mentioned, also the room on the top of the Engine House, and ultimately it was agreed that Mr. Day should make inquiries and report to the Committee. The proceedings closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman and Mr. Day.

1886: Buckingham Advertiser, 24 April,
Under the patronage of WILLIAM SELBY LOWNDES, Esq., Jun. (President), HENRY LAMBTON, Esq., H. J. CHINNERY, Esq., EGERTON HUBBARD, Esq., Capt. E. H. VERNEY, R.N. M.P.
TWO AMATEUR DRAMATIC PERFORMANCES WILL BE GIVEN IN THE “BELL” ASSEMBLY ROOM,
ON WEDNESDAY and THURSDAY, April 28 and 29,
WHEN THE Laughable Farces of ”Ici on Parle Francais” AND “Dandelion’s Dodges”
WILL BE PLAYED BY MEMBERS OF THE LITERARY INSTITUTE.
A Selection of VOCAL and INSRUMENTAL MUSIC will be performed in the Interval.
Doors open at 7.30 o’clock; to commence at 8 precisely.
ADMISSION- WEDNESDAY, Reserved Seats, 3s. and 2s.; Second Seats, 1s.
THURSDAY, a few Reserved Seats at 2s.; Front Seats, 1s.; Second Seats, 6d.
Further particulars in Programmes.
GEO. D. DAY, HON.SEC.

1886: Buckingham Advertiser, 27 Nov
LITERARY INSTITUTE.- A general meeting of the members, especially convened by circular, was held in the Yeates’ School, on Tuesday evening last, to consider the closing of the Institute. There was a large attendance of members, and Mr. M. S. Lowndes was chosen chairman. Mr. Day, the secretary, was called upon to address the meeting, and said it would be remembered that at the last general meeting he was left with instructions to try and obtain cheaper premises. He visited the room over the Engine House, but found that was undergoing such alterations that rendered it utterly impossible to hold a reading-room on the premises. He afterwards received a letter from Miss George, offering them a room, which offer he read at the last committee meeting. He then received a suggestion from Mr. Hamilton, who said that Mr. Chinnery had promised to support a room, if left under Mr. Hamilton’s management. But he thought it would be best to allow Mr. Hamilton to make his own statement. In conclusion he read a resolution passed by the Committee, that under the circumstances they saw no prospect of being able to carry on the Literary Institute in the future, and recommending the members to close it.-

The Rev. H. A. Douglas-Hamilton said that he read in the newspaper that there was a great deficiency in the funds of the literary Institute; and that it was impossible to carry it on under the present arrangements, as there was a great chance of it falling. Then seeing the great importance of a reading-room to the town, he turned over in his mind what was best to be done, and went to Mr. Chinnery, and said to him the Reading-room has broken through, and it is very essential that we should have one in the town. Mr. Chinnery at once offered to guarantee the expenses, on conditions that he (the speaker) would manage it. Mr. Chinnery did not want in any way to come prominently forward, but only to guarantee the expenses. He had taken the house on a lease, and his second horseman was going to live in it, and his wife would take care of the place. It would be opened to the use of anyone who wished to go; for although Mr. Chinnery had stipulated that it was to be under the speaker’s management, it was entirely for the benefit of the town; and the only disqualification would be non-payment of subscriptions,-

Mr. J. Colgrove, jun., inquired what was the amount of the debt; to which the secretary replied that the debt to the present time was £2 12s. 3d.; but the safest plan was to allow another £1 for arrears of subscriptions, and call it £3 10s.- The Vicar asked what was the amount of the special fund raised.- The secretary replied £12 6s., adding that they should have been in a hopeless state of insolvency but for that.- Mr. A. J. Clear asked if Miss George’s offer of a room had been read to the members.- The secretary replied it had.- Mr. E. J. French proposed that the Institute be closed.- This was seconded by Mr. W. Turnham; and no amendment being made, the chairman declared it carried.-

The Vicar suggested that the property belonging to the Institute be made over to the new one, on condition that he cleared off the debt of £3 10s. The property belonged to the past, present and future members, and if the property was sold and the debt liquidated, what was to be done with the balance? The property belonged to all. He remembered giving an entertainment that raised some funds on its behalf. It might if they liked be used by the members of the room as long as it remained a Reading-room, and then returned back to the members of the old room. He had suggested that they should have the words Literary Institute stamped on each article.-

Mr. W. Turnham proposed that the property of the present Literary Institute be handed over to the members of the new Reading-room, on condition that those rooms be used for unsectarian purposes altogether.- The Vicar inquired what was meant by unsectarian purposes.- Mr. Turnham instanced that denominational religious papers should not be sent in, seeing that they were not allowed in the old Institute.- The Vicar maintained his right of putting religious papers in, whereupon Mr. Turnham asked if he would accept of any paper that were given for the purpose.- The Vicar said any bona fide religious papers he would willingly accept; but there were plenty of papers about that were only fit to put on the fire.- The secretary observed that he understood it to be that no immoral or free-thinking papers would be accepted.- Mr. Turnham accepted this, and the proposition was seconded by Mr. J. Colgrove, and carried.- Mr. Stonell inquired if the papers would be the same as before; to which the Vicar replied by giving a list…

In reply to a question he said the rooms would be open from 10 to 10 on week days, and half past 7 to 10 on Sundays, and the subscription 1s. a month, or 2s. per quarter.- The secretary (Mr. Day) said he was glad it was to be open on Sunday.- The Vicar said he had carefully considered the matter, and had come to the conclusion that it could be opened on that day. Of course on Saturday papers would be removed and some good literature substituted. Mr. Turnham’s propositions was declared carried, and then Mr. J. Varney proposed that the books and magazines belonging to the Institute be handed over to the parish Library.- This was seconded by Mr. W. H. Linnell, and carried.-

Mr. E. J. French then proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Day, who had done his utmost in the past on behalf of the Literary Institute, and used every effort to make it a success. He was quite sure that they would all join with him in giving a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Day. They were sorry to lose him, but understood that he was carving out another future for himself, which they all hoped might be a successful one (cheers). The Vicar seconded this, saying he should have been only too glad to have secured Mr. Day’s help, but he said his hands were too full.- Mr. Day acknowledged the vote of thanks, and suggested that the old name of Literary Institute be retained, as he thought it would take better.- The Vicar said the name was too grand, he should call it Parish Reading Room and Working Men’s Club.- Mr. John Varney proposed, and Mr. Day seconded, a vote of thanks to the Chairman.- Mr. M. S. Lowndes in reply said he had always taken a great interest in the affairs of the Institute, and was sorry to hear that it was failing, and hoped the new one would prove a success.- The Vicar said the new Reading-room would be open on the 1st of December. Mr. John Varney, jun., would act as treasurer, and Mr. Bonham as secretary. The latter would take names now of any member who wished to join.- This concluded the meeting.

Read about the new Parish Reading Room.

There was another Literary Society in operation in 1901.