In common with the rest of the country, the church played a major part in the lives of most of the people of Watchfield throughout the 17th-19th centuries. There were a few dissenters as can been attested to in the chapel presentments of the 18th century, but on the whole, the church and its doctrinal views were respected.
Part of the duties of the church concerned the education of the local children attending what were known as ‘National Schools’. After visiting the Shrivenham children, the Diocesan Inspector (Rev Edward Barber) examined the children of Watchfield school and reported that, ‘the answering was a little brighter than formerly. The school has just filled up, and many of the new comers have still everything to learn.’ Swindon Advertiser, Saturday 7 July, 1883.
All the usual annual services were reported on by local correspondents. The Swindon Advertiser on Saturday 11 October, 1891, noted, ‘The harvest festival was kept in St Thomas’ Church on Sunday 11th October. The decorations were of an appropriate character, and consisted of fruit, vegetables, corn, bread and flowers, a large quantity of which was given by the villagers. The Holy Communion was administered at 9am. The services, which were choral, were of a bright and hearty character. The sermon in the morning was preached by the Rev E.A. Ferguson, and in the afternoon by the vicar. The offerings of fruit, vegetables and flowers were sent to the Infirmary at Reading. The collections which were divided between the Reading Infirmary and Royal Agricultural Benevolent Society, amounted to £1.2s 8d.’
On 2 January, 1892, the newspaper said of the Christmas Services, ‘The Christmas festival was well observed in the parish, and the services were of a bright and hearty character. On Christmas Eve there was full choral service at 7 o’clock, and on Christmas Day the Holy Communion was administered at 9.15. Morning service at 11. Afternoon service, at which the vicar was the preacher, was at 3.15. The church was very pretty and tastefully decorated.’
And of the Easter following, the newspaper of Saturday, 23 April, 1892, noted, ‘There were two services every day during Holy week, and a sermon preached every night. The Easter services were of a bright and heart character, and well attended. At the afternoon service the sermon was preached by the Rev E.A. Ferguson, curate-in-charge. The church was very prettily decorated.’
Picture 71. St Thomas' Church circa 1910. Picture courtesy of Paul Williams
Occasionally there were unusual services, like the one described by the Swindon Advertiser on Saturday, 22 September, 1894. ‘On Sunday sermons were preached at Shrivenham in the morning, at Watchfield in the afternoon, and at Shrivenham in the evening by the Rev Duncan, travelling missionary from Zanzibar in Central Africa. There was a large congregation in the evening. The rev gentleman gave a long and most interesting address upon mission work in Africa, taking his text from the prophecies of Ezekiel. The offertories at all the services in both Churches were given to the Universities Mission fund.’
The land to the rear of the church was added to the churchyard as the Swindon Advertiser reported on Saturday 6 October, 1894. ‘The piece of land recently added to the churchyard was consecrated on Sunday last, by the Lord Bishop of Reading. His lordship arrived at the vicarage on Saturday evening, and officiated at early celebration of the Holy Communion on Sunday morning and read the lessons at the mid-day service at the parish church. There was a special service at Watchfield in the afternoon conducted by the vicar. The psalms used were those appointed to be read at the burial service. The special lessons were read by the Rev Davis. A most striking sermon upon the use of churchyards was preached by the Bishop. His lordship observed that many places where he visited churchyards were a disgrace, while perhaps somebody’s garden adjoining was kept in splendid order. After the service his lordship consecrated the new piece of ground, walking round and reading the service appointed, being followed by the vicar, choir, churchwardens, sidesmen and the parish clerk. The Rev Davis acted as staff-bearer. His lordship preached at Shrivenham in the evening.’
Picture 72. Another view of the new Church from about 1910. Picture courtesy of Paul Williams.
