4 Saturday (35-331)
S.R. 7.36, S.S. 4.53
We had painting this morning.
We still have had no letters so we shall have to wait until Monday now. We ought to hear from Daddy, as to where to send his letters to because before long he will be leaving Shanghai.
Thrills.
We stayed indoors all day because the weather was so bad, we played the gramophone and had a packet of toffees at our side.
I.H.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
February 3
3 Friday (34-332)
No letters still, the post seems to have left us out altogether so far.
Iris went to McDonald's to have her knee done.
At 3:30 we went to"Lit" and heard "The Distracted Preacher" by Thomas Hardy" read.
We did not have time to hear the end so it will be continued at the next "Lit"
Nora is doing prep and Iris mending.
I.H.
No letters still, the post seems to have left us out altogether so far.
Iris went to McDonald's to have her knee done.
At 3:30 we went to"Lit" and heard "The Distracted Preacher" by Thomas Hardy" read.
We did not have time to hear the end so it will be continued at the next "Lit"
Nora is doing prep and Iris mending.
I.H.
February 2
2 Thursday (33-333)
Candlemas (Scottish Quarter Day)
Purification of B.V.M.
Still the post has brought us nothing. We hope Daddy's letter will come tomorrow.
We went for a walk with Iris Martin and on our way back we bought a paper to send to Daddy.
Mr Moore came this evening as usual and talked to us about the Epiphany.
We both did needle-work during his talk.
I.H.
Candlemas (Scottish Quarter Day)
Purification of B.V.M.
Still the post has brought us nothing. We hope Daddy's letter will come tomorrow.
We went for a walk with Iris Martin and on our way back we bought a paper to send to Daddy.
Mr Moore came this evening as usual and talked to us about the Epiphany.
We both did needle-work during his talk.
I.H.
February 1 1928
1 Wednesday (32-334)
Pheasant and Partridge shooting end
We still have had no letters this week. Iris made Peach Baskets for the staff dinner today. They looked a delicious "sweet" for dinner parties.
We had a singing practice from 2 -2:15 and after we played net-ball. It was quite a decent game.
We had a singing lesson from 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.
At dancing this evening we both had a dance with Miss Norman. Nora had a "Blues" and Iris had a Fox-trot.
I.H.
Pheasant and Partridge shooting end
We still have had no letters this week. Iris made Peach Baskets for the staff dinner today. They looked a delicious "sweet" for dinner parties.
We had a singing practice from 2 -2:15 and after we played net-ball. It was quite a decent game.
We had a singing lesson from 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.
At dancing this evening we both had a dance with Miss Norman. Nora had a "Blues" and Iris had a Fox-trot.
I.H.
January 31 * Note about diary
31 Tuesday (31-335)
The insurance herein contained is not valid until
your name has been registered
We have received no letters today. Iris had a violin lesson at 2 o'clock and Nora played net-ball.
We had a science lesson at three and did not appear very bright when answering questions.
Iris Martin is still reading nonsense stories to us at bed time. They're lovely and keep us in fits of laughter most of the evening.
Here we are at the end of one month of keeping this diary ( though it may appear dull to the next generation, we hope they will go on reading it just the same) knowing that while at school we have little to record except lessons.
I.H.
The insurance herein contained is not valid until
your name has been registered
We have received no letters today. Iris had a violin lesson at 2 o'clock and Nora played net-ball.
We had a science lesson at three and did not appear very bright when answering questions.
Iris Martin is still reading nonsense stories to us at bed time. They're lovely and keep us in fits of laughter most of the evening.
Here we are at the end of one month of keeping this diary ( though it may appear dull to the next generation, we hope they will go on reading it just the same) knowing that while at school we have little to record except lessons.
I.H.
January 30
30 Monday (30-336)
We have received no letters today. We went through our lessons as usual. This afternoon Nora had a violin lesson and Iris had a Hygiene class.
Joyce Tolson has come to be a boarder for five weeks or so. We hope she'll like St George's.
The weeks are beginning to fly by now, we have been back at school for nearly a fortnight.
It is only nine weeks now before we will see Daddy again.
Thrills!!!
I.H.
We have received no letters today. We went through our lessons as usual. This afternoon Nora had a violin lesson and Iris had a Hygiene class.
