Associated websites: BURLEY VILLAGE HERITAGE TRUST CIO
Since receiving planning permission for a Burley Heritage Centre The National Lottery is now no longer accepting applications towards help with funding new builds, their emphasis is now on restoration of existing "heritage" buildings.
LATEST NEWS (22nd January 2026) - The revised plans for the proposed Heritage Centre have now been approved
(20th January 2026 Application 25/00955VAR) by The New Forest National Park Authority.
Since receiving planning permission for a Burley Heritage Centre The National Lottery is now no longer accepting applications towards help with funding new builds, their emphasis is now on restoration of existing "heritage" buildings.
LATEST NEWS (22nd January 2026) - The revised plans for the proposed Heritage Centre have now been approved
(20th January 2026 Application 25/00955VAR) by The New Forest National Park Authority.
Welcome to the Burley Historical Society website - Last updated 26th September 2026
Please explore the numerous links under the "more" tab above!
Any text in GREEN is a clickable link to an external website which will open in a new window.
Click here for latest acquisitions.
Burley Historical Society, based in the village of Burley in the New Forest, Hampshire, was formed in 2013.
Are you a villager who is keen to discover more about the history of your own house or land? Do you belong to a family with present or past connections to Burley? Do you have a special interest in a particular aspect of village or New Forest life? If you are any of these, then we hope to provide support and encouragement as well as practical links that might help you in your research.
Evidence has shown that Burley has been a human settlement at least since Neolithic times. There are Bronze Age burial mounds on Cranesmoor and an Iron Age (or earlier) hillfort on Castle Top. From these early times, through the development of the Manor lands and onwards into more recent centuries, Burley has been a place where people have lived as a community. There is so much to find out about this fascinating and beautiful village.
If you have any information, photographs, maps, documents, in fact anything relating to Burley that you would like to share with our Historical Society please contact David Etchells at - [email protected]
There is a Private Facebook Group Burley Village - Life in the New Forest which is collecting a number of interesting historical items, photos, videos and anecdotes.
Also Facebook Group New Forest History and Heritage
To search for a topic on this website please type query into this search box:-
THE BURLEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY CLUB
Next informal meeting at 5.30pm on Thursday 29th October 2026
at the Wathen-Bartlett, everyone welcome!
at the Wathen-Bartlett, everyone welcome!
It is proposed to have meetings occurring at 5.30pm on the last Thursday of each month.
More information and meeting minutes HERE
More information and meeting minutes HERE
SITE OF THE FIRST BURLEY VILLAGE SHOW IN 1905 - MILL LAWN
Recently acquired postcard postmarked for 14th May 1912, note on reverse "Published by The Burley Stores"
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Sept 2026
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"Hidden Cottage" Sept 2026
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THIS MONTH'S CHALLENGE
Does anybody know the meaning/relevance of the brickwork lettering at the gable end above Spencers Estate Agents building?
COX ^XO
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New stores and Post Office soon after built circa 1880 - Hardcastle p108
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BURLEY THEN AND NOW
A new feature of "Then and Now photographs" of Burley contributed by Mike Whitehouse,
with fresh pairs of comparative photographs uploaded each month - click here
with fresh pairs of comparative photographs uploaded each month - click here
More photo pairs uploaded on 22nd September 2026!
SHELLEY'S FIRS
1936 - Hardcastle, Records of Burley 1st ed 1951
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August 2026
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A group of firs on the Par 4 Hole 6 of the Burley Golf Course. Possibly planted by William Bromfield in 1861 on the day that George Shelley died (1788-13th Feb 1861). George lived at Vineyard Cottage (which was the only village shop at the time), now Durmast Cottage, and had been Overseer five times between 1829 and 1849.
Aerial fly-by of Hole 6 and the Shelley Firs - Burley Golf Club, Hole by Hole
TOTAL (AND SIGNIFICANT PARTIAL) SOLAR ECLIPSES
VISIBLE FROM BURLEY 2000 BC - 3000 AD:- ECLIPSES IN BURLEY
Partial eclipse on Castle Hill 12th August 2026
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THE QUEEN'S HEAD, BURLEY, AND THE ICONIC 1960'S LAVA LAMP
A RECENT ACQUISITION:
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An example of 1st World War Trench Art A brass matchbox holder engraved by Henry Charles Webb (1889-1974) of Southfield Lane, Burley.
For further details on the Webb family of Burley click here |
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Phew what a scorcher.......
(in the shade) < Burley Street 4.00pm Wednesday 24th June 2026.
Does anyone have any weather records, photos etc relating to "extreme" weather events in Burley over the years - like the two examples below recently discovered? eg from "Southampton" weather records 1855-2000 Max temps: 1899 Aug 25.7C 1947 Aug 26.8C Min temps: 1895 Feb -4.5C 1963 Jan -4.6C |
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Max/Min recordings for Lady Sybil Middleton, Burley Grange
December 1962-March 1963 
Horizontal Line marks 32 deg F = 0 deg C
On Wednesday 23rd January 1963: 6 deg F = - 14.4 deg C |
Burley January 1963
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"Lady Sybil" by her grandson Simon Boyd, Hayloft Publishing Ltd. 2017
Established a British Hospital in Russia during the 1st World War, later lead the Women's Legion in France providing female ambulance and staff car drivers to the British Army. Includes a chapter, with photographs, of her time at Burley Grange, where she lived from 1942. |
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At the inaugural meeting of The Burley Historical Society Club:
the whereabouts of the "Burley Box" was raised.
This almost certainly relates to the Parish Box of 1739 described on p63 of Hardcastle.
Can anybody provide any information on the "missing" box?
the whereabouts of the "Burley Box" was raised.
This almost certainly relates to the Parish Box of 1739 described on p63 of Hardcastle.
Can anybody provide any information on the "missing" box?
THE RARE GREEN FOREST HOVERFLY
Keep your eyes peeled during Spring (early May to mid June) for this rare hoverfly (Caliprobola speciosa) that only lives in The New Forest and Windsor Great Park, being particularly partial to rotting beech trees. Thankfully it's numbers appear to be on the increase in recent years.
For more details and excellent photos see: The Green Forest Hoverfly Hunt and also: BBC News article
For more details and excellent photos see: The Green Forest Hoverfly Hunt and also: BBC News article
UNUSUAL SPANISH CIVIL WAR ENVELOPE POSTED TO
"PICKET POST SCHOOL"
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Envelope posted from Puerto De La Cruz, Tenerife on 18th March 1938, during the Spanish Civil War, and receiving a MILITARY CENSOR handstamp. Was James Fraser a pupil at the Picket Post boys school? The school was founded in 1926 under Mr Andrews until about 1956 when it became a hotel. The building was destroyed following an arson attack on Boxing Day 1960. |
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Boys from Picket Post School in 1930's at Linford Bottom (Ex C Foss-Smith - Facebook)
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Picket Post Boys' Preparatory School
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ANOTHER BURLEY AURORA DISPLAY!
