10th January, 2010
Hilary Cruze nee Eyles
Chamberlain Family
The message from Louise Chamberlain/Gumm [see 27 September 2008] brought back memories as I was only looking at a picture of her grandad taken with my dad his cousin the day they joined the RAF. They didnt see each other again till war ended. Have fond memories of Aunt Betty and Uncle Jim and the twins.
1st January, 2010
Doreen Ridden
Memoir of Annie Tough
Whilst searching for some family information regarding my grandmother Lilian Bailey (nee Moore) in the "Tough Assignment" a history of the Eton Wick Methodist Chapel 1886 - 1986 I noticed a paragraph that talks about Annie Tough's memoirs.
Is there anyone who either has a copy of who might know where I could get one, so that we have a better insight into her life. She was my grandmother's sister and both of them had John William Moore as their father.
I know that there are a few people on the site who are also related to John Moore who have already contacted me, so if they have anything on Annie's memoirs could they get in touch. I am also keen to find any photos of the family as we have limited pictures.
Kind regards to everyone at the History group and a Happy New Year to you all.
If you can help with information about Annie Tough's memoirs, please get in touch using the link at the top of the page and we will forward your message to Doreen Ridden.
17th December, 2009
Dick Mylam
Living in the Wick in the 1930s
I was born in Eton Wick in Gallater Cottage in 1925. Lived in Shakspear Place till we moved to Conorton Crecent arter the war. The following are my thought about that time in a poem.
When I was ten
That hamlet by the winding shore
Of memories it holds a store
Hard pews line the chapel room
Harmonium playing out of tune
Singing hymns ancient and modern
Good English tunes, nothing foreign
Preacher raised in pulpit lonely
Eulogising homilies homely
So many half-forgotten tunes
A childhood that expired too soon
Three places that upheld the rule
Loving home, chapel and the school
Homeward sucking sweet gobstoppers
Through that school where boys wore toppers
Released from lessons running free
Pinning winkles for Sunday tea
November's fire and jumping jacks
Grazed knees and jamjared sticklebacks
Friday's tin bath by the open fire
Before to bed I did retire
Grandmother's white hair brushed to her waist
Then bound in a bun, Victorian taste
Sticky cakes full of calories
Kaleidoscope of memories
Halcyon days- gone, I know not when
That long lost world when I was ten.
Arthur F Mylam
12th December, 2009
John Walton
Eton Wick memories
Visited your webb site to-day and felt nostalga coursing through me.
I once worked for J.T Ireland at 41 Eton Wick Road, Eton Wick from 1959-64 and made many friends from the district, worked with Eddie Wilkes, Jock Lockhart from Colnnorton Crescent I think it was and Viv Williams from Inkerman Road all three carpenters. We worked on many houses in the area near Queens Road and worked on the Scouts house. There was Charlie Benham the bricklayer, Norman Sherman the painter, Tom Pryor worked in the office with Bill Stanton who ran the works when J.T was away on business usually as J.P.
When you work somewhere like in the village, sometimes things come back to remind you of what happened although almost fifty years ago, like for instance a Punch and Judy show I saw some children watching on the television a few weeks ago, I mentioned Eddie Wilkes ( a carpenter ) he was a pupeteer on a Sunday afternoon when Salters Steamers used to travel between Windsor and Oxford he would take his gear and entertain the children along the way.
I remember Ron Reider a painter and Les the van driver both from Eton Wick and the Judd's who ran the Eton Bookstore just by the bridge, was it the Barnespool Bridge ?. I do belive he was a wing commander in the second world war. And of course there was Alfy Spain who worked at Taffler Antiques along Eton High Street who gave so much of his spare time as a swimming coach, who helped to shoot a german fighter plan down in WW2. I think there was a Miss or Mrs Bell who lived at Dorney who kept goats on the grass by her house, oh the memory wanders.
Is the Shepherds Hut public house still there, had many a hot steak and kidney pie there on a cold winters lunch time. I think Mr Moss was the headmaster at the small school in the village, Frank Bond worked in the greengrocers shop and Bob Bond rode his horse like the country squire.
Keep up the good work on your Eton Wick history.
5th December, 2009
Janet Morley (now Smith)
Eton Wick and Dorney Reach
What wonderful memories have come flooding back after reading all the contributions to this website.
I grew up in Dorney Reach but had many friends in Eton Wick and quite a few of the names on here are familiar to me - Monica Peck and Malcolm McIntosh who lived a few doors from me. John Bond who I went out with on a number of occassions when he owned a (quite ancient) Jaguar car...that I had to help push-start a few times in mid-winter (Oh Happy Days!).
I also remember Mr Bond from Eton Wick with his mobile fruit & veg van parking under the street light in Meadow Way, Dorney Reach and all the mums would go and buy fresh fruit from him.
Back in my teens I used to go horse riding at The Spanish Bit riding school on Dorney Common and afterwards would visit friends at Eton Wick....Sonia Outhwaite & Pat Carr.
I was at secondary school with Sheila Emery and also remember the Webb family.
My memories of Wicko was of watching the Tug of War teams, as my uncle normally took part and we all went along to cheer him on.
Another memory mentioned by someone else was of the old Blue Bus. The last one left Windsor at a ridiculously early time, which meant we were always the first to leave the pictures, coffee bar or Ye Olde Harte & Garter. I remember being on it one night when it hit a cow as we were crossing the common...the bus came off second best!
A great website and one that I shall re-visit.
Well Done all who have contributed.
20th November, 2009
John Bond
Growing Up in the 1950s
I'm hoping this message may stir up a little nostalgia and promt a few more contributions.
I was born in Colenorton Crescent in June 1949. I was one of the many babyboomers that grew up in Eton Wick in the 1950s. As a result of the sudden increase in children the school had to have a new block built. When I started in 1954 the new block was under construction as I recall. Also new housing had been built comprising of Colenorton Crescent, Boveney New Road and Stockdales Road. There were kids about my age in almost every house. In Colenoreton Crescent we had regular football games outside our house. There were always kids outside the house playing something or other.
When I went to secondary school in Slough, I realised how privileged I had been growing up in a small village and being allowed to play out all day without any of the fears that are so common today. I had loads of mates, many of whom I subsequently found I was distantly related to. When my great grandma Rosetta Cox died, the school was kind enough to spend time with a whole bunch of us who were her great grandchildren.