Joyce Tolson has come to be a boarder for five weeks or so. We hope she'll like St George's.
The weeks are beginning to fly by now, we have been back at school for nearly a fortnight.
It is only nine weeks now before we will see Daddy again.
Thrills!!!
I.H.
January 29
29 Sunday (29-337)
4th after Epiphany
First Quarter, 7.26 p.m.
We went to early morning service this morning. After breakfast we wrote letters til church time.
Mr Moor preached today.
We went for a walk in threes this afternoon. Nora went with Lizzie Betwell and Jean Sunderland, and Iris went with Sheila and Squelch. Some of the girls are starting to make toast-by the fire for tea. It has been raining all day long and is miserable weather.
We are doing prep this evening because we don't have to go to Even-song as we went to early morning and eleven o'clock service.
I.H.
4th after Epiphany
First Quarter, 7.26 p.m.
We went to early morning service this morning. After breakfast we wrote letters til church time.
Mr Moor preached today.
We went for a walk in threes this afternoon. Nora went with Lizzie Betwell and Jean Sunderland, and Iris went with Sheila and Squelch. Some of the girls are starting to make toast-by the fire for tea. It has been raining all day long and is miserable weather.
We are doing prep this evening because we don't have to go to Even-song as we went to early morning and eleven o'clock service.
I.H.
January 28
28 Saturday (28-338)
We went to painting from 9 AM till 10:30. We had our hair cut before we went. It was raining and so we did not go out at all for a walk. We read in the afternoon and played the gramophone. After tea we did prep and again after supper.
Nora began reading "The Last of the Barons" Iris is reading the "Rough Road"
N.H.
We went to painting from 9 AM till 10:30. We had our hair cut before we went. It was raining and so we did not go out at all for a walk. We read in the afternoon and played the gramophone. After tea we did prep and again after supper.
Nora began reading "The Last of the Barons" Iris is reading the "Rough Road"
N.H.
January 27
27 Friday (27-339)
We had a long letter each from Dolly. She is luckier than we imagined for she is not going back to school at all now until next term so we expect a good number of letters this term. Iris played net ball and Nora went for a walk with Laura Carney. Iris read and Nora did prep till 4 PM.
After we did prep again and again after supper.
N.H.
We had a long letter each from Dolly. She is luckier than we imagined for she is not going back to school at all now until next term so we expect a good number of letters this term. Iris played net ball and Nora went for a walk with Laura Carney. Iris read and Nora did prep till 4 PM.
After we did prep again and again after supper.
N.H.
January 26
26 Thursday (26-340)
We received a parcel in a long letter from Mrs. Freeman. The parcel contained a buttonhole each enclosed into gold boxes. They are very smart. It rained and so there was no hockey. Iris Martin accompanied me in my violin practice Iris, Iris Martin and myself went for a short walk. We returned at about 2:45 PM.
Nora went to French conversation at 3:30 to 4 PM.
Gertrude came to supper. She told us she was going to be on night duty that very night.
N.H.
We received a parcel in a long letter from Mrs. Freeman. The parcel contained a buttonhole each enclosed into gold boxes. They are very smart. It rained and so there was no hockey. Iris Martin accompanied me in my violin practice Iris, Iris Martin and myself went for a short walk. We returned at about 2:45 PM.
Nora went to French conversation at 3:30 to 4 PM.
Gertrude came to supper. She told us she was going to be on night duty that very night.
N.H.
January 25
25 Wednesday (25-341)
We had prayers at 9:15 AM because of the Corporate Commission which made some girls late. We had no letters at all. We went up to the playing fields at 2 PM to play netball and returned at 3 PM. Gertrude was waiting for us. We found out that she is going to be married to a man named Starky and we congratulated her.
We went to singing from 3:30 to 4 PM. We both wore our new dresses to dancing and everyone like them. We found that there were several changes in the dancing and so we will have a lot to learn this term. We learned "The Rhythm" which is very fascinating.
N.H.
We had prayers at 9:15 AM because of the Corporate Commission which made some girls late. We had no letters at all. We went up to the playing fields at 2 PM to play netball and returned at 3 PM. Gertrude was waiting for us. We found out that she is going to be married to a man named Starky and we congratulated her.