Looking North, Burley Street at 9.54pm, 19th January 2026
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Another powerful coronal mass ejection (CME) caused widespread auroras over the entire UK on 19th January 2026, unfortunately rather hampered by significant cloud cover. |
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Useful website for monitoring aurora activity, and also provides email and/or messaging real-time notifications of significant events: AuroraWatch UK AuroraWatch UK also provide smartphone alerts via their free downloadable apps:-
App for iPhone and iPad Android App |
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Sunspot activity varies over an approximate 11 year cycle. The current cycle (Number 25, since 1755 when records began) started in December 2019. Coronal Mass Ejections and auroras peak during solar maxima due to increased magnetic activity. Solar Cycles |
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JAMES O'DONALD MAYS - AUTHOR AND PUBLISHER
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James O'Donald Mays was born in Georgia USA and retired to Burley in 1970 until his death in 2010. He was stationed in Southampton during the 2nd WW and later worked as an American Diplomat. He wrote a number of books (click here) and founded the publishing company "NEW FOREST LEAVES" in Burley. Of particular interest is "The New Forest Book - An Illustrated Anthology" with numerous short articles about the New Forest to dip into. A brief biography from "British Numismatics" |
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HOLMSLEY STATION RAILWAY TICKETS
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Ticket dated 2nd October 1957 - See below
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This ticket dated 16th July 1962 - by which time the fare had increased by 50% to1/6d!
Were only 213 2nd single tickets from Brockenhurst to Holmsley sold in the intervening 5 years?
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Holmsley Station opened on 1st June 1847 and closed, as a result of the Beeching Report, on 4th May 1964.
For a brief history of Holmsley Station, and a connection to Robert Louis Stevenson click here
For a brief history of Holmsley Station, and a connection to Robert Louis Stevenson click here
DINWOODIE - NATIONAL HIVE UNITS
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Does anybody own or know anything about these bee hives, apparently made pre-2nd WW by our very own Eaton & Munby Ltd (see Burleytoys)? Possibly relates to Thomas L Dinwoodie in the mid-to-late 19th century who developed a specific type of beehive in Scotland particularly noted for its effectiveness in beekeeping in heather regions. Heather honey being jelly-like and difficult to extract. |
From The Eva Crane Trust - Brass, 6.3 x 3.8cm,
donated in 1975 by a Mr Fugett (a good Burley surname!). |
LEUCISTIC WILDLIFE
"Stop press"! -
See the January 2026 edition of the Burley Village Magazine for Ian Thew's "From The Inclosure" article on p12-13 together with his photograph of a leucistic Goldfinch.
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Thanks to Ian for permission to use one of his photographs
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Recently spotted leucistic sparrow:
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Leucism in birds is a genetic condition causing partial loss of pigment in feathers. The eyes and other parts being unaffected. Apparently seen in approximately 1:30,000 individuals. True albinos, a genetically recessive condition caused by the absence of an enzyme required for the production of melanin, have a complete lack of pigment (melanin) affecting all parts of the body including the eyes, bill and legs - the eyes look pink or red. True albino animals being exceedingly rare. Unfortunately both these conditions make the affected individuals more prone to predation.
Are we seeing more birds with leucism? Bird Leucism
Both conditions, leucism and albinism can affect other species:
Are we seeing more birds with leucism? Bird Leucism
Both conditions, leucism and albinism can affect other species:
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There are three "White Hart" pubs (Hart being an archaic term for a male red deer) in or very close to the New Forest:
The White Hart - Cadnam
The White Hart - Lymington
The Original White Hart - Ringwood. Legend claims the first "White Hart" pub sign in the country was erected there in honour of a famous white hart captured by King Henry VII in the 15th century and led into the town.
Overall in the UK there are 431 "White Hart" pubs, making it the fifth most common pub name in the UK!
The "White Hart" pub name originates from King Richard II of England (reigned 1377-1399), whose personal heraldic badge was a white hart. Many pubs adopted this name after 1393, when an act made it compulsory for them to have a sign for identification, as a way to show support for the king.
The white hart symbol also had deeper significance: in medieval folklore and Christian tradition, it was considered a rare, mystical animal that represented purity, divinity, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. The animal is often depicted on pub signs wearing a gold collar or crown around its neck.
The White Hart - Cadnam
The White Hart - Lymington
The Original White Hart - Ringwood. Legend claims the first "White Hart" pub sign in the country was erected there in honour of a famous white hart captured by King Henry VII in the 15th century and led into the town.
Overall in the UK there are 431 "White Hart" pubs, making it the fifth most common pub name in the UK!
The "White Hart" pub name originates from King Richard II of England (reigned 1377-1399), whose personal heraldic badge was a white hart. Many pubs adopted this name after 1393, when an act made it compulsory for them to have a sign for identification, as a way to show support for the king.
The white hart symbol also had deeper significance: in medieval folklore and Christian tradition, it was considered a rare, mystical animal that represented purity, divinity, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. The animal is often depicted on pub signs wearing a gold collar or crown around its neck.
BURLEY POSTMARKS
Good, clear, examples of the BURLEY, HANTS postmark are hard to find, either on or off envelopes.
Here are a few examples with a "CDS" (Circular Date Stamp):
Here are a few examples with a "CDS" (Circular Date Stamp):
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Examples from the BURLEY STREET Post Office (opened in 1899 and closed in November 1999) are even harder to come by: Can anyone supply actual examples or photographs of similar Burley/Street postmarks, or indeed any items of early postal history relating to Burley? For a short history of the Burley postal service click here |
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REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 9th NOVEMBER 2025
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 9th NOVEMBER 2025
Click on images for larger view
V-J Day - Friday 15th August 2025
(click on images for larger view)
UNUSUAL MOTHS SEEN IN BURLEY STREET 7th August 2025
Four of these large (wingspan 66-80mm) moths were spotted on a house wall in the evening, luckily one partially opened it's wings revealing a red underwing. Initially thought to be Dark Crimson Underwing moths (Catocala sponsa). This moth is a Red Data Book species and a UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species, primarily found only in the New Forest. It is known for its striking dark crimson underwings and its preference for open oak woodlands. The larvae feed on oak leaves, and adults are attracted to tree sap and sugar baits.
To complicate matters there are four "varieties" of the red underwings - Dark Crimson, Light Crimson, Red and Rosy! Experts at Hantsmoths were consulted and confirmed that these were actually Red Underwing moths (Catocala nupta), not the rarer Dark Crimson's.
Any other sightings in Burley, and has anyone seen a Dark Crimson Underwing?
To complicate matters there are four "varieties" of the red underwings - Dark Crimson, Light Crimson, Red and Rosy! Experts at Hantsmoths were consulted and confirmed that these were actually Red Underwing moths (Catocala nupta), not the rarer Dark Crimson's.
