1903: Today saw an extension to Peterborough's growing tram network when the service to Newark began, the trams travelling along the Eastfield Road. The driver - the motorman - had to stand in an open area to drive the tram and was exposed to all weathers. He worked a ten-hour shift, six days a week, at a rate of 5d an hour, which provided him with a weekly wage of 25s. (Peterborough Advertiser)
Taken from The Peterborough Book of Days by Brian Jones, The History Press, 2014.
Redevelopment of the large garden in which the Meeting House was situated was started to provide an attractive and peaceful facility for members, users and the community of Peterborough to enjoy. Planting is designed to reflect what Quakers refer to as testimonies to their key beliefs which are Truth and Integrity, Equality and Community, Peace and Earth and the Environment. A labyrinth is a well used addition.
In 1866 Peterborough Horticultural and Cottage Garden Society held a 'Grand Floral and Horticultural Fete and Rose Show' in the ground of the cathedral, in what was known as 'Tout hill grounds'. The show was a chance for members of the society to compete in a variety of horticultural classes, with over £60 given in prizes. It was also a chance for nurseries and specialist growers to exhibit their products too.
As in common with most fetes entertainment was provided and there was a refreshment marquee. In addition, the grounds of the deanery and vineyard were also open to visitors too.
The event was held on Wednesday 8th August and the society had organised special ticket prices for people visiting from outside the city.
Grand Floral and Horticultural Fetes appeared across the country at similar times, with Stamford holding a similar fete on Wednesday 6th July 1859 which was 'on the same magnificent scale as former years' suggesting this was a regular event.
Reference
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal, Saturday 4th August 1866, p 5, col. 2
Lincolnshire Chronicle, Friday 24th June 1859, p 4, col. 1
Messrs G and WH Burch ran a nursery specialising in roses which was located on Padholme Road close to Charles Street, where a nursery continued for decades. Adverts for the company claimed they had won hundreds of awards for their roses including coveted silver cups. They sold standard, climbing and dwarf roses as well as a variety of shrubs and trees too.
In 1898 an advert claimed they had won 492 awards in the last 12 years, showing that they had been entering competitions since at least 1886. Newspaper records reveal that they won awards at fetes and competitions in a wide area including Stamford, Rockingham, Uffington, Wragby and Ripley in Yorkshire. They also exhibited at Northampton, Norwich and Ealing, to name but a few of the many locations.
Reference
Burch's Roses, Peterborough Advertiser, Saturday 19th November 1898, p 2, col 2
In 1866 Peterborough Horticultural and Cottage Garden Society held a 'Gr…
Messrs G and WH Burch ran a nursery specialising in roses which was loca…