Even now I meet up with a number of my old village friends who I have known for over 55 years. When I tell my younger workmates that I am going for a drink with someone I have known for 55 years and who was born 100 yards from me, they just cannot believe it. How different things are today.
2 November, 2009
Lorraine Baker (nee Bond)
Gillian and Chris Marshall
I remember the day my best friend, Gillian and her sister Chris moved to Canada. We used to have the run of her house in the Summer holidays. My Mums now lives in Victoria Road. We used to live at 71 EWR Road. We danced to the music of Camalot on the wooden floor in the lounge with Gillians Mums high heel shoes on, played Gymnakana in the Garden, baked cakes in the kitchen (perhaps I'm imaging that one as we were only 10ish). I also remember The Monkees had just started on the Tv ( Black and White Tv) and I remember pretending that we were married to them. I always choose Davy as he was my favourite.
Lots of good memories of Eton Wick, still feel its my home from home. My Grandparents Tom and Mary Bond had there own fruit and Veg wholesale Buisness next to The Greyhound and all of my Brothers and Sisters ( 7 in total ) spent many a good time with them. Boxing day was my favourite with all my Aunts ,Uncles and Cousins.
Wicko Carnival was another favourite. I entered my little Sister Sharon in the fancy dress as Miss Sports Veiw one year and she won first prize, a Tea set was given to her by a famous Boxer (forgotten his name). My older Sister entered Miss Wicko in the same year but alas only came second. I also remember The Wheatbuts fete and making tiny Gardens in a cake tin. I have been to many fetes in my time but nothing has come close to the Wheatbutts and Wicko.
My Dad Jack is a cousin of Frank Bond, unfortuanlly he has past away. He loved Eton Wick and was very keen Footballer. In his later years he used to manage and coach football in Eton Wick.
25 October, 2009
Barbara Spicer
Class photo from Eton Porny School
Barbara has sent in one of her father's school photographs, of his class in Eton Porny school around or just before 1907. If you can help identify any of the other boys in the picture, please get in touch. Click here to go the picture, which is on the School Gallery page.
21st August, 2009
B Jeffries
William Buckthorp Jeffries
I found my g-g-grandfathers grave in Eton Wick church. He died in 1914 aged 70. He had been a policeman and a schoolboard man in Eton. Has anyone any more information on him or his descendants that may live in the area?
If you can help with information about Mr Jeffries, please get in touch using the link at the top of the page and we will forward your message to B Jeffries. (B Jeffries, you will need to send another message with your email address so we can get in touch.)
22nd July, 2009
Peter Dugan
Baldwin Family (see Rebekah's message 4th June 2009)
I do remember a Mr and Mrs Baldwin, 11 Sunbury Road. If I am right Mrs
was a very big lady and Mr a little man.
I seem to remember in the evening them going off to the pub with a
jug to get some ale. Mrs used to wear a mans flat cap.
21st July, 2009
John Walsh
Richard Jordan
Nice to see the site is visited from so far away, I was married to Lynda Jordan and we lived in Stockdales Road near Richard brother and sister in law Bob and Maud who now live in Wexham not Britwell and if anyone wishes to contact them send me an e-mail.
If you would like to contact John please use the link at the top of the page to send a message, and we will forward it on to him.
12th July, 2009
Malcolm McIntosh
Eton Wick memories
I have just discovered the website,it's great, I can't believe how many names suddenly come flooding back, I attended Eton Wick after the Dorney village school closed. It's great to see Monica Peck on there, we grew up together, she lived a cross the street from me, I used to work on her dads farm on the weekend and holidays,she was a real tomboy, was also in the cubs, was there a teacher called Ms Winter?
29th June, 2009
Kieron Sumner
Good Times
What a suprise when I googled my name to come across this site. Our family lived in Eton Wick from the early 1950's - I was born in 1955. Mum (Jean), Dad (Ben or Freddy), Kim and Kelly lived at 40 Colenorton Crescent. We moved away when I was 9 to live in Windsor - it seemed like a hundred miles rather than just across the river. Fond memories of Eton Wick and I still vividly remember the trips. Nan and Grandad lived at 60 Colenorton Cresecent with my Auntie Cathleen. Uncle Jerry and Auntie Nora lived in Alma Road. It seems that everyone celebrated St Patricks Day when we were young and many of my friends were also from Irish families - Francis Foggerty, Kevin Kaneely, Patrick Delaney. Great friends also with the Springford boys - Paul and Andrew and their mum who had the patience of a saint.
Now the clan has moved away, although I have not moved far, settling in Burnham with my wife and the four kids. I still drive through the village on my way back from Windsor when I feel nostalgic.
Dad died a few years back and I read through his wealth of press cuttings. It seems he had a long career playing football for the Wick and also running in the annual race from Dorney to the Village. Kelly is now in Somerset married with two daughters, Kim is in Cornwall married with four daughters a son and loads of grand children.
Happy Days!!
4th June, 2009
Rebekah
Peter Dugan's memories of Eton
(See Peter Dugan's message of 19th April 2009, below, and his reply of 22nd July 2009, above)
I wonder do you remember people named Baldwin who lived at 11 Sunbury Road? Thomas and Evangeline were my great-grand parents and their son Lemuel James (Jim) was my grandfather. He moved to Ireland in the 20's but he came back most summers with his son and daughter. Dad, now in his 80's, has very fond memories of those summers and has retained a very great love for Eton.
31st May, 2009
Barbara Spicer
The Janes Family
My connection with Eton Wick/Boveney New Town is that my fathers family live at 6 Gordon Place from 1890 to 1901. The Family is Janes and my father attend the Porney School; as a child we were taken to the Brocas for a day where we spent many happy hours with Mum while Dad visited relatives in Dorney. Dad's mother's name was King and his father John Janes who was a blacksmith on Court Farm, the manager's name was Mr White. If anyone has any knowledge of the family I would love to hear from them.
If you would like to get in touch with Barbara, please use the email link at the top of the page and we will forward your message to her.
17th May, 2009
Peter Dugan
Gordon Paintin
I remember Gordon very well. I believe his Father had a cycle shop in Eton where I made many a
visit.