Any other sightings in Burley, and has anyone seen a Dark Crimson Underwing?
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Mounted specimen
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A couple of recently acquired postcards for diagnosis :
The Village Cross was erected in 1920 - Is this a photograph of the "opening ceremony", or possibly the 11th November 1920 Armistice Day ceremony? Note the Lloyds Bank notice above the door. Can anyone add further detail?
Does anyone recognise this Burley House? - Postcard postmarked 1920
2025 GREEN MAN PARADE, BURLEY, Saturday 10th May
(click on images for larger view)
Introduction, arrival of The Green Man and raising of the flag
Procession commences
Procession through Burley continues, and The Green Lady is found
Descendents of John Bromfield honoured and Morris dancing
Green Man of the New Forest facebook page
A group set up to reintroduce an old traditional festival to mark the oncoming spring with a parade.
Click here for information on the history of Maydays in Burley, and of "Jack in the Green".
Also: see lower down this Homepage for photos from the 2024 first revival of the Green Man Parade/May Day Celebrations after a lapse of 160 years!
BURLEY 80th ANNIVERSARY OF VE DAY - 8th May 2025
Raising the flag at 9.00am (click on images for larger view)
Verwood Town Cryer David Cramer reading the VE Day proclamation and opening the "Victory Tea Party",
having arrived at the Wathen-Bartlett in a 1943 WC-52 Dodge Weapons Carrier
having arrived at the Wathen-Bartlett in a 1943 WC-52 Dodge Weapons Carrier
INVICTA Cars 100th Anniversary of the marque
Held at Wilton House, Salisbury on 26th April 2025. John Shutler's 4.5L S Type, Reg AGK 750, was on show in immaculate condition and now sporting a "Shutler" name badge on the front grille.
37 magnificent Invicta's on display
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For more on John Shutler, his Burley Garage and Invicta cars click here
RECENTLY ACQUIRED BURLEY POSTCARD AND PHOTOGRAPH:
Photograph - Burley Pony Show 1909, Harness Class 1st Prize Winner Under 12.2
UPDATE: It transpires that the Winner above is Lady Gertrude Eleanor Crawford (1/7/1868 - 5/11/1937),
with "Coxhill Kitty", at Burley Manor on Monday 2nd August 1909.
The Bournemouth Daily Echo, Wednesday, August 4th, 1909
Does anybody recognise the locations of these images, and particularly, the identity of the prize winning "Mum" below?
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Location?
A thought provoking essay, just published by Mike Whitehouse,
entitled "Burley's Heritage and History: Change, Continuity and Community"
Available to read online here, or download the entire essay as a pdf to print:-
| mw_heritage_essay_feb_2025.pdf |
LOCAL "HISTORIC OVERVIEW" MAPS NOW AVAILABLE:
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Recently published maps of historical interest, packed with detail and very reasonably priced, are now available from: Past Routes |
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Does anyone have any photographs of a "real" Burley bus? |
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REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 10th NOVEMBER 2024
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The village bell - saved when the "old school" was demolished and
later mounted in its present frame for use on ceremonial occasions. Does anybody know which "old school" this refers to? - 1. School in the old barn at North Farm -
burned down and rebuilt in 1887. 2. The "free school" at the Queen's Head. 3. "Dame's School" or old churchyard school in Church Lane, apparently established in 1839 as Burley National School. 4. The schoolroom of Burley Chapel, built 1843, enlarged 1879. |
Click on images for larger view
JAMES ALEXANDER WELCH 1865 - 1917
JAMES ALEXANDER WELCH 1865 - 1917
Plaque to James Welch in Burley Church (with incorrect birth date)
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James Alexander Welch was born in Liverpool on 6th November 1865, (the date on the Burley Church plaque stating 1869 being incorrect). He started out as an accountant but took to the stage and became a popular actor and comedian, travelling to the USA and South Africa to perform.
His film debut was in 1913 playing Marmaduke Wright in “The Eleventh Commandment”. Other silent movies included “When Knights Were Bold”, as Sir Guy de Vere, and “The New Clown” as Lord Cyril Garston. He was twice married and with no children.
His film debut was in 1913 playing Marmaduke Wright in “The Eleventh Commandment”. Other silent movies included “When Knights Were Bold”, as Sir Guy de Vere, and “The New Clown” as Lord Cyril Garston. He was twice married and with no children.
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Click on images for larger view
Programme dated Tuesday 29th December 1914, for "THE NEW CLOWN" at NEW THEATRE, St. Martin's, London -
(later became "The Albery" and from 2006 "Noel Coward Theatre").
(later became "The Albery" and from 2006 "Noel Coward Theatre").
He died on 9th April 1917, aged 51, at "The Tree House", Burley. Was he staying with the Burley Doctor, Keith Murray, who was living at "The Tree House" (now the Burley Inn) according to the 1911 Census? He left £1,098 11s. 7d. (equivalent to around £95k today) to his second wife Amy Hannah Welch (actress). His home address at the time being 25 Sackville Street, Piccadilly.
The death certificate states that he died of pulmonary tuberculosis complicated by haemoptysis, and the death was certified by Dr Keith Murray MD. "Audrey (??) Welch widow of deceased in attendance".
The Daily Express obituary of Thursday 12th April 1917:
DEATH OF JAMES WELCH. ACTOR OF INIMITABLE PATHOS AND HUMOUR.
DEATH OF JAMES WELCH. ACTOR OF INIMITABLE PATHOS AND HUMOUR.
Mr. James Welch, the actor, died on Tuesday night at Ringwood, New Forest, after a lingering illness. His age was fifty-two, and he had been thirty years on the stage. He will be deeply regretted, both for his fine personal qualities and for his great talents as a comedian.
He had the most compelling of all stage gifts, the ability to command "the laughter that is akin to tears." In that respect he could worthily be compared with the late John L. Toole. "Jimmy" Welch's pathos was just as convincing as his laughter—and that was invariably uproarious. Nobody who saw him in "When Knights were Bold," the mock-historical farce in which he acted more than a thousand times, is ever likely to forget the inimitable humour of his Sir Guy de Vere.
That play was his greatest popular success, but Mr. Welch's art was by no means confined to the domain of bustling farce. In his early days he acted many varied parts in Wilson Barrett's dramas and tragedies, and later he made an enviable reputation in Ibsen plays and the comedies of Bernard Shaw.
Thousands of playgoers will remember Mr. Welch for his comical cold in "When Knights were Bold." It arose from a real cold. The audience roared at his wheezing and sneezing. They thought it was part of the play.
He had the most compelling of all stage gifts, the ability to command "the laughter that is akin to tears." In that respect he could worthily be compared with the late John L. Toole. "Jimmy" Welch's pathos was just as convincing as his laughter—and that was invariably uproarious. Nobody who saw him in "When Knights were Bold," the mock-historical farce in which he acted more than a thousand times, is ever likely to forget the inimitable humour of his Sir Guy de Vere.
