Ryde Social Heritage Group research the social history of the citizens of Ryde, Isle of Wight. Documenting their lives, businesses and burial transcriptions.
RYDE SOCIAL HERITAGE GROUP
Based at Ryde Cemetery Heritage & Learning Centre. Preserving, documenting and promoting the social history of Ryde on the Isle of Wight.
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Quarterly Social Morning 11 April 2026

Mellish (Post-office) High Street, Ryde 2007

It was pleasing to see a good amount of our members at the 2nd quarterly social morning of the year, held at the Baptist Church, George Street, Ryde on Saturday 11th April.  Six visitors also came to join us, which was very encouraging. We were very happy to welcome them.

We began a new way regarding the refreshments, whereby members and visitors could obtain their teas, coffees and biscuits upon arrival, instead of waiting till later in the morning.  There were no negative comments, so if members are agreeable, we will carry this on.

Richard Smout (president) welcomed everybody, including the speaker for the morning.  He also assisted then with the drawing of the raffle.

There followed an interesting presentation by Arthur Reeder of the Post Box Museum, which was called “Post Offices Past & Present.”  Arthur’s talk was illustrated by many photos of post offices around the Island.  He had also brought along several examples of old post boxes for us to see.  At the end of the talk Arthur answered questions from the people gathered.  Richard Smout gave the vote of thanks to Arthur, and there was a round of applause.

Thanks to the group helpers on the day, who had mostly stepped in at the last minute, to ensure that the event ran smoothly, thank you.  A successful morning.

Note:
We would like to mention a date for your diary – A Postcard & Ephemera Fair will be held by the Vectis Postcard Club on Saturday 18 April at the Masonic Hall in John Street, Ryde, 10am till 3pm.

Image: RSHG. This is not the original Post Office in the High Street, which was sited next door to the Oddfellows Hall, on the opposite side of the road.  It moved in 1893.

Ann Barrett
(mem.sec.)