12th May, 2009
Roger Paintin
Memories
I lived in Eton Wick from 1958 to 1980. My dad - Gordon Paintin - is still there living in the same house for 60 years. My mum - Kath - died some 12 years ago. Found memories of wicko carnival where mum and dad ran the bottle stall. The 5-a-side football on easter monday. I remember working at Sibleys the newsagents and petrol station when petrol was 23p a gallon!! I also delivered the morning papers around the village and rode the trade bike to Broken Furlong. My sister - Jennifer - married and now lives in High Wycombe. Looking at these messages and i recall Andersons shop, Clarkes fish and chip shop, Barons and of course Sibleys. Happy days.
9th May, 2009
Lynette Williams
Ernest Lynch married Annie Cox
I was wondering if anyone would remember my grandparents or know where any of our relatives are today? My grandad Ernest Lynch (born 1923 Eton) married my nan Annie Cox (born 1922 in Easthampsted, she liked to be called Ann) in 1947, they lived at 132 Eton Wick Road, where they had 3 girls Shirley, Monica, and Susan, but Annie sadly died giving birth to a son in 1957, aged just 34, sadly the baby boy passed away as well. Ernest Lynch had 3 sisters, Hilda, Eilene, and Monica. We believe Annie had 3 sisters Rosina M Cox (born 1915) Lily F Cox,(born 1920) Doris M Cox (born 1925) and a brother William B Cox (born 1927, their parents were John and Rose Cox (maiden name Roth) we believe they lived in the Berkshire area, and would love to hear from anyone who may know their where abouts or any relative! My grandfather took over his parents house after Annies death, which was nextdoor to the pub called the Shepherds Hut. I'm going to try to put a old photo of Ernest and Annie on here which we believe was taken on the park green called the Brockers. If anyone reconise's them we would to hear from you, thank you. Lynnette
8th May, 2009
Anne
Just about Eton
hi my grandad Ernest Lynch used to own the house next to the pub in eton wick i remember the pub well as a child was always in there as a family my grandad died in 1997 i think and now some of my relatives still live in Eton.
19th April, 2009
Peter Dugan
Memories
My Father was a baker in Eton High Street and when I left Eton Porney School in 1936 I spent a couple of years delivering bread in the Wick, so I know the area well.
Served many of the parents of the lads and lassies I was at school with.Am in the two photos in the Photo History of Eton Wick @ Eton. One sitting next to Maurice North. Was in the Church Lads Brigade with Cyril Smith, Alf Fellows,George Birch and others. Band photo in the book left to right - ? Alder, Albe Haverley, Alf Fellows, Sgt Alder.
My aunt Mrs Tow lived in the Walk; I believe she delivered the mail during the war. Mary Gyngell (Tarrant) lived in Tangier Lane,also Rita Pidgeon(Ray)I was in Sunbury Road so knew them well.
During the war my wife worked at
G.D.Peters with Jessie Hart - went
to her wedding - we kept in touch
and met occasionally until she
died.
Attended a few of the history club
meetings at Eton church hall - met
some people I knew in the old days.
Had some connection with Frank Bond
but cannot remember what - birthday
or or something like that.
Hope this has some interest to you.
Now living in Derby 4 and 1/2 years.
8th April, 2009
Penny Wright nee Newcombe
My father
Our family came from Dorney Reach to live in Queens Road in the mid 1950s when I was about nine, my sister, Marion (who still lives in the Wick) was seven and brother Stewart about four. My Dad, Leslie, joined the Church choir straight away. He even got me in it when I was older and I remember us singing The Messiah. Dad was always involved with the PTA and he and Phil Hudson used to do a great deal of fundraising for the school. Dad used to sell raffle tickets for a cooked chicken and there was one to be won every hour at the fete. Dad called himself 'Chicken Joe'.They also were very involved with the whist and beetle drives enjoyed by us all. I remember all the hours spent at PTA committee meetings. Mrs Hudson used to be the school secretary too.
I remember Miss Rook who was very frightening to a small girl and Mrs Miles who was not and then there was Mr Moss. He took me on the front handlebars of his bike to Boots on Windsor Hill to choose my prize for being Headgirl and I helped him choose the books for the other prizewinners and he rode home again with me perched on the front and with the bags containing all the books swinging from his handlebars!!! When I started at the school I seem to remember that there were a range of ages in that one large classroom and we sat in our 'age' groups. Once or twice a 'big' girl came and showed us what to do in our workbooks rather like the old idea of a 'Dame'school. Maybe it was only when a teacher was absent due to illness etc but I'd like to know if anyone else recollects this.
We used to race from school to the Village Hall at lunchtime along the top of the fields and Mrs Dowson and Mrs Rivers would be the dinnerladies keeping us all in perfect check when we arrived.
I went to Slough High School and then switched to Burnham Grammar and in my teens I longed for the rather rare village 'hops' and as for that 'Blue Bus' - well it was years before I got to see the end of a film as the last one at night left just before the end of any film from the Windsor Bridge stop! I didn't find out what happened to 'Bonnie and Clyde' until I was living in London and saw it again!
I live in Westcliff near Southend now with four children and a just retired dentist husband but I do visit the Wick fairly often as Marion is still there. Sometimes we walk to the churchyard and Marion tells me who has died and it is strange to see these people from my memories and talk about them - it's as if they are still around.
Eton Wick is not a pretty village but it is a lively and well-lived in one and it is probably fortunate that it doesn't suffer the curse of the picturesque villages which are full of second homes and like ghost places in the week.
I love your site and will enjoy visiting it regularly.
29 March, 2009
Edna McDilda
Elizabeth Howse
Edna McDilda has sent in this picture of her grandmother, Elizabeth Howse, who was born in Portsmouth in 1853 and married Henry Coe. Elizabeth's father was James Howse, born in Clewer in 1820, and her grandfather was William Howse, born in 1792 in Chalvey. In 1861 Elizabeth was living at Bell Farm.
27 March, 2009
Margaret Bannister
Burfoot photos
Margaret has been in touch to ask if anyone knows who provided the Burfoot family photos in the W.I. Jubilee Scrapbook at Eton Wick library. We think it might have been local historian Judith Hunter, but if anyone reading this can help, please get in touch using the form at the top of the page.