That play was his greatest popular success, but Mr. Welch's art was by no means confined to the domain of bustling farce. In his early days he acted many varied parts in Wilson Barrett's dramas and tragedies, and later he made an enviable reputation in Ibsen plays and the comedies of Bernard Shaw.
Thousands of playgoers will remember Mr. Welch for his comical cold in "When Knights were Bold." It arose from a real cold. The audience roared at his wheezing and sneezing. They thought it was part of the play.
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The fallen wooden gravestone of James Welch in Burley Churchyard (October 2024)
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RECENTLY ACQUIRED POSTCARD RESEARCH CHALLENGE:-
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View of the Manor House card posted in Burley on 17th July 1907. "The view at back faces Mauds' house"
Who was Maud and where did she live? Answers on a postcard please.
Who was Maud and where did she live? Answers on a postcard please.
.....and another rather "saucy" postcard from Burley dated 25th September 1911, ooooh er.....
(Click on image for larger view)
BURLEY VILLAGE PRESERVATION SOCIETY (1969-?)
From the July 1969 edition (55 years ago) of the Burley Village Magazine came news of the first meeting of the Society at the Myrtle Hall on 6th June 1969 with 153 paid-up members recorded (annual subscription 2/6d). A month later, at a meeting of 100 members in the Village Hall, it was renamed the Burley Village Protection Society, and membership numbers had increased to “exceeds 200”. A Mr R.P. Illingworth of the Forestry Commission discussed a study being carried out on the recreational use of the Forest. The following discussion indicated the need for the wishes of residents in the Forest to be taken more into account.
(To be expanded as further articles are discovered!)
If the Society reformed would it "exceed 200" members today?
(To be expanded as further articles are discovered!)
If the Society reformed would it "exceed 200" members today?
THE 2024 BIG BUTTERFLY COUNT 12th July - 4th August
Take part in The Big Butterfly Count here
At last a number of species of butterfly are now appearing locally:
Comma
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Speckled Wood
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Gatekeeper (2 white spots)
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Meadow Brown (single white spot)
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See also: New Forest Butterflies and Moths
NEW FOREST ROMANY HERITAGE EXHIBITION
Thorney Hill Community Centre 1st - 7th June 2024
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Souvenir Booklet (£3) available at the exhibition Project Gutenberg ebook edition of Romany Life by Frank Cuttriss 1915 Romanies of the New Forest Remembered (Facebook) New Forest Romany Gypsy Travellers New Forest Gypsies |
RECENT ADDITIONS TO THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S COLLECTION
OF "HISTORIC" NEW FOREST BUTTERFLIES
OF "HISTORIC" NEW FOREST BUTTERFLIES
For more details on New Forest butterflies click HERE
Purple Hairstreak pair - Quercus favonius. New Forest 1934
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Bath White - Pontia daplidice. New Forest May 1925
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The Bath White is an extremely rare migrant to the British Isles. Further details HERE
THE BURLEY GREEN MAN PARADE
SATURDAY 11th MAY 2024 (Returns after 160 years!)
FROM THE BURLEY MANOR HOTEL TO OPEN FOREST
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Two great great great granddaughters of John Bromfield (Burley's Jack in the Green from the 1850-1860's) welcomed by the Green Lady
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Jack in the Green (The Green Man) makes his first appearance
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(Click on image for larger view)
See also the MAYDAYS page for more background information on Burley May Days, Jack in the Greens and Cornopeans!
SPECTACULAR AURORA BOREALIS DISPLAY OVER BURLEY
Friday 10th May 2024 (and 10th October 2024!)
and also 19th January 2026!
Friday 10th May 2024 (and 10th October 2024!)
and also 19th January 2026!
After one of the strongest geomagnetic storms for years the Aurora was visible over all of the UK in a "once in a lifetime event".
Caused by the sun emitting a mass of plasma and magnetic fields in a "coronal mass ejection" (CME) - from the current large sunspot AR3664 (124,000 miles wide!), and taking between 1 to 5 days to reach earth.
Gases in the atmosphere become energised with oxygen glowing green and nitrogen glowing purple, blue and pink.
The most intense geomagnetic storm recorded was the "Carrington Event" in September 1859.
Caused by the sun emitting a mass of plasma and magnetic fields in a "coronal mass ejection" (CME) - from the current large sunspot AR3664 (124,000 miles wide!), and taking between 1 to 5 days to reach earth.
Gases in the atmosphere become energised with oxygen glowing green and nitrogen glowing purple, blue and pink.
The most intense geomagnetic storm recorded was the "Carrington Event" in September 1859.
(Click on image for larger view)
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..... and again on the evening of 10th October 2024, although the view was hampered by cloud cover! The sun is at its most active period in the current 11 year solar cycle (the solar maximum), where there are more sunspots than usual with a corresponding increase in the sun's magnetic field. |
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Another powerful coronal mass ejection caused widespread auroras on 19th January 2026, unfortunately rather hampered by significant cloud cover. |
RECENTLY ACQUIRED WATERCOLOUR, CIRCA 1890,
by THOMAS NOELSMITH, (1840-1900), TITLED "Burley, New Forest"
Another painting "returned" to Burley - this time all the way from Australia!
Location - possibly the ford on Forest Road?
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BURLEY NEW FRIENDLY SOCIETY, ESTABLISHED 1851
Copy owned by William Henry Hill 1858 (son of Lawrence Hill of Frogmoor House, Burley Lawn).
The rules of admission appear rather onerous by today's standards. One wonders how many members the Society had!
The rules of admission appear rather onerous by today's standards. One wonders how many members the Society had!
Courtesy of the Christopher Tower Reference Library, New Forest Heritage Centre, Lyndhurst
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Rules of Meeting:
That the Society shall be called the "Burley New Friendly Society;" and that its meetings be held at present at the Queen's Head Inn, Burley, in the County of Hants, on the first Monday in every month; the time of the meeting to be from seven o'clock in the evening until ten o'clock, from the 25th day of March until the 29th day of September; and from the 29th day of September until the 25th day of March, from six o'clock until 9 o'clock in the evening. Of Admission.
1. That a list of the members shall be kept in a book provided for that purpose by the Society, and that the names of the members shall be entered in the book by the secretary, in the order of time in which they shall be admitted to the Society. 2. That no person be admitted a member who does not bear a good character for honesty and sobriety. 3. That no person be admitted a member under sixteen or above thirty-five years of age. 4. That no person be admitted a member who is afflicted with any bodily disease or infirmity likely to render him burdensome to the society. 5. That every person proposed as a member, shall before his admission, if required by the Stewards, be examined by the Surgeon of the Society, and obtain from him a certificate of health. |
6. That any person admitted as a member shall, within two months after his admission, if required by the Stewards, allow himself to be examined by the Surgeon, and in case of refusal he shall be expelled.