We went to singing from 3:30 to 4 PM. We both wore our new dresses to dancing and everyone like them. We found that there were several changes in the dancing and so we will have a lot to learn this term. We learned "The Rhythm" which is very fascinating.
N.H.
January 24
24 Tuesday (24-342)
We have had no letters today.
Iris had her first violin lesson and got on quite successfully. Nora went for a walk with Hilda Lawrence.
We had service from 3-3;34 pm
After tea we did prep from 4:30 to 6:45 and then had supper.
After supper we washed each other's hair and then retired to bed.
N.H.
We have had no letters today.
Iris had her first violin lesson and got on quite successfully. Nora went for a walk with Hilda Lawrence.
We had service from 3-3;34 pm
After tea we did prep from 4:30 to 6:45 and then had supper.
After supper we washed each other's hair and then retired to bed.
N.H.
January 23
23 Monday (23-343)
Mrs. Payton sent Iris's prayer this morning and enclosed a letter in it which was very jolly. We had lessons as usual from nine 12:45 PM. Our violin came back in time for Nora's lesson at 2 PM. We received letter number 81 from Daddy. The new office is in full swing now except for the central heating. Daddy expects to arrive here on April 3 but we hope it will be sooner. Nora's first violin lesson with Mr. Bertram Louis was quite successful and if we work hard we ought to get on well at violin this term with such a famous master to teach us. Iris had a Hygiene lesson and Nora and extra French one. We did prep from 4:30 to 6:45. After supper we were given our table places. We also played "Hear My Prayer" by request. Iris is writing to Hilda and Nora is doing prep.
N.H.
Mrs. Payton sent Iris's prayer this morning and enclosed a letter in it which was very jolly. We had lessons as usual from nine 12:45 PM. Our violin came back in time for Nora's lesson at 2 PM. We received letter number 81 from Daddy. The new office is in full swing now except for the central heating. Daddy expects to arrive here on April 3 but we hope it will be sooner. Nora's first violin lesson with Mr. Bertram Louis was quite successful and if we work hard we ought to get on well at violin this term with such a famous master to teach us. Iris had a Hygiene lesson and Nora and extra French one. We did prep from 4:30 to 6:45. After supper we were given our table places. We also played "Hear My Prayer" by request. Iris is writing to Hilda and Nora is doing prep.
N.H.
January 22
22 Sunday (22-344)
3rd after Epiphany
New Moon, 8.19 p.m.
We had an extra hour in bed this morning and we were jolly glad of it. We wrote our own letters until 10:30 AM and then went to church. Iris, Squelch and myself went for a walk along the beach as far as Alum Chine. We left at 1:45 and returned at 3 PM. We wrote our letters until teatime and after tea we did prep.
We went to church again that evening.
We had supper at 8 PM and retired to bed at 8:45
N.H.
3rd after Epiphany
New Moon, 8.19 p.m.
We had an extra hour in bed this morning and we were jolly glad of it. We wrote our own letters until 10:30 AM and then went to church. Iris, Squelch and myself went for a walk along the beach as far as Alum Chine. We left at 1:45 and returned at 3 PM. We wrote our letters until teatime and after tea we did prep.
We went to church again that evening.
We had supper at 8 PM and retired to bed at 8:45
N.H.
January 21
21 Saturday (21-345)
We had a letter from Dolly this morning before we went over to painting. During painting Miss Stocks came in to tell us that Joe and Lucie and many others had passed their senior Cambridge exam. We were very thrilled to hear that they had passed but we do not know the details yet.
We went shopping this morning and bought a little present for Margaret. We went to Westbourne this afternoon to take our violin to be mended.
I.H
We had a letter from Dolly this morning before we went over to painting. During painting Miss Stocks came in to tell us that Joe and Lucie and many others had passed their senior Cambridge exam. We were very thrilled to hear that they had passed but we do not know the details yet.
We went shopping this morning and bought a little present for Margaret. We went to Westbourne this afternoon to take our violin to be mended.
I.H
January 20
20 Friday (20-346)
We had a letter from Daddy today. He told us that they were moving into their new office and that Iris should soon work in a very swish office. He told us about his Christmas party also. He is getting thrilled for his departure for England and so are we.
