Two years ago this spring, we set up the first Central Chilterns Farmer Cluster. Chaired by dedicated Chilterns farmer, Ian Waller and joined by a group of 18 fantastic local farmers, the cluster has gone from strength to strength.
In the early 19th century, the Government was becoming increasingly concerned about the amount of public drunkenness after a reduction in the duty on gin had led to the proliferation of plush “gin palaces”...
The second of two parts of this fascinating story of Benjamin North and his furniture factory in West Wycombe. This article features many historical photos of the factory and the old chair brochures that were produced. Such an amazing story of how one factory became an icon in the region and in the chair making industry during that time.
The first of two parts in this tale of Benjamin North and how he came to start his own chair making factory in West Wycombe... "On one of his trips, to Gloucester, Benjamin shared a hotel room with "the great chairmaker" (Benjamin's own words) Thomas Harris and his son. Mr Harris was from West Wycombe and was also a Wesleyan preacher. He appreciated Benjamin reading the Bible to them last thing at night and first thing in the morning..."
An interesting account that many of us can relate to, as Graham begins to ask himself who his ancestors were and the role they played in the cottage industries of the Chilterns many years ago. The first part of this research, with more to come soon!
Just in time for Christmas, enjoy this fascinating tale of the Plough Pub in Winchmore Hill and the story of the Pursey family, and how the two were linked with the famous chair-making industry of the Chilterns.
Cosy up with a warm drink and enjoy this short story uncovered by the research of our dedicated volunteers. Dive into Thomas' world, beginning in 1825 and following his fascinating life as a lace dealer in High Wycombe.
Another fascinating account of a local crafts person, uncovered by Vanessa Worship, one of the volunteers for Woodlanders' Lives and Landscapes.
Food was a serious preoccupation in those days. Ben, now working as a gardener, provided the family with most of the vegetables that they needed. They didn’t have very much meat. Rhoda reckoned to start the winter with 100 pounds weight of jam that she had made.