An interesting event took place in October 1895, and the Swindon Advertiser of the 26th covered it. ‘Last week this little hamlet was well astir caused by the visit of a Church Army van with Captain Bennett and his two assistants. The van was stationed in Mr Hedges’ yard, where daily visits could be made by those who wished to converse with the Captain connected with the Army. In return for these the Captain and his two assistants made calls through the village. There was an open air service every evening followed by a mission service in a large comfortable barn kindly lent by Mr R.W. Hedges, these services being well attended. Indeed all the available sitting room was taken up every evening. The services were of a most interesting character. Hymns being sung and most earnest addresses given by Captain Bennett chiefly upon the Doctrine held by the Church of England. Dissenters attended the meetings in good numbers. Two evenings of the week there was a magic lantern service showing the mission homes, etc, in London; also slides showing the Life, Death and Resurrection of our Lord. Sunday evening was the crowning meeting when there was a large meeting in the Barn at 7.30, so as not to interfere with the Church or Chapel services. Captain Bennett preached from the words, “One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism.” His address was of a remarkable character. He quoted passages of scripture in support of the Doctrine of confirmation and urged that infant baptism was never forbidden by our Lord. At the close of his address the Vicar (Rev E.F. Hill) delivered an earnest address. Many thanks are due to the members of the Watchfield Band, who were in attendance each evening, and to Mr A. Manners, who, although totally blind, led the whole of the musical parts of the services on the harmonium.’
It was natural that the local people would hold their spiritual ministers in high esteem, and equally understandable that those ministers would have an affection for their flocks. The Swindon Advertiser in November, 1889 noted, ‘On Wednesday evening in last week, the united (adult) choirs of Shrivenham and Watchfield were invited to partake of a supper, kindly provided at the vicarage, by the Rev G.W. Murray, the esteemed vicar, prior to his departure, through ill-health, from the village, where he has ministered for so many years. A most sumptuous repast was provided and a very pleasant evening spent. During the evening the Hon Walter Barrington referred to the separation about to take place between the vicar and his people after the long period of thirty years, and trusted that the quietude of the future might be the means of re-establishing his health and prolonging the life of Mr Murray, from who they extremely sorry to part. The Rev G.W. Murray, in replying, stated the pleasure he felt in catering to their enjoyment, yet on the other hand how painful it was, on that, in all probability, the last time they should meet on such an occasion, and exhorted the choristers to live godly lives and show by their walk and conversation their worthiness to hold the office of reading the musical portion of the sacred services of the church. On Thursday evening the choir lads of both the villages entertained in a like manner.’
Such was the esteem in which the parishioners of Watchfield and Shrivenham held the Rev G.W. Murray, that when he retired due to ill-health, a collection confined to past and present residents, raised the enormous sum of £112. This sum in gold, was then placed into a splendid white watered silk bag made by the Hon Mrs Barrington, and ‘G.W.M. 1889 Shrivenham,’ beautifully worked thereon by the Hon W. Barrington. This was then presented to George Murray at a packed school room in November 1889. Also presented to him by Head Master Mr Olliver, was an ebony walking-stick with silver handle and silver band inscribed, ‘Presented to the Rev G.W. Murray by the teachers and scholars of Shrivenham School.’
The Swindon Advertiser of Saturday, 9 April, 1892, reported two presentations. The first was sub-headed, ‘ St. Thomas’ Church.’ ‘The vicar of Shrivenham, Rev E.F. Hill, has presented a new communion table, made of magnificent oak, to the parishioners of Watchfield. The rev gentleman made the design, the workmanship being skillfully executed by a local artist, Mr Rees Kent.’
Presentation. ‘On Monday evening a very interesting meeting took place in the village schoolroom, when Mr R.W. Hedges (churchwarden) presented, on behalf of the inhabitants of Watchfield, a handsome set of silver salts and spoons to match, in morocco case, lined with velvet and silk, to the Rev A.E. Ferguson, curate, on the occasion of that gentleman’s approaching marriage. During the time Mr Ferguson has held office in Watchfield he has endeared himself to the villagers generally, hence the above expression of good feeling. The Rev gentleman thanked the subscribers for the very handsome gift.’