7. That any person afflicted with any bodily disease or infirmity, being admitted a member without declaring same, shall, notwithstanding such certificate of health aforesaid, be immediately expelled.
8. That any member knowing of any disease or infirmity in a person entering this Society and not declaring the same, shall be expelled.
9. That all persons proposing to become members of the Society, shall give notice of their intention to the Secretary at least a fortnight before any of the monthly meetings; and at the monthly meeting next following the receipt of such notices, the Secretary shall inform the members then present of the names and residences of persons so proposing to become members.
10. That if no objection is then made by any member then present as aforesaid to any of the persons so proposing to become members, their names shall be entered in the book of the Society kept for the purpose. But if any one of the members then present shall declare his opinion that it is expedient that the question of admission of any person so proposing to become a member should be deferred to the next monthly meeting, the entry shall not be made, and the question of his admission shall be so deferred; and, if at the said next monthly meeting the majority of the members then present shall give their Votes against the admission of any person so objected to, at the foregoing meeting as aforesaid, then such person shall not be admitted.
7. That any person afflicted with any bodily disease or infirmity, being admitted a member without declaring same, shall, notwithstanding such certificate of health aforesaid, be immediately expelled.
8. That any member knowing of any disease or infirmity in a person entering this Society and not declaring the same, shall be expelled.
9. That all persons proposing to become members of the Society, shall give notice of their intention to the Secretary at least a fortnight before any of the monthly meetings; and at the monthly meeting next following the receipt of such notices, the Secretary shall inform the members then present of the names and residences of persons so proposing to become members.
10. That if no objection is then made by any member then present as aforesaid to any of the persons so proposing to become members, their names shall be entered in the book of the Society kept for the purpose. But if any one of the members then present shall declare his opinion that it is expedient that the question of admission of any person so proposing to become a member should be deferred to the next monthly meeting, the entry shall not be made, and the question of his admission shall be so deferred; and, if at the said next monthly meeting the majority of the members then present shall give their Votes against the admission of any person so objected to, at the foregoing meeting as aforesaid, then such person shall not be admitted.
SIR SIMON de BURLEY (1336 - 5th May 1388)
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Acquired for the Burley Heritage Trust:- An 1658 engraving of The Tomb of Sir Simon Burley by Wenceslaus Hollar (Czech 1607-1677), from the "History of St Paul's Cathedral" by Sir William Dugdale. The de Burley family owned ancestral lands (Manors) in Burley and Lyndhurst from 1212 until 1388 when Simon de Burley was impeached for treason and beheaded on Tower Hill. The lands were then rescinded by the Crown and ceded to King Richard II. This de Burley tomb was lost when St Paul's Cathedral was completely destroyed in the Great Fire of London which started on Sunday 2nd September 1666. There is, however, debate as to whether this tomb was misattributed and actually contained his nephew Richard de Burley who died on 23rd May 1387, and his wife Beatrice Stafford. See Hardcastle pages 34-35. Clearly more research is required on the connections of the de Burley's to Burley Manor in the 13th and 14th Centuries. |
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Abducted in the so-called northern wing. On another tablet, near the tomb of Simon Burley. Here rests Baronet Simon Burley; prefect of the five ports, a soldier of the order of the garter, and far dearest confidant to the fertile king Richard. He had two sisters from the most extensive families, united to him by marriage; one of Stafford, the other the daughter of the Baron de Roos: True, at that very difficult time, when everything was being stirred up among the nobles of England under the young Prince, he incurred the hatred of some so much, that the Parliamentary authority was beheaded, in the year of the Lord 1388. And the latter, by the same authority, were afterwards restored under King Henry the Fourth.
If you want more, consult Froissart and the History of England. |
For more on this and the difficulties of unravelling the de Burley family trees click here
EARLIEST BURLEY POSTMARK RECORD BROKEN!
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Recently acquired by the Burley Historical Society is this halfpenny Queen Victoria postage stamp with a BURLEY, HANTS postmark dated 7th July 1900. This predates the previous record holder by almost two years and is the first Victorian stamp seen with a Burley postmark. The Circular Dated Stamp (CDS) was introduced to Burley in 1885, so there is still a fifteen year gap to close! For more information on Burley Postal Services click here |
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HISTORIC ENGLAND AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS FROM WWII
Historic England have made available online some 400,000 photographs from their collection of over 6 million images. 20,000 photographs in the United States Army Air Forces Collection taken during the 2nd World War have just been added.
Historic England Aerial Photo Explorer
Historic England Aerial Photograph Explorer (Full screen application)
Historic England Aerial Photo Explorer
Historic England Aerial Photograph Explorer (Full screen application)
There are currently 5 photographs covering the Burley Street area and further North-East, unfortunately none (as yet) of the rest of Burley.
Views of Holmsley Airfield are also available.
Some embedded interactive examples are available to view on this Historic England WWII Aerial Photos page.
Views of Holmsley Airfield are also available.
Some embedded interactive examples are available to view on this Historic England WWII Aerial Photos page.
70th ANNIVERSARY OF THE BURLEY FIRE STATION
(weekend of 7th-8th October 2023)
The Burley Fire Brigade was originally formed in June 1922, consisting of an ex-Government Gun Carriage fitted with ten fire extinguishers and refills and housed with Mr Dovey. Ten volunteer firemen were recruited. Some years later a two wheeled trailer containing a standpipe and hoses became available and was located in the double-doored shed on the corner opposite The Queens Head. The equipment was eventually moved to the larger wooden shed behind the "Odd Spot" shop. The current Burley Fire Station was built and opened in 1953. To celebrate their 70th Anniversary there was a display of fire engines in Burley Park, the Fire Station was open to visitors, and a large display of memorabilia, artefacts and photographs were available to examine.
Click on image for enlargement:
A K6 TELEPHONE KIOSK RETURNS TO BURLEY (Sept 2023)
The history of the Burley Telephone Kiosks is rather sketchy - if anyone has further details or photographs please get in touch.
A "rescued" K6 has recently been installed outside the Burley Inn. This replaces a previous KX100 that was in almost exactly the same location (was a metre to the left!).
It is in the process of being refurbished into an exchange library.
It is in the process of being refurbished into an exchange library.
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Previous Burley Telephone Kiosks:
The first Telephone Kiosk in Burley (adjacent to the Post Office) was a 1927 designed K1 Mk 236. There were various modifications to the K1 Kiosk and these two photographs do show differences. Unfortunately the dates of these images are unknown.
6,300 K1's were installed Nationwide but only approximately 12 survive today.
6,300 K1's were installed Nationwide but only approximately 12 survive today.
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Enlargement of postcard on the left showing the K1 kiosk, with postmark of 4th July 1941 (photo obviously earlier)
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The Burley K1 was replaced by a "classic" red K6 (date?). The K6 was designed in 1935 by Giles Gilbert Scott to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of the coronation of King George V and were installed from 1936. By 1960 some 60,000 K6's had been erected.