9th March, 2009
Richard Jordan
Vaughan Gardens
Our family moved into no.5 Vaughan Gardens when I was six weeks old at the start ot the 2WW (I was christened the day war broke out). Being a four bedroomed house when evacuees arrived from London during the blitz we were expected to accomodate people. Our family then numbering 3 kids plus mum and dad took in Mrs Tyrell and Charlie, who still lives in the village and does a lot of good work around the place. We also had a lodger and regular visits from Aunts and Uncles from areas like Ramsgate which was in the thick of things during the Dunkirk withdrawall at various times we had as many as 13 or fourteen living in the house with mum preparing packed lunches for those in the work force.(No sliced bread in those days) Bikes had to be stored in the bathroom (for fear the Jerries would pinch them) and put away in the order that they would be required next morning.
I remember as a 4 or 5 year old laying in bed under the window of the front bedroom and when the guns on Dorney Common went off the black out curtains used to flap and you could see the flashes and the searchlights against the night sky. My clearest memory of the war was when a doodle bug hit the Dust destructor chimney stack over on the Dedworth side of the river. It was a Saturday afternoon and Windsor Races were on and I remember hearing the P.A. announcer screaming over the loudspeaker system for everyone to get down. The blast blew out the windows in Mr Woolhouses Bike shop which was opposite Haywards Mead.
Mrs Cawsey taught me in the infants classes at Eton Porney School and the times tables have been emblazoned in my mind ever since. As a five or 6 year old new entrant I was caned by "Brummer Frampton" for climbing on a disused coat rack. I was most upset and to console me Margaret Wilson (who was in the top class) stretched a lump of chewing gum out of her mouth and passed it to me while I was waiting to be caned. She was a friend for life.
Most of our family left the village in the 50s but brother Bob stayed on and moved out the Slough in the 70s. Myself, Sisters Rose and Susan now live in New Zealand where mum and dad spent the last years of their lives. I still keep in contact with various Eton Wick residents and have hosted several Wick people during their holidays down under.To demonstrate what a small world we live in, my wife Carol (nee Chamberlain) operates a Sunday market stall and was recently serving a customer and casually asked where he was from he replied Windsor so Carol said so am I, he said, well not actually Windsor, Eton Wick to which she replied, so am I, he said where abouts, she said Colenorton Crescent to which he replied so am I. She asked his name Chamberlain he replied, that was my maiden name said Carol. He apparently lives at 36 Colenorton Crescent, Carol grew up at number 3. Its a small world alright.
Best wishes to everyone with fond memories of the Wick
8th March, 2009
Maurice Wilkins
Charles Wilkins of Eton Wick
My great-great Uncle Charles Wilkins, who was born in Henley in 1863, was a butcher in Oxford Road, Clewer around 1891 and later on, according to various Kelly's Directories between 1907 and 1940, at 41, Stoke Road, Slough. This is still a butcher's shop, but now a halal butcher.
7th March, 2009
Anita Richardson
HMS Hermes and George Phillips
Anita Richardson sent the picture below, which is taken from the HMS Hermes website. She wonders if anyone knew her uncle George Phillips, and if so, whether they can identify him in this picture? If you can help, please get in touch using the link at the top of the page and we will forward your email to Anita.
Anita also sent in the picture of an unknown soldier, below, and wondered if anyone can identify him. The locket belonged to Nellie Wolfe of Eton Wick - Anita believes her husband was a Councillor or Mayor. Their daughter Elizabeth (Betty) Wolfe married Anita's uncle, who gave her the locket. If you can help, please get in touch.
11th February, 2009
Sheila Carrod (nee Emery)
Years gone by
Like many others, I too was born in eton wick just like my parents before me and their parents before them. I too fell on this site quite by accident, my what a trip down memory lane i've just had. It brings it all back, your childhood your youth and the more mature years. I have fond and lots of happy memories of my time in the village. I use to listen to stories from my parents and the laughs they use to have, i too told my stories to my children. I still have relatives living there so i still get to back every so often to visit. My family were the emerys/barnetts going back further to the stannetts,wilcoxs,clarks.
9th February, 2009
Michelle Hewett
The Prior Family
Hi, I am looking for info on the Prior family who lived in the village in the late 1800's to 1900's.
George Prior was born in 1883 and i believe he was a carpenter, his sons were called George Edward Prior, and Reg Prior, daughters were called Daphne and Ruby. I am still doing research on this and dont know much detail at the moment.
Thanks
Michelle
(If anyone can help with this enquiry, please let us know using the email link at the top of the page)
29th January, 2009
Sarah Akhtar
Painting of Saddocks Farm
I have an oil painting which has written on the back Saddocks Farm, Eton Wick. Painted by Allan Carr, no idea of the date, it could also say (in pencil) Spring Morning. Anyone interested in this? Anyone know why it was painted?
(If anyone can help with this enquiry, please let us know using the email link at the top of the page)
23rd January, 2009
Mr Ken White
Making contact with the past
I am still waiting to hear from ex-students who attended Eton Wick School during my happy five years 1953 - 1958 there. I am now approaching 87 so hearing from you soon would be great.
(If any former pupils would like to contact Mr White, please send a message to the website and we will forward your email to him.)
18th January, 2009
Tony Dyer
Messerschmitt 410 at Radnage
Found this site when researching the Me410, I have one of the engines. The farmhouse damaged had a young Ollie Reed plucked out of it. He was traumatised by the sight of the body crewman according to his biography.
(click here for the full story of the German air raid on Maidenhead, Feb. 1994)
14th December, 2008
David Cawsey
Eton Wick History
I've just revisited the site - and read many interesting entries since my own entry of October 10 2007.
There are several mentions of David Niven's occupancy of Wheatbutts, and I have another story about this.
My cousin tells me that she and a friend learned that David Niven was at home at Wheatbutts and went there to ask for David Niven's autograph. The housekeeper said that Errol Flynn was with David Niven at that time and asked them to return later for the autograph, which they did. (David Niven and Errol Flynn were known to be great personal friends)
Two people remember being taught by my mother at Eton Porny - she was teaching there for 16 years (1940 - 1956)
2nd November, 2008
Gillian Radiff (nee Marshall)
Remembering Eton Wick
Hi everyone. My sister Christine found this site quite accidentally and I am glad she did.
Chris and I moved with our mom and dad, Dave and Betty Marshall to Eton Wick in 1961 or 1962 (my memory is not that good). They had built a new house on Victoria Road next door to the Lovell's. We both attended Eton Wick School and I remember Mr. Moss and many of the teachers. Our family moved to Canada in 1967. I have lived in Calgary, Alberta (Home of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth) since then. The last time I saw Mr. Moss was in 1973 when we went back to England for a visit.