Nora and Iris went out with Gertrude this afternoon and had a nice walk though it was drizzling hard with rain.
We played "Hear My Prayer" in the common room and everyone was so quiet that we must make a note of it. We played many of the other records too until her bedtime.
I.H.
We had a letter from Daddy today. He told us that they were moving into their new office and that Iris should soon work in a very swish office. He told us about his Christmas party also. He is getting thrilled for his departure for England and so are we.
Nora and Iris went out with Gertrude this afternoon and had a nice walk though it was drizzling hard with rain.
We played "Hear My Prayer" in the common room and everyone was so quiet that we must make a note of it. We played many of the other records too until her bedtime.
I.H.
January 19
19 Thursday (19-347)
We had no letters by the first or second post.
This morning we went to give in our names to Miss Stocks so that we could join the confirmation classes at St Michael's. Lucy and Jing went with us.
The classes we hear are to begin on Feb 8th so Miss Stocks advised us all to do a little study on our own til that day.
Nora and Iris went for a walk along the beach and came back along the cliffs.
It has been a beautiful fine afternoon and true Spring weather so far.
I.H.
We had no letters by the first or second post.
This morning we went to give in our names to Miss Stocks so that we could join the confirmation classes at St Michael's. Lucy and Jing went with us.
The classes we hear are to begin on Feb 8th so Miss Stocks advised us all to do a little study on our own til that day.
Nora and Iris went for a walk along the beach and came back along the cliffs.
It has been a beautiful fine afternoon and true Spring weather so far.
I.H.
January 18 "First Day back at School"
18 Wednesday (18-348)
This was the first day of school and we set to work after the first two lessons.
We had a lovely long letter from Mummy and at one o'clock our hatbox arrived from Torquay.
We unpacked our trunks in the afternoon and did the necessary packing up in the box room.
We started Silent Prep again so we could not play the gramophone but we read our books instead, having nothing else to do after supper
I.H.
This was the first day of school and we set to work after the first two lessons.
We unpacked our trunks in the afternoon and did the necessary packing up in the box room.
We started Silent Prep again so we could not play the gramophone but we read our books instead, having nothing else to do after supper
I.H.
Friday, March 17, 2017
January 17 "Back to Bournemouth"
17 Tuesday (17-349)
After breakfast we finished our packing.
We said goodbye to the family and also to "Suzie"
Mr Payton blessed us both.
Mrs Payton, Dorothy and Bob came to the station to see us off by the 12:12 train.
We had rather a dull journey until we reached Templecombe, where we started to play the gramophone. We played the "Yeoman of the Guard" and the "Mikado" much to the astonishment of the porters etc, who could not tell where the music was came from.
Miss Chapman came to meet us at the station. We received a letter from Billy to cheer us up.
I.H.
After breakfast we finished our packing.
We said goodbye to the family and also to "Suzie"
Mr Payton blessed us both.
Mrs Payton, Dorothy and Bob came to the station to see us off by the 12:12 train.
We had rather a dull journey until we reached Templecombe, where we started to play the gramophone. We played the "Yeoman of the Guard" and the "Mikado" much to the astonishment of the porters etc, who could not tell where the music was came from.
Miss Chapman came to meet us at the station. We received a letter from Billy to cheer us up.
I.H.
January 16 "Last Day of Vacation"
16 Monday (16-350)
We stayed in this morning. In the afternoon we went to see Vincent off at Torre Station.
He made us all Toc. H. Princesses as a favour.
Nora and I went shopping afterwards. We went Callard's for an ice.
We bought our railway tickets and signed a form for our luggage. We then went home.
We pulled crackers at supper tonight. There were quit an assortment of toys and caps.
Dorothy and Iris went out after supper to post some letters.
We are going to finish off our packing as far as possible. We have played the Gramophone a good deal lately as the wireless has failed us, being rather tired we think.
I.H.
We stayed in this morning. In the afternoon we went to see Vincent off at Torre Station.
He made us all Toc. H. Princesses as a favour.
Nora and I went shopping afterwards. We went Callard's for an ice.
We bought our railway tickets and signed a form for our luggage. We then went home.
We pulled crackers at supper tonight. There were quit an assortment of toys and caps.
Dorothy and Iris went out after supper to post some letters.