Although he had only arrived in Watchfield a little over a year earlier, the Rev L. Atkinson wasted no time in becoming a firm favourite with his parishioners. The Swindon Advertiser of 13 May, 1893, reported that he had been appointed curate of Watchfield and was about to commence his duties. But then, in the editions dated 30 June, 1894, a lengthy article appeared about his leaving, ‘Farewell Sermon. It having become known that the Rev L. Atkinson would be preaching for the last time on Sunday afternoon last, a large number availed themselves of the opportunity of attending the service. So large indeed was the number that many would have gone away had not the officers procured forms and placed them up the aisle. The service was of a most striking character; among the congregation being several Nonconformists, Mr Stratford, who was conducting a camp meeting service, consented to close the meeting at 3 o’clock in order that those who wished might attend the church. The service was commenced with that grand old hymn, “All people that on earth do dwell.” The rev gentleman chose for his text the words, “A certain rich man had a steward.” He dwelt at length upon these words, explaining that God was the rich man and we his stewards. He referred to his approaching departure, and the whole congregation seemed moved as he approached the subject; indeed many were moved to tears. The rev gentleman almost completely broke down before he could conclude. In all probability, he said, they might never all meet again in this world, but he trusted might in the next. He had been thinking what words to choose to part upon, and he had chosen the 15th Psalm “Lord who shall dwell upon Holy Hill,” etc. The rev gentleman who has been in the village but just over a year is by no means a low Churchman but very broad-minded and of a most humble disposition. He has won the respect of those with whom he had the least to do with, and this departure is regretted by all.
Presentation. On Thursday in last week, a meeting was held in the schoolroom to present the Rev L. Atkinson with a beautiful set of fish knives and forks and slice, consisting of 26 pieces and case. On the outside were the words in gilt letters, “Presented to the Rev L. Atkinson by the inhabitants of Watchfield and Shrivenham, on his departure from the neighbourhood.” The list of subscribers included nearly all the heads of the families in the village, including the Hon Mrs Barrington of Beckett House; Mr A.W. Fairthorne and other friends, Mr Butler, Mr Dore and Mr Phillips of Bourton; and Miss Hughes of Longcot; Mr Looker of Westmill; Mr Reeves, Ruffins Wick; Mr Barrett, Mr Day, Stainswick; Mr Millard, and many others. Among the number were several Nonconformists. Mr Hutson opened the meeting and explained that it was called solely to present Mr Atkinson with the gift. They were all very sorry at his leaving. Mrs Hutson then asked Mr Atkinson to accept the gift. The rev gentleman, who was evidently greatly moved, spoke at a considerable length, dwelling upon the duties and responsibilities of a Christian Minister. He heartily thanked everybody present, especially those who had gone to so much trouble. (cheers). Mr Hedges proposed a vote of thanks to Messrs D. Pocock and U. Chivers, for collecting the funds, and said it must have been a great deal of trouble to them. Mr Pocock, in reply said if Mr Atkinson valued what they had done, and he was sure he did, that was all they needed. He proposed a vote of thanks to the subscribers, and mentioned that great kindness had been received from all classes. Mr Phipps replied on behalf of Shrivenham friends, and Mr G. Wyatt, of Watchfield, a Nonconformist, also spoke in the highest terms of Mr Atkinson. A vote of thanks to Mr Hutson brought the meeting to a close. The committee who collected the subscriptions were :- Mr Hutson, Mr Hedges, Mr Phipps, Mr Stephens, Mr G. Wyatt, Mr R. Stone, Mr U. Chivers, Mr D. Pocock.’
There were many Vestry Meetings whereby the general church-going public could have their say on the how the church should be managed. But two in particular were covered by the Swindon Advertiser, and both give us a flavor of the local mood. The first was Saturday 30 April, 1892. ‘The annual Easter vestry was held on Friday evening at 6.30, thus giving everyone an opportunity of attending. The Rev E.A. Ferguson presided. The accounts were presented, examined and passed. It appeared from the accounts that there was a balance in hand (exclusive of heating apparatus fund) of 3s 9d. The Rev E.F. Hill, vicar, re-appointed Mr R.W. Hedges as his warden, and Mr A. Fereman was re-appointed parish warden. Mr David Pocock was again chosen sidesman. A strong feeling prevailed regarding the necessity of thoroughly repairing and cleansing the church, walls, etc, and hopes were expressed that funds sufficient to meet the same would be forthcoming.’