Here are some of the other things I remember: walking across the common to reach the river, going to Boveney Lock on Sunday afternoons to watch the boats going up and down the river, walking Mrs. Smith's dog Comical after school.
I remember Mr. Cox and going for lunch at the Village Hall, the craft sales at the Village Hall where all the ladies brought their hand made items to sell.
I remember the swimming races at the pool, and the time that one of the construction workers (who told us he was the Canadian Log Rolling Champion - and he probably was) gave us a demonstration of his skills during the competition.
I remember trying to play net ball and not being good at it. I remember playing the recorder as part of the recorder group at assembly's and plays.
I remember Mr. Moss used to put an object on display and ask the students to guess what it was. Anyone remember some of the things he had on display?
In 1967 the school had planned a trip to Holland. I was supposed to go, but my family was moving to Canada and we weren't sure of the departure date so I had to give up my spot.
My good friend Ann Myhill, who lived down the road from us, and her family moved to Calgary, Alberta Canada in 1966. They stayed in Calgary for a few years and we kept in contact, but they eventually moved to New Zealand.
Thanks to everyone who had a part in putting this site together.
26th October, 2008
Clare Gaboury (Stevens)
November 5th
I remember fondly Guy Fawkes night growing up in Eton Wick. Does anyone else remember the huge bonfire on the Common, behind the Greyhound? Everyone brought there old furniture etc and we had a great bonfire - with a Guy on top of course.
I also remember the 5-a-side football games around Easter time - originally at the Stockdales Road Recreation grounds - sweets were always given out at the end of the games - courtesy of Mr. Bond!
It's great to come back and visit "the Wick" - it's a beautiful location.
24th October, 2008
Judy Donnelly ( was Humphreys)
Eton Wick
I grew up in Eton Wick and was a brownie with Mrs Warr and Enid Warr when they ran the brownies. My father ran the scouts group, my older brother became a queens scout and I think my mother was involved with the cub pack!
I attended Eton Wick C of E primary when Mr Vernon Moss was Headmaster, sang in church choir, and was married (1st time) in St John's church and lived near to the church.
Have very fond memories of my childhood and being able to go fishing and cycling and swimming in Eton College pool in the summer. The bus fare to Windsor when I reached the advanced age of 13 was threepence...old money!
How nice to see this web site, I now live in the USA, but miss home and plan to retire back to England.
23rd October, 2008
Arthur Mylam
Eton Wick Poem
Boveney 1940
Where the Thames flows wide and slow around old Boveney reach
Here as a lad I spent my lonely leisure hours.
On the towpath stood the old, tree-encircled church
Where so long ago the bargee's stopped to worship
On they're way downstream to markets in lower towns
Willows weeping green and yellow, leaned from the bank
Hiding the grey heron's favourite fishing place,
Along the bank meadowsweet and tall iris grew
Within the lane wood pigeon cooed in chestnut trees
In the rush bed sat tight the coot on hatching eggs
Water voles burrowed in fern'ed banks along the stream.
Dabchicks played bob hide and seek after fish to eat.
Circles in the stream, told where fish rose for the fly
A family of swans would paddle deep away
The cob, neck arched, wings raised, hissed his fierce defiance
Thrusting against the stream to join his nervous mate
Here I would sit to fish with hazel rod and line,
Feather float, bent pin baited with expectant bread.
Weir stream pike, patient, waited for food in the race,
In those days nothing disturbed our tranquillity
The world occupied with survival and with war.
To manhood I grew, the bugle sounded plane
The river and I would not know such peace again.
23rd October, 2008
Vernon Humphreys (Butch)
The Humphreys Family
Hi found this site, i read the bit by Jim Moss about the trip to Bealuei and i recall myself & my sister Judy were on that trip also.
We moved to the Wick in 1963 my father Stan was the Public Health Inspector (stan stan the sanitary man) as Bill Olney used to call him.He also was involved with the scouts, i noticed there is a picture of him alongside Ernie & John Coke.
My mother Olive was also a cub leader 'bagherra' later taking over the Guides in Eton.They took the guides to Austria in the late 60s, but thats another story. They retired to Whitstable in the 80s and after a spell of living in Normandy, they returned to Whitstable, sadly passing away 3 years ago.
My contemparys were Dino Asslet, Terry Pardoe, Pip Reader, Dicky Denham, Les Foster, Frank Fogarty, Steve Fearn, Dave Fearn.
Eton Wick History Group Committee
Remembering Mary Gyngell
Mary was a founder Member of the of the Eton Wick History Group, which was formed in November 1992. She was the group Secretary who also found speakers for our yearly programme to give interesting talks on local history, whilst she was an encyclopedia of knowledge in particular on the history of Eton Town.
Remembered are Mary's home made fancy cake refreshments provided throughout the year, especially at the festive season of Christmas, which added to the enjoyment of the evening for attending members.
Her many friends from the History Group and other local organizations will miss her warm sincere friendship and the support that she gave to them.
Remembering Mary, the History Group made a contribution of £100 to her chosen charity, The Parapet Trust at Windsor Hospital.
20th October, 2008
David and Mary Mitchell
Mary Gyngell
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Mary Gyngell a dear friend we made during the years we lived in Alma Road after we were married. I also worked at High Duty Alloys with her husband Ernie, or "Gyn" as she liked to call him.
We shared a regular Friday evening get together at her house in Colenorton Crescent and it wasn't until years later that Mary told us how they would rush around after tea, pack the children off to bed and tidy the house to convince us how little disruption having children actually caused.
Her obituary in the Express, kindly forwarded to us by a friend, mentions her interest in crosswords. She was extremely well read, knowledgeable and each Friday would present us with a word for the week. It is solely due to Mary that I know the difference between a Haha and a gazebo.
We have stayed in touch over the years and were pleased to see her during our return visits to the UK. We shall miss her, but treasure the memories of those shared Friday evenings.
20th October, 2008
Martin Deebank
Memories of the Wick
I lived in the Wick from 1963/4 until 1988, when I moved to Watford. Still manage to get back occasionally, but nowadays it's usually to visit my mum and dad's grave in the churchyard of St John the Baptist.