We are going to finish off our packing as far as possible. We have played the Gramophone a good deal lately as the wireless has failed us, being rather tired we think.
I.H.
January 15
15 Sunday (15-351)
2nd after Epiphany
We went to St John's Church this morning.
We spent the afternoon writing our home letter and doing some of our packing.
We heard some very nice music on the wireless this afternoon.
We finished packing one trunk and have started the second.
Vincent kept sobbing at supper if ever we reminded him of Cecil and Jack. Too bad!!
I.H.
2nd after Epiphany
We went to St John's Church this morning.
We spent the afternoon writing our home letter and doing some of our packing.
We heard some very nice music on the wireless this afternoon.
We finished packing one trunk and have started the second.
Vincent kept sobbing at supper if ever we reminded him of Cecil and Jack. Too bad!!
I.H.
January 14
14 Saturday (14-352)
Last Quarter 9.14 p.m.
S.R. 8.1, S.S. 4.17
We wrote our home letters this morning to catch the Siberian mail. We have
mended a few clothes to be ready for school again. George has come this morning
to put up the aerial so we hope to listen into the wireless again this
afternoon. We went to see a film called "A Million Bid" at the Paignton Picture
House.
It was quite a good picture and we enjoyed it. We saw a funny comedy as well.
We heard two dance pieces from the Savoy on the wireless.
I.H.
Last Quarter 9.14 p.m.
S.R. 8.1, S.S. 4.17
We wrote our home letters this morning to catch the Siberian mail. We have
mended a few clothes to be ready for school again. George has come this morning
to put up the aerial so we hope to listen into the wireless again this
afternoon. We went to see a film called "A Million Bid" at the Paignton Picture
House.It was quite a good picture and we enjoyed it. We saw a funny comedy as well.
We heard two dance pieces from the Savoy on the wireless.
I.H.
January 13
13 Friday (13-353)
We stayed indoors in the morning. In the afternoon Dorothy, Nora and Iris went to Kent cavern.
We were shown through the caves in the guide showed us the bones of the prehistoric animals found imbedded in the clay.
We went to the extreme and of the cave which is said to be 700 feet from the entrance. The stalactites and stalagmites were wonderful in their formation. We were told that it took 100 years or more to form 1/8 of an inch of these stalagmites etc.
The prehistoric implements found her to be seen at the Torquay museum where many other interesting things or to be seen.
We stayed indoors in the morning. In the afternoon Dorothy, Nora and Iris went to Kent cavern.
We were shown through the caves in the guide showed us the bones of the prehistoric animals found imbedded in the clay.
We went to the extreme and of the cave which is said to be 700 feet from the entrance. The stalactites and stalagmites were wonderful in their formation. We were told that it took 100 years or more to form 1/8 of an inch of these stalagmites etc.
The prehistoric implements found her to be seen at the Torquay museum where many other interesting things or to be seen.
 |
| The Organ Chamber
I.H.
|
January 12
12 Thursday (12-354)
If not already done, send in Accident Insurance form
We went shopping this morning. We bought some sweets and toffee to take to school on Tuesday and also a few presents for Billy and Dorothy.
We are going with the Misses Hamerton this afternoon.
We had a very good time up at the Hamerton's. We played "Ludo", "Happy Family" and received a little prize for winning.
It poured with rain on our way home and we were nearly soaked to the skin.
Miss Hamerton gave us this snapshot which she took of us last hols.
I.H.
If not already done, send in Accident Insurance form
We went shopping this morning. We bought some sweets and toffee to take to school on Tuesday and also a few presents for Billy and Dorothy.
We are going with the Misses Hamerton this afternoon.
We had a very good time up at the Hamerton's. We played "Ludo", "Happy Family" and received a little prize for winning.
It poured with rain on our way home and we were nearly soaked to the skin.
Miss Hamerton gave us this snapshot which she took of us last hols.
 |
| A group on the rocks at Goodington, summer 1927 |
I.H.
January 11
11 Wednesday (11-355)
Hillary Law Sittings begin
We went down town this morning and did a little shopping while we waited for the chemist to make the medicine. WE bought a plate to match Mr Payton's cup and a white jug for Mrs Payton.