After the K6 was removed a replacement KX100 was installed in a new location outside the Burley Inn. KX100's were installed from 1985.
Burley Street Stores Telephone Kiosks:
There was a K6 outside the Burley Street Stores which was later replaced by a KX100 (dates?). The KX100 was finally removed circa 2015.
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All you need to know about Telephone Kiosks:- THE TELEPHONE BOX
K1
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K6
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KX100
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CALLING ALL CAR ENTHUSIASTS - CAN ANYBODY IDENTIFY THESE OLD BURLEY CARS?
Click here for the "mystery" vehicles to diagnose
George Broomfield and his Cambro cyclecar
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One of John Shutler's many Invictas
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THE POOR RATE - A Burley receipt from 1922
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This was a tax on property to provide local poor relief and was introduced in The Poor Relief Act of 1601. Each Parish met once a year to set the rate and appoint an overseer of the poor to collect the rate. The separate poor rate was amalgamated with the local district or borough general rate by the Rating and Valuation Act of 1925, ultimately becoming the current Council Tax. The role of parishes in the setting and collection of rates was abolished by 1930. 1922 Poor Rate receipt for £2 3s 4d from Mr William Fennell (1865-1934) of Pound Lane, Burley. He was a Police Constable living at what became The Pound Lane Stores with his wife Mercy Ellen and their five children. |
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The above receipt and following photograph were kindly donated by Gill who ran The Pound Lane Stores in the late 1980's.
Photograph taken in 1912 of the Fennell family outside the house which later became The Pound Lane Stores. Shown are Mrs Mercy Ellen Fennell together with daughter's Lilian Rose (on her mother's left) and Gladys Elnora, and sons Walter John and William David.
Photograph taken in 1912 of the Fennell family outside the house which later became The Pound Lane Stores. Shown are Mrs Mercy Ellen Fennell together with daughter's Lilian Rose (on her mother's left) and Gladys Elnora, and sons Walter John and William David.
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More on the Fennell family, the Pound Lane Stores, Lawford's and Burleytoys being developed here.
BURLEY GARAGES AND THE POST OFFICE
Another postcard has come to light showing the view up to the Cross with detail to the right (second image below, click for enlargement).
Neither of these cards have been posted and the dates are unknown. However, the dates must be between 1920 (Cross erected) -1927 (Post Office moved).
The enlarged view shows the "BURLEY POST OFFICE" sign by the first awning and a little girl carrying a large bunch of flowers. (image 4 colourised).
The Garage sign on the left has changed from Footner and Sons to Hyde's Garage, and on the right is Manning's Garage.
Can anyone more accurately date these photographs or have information on Manning's Garage, and perhaps the name of the little girl?
Neither of these cards have been posted and the dates are unknown. However, the dates must be between 1920 (Cross erected) -1927 (Post Office moved).
The enlarged view shows the "BURLEY POST OFFICE" sign by the first awning and a little girl carrying a large bunch of flowers. (image 4 colourised).
The Garage sign on the left has changed from Footner and Sons to Hyde's Garage, and on the right is Manning's Garage.
Can anyone more accurately date these photographs or have information on Manning's Garage, and perhaps the name of the little girl?
Manning's Garage update: George Manning 1874-1951, born Ilminster and a lodger in Burley at "The Cross" in the 1901 Census.
1911 Census - Cycle repairer and Dealer. Living with wife Annie Caroline, 2 sons and 2 daughters, in Garden Road.
1921 Census - Shoeing and General Smith, and Motor Mechanic, still living in Garden Road.
1911 Census - Cycle repairer and Dealer. Living with wife Annie Caroline, 2 sons and 2 daughters, in Garden Road.
1921 Census - Shoeing and General Smith, and Motor Mechanic, still living in Garden Road.
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1936 Feb 22nd New Milton Advertiser: Sale Tuesday March 10th, at 12.30 o'clock. MANNING's GARAGE, BURLEY, Hants. Hewitt & Co are favoured with instructions from Mr G Manning (owing to expiry of lease) to Sell by Auction on the premises SURPLUS GARAGE and BLACKSMITH'S STOCK and TOOLS, Electric Lighting Plant, 2 Portable Engines, Morris-Cowley Landaulette, new Motor and Cycle Accessories, about 100 gallons Motor Lubricating and Gear Oil. Bench and Smith's Tools, Lawn Mower, Grinder, timber built and galvanised Garage (30ft x 18ft). Engine and Battery Sheds, 3 PETROL PUMPS and miscellaneous effects. Catalogue in due course. |
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Died 8th August 1951 (aged 77) and buried with his wife Annie (82) in Burley Churchyard |
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BURLEY IN THE DARK AGES (circa 5th to 11th Centuries AD)
A fascinating piece of work on the origin of our village name and the possible location of the settlement through the "Dark Ages" is being carried out by Burley resident Mike Whitehouse. His initial document is available here with more to follow after further research.
If anyone has any comments, or information to contribute, please contact Mike or myself by email.
If anyone has any comments, or information to contribute, please contact Mike or myself by email.
BURLEY VILLAGE MAGAZINE (1967-2023)
A number of "historic" articles are being transcribed, and are available here
Further articles will be added over time, eg:-
A number of "historic" articles are being transcribed, and are available here
Further articles will be added over time, eg:-
1978 May P 4 LETTER FROM A READER OF THE VILLAGE MAGAZINE
What an invaluable feature of our community life this Village Magazine has become! How we seize upon it each month and read it from cover to cover, enter the dates of events in our diaries and enjoy the articles and reports. Visitors to Burley are impressed, and often a little envious.
All this is due in no small measure to the devoted work of Mr. George Lawford. As Joint Editor with the vicar, he has been for six years the unfailing Power House behind the scenes. We would offer him our warmest thanks for all his time and care.
We are most fortunate in that Mr. John Clarke has agreed to take over from him – no mean task as the Vicar will be leaving us so soon. We wish him well.
My purpose now, however, is simply to say, on behalf of us all,
Thank you George.
What an invaluable feature of our community life this Village Magazine has become! How we seize upon it each month and read it from cover to cover, enter the dates of events in our diaries and enjoy the articles and reports. Visitors to Burley are impressed, and often a little envious.
All this is due in no small measure to the devoted work of Mr. George Lawford. As Joint Editor with the vicar, he has been for six years the unfailing Power House behind the scenes. We would offer him our warmest thanks for all his time and care.
We are most fortunate in that Mr. John Clarke has agreed to take over from him – no mean task as the Vicar will be leaving us so soon. We wish him well.
My purpose now, however, is simply to say, on behalf of us all,
Thank you George.
K.G.H.
An extraordinary archive of material relating to Laurence Hill has recently come to light.
A watercolour of the ruins of his house at Burley Lawn painted in June 1858 after a fire
More on Laurence Hill here and the Burley Lawn Estate here (to be enlarged and updated!)