In my family's time in the village my dad (Harry Deebank) was a keen allotment holder and also helped with the Wicko carnival, whilst my mum (Ellen Deebank) used to run the 2nd Eton Wick Brownies as Brown Owl.
So many memories of the Wick. Taking the go-kart on the "yet to open" Windsor Relief road so that we could collect the corona bottles from the workmen and take them back to Chantlers' for the 6d; fishing for frog-spawn in the brook in common road; collecting old pianos on Frank (killer(?)) Bond's lorry so that they could be smashed up at the Wicko carnival; camping with the cubs at Perrywood camp; once again camping, this time with the school at Wolverton and going on the long boat over the aqueduct; being made to miss most of the leavers' party as Mr Nash tried to make sure that I passed my 10 yard swimming badge before leaving the school; log rolling in the school swimming pool; getting smacked in front of the whole school (along with my sister Christine) for not getting home from school until about 10pm - the chips were so tasty then and the lure of just sitting on the wall by the Village Hall meant that the time flew by.
I also seem to remember that at one of the Wicko carnivals they had some of the wrestlers putting on a display in a marquee. Does my memory deceive me or did this include people like Jackie Pallo and Mick McManus?
Looking at the names of the members of the Eton Wick History Group here are a few other things that may jog their memories (or at least their families' memories); as a child at Eton Wick school I was in the same year as Amanda Denham and used to go round to her parents' house in Queen's Road to play occasionally; as a teenager I had a Saturday job at Andron (run by Andy Hodge and Ron Savage) on the Slough Trading Estate; when I started work I used to travel from Slough to Paddington by train with a very agreeable and distinguished elderly gentleman (or so he seemed to me at the time) by the name of Mr Ballhatchet (he always did the crossword in one of the broad-sheets whilst I tended to stick to the easier Daily Express quick crossword); then in my early twenties I played football with Tim Gyngell's Castle United team for a short while.
Martin has kindly sent us some pictures of the school and cubs football teams - we will be adding these to the website soon.
16th October, 2008
Arthur Mylam (Dick)
Like to hear from you
My grand parants moved to Eton Wick in 1900 and lived in Gallater Cottage oposite the chapple.Ware I was born in 1925.Perhaps my mother will be remembered Mrs Mylam she remaraied after being a widow for so years and became Mrs Revel.
If you want to get in touch with Mr Mylam, please send a message and we will forward it to him.
27th September, 2008
Louise Gum (nee Chamberlain)
Memories!
Like many others I found this website by accident. I am part of the Chamberlain family, originally from Victoria Road. My wonderful nan still lives in the village. My dad Peter and his twin brother David grew up in the village from 1944. I lived in Alma Road as a baby and then Princes Close until I was about 8. I remember Mr Moss and more so Mrs Moss because she shared my birthday 15th March. Great site well done!! I am now living in Australia.
29th July, 2008
Jennifer James nee Bond
A trip down memory lane
I found the site by accident and what a trip down memory lane it gave me! The shinty matches - I still have an egg cup, the scout fete - my uncle Ernie Coke was 'Skip' - and the celebrities we had to open it - I remember Geraldine McKewan, Beryl Reid and Stewart Granger. My father, Bob Bond, said that David Niven lived in the Wheatbutts and I remember Mrs Cawsey at Eton Porny who taught me and my twin sister Pauline in the first two years of school - does the school have reunions - I'd love to go. I also remember the Nissen huts on Dorney Common - John Ratchford lived in one I think. I also remember the dips dug into Eton Wick Great Common to make it impossible for enemy planes to land during the war and when we had snow in the winter you could get very wet if you stepped in the wrong place and fell in!
I have a second cousin - Daphne Bond's daughter - who has compiled a family tree of the Bond family back to about the 16th century - so many rolls and rolls of paper!
I was quite surprised on a recent visit to the village that I was recognised as it must be 30 years at least since I was a regular visitor - spooky! I shall have a look now from time to time to see updates and as I live in Ascot - Pauline lives in Burnham - it wouldn't be far to come for a get-together if one was ever organised.
Best wishes Jennifer
24th July, 2008
Anita Richardson
Info on relative
Hello
Does anyone in Eton Wick have any recollection of a lady named Doris VL Savage (nee Read) - her husband's name was Edwin James Savage. He died when HMS Hood went down in May 1941. They lived in Eton Wick at some time between 1923 and 1941. Mr Savage was my Uncle and only one of his brother's is still alive he is 87 and memory is fading. He just remembers that his brother's name was Edwin and he was married and living in Eton Wick sometime within the above dates.
I would be grateful for any info. Thank you
If you can help with Anita's enquiry, please send us an email and we will forward it on to her.
19th June, 2008
Jane Larcombe (nee Hill)
Gymkanas at Bob Bond's
My maiden name was Jane Hill, my Mum was Joy Keen, my Grandmother Kathleen (Kate/Kit) Keen and my Great-Grandmother was Ellen Keen (of W. Keen & Son, Montem Lane, Slough). All of us were known to Bob Bond and he knew my Dad, Ron Hill also. I have photos from the horse shows/gymkanas that were held on Bob's land in Eton Wick in the early 1960s, when I was very small. if you would like copies. If anyone wants to get in contact my email is: jane.larcombe@hotmail.com
If anyone else has photos or stories about the horse shows and gymkanas, please get in touch - we hope to add some of Jane's pictures soon.
1st June, 2008
Joanne Long
Lovell Family
My great grandfather Frederick John Lovell was a master grocer in Eton Wick around 1901 - the address I have is 5 Bell Lane which I believe was the Post Office, was the Post Office in the grocers shop? or vice versa?
His father Thomas Lovell was a baker and grocer at the same address in 1891, and before that the family lived at 1 Ada Cottage after moving from London.
Would love to hear from anyone with any info on this family.
If you can help Joanne, please send a message using the link above and we will pass it on.
29th May, 2008
Caroline Hallett
School 120th Anniversary
Eton Wick First School is organising an exhibition of past pupils and staffs memories of their time at the school. If you have anything that we can used ie memories, photos, reports etc and would be prepared to let us copy and use them please contact me at the school. Our telephone number is 01753 860096, or drop them in to school in an envelope marked for my attention. If you would like the items returned please could you enclose a stamped addressed envelope. Many thanks
If you would like to send any memories by email, please use the link above and we will pass your message to the school.