And a little later in that decade the emphasis was still on the outside of the church building. Swindon Advertiser, Saturday, 18 April, 1896. ‘The annual church vestry was held at the Parsonage on Wednesday, the 8th inst. The accounts were examined and passed. The parish warden explained that he had not yet received the usual subscription from certain gentlemen, but it was estimated the accounts would about balance. The winter having been very mild, the quantity of fuel consumed for heating the church was about half that of the previous year, but against this had to be put the purchasing of certain lime trees which had recently been planted in the churchyard and which takes off the bare appearance of the new piece of ground which has recently been added; also there was the cost of a pair of oak gates erected by Mr Rees Kent, of Shrivenham, and which was seen for the first time on Easter morning. Mr Hedges was re-elected parish warden. The vicar re-appointed Mr Hudson his warden, and on the proposition of the Vicar, Mr Pocock was re-elected sidesman. It is to be regretted that so few attend the vestry meetings. Although since the passing of the Parish Council Act the vestries are for purely Church matters, still, those connected with the church management will be always glad to see the parishioners attend. It was mentioned that at the half-past nine Holy Communion celebration on Easter Sunday there were 34 comminicants, which speaks well for a small hamlet.’
Then, of course, there were weddings, and some managed to make the headlines in the local newspaper. The Swindon Advertiser, Sat, February 11, 1893.’ A very pretty wedding took place in Watchfield Church on Wednesday last, between Mr J. Betterton, Head Game Keeper for Mr Palmer of Reading, and Miss Charlotte Wyatt, second daughter of Mr William Wyatt of Watchfield. The Rev. G.D.C. Wheeler, Vicar of Cleobury Mortimer (late curate of Watchfield) officiated, assisted by the Rev. E.F. Hill, Vicar of Shrivenham. The hymns 350 and 351 (A and M) was sung by the choir. Mr F.F. Manners, organist, playing in his usual good style. The bride was attired in a cream cashmere dress, trimmed with lace and ribbon, and wore a wreath of orange blossoms and veil. She was given away by her father, Mr Fred Wyatt, acting as best man. The bridesmaids, Miss Carie Wyatt, Miss Violet Underwood, Miss Florry Wyatt, and Miss Annie Still, wore pale pink zephyr dresses, prettily trimmed with lace and large white hats trimmed with tulle and ribbon. The bride and bridegroom left for Marlston with every good wish. They were the recipients of a great number of presents, including a dinner service from the Rev. E.A. Ferguson; ‘The Christian Year’ from the Rev. G.D.C. Wheeler; two views of Shrivenham church from the Rev. E.F. Hill; a silver teapot from Mr Harry Cox.’
Then three years later the local newspaper on 19 September reported, ‘The marriage took place at the parish Church on Monday in last week of Miss Beatrice Annie Lawrence, eldest daughter of Mr J. Lawrence, of Stallpits Farm, and Mr William Hedges, only son of Mr Robert Hedges , of Watchfield Farm. The bride, who was given away by her father, was attired in white cashmere, and attended by her four sisters, the Misses Ethel, Agnes, Mabel and Ida Lawrence, and the Misses Blanche and Madeline Hedges, sisters of the bridegroom, dressed in cream aplacca with blue trimmings. Mr J. Puzey acted as , ‘Best Man.’ The ceremony was performed by the Rev E.F. Hill (vicar) , assisted by the Rev J. Footman (curate). Many handsome and useful presents were received , including a silver butter dish and knife presented by about 40 of the inhabitants of Watchfield to Mr W. Hedges as a token of their respect and esteem.’
On Friday 6 January, 1899, the Swindon Advertiser reported of Watchfield, ‘In this small hamlet, the closing week of the year, saw one birth, one marriage and one death. The wedding which took place on Saturday at St Thomas’s Chapel-of-Ease, was a very pretty one. The contracting parties were Mr James Dicken, son of Mr Eleazor Dicken, of Bourton, and Miss Amelia Crew, of Watchfield. The ceremony was performed by the Rev J. Footman. Mr Dicken, who emigrated to America a few years ago, has lately returned to his old country, and is about to take up his abode at Foxham, near Dauntsey, Wilts.