January 1921
Isle of Wight Observer:
Jan 1st 1921: CHRISTMAS AT THE POST OFFICE – A very large amount of business was done at Ryde Post Office, it was not by any means abnormal so far as cards with the seasons wishes are concerned. The parcels post showed no falling off but rather an increase on some former years. In addition to the regular staff of postmen a number of Ex-Servicemen were engaged as auxiliaries.
Jan 1st 1921: NEW GRAMMAR SCHOOL – The new Grammar School for Ryde of which the Headmaster will be Mr. W. L. MCISAAC, is announced to be opened for the summer term in May at “Melrose” Belvedere-street. It is believed that the school, conducted on the lines of a Public School, will serve a most useful purpose and that parents will eagerly avail themselves of it so far as the education of their boys is concerned.
Jan 1st 1921: WAR MEMORIAL – An impressive ceremony took place at All Saints’ Church on Sunday morning, (St. Stephens Day), when the Bishop of Southampton (the Right Rev. Dr. MCARTHUR) dedicated the inside memorial, in the form of an altar, in the north transept, to the memory of those belonging to the parish who had fallen in the war. A portion of the north aisle was reserved for relatives and friends of those who had made the great sacrifice, and there were many signs of mourning.
Jan 1st 1921: “BABES IN THE WOOD” – On Saturday and Monday the Theatre Royal will be besieged by anxious crowds seeking admission to the Pantomime so it is advisable to book seats at once. The pantomime is a topical, musical extravaganza in two parts and five scenes, and has been specially written for the Island by Lt-Col. A. C. T. VEASEY. The cast is an outstanding one and includes several artistes of London fame.
Jan 8th 1921: WHIST DRIVES – Some comment has been made locally with regard to the case in the papers as to the legality of whist drives especially as Ryde has a number booked. If it came about that no prizes were to be given it would certainly detract from the interest of the games. There is no question that skill predominates.
Jan 8th 1921: TOWN HALL ORGAN – It was gratifying to hear some music from the organ in the Town Hall on Thursday. The instrument having been satirically dubbed a “white elephant” was repaired at considerable expense and with Mr C. B. HAIR’s skilful treatment its sound was rich and harmonic and gave every satisfaction as it did at the recent performance of “The Creation.” There is now every opportunity for a nice recital to be given occasionally and as Ryde has the reputation of being musical it is hoped that resident and visiting organists will be invited to display their skill. more about Mr Hair here
Jan 8th 1921: TAXES – Charabanc owners are considerably disturbed about the new motor taxes. They are also felt a great hardship to ex-Service men who have spent their savings and gratuity on the purchase of lorries.
Jan 8th 1921: A YEAR’S RETROSPECT – Locally the year 1920, has brought many changes, municipal and otherwise, and the bright outlook in the early months was darkened by the general spirit of unrest throughout the country and increased unemployment. The summer season in Ryde, was again eminently satisfactory and there was evidence of the towns continued popularity amongst visitors.
Jan 22nd 1921: A TREAT – Mr. E. V. MATTHEWS who is acting as hon. sec. to the committee organising a tea and entertainment to war widows, their children and others, at the Town Hall on the 27th, states that the subscriptions have come in very satisfactorily and they hope to provide a thoroughly good treat. more about Mr Matthews here
Jan 22nd 1921: HOUSING – A special meeting of the Town Council has been summoned for Monday evening and according to the agenda, drastic alterations are to be made. The cost of the Ratcliffe-avenue site £2815 seemed prohibitive, and it was proposed to modify the scheme by building only 30 houses instead of 40.