26th May, 2008
Tony Downey
Fond memories
Reading through your web site brought back lots of fond memories of my early childhood in Eton Wick.
I was born in June 1956 at number 34 Alma Rd,right opposite what was the old Co-op. I lived there with my Nan, Helen Botsford,my mother Ann and my brothers Bernie and Roger, until about 1967 when we moved to Horndean Hampshire. I returned to the Wick fairly regularly to visit my nan up until the early eighties when she came to live with us in Portsmouth. Unfortunately both my mother and my Nan have passed away,and I now live in Australia, so I don't know what happened to all their old photos, I'll get onto Roger to see if he has them, and I will post them on the web site.
Keep up the good work. Fondest regards to all.
Tony Downey
15th April, 2008
Kate Martin (nee Kean)
Colenorton Crescent
After approximately 55+ years there is no longer a member of my family living in this road. I lived in Colenorton Crescent from 1953 to 1969 (when I got Married) My Aunt - Mrs Cissie Friend and my cousin Margaret (Terry) Roberts also lived in the road. Margaret has just moved out but remains in the village now living in Clifton Lodge flats.
My family have probably been around the village for more than 100 years. Margaret being born there and now 86 years orginally lived at Manor Farm, then in Shepcote Lane. I went to Eton Wick School along with Margarets son Ian. Maragret also went to Eton Wick school and both she and Ian won the cup for swimming. If my memory is correct, this was for swimming a mile and I think Ian was only the second person to win this after Margaret herself. Whilst moving Margaret we have found pictures of both events.
I have read some of the guestbook entries and a lot of names spring into my memory. Robert Moss, being taught by his father and also Mrs Miles and Ken White. Hazel Pygall, Joan Benham to name but a few.
Does anybody rememer the 'bagpipes' being played around the village at New Year? If so that was my Brother!
31st March, 2008
John Bond
Old Wheatbutts
I just read the message from Terri Reed from 29th November.
I was always given to believe that David Niven lived in the Wheatbutts. He certainly lived in Eton Wick for a short time. He gave my friend Ronnie Cox a half crown which he still has!
26th March, 2008
Andy Denham
Shinty
I remember the shinty competition organised every year by Mr Moss. When we first moved to Eton Wick in 1960 I was 9 years old. I was asked by my class teacher, Mr Blay, why I had not put my name forward for the Shinty competition. I had no idea what shinty was, but he assured me that I would enjoy it as, "I was a good footballer". He was right, I did enjoy it.
That first competition was held on the Stockdales "new rec" and I remember the first game I played. Being fairly new to the village I was in a team with four other children that I did not know. I believe that the captain was called John "HONKEY" Alder and he put me in goal. I enjoyed the competition and we went on to win it.
The final was held on the Wheatbutts as part of the Scout Fete entertainment. I remember being surprised at the trophys; egg cups for the runners-up and ash trays for the winners - we were still at primary school, how attitudes to smoking have changed! These trophies were made each year at the Clee Pottery in Eton High Street.
The shinty competition moved fron the New Rec to the old Rec with the final taking place at the WICKO entertainment. It was eventually held at the School itself and the competition had expanded to enclude an open section for teams outside of the village.
25th March, 2008
Steve Blay
Shinty
I think I remember reading a while ago, a comment from one of the guests asking if anyone had pictures of Shinty games? If so please find attached 2 photos I have found that may be of interest? These were taken where the game was regularly played in the Haywards Mead Recreation ground. One skinny player was me (Not so skinny now I must hasten to add!) But I wonder who can recognise any of the others. It was a good game which I really enjoyed playing, but fairly unique to Eton Wick!
24th March, 2008
Doreen Ridden
Moore History
To Lindsey Fisk and any other Moore relatives
I am related to John Moore and John William was the youngest child of John William Moore and Mary Anne Shorter. We are in fact related as John William's sister Lilian Beatrice was my grandmother. I would love to hear from you and catch up with family history information.
27th February, 2008
Lindsey Fisk nee Moore
John William Moore
With ref to the message below. I have looked at the family tree that my father started before he passed away and yes, you are correct the John William Moore born in 1874 had a son called Alan by his first wife Elsie Colville. Alan was my grandfather although I never met him. My father Richard Alan Moore was brought up a friend of his mothers.I guess that makes the John William Moore of Moores Lane my great grandfather.I have numerous photos of John William and his wife Elsie and also of your great, great grandfather in Eton Wick which my Dad must have uncovered tracing his family tree.
Note from website editor for Lindsay and John - if you would like to get in touch with each other directly, please send another message to the guestbook with your email address included and I will forward your message to the other person.
22 February, 2008
John William Moore
John William Moore
With ref to Lindsey Fisk (see message below), John my gt gt gt grandfather did not have a son called Alan but did have another John William born in 1874 who lived with him at Eton Wick who married a Elsie Colville and moved to Egham. Hope this helps.
18th February, 2008
Lindsey Fisk
John William Moore
I have been looking at my father's book tracing his family tree and it appears that his grandfather was John William Moore of Eton Wick. My father was called Richard Alan Moore and his father was Alan Moore who I think was the son of John William Moore.
16th February, 2008
Jim Moss
Beaulieu
When in the UK recently, I came across some details that my Dad had written down about a school trip to Beaulieu on May 29th 1964.
Coach to the station at 8am, Train to Southampton, Boat Cruise, Time at Beaulieu, Tea, and then Home again for 9.35pm. Cost for each person - 27 shillings (1 pound 35p!). 70 children and 11 adults went. There is even the list of everyone who went!
For the record the teachers/adults were Mr. Moss; Miss Winder; Mr. Nash; Mrs. Smith; Mrs. Pearce; Miss Maclean; Miss Priest; Mrs. Stokes; Mrs. Miles; Mr and Mrs Ford.