More on Laurence Hill here and the Burley Lawn Estate here (to be enlarged and updated!)
Undated pencil sketch of the house prior to the fire (artist unknown)
CHRISTMAS 2022
Burley School Advent Calendar and Burley Church Christmas Tree festival
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CELEBRATING OUR KNEELERS by Susan Petty Recently published and available (£6.00) from the Burley Church. Profusely illustrated describing the 130 kneelers and the 30 named villagers who produced them from the 1960's. |
An "Iconic" Burley oil painting returns to the village.
The original oil painting of John King which features on p18 of Hardcastle's "Records of Burley" recently (2022) came up for sale at a local auction house. It was painted in 1906 by Forbes Witherby of Holmehurst (now the White Buck). It was successfully purchased by a Burley resident for the village, and has been cleaned and restored. It's whereabouts for the last 116 years remains a mystery. A full size framed photographic reproduction has been made which is illustrated below:
BURLEY VILLAGE HERITAGE TRUST CIO
and Proposed Heritage Centre
The BVHT CIO (Charitable Incorporated Organisation) has been granted, on 27th October 2022,
official charitable status with the Charity Commission (Charity Number: 1200826).
For more details about the proposals and how you might be able to help please visit:
https://bvht.weebly.com Contact email for BVHT CIO: [email protected]
Remembrance Sunday 13th November 2022
An archive of Burley photographs, particularly of carnivals during the 1950's,
has kindly been donated by Fred Hooper and can be seen here:
Fred's father, William Hooper, outside his Hairdressers and Tobacconists shop in the late 1930's
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Red Cross presentation by Dr and Mrs Howard in the Village Hall (1972)
Queen Elizabeth II 21st April 1926 - 8th Sept 2022
Burley remembers with gratitude
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Gravestone at the church in memory of members of the Lester family, including:
"Benjamin Lester, lost on HMS Victoria on June 22nd 1893, aged 30"
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Letterhead from HMS Victoria dated 31st May 1893 at Nauplia (now modern day Nafplio, Greece), three weeks before the sinking
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HMS Victoria was involved in a catastrophic collision with another battleship, HMS Camperdown, near Tripoli while carrying out some annual exercises at 15.30 on 22nd June 1893. It was the worst naval disaster of the late nineteenth century.
Due to an apparent miscalculation by the commander Vice-Admiral Sir George Tryon, who ordered the manoeuvre, the flagship HMS Victoria was struck by the armoured ram of HMS Camperdown causing massive damage, and sank within 15 minutes.
358 crew members were lost, including Admiral Tryon, 357 were rescued of which 173 were injured.
The wreck was discovered on 22nd August 2004.
The Sinking of HMS Victoria Wiki HMS Victoria
Due to an apparent miscalculation by the commander Vice-Admiral Sir George Tryon, who ordered the manoeuvre, the flagship HMS Victoria was struck by the armoured ram of HMS Camperdown causing massive damage, and sank within 15 minutes.
358 crew members were lost, including Admiral Tryon, 357 were rescued of which 173 were injured.
The wreck was discovered on 22nd August 2004.
The Sinking of HMS Victoria Wiki HMS Victoria
Further fragments of information about Thomas Eyre have surfaced.
Any new items gratefully received!
Fascinating article about Thomas Eyre from July 1828 (bottom of this page):-
Can anyone suggest what this sentence from the above article might be referring to: "Magpie-Gate, then, consists of five bars, pleasantly situated in the Vil of Burley, and painted alternately black and white; over these bars a sort of canopy arises, thickly studded with scriptural texts; which, if the traveller fancies not the incommodious roost beneath, he may scan at his leisure from the green turf in front."
Any new items gratefully received!
Fascinating article about Thomas Eyre from July 1828 (bottom of this page):-
Can anyone suggest what this sentence from the above article might be referring to: "Magpie-Gate, then, consists of five bars, pleasantly situated in the Vil of Burley, and painted alternately black and white; over these bars a sort of canopy arises, thickly studded with scriptural texts; which, if the traveller fancies not the incommodious roost beneath, he may scan at his leisure from the green turf in front."
The Esdaile Notebook
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Colonel W C D Esdaile pulled down the old Burley Manor House and built the present Manor in 1852. What is his connection with "The Esdaile Notebook", a collection of early poems by Shelley? See: WCD Esdaile |
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New Forest Tree Graffiti (arborglyphs)
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Can you add to this growing online interactive database? NFNPA Tree Graffiti (Introduction and online recording page) Tree Graffiti Results Page (with interactive map and photos, you may need to click on "OK" in the lower horizontal blue bar to load the map and images) 3D tree graffiti examples |
Person on a tree near Burley
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Information on three further extraordinary individuals who lived for part of their lives in Burley and who are buried at St John the Baptist Church, Burley:-
Constance Applebee
Introduced field hockey to the USA in 1901
Ursula Graham Bower (Betts) MBE
"The Naga Queen"
Commander Alastair Denniston OBE CBE CMG RNVR
WW1 Codebreaker and Operational Manager of GC&CS and Bletchley Park (later GCHQ) in WW2
Introduced field hockey to the USA in 1901
Ursula Graham Bower (Betts) MBE
"The Naga Queen"
Commander Alastair Denniston OBE CBE CMG RNVR
WW1 Codebreaker and Operational Manager of GC&CS and Bletchley Park (later GCHQ) in WW2
New page on the distinguished ancestry of Felicite Hardcastle
(Author of Aspects of a New Forest Village. Records of Burley), click on:-
From Herschel to Hardcastle
The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebrations 2nd - 5th June 2022
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Burley Primary School winning design for the Platinum Jubilee badge |
(click on image for enlargement)
Hillfort News:
Atlas of the Hillforts of Britain and Ireland www.amazon.co.uk/Atlas-Hillforts-Lock-Gary/dp/1474447120 published in 2021 together with (free) interactive online version: hillforts.arch.ox.ac.uk
Here is the entry for Castle Hill, Burley - http://hillforts.arch.ox.ac.uk/records/EN3802.html
Here is the entry for Castle Hill, Burley - http://hillforts.arch.ox.ac.uk/records/EN3802.html
Colourised Postcards
Here is an example of a colourised old black and white postcard using the MyHeritage online colourising tool:-
A further selection here: burleyhistoricalsociety.weebly.com/colourised-postcards.html
A further selection here: burleyhistoricalsociety.weebly.com/colourised-postcards.html
February 2022 - Bridge Repairs, Traffic and Storms - The Perfect Storm (Eunice)?
Burbush Bridge (click on image for enlargement) Forest Road
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Fallen oak tree in Forest Road appears to be approximately 185 years old by amateur dendrochronology!
A sapling circa 1837, around the time of Queen Victoria's accession to the throne (20th June 1837).
A sapling circa 1837, around the time of Queen Victoria's accession to the throne (20th June 1837).
Lady Amy Baker research update:
There has been a tremendous response to the request for information on Lady Baker, mostly via random visits by people to this website!