The children were (hope I can read Dad's writing correctly!): Linda Lovell; David Longmore; David West; Tony Hester; Clive Brett; Keith Brimmer; Terry Reeves; Andrew Wynn; Derek Tyrell; Pamela Bond; Gary Stout; Marie Rawlings; Linda Wilson; Susan Myhill; Leslie Foster; Janice Brennan; Valerie Stickland; Marissa Hunt; Michael George; Graham Brett; Paul Feurings(sp?); Geoffrey Harris; Susan Lund; Jennifer Farrer; John Lynch; Alan Lynch; Malcolm Budd; Andrew Clatworthy; Imade Iyare; Stephen Delaney; Susan Rowlands; Steven Denham; Stephen Wyeth; Barbara Eyles; Clive Razey; Ann Charlton; Manning Howard; Jane Schultz; Tracey Talbot; Paulette Sharpe;Linda Benham;Kieron Sumner;Anne Harding; Barbara Harding; Haydn Ash; Graham Ford; Linda Clarke; Christine Jaycock; Kim Devonshire; Janis Valdmanis; Ian Sainsbury;Lesley King;Carol Sherwood;Kenneth Sharpe;Christopher Lovell;Christine Cameron;Patricia Brennan;Martin Swadling;Andrew Neate;Paul Gapper;Elaine Hunt;Linda Varley;Brian MacLeish;Francis Fogarty;Stephen Fearnley; Andrew Rainer; Janet Huse; Lesley Hinton; Helen Pethybridge; Steven Hinton.
Hope this brings back memories for some other visitors!
Stephen Denham has added:
"This cover the top 3 years I believe, but there are some children that are not on the list, I presume that they did not go, David Fearn and his sister Linda, Brian Higgins are a start. I will have to let the memory do its stuff to see what other names I can come up with."
13th February, 2008
Carol Chew
Chew Family of Windsor
I read your articles with interest as a member of the Chew family in Willenhall in the West Midlands. It look as though they were well respected in the area.
I believe one of my husband's family moved to Windsor after the lst world war. If anyone knows of any relatives I would be pleased to hear from them, especially Pete Chew, who I believe may be related.
If you can help Carol, please contact us and we will forward your message to her.
27th January, 2008
Keith Mann
The Army Camp on Dorney Common
I was born at the Canadian Red Cross Memorial Hospital in Taplow in May 1948. My parents lived at the army camp on Dorney Common from (at least 1948) until about 1952 I think.
We moved to Meadow Lane in Dorney Reach and while living there I attended the infant school in Dorney. My grandparents lived at Britwell Farm in Burnham. My mum worked for Colonel Palmer picking fruit, I can remember her taking me along (before the age of child-minders).
I now live in Bedfordshire but still like to pass through when I am down that way (the Shepherds Hut is still a fine pub).
Congratulations on the web site, keep up the good work.
24th January, 2008
Doreen Ridden
Hi
My greatgrandfather was John William Moore and he was the father of Annie Tough who got the Primitive Methodist Chapel built. She was step-sister to my grandmother Lilian Moore. My grandmother was the first person to be married in the newly built Methodist Chapel.
I remember coming down as a child with my father to collect rent in Alma Road from the houses that were family owned. They were eventually sold to local residents.
I remember Sylvia Chew at a family wedding in the 60's and kept in touch with her till she died.
For Becky who wrote on this site in May 07 - Annie and Charles Tough were living at Bell Farm in 1877 after their marriage and until Charles' death in 1924 - that's all the info I have,but I havent heard of the person you were asking about.
I think Eton Wick is lovely and have come down quite a lot and taken pictures of Alma Road, Moore's Lane and of the churchyard where Annie and Charles are buried. I am also in communication with John Webb as his relations (The Groves) and mine tie up - we also tie in together with the Chews.
This is a great site and I shall continue to visit it regularly to catch up with what is happening. Keep up the good work.
Doreen
13th January, 2008
Richard Jordan
Eton Wick Nicknames
Although our family moved from the Wick in about 1954 to live at Willowbrook I stayed very involved with the village through the Youth Club and ended up as leader of the club from from 1962 to 1965 with Frank Bond as my mentor and adviser.
As a kid in the village it seemed nearly everyone had a nickname, many of them were conferred by one Terry Bolton who funnily enough never had one. But some those I can remember off hand are Knocker (John Webb),his brother Skimpy (Peter Webb),Padlock(Jeffery Pardoe)His uncle Conchie Pardoe, Tosher Johnson, Brusher (Doug Benham), Glueshy(John Bond), Pip (Brian Bolton) Buffer Hood, Buffer Wells, Buster Irvine,Knotchy (Micheal Knight), I know that many of these characters have passed on or moved away from the village but I find it interesting to visit the site from time to time and see names of people I grew up with, who got up to the same sort of tricks that we used to, sadly in this day and age Health and safety requirements I am sure would preclude the digging of Long drop toilets for the camp at St Ives and trying to cook a whole Lamb on a spit over a row of Primus stoves, it was delicious but a little on the rare side when we finally got to try it at midnight. Mackeral Fishing was always a hightlight of the Camp with Frank Bond going to great lengths to photograph people as they threw up over the side through sea sickness.
The world's problems were thrashed out many a night in the saloon Bar of the Shepherds Hut to which we would adjourn after the Youth Club closed at 10 o'clock. On a regular basis Frank Bond was caught for a round of drinks to which he would say "Don't worry about it I'll put a penny on the spuds tomorrow" When we talk of todays youngsters drinking under age I was a regular drinker from the age of 15, but I don't think I ever got drunk.
Looking back at other Guest book entries I well remember Ms Cawsey who drummed into us the times tables so that they are forever emblazoned on my mind. If any one else can add to the list of Eton Wick Nick Names it would be interesting to hear of them.
(Plumridge) Richard Jordan
January 4th, 2008
Monica Peck
Eton Wick School
My brothers Vic, Frank and myself went to school in Eton Wick although we lived in Dorney Reach as it was the nearest school. Our mum was at one time on the PTA. I remember Mrs Winder, Mrs Miles, Mr & Mrs Moss and Mr White. When Mr White moved to Canada Mr Moss arranged for my class to sing and a recording was made to be posted to Mr White. Mrs Moss taught my son when he went to school in Dorney Reach around 1973. I still have my shinty egg-cup 1964.
I am related to the Tarrants by marriage as my dad's sister married Bob Tarrant and I am also related to the Paintin family as my grandfather's sister Elizabeth Peck married Frank Paintin. I am also related to June Ellood.
I used to enjoy the Beetle game that used to be held at the school. The school dinners in the village hall were really good and we used to freeze walking there and back in the Winter. When it was the Christmas Party at the V/Hall all us kids had to remember to take a spoon into school. There was always a magician and party games. I still go through Eton Wick on my way to Dorney Reach when visiting my family. I now live near Guildford.