Particular thanks go to Fiona, Olivier, Roger and Michael (you know who you are!), and grateful thanks for permission to use your photographs.
A few examples of recent photographs prior to a larger future article in preparation:
Particular thanks go to Fiona, Olivier, Roger and Michael (you know who you are!), and grateful thanks for permission to use your photographs.
A few examples of recent photographs prior to a larger future article in preparation:
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Painting of Lady Amy Baker holding her daughter Eunice.
Frederick Beaumont RA 1890
Painting of Lady Amy Baker holding her daughter Eunice.
Frederick Beaumont RA 1890
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Example of existing "Baker bricks" built house |
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Her final resting place has been "rediscovered" in the cemetery at Magagnosc in the South of France,
with impressive entrance gates (note A B) to the single gravesite, and view to the South (click on image for enlargement):
with impressive entrance gates (note A B) to the single gravesite, and view to the South (click on image for enlargement):
Burley 14th November 2021 We will remember them
(Click on image for larger view)
New online mapping tool released by Historic England, October 2021
"The Aerial Archaeology Mapping Explorer is a tool that displays archaeology that has been identified, mapped and recorded using aerial photographs and other aerial sources across England.
For the first time ever, Historic England has made the results of over 30 years of aerial photograph mapping projects freely available online. Use it to explore heritage from ancient settlements to secret Cold War military installations, or to see the complex archaeological landscapes of Hadrian’s Wall, Stonehenge and so much in between."
For the first time ever, Historic England has made the results of over 30 years of aerial photograph mapping projects freely available online. Use it to explore heritage from ancient settlements to secret Cold War military installations, or to see the complex archaeological landscapes of Hadrian’s Wall, Stonehenge and so much in between."
New research project - Can you help?
Lady Amy Susan Baker (1847-1940)
Lady Baker (née Marryat) lived in Burley during the first two and a half decades of the 20th Century after the death of her husband Sir Talbot Baker on 6th April 1900. She was involved in the development of District Nursing in Dorset and in the education of Nurses.
She set up a pottery near Wareham making her patented bricks and assorted domestic wares, while having an experimental kiln at her Burley house. This is briefly described in Félicité Hardcastle’s Records of Burley book (see pages 115-116 of the 1987 edition). Eventually she moved to the South of France where she died and is buried.
Details on her fascinating life are hard to find and I would welcome any information readers may have on this remarkable lady, who was also a poet and author, or on any examples of her Keysworth Pottery ceramics or indeed, an example of her pottery produced in Burley. In due course an illustrated article on her life will be published on this website.
An example of her work is the terracotta reredos at St Mary's Church, Shroton, and two of her books:
Lady Baker (née Marryat) lived in Burley during the first two and a half decades of the 20th Century after the death of her husband Sir Talbot Baker on 6th April 1900. She was involved in the development of District Nursing in Dorset and in the education of Nurses.
She set up a pottery near Wareham making her patented bricks and assorted domestic wares, while having an experimental kiln at her Burley house. This is briefly described in Félicité Hardcastle’s Records of Burley book (see pages 115-116 of the 1987 edition). Eventually she moved to the South of France where she died and is buried.
Details on her fascinating life are hard to find and I would welcome any information readers may have on this remarkable lady, who was also a poet and author, or on any examples of her Keysworth Pottery ceramics or indeed, an example of her pottery produced in Burley. In due course an illustrated article on her life will be published on this website.
An example of her work is the terracotta reredos at St Mary's Church, Shroton, and two of her books:
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The Lady Amy Baker memorial window in Burley Church, and pew remembering her youngest daughter Eunice Evelyn Baker (1888-1967) who also lived in Burley:-
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Two photographs of Lady Baker, and images of a booklet (circa 1912) on her Keysworth pottery kindly provided by Wareham Museum:-
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If you can help with any further information, photographs or ceramics please contact David Etchells on 01425 402135 or email: [email protected]
Thank you to those who have already been in contact with various snippets of information, clues and leads - please keep them coming!
Thank you to those who have already been in contact with various snippets of information, clues and leads - please keep them coming!
Eleanor Ruth Dent and The Chronicles of the Belgians (Blackmoor House, Burley from 1914)
This hand written diary from 1914 detailing events relating to convalescent Belgian soldiers during the First World War has recently been digitised and transcribed by the NFNPA and is available via the New Forest Knowledge website:-
This hand written diary from 1914 detailing events relating to convalescent Belgian soldiers during the First World War has recently been digitised and transcribed by the NFNPA and is available via the New Forest Knowledge website:-
15th May 2021 - Ceremony commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the formation of the British Legion
(Click on image for larger view)
The Dig Burley final report has just been published
see: burleyhistoricalsociety.weebly.com/final-report-2021.html
180 degree panoramic view from Castle Hill Hillfort looking West - April 2021
John Kershaw Craig - The first vicar of Burley Church
A fascinating online article has recently been published about the life of John Kershaw Craig who was appointed as the first vicar of St. John the Baptist Church in 1839, and who served until his retirement in 1886. The second half of the article describes the extraordinary lengthy litigation brought by the then owner of Burley Manor, George Rooke Farnall, against John Craig regarding "immorality". Click on link: newwoodlesford.xyz/churches-and-chapels/rev-john-kershaw-craig/ |
Rev and Mrs Craig's gravestone in the churchyard
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Philatelic display on the History of the Burley Postal Service - (see link above in header, under more)
We would be extremely interested to see any examples of early items posted to or from Burley (particularly pre 1900), they are very hard to find!
What was once hidden in the garage opposite
The Queen's Head?
see: burleyhistoricalsociety.weebly.com/historic-car.html
100 years ago - Kelly's Directory entry for Burley in 1920
Click on image for enlargement:
Burley in lockdown - COVID-19 March 2020 - ??
History in the making. Please email any photographs you would like to share
Click on a photo to enlarge:-
Burley Village (Parish) Population:
1789 said to have been 353
1901 Census - 755
2001 Census - Total 1350 (Male 602, Female 748) Households 595
2011 Census - 1384 Density of 0.3 persons per hectare (England: 4.1 persons per hectare)
2015 (Hampshire CC estimate) - 1405
1789 said to have been 353
1901 Census - 755
2001 Census - Total 1350 (Male 602, Female 748) Households 595
2011 Census - 1384 Density of 0.3 persons per hectare (England: 4.1 persons per hectare)
2015 (Hampshire CC estimate) - 1405
What are the two cars in the black and white photograph, on the left registration C6607 and on the right AA1507?
The C registration is from the West Riding of Yorkshire and the series 1 to 9999 was issued between January 1904 to 1912, AA was issued in Hampshire between December 1903 to October 1917.
The C registration is from the West Riding of Yorkshire and the series 1 to 9999 was issued between January 1904 to 1912, AA was issued in Hampshire between December 1903 to October 1917.