At two o'clock we went for a carriage drive. We went up Seaway Lane and dropped Mrs Payton and Dorothy at Doctor Catford's. It was beautifully sunny and we enjoyed our outing.
Hillary Law Sittings begin
We went down town this morning and did a little shopping while we waited for the chemist to make the medicine. WE bought a plate to match Mr Payton's cup and a white jug for Mrs Payton.
At two o'clock we went for a carriage drive. We went up Seaway Lane and dropped Mrs Payton and Dorothy at Doctor Catford's. It was beautifully sunny and we enjoyed our outing.
January 10
10 Tuesday (10-356)
We received a letter from Tawney this morning. Iris went shopping this morning to get Jack and Cecil a present for their train journey.
We girls were promoted by the "Westfield" committee.
After dinner we went to Torre Station to see Jack and Cecil off to Bristol.
We have not been able to listen today as the weather is so bad that the broadcasting is very indistinct.
Mr Clerk came in the evening and set it right for us. We listened for the rest of the evening. We heard an interesting lecture on "Deep Sea Life"
I.H.
We received a letter from Tawney this morning. Iris went shopping this morning to get Jack and Cecil a present for their train journey.
We girls were promoted by the "Westfield" committee.
After dinner we went to Torre Station to see Jack and Cecil off to Bristol.
We have not been able to listen today as the weather is so bad that the broadcasting is very indistinct.
Mr Clerk came in the evening and set it right for us. We listened for the rest of the evening. We heard an interesting lecture on "Deep Sea Life"
I.H.
January 9
9 Monday (9-357)
Plough Monday. Christmas Fire Insurance ceases
We received a letter from Daddy this morning, and a Xmas card from the Doyles.
Iris went down to the "Electric" this morning to book tickets for "Johnny Get Your Haircut",
a Jackie Coogan film.
We went for a carriage drive this moring with Dorothy, Mr and Mrs Payton round by Babbacombe. It was a very enjoyable drive.
The show was quite good on the whole, but rather too short.
Later in the evening we listened to the wireless, to hear "The Blue Bird" It was very queer music so we turned it off.
I.H
Plough Monday. Christmas Fire Insurance ceases
We received a letter from Daddy this morning, and a Xmas card from the Doyles.
Iris went down to the "Electric" this morning to book tickets for "Johnny Get Your Haircut",
a Jackie Coogan film.
We went for a carriage drive this moring with Dorothy, Mr and Mrs Payton round by Babbacombe. It was a very enjoyable drive.
The show was quite good on the whole, but rather too short.
Later in the evening we listened to the wireless, to hear "The Blue Bird" It was very queer music so we turned it off.
I.H
Thursday, March 16, 2017
January 8
8 Sunday (8-358)
1st after Epiphany
We all went to St John's Church and returned at 12:30 pm. We spent the afternoon writing letters.We listened in at 3:30 pm. Tea was over by 5 pm and from then til church we continued our letter writing.
We all went to the card service at Upton Church. The service was very enjoyable and the sermon especially was worth remembering. It was on "The Epiphany"
Another feature of remembrance was a large painting in a side chapel, of Jesus. The Reverend Pat McCormick broadcasted a sermon from Saint Martin in the Fields. It was remarkably clear and was the best the writer has ever heard. We "listened in" again after supper. After that the family retired to bed.
N.H.
1st after Epiphany
We all went to St John's Church and returned at 12:30 pm. We spent the afternoon writing letters.We listened in at 3:30 pm. Tea was over by 5 pm and from then til church we continued our letter writing.
We all went to the card service at Upton Church. The service was very enjoyable and the sermon especially was worth remembering. It was on "The Epiphany"
Another feature of remembrance was a large painting in a side chapel, of Jesus. The Reverend Pat McCormick broadcasted a sermon from Saint Martin in the Fields. It was remarkably clear and was the best the writer has ever heard. We "listened in" again after supper. After that the family retired to bed.
N.H.
January 7
7 Saturday (7-359)
Full moon 6.8 a.m.
S.R. 8.5. S.S. 4.7
Nora received her bank book. Did housework etc. and then we wrote letters and read. After dinner Iris, Dolly and Nora went downtown. We met Cecil on the way. We bought this diary, which cost us 2/6d, a fair sum but we think it is worth it.
Iris and Nora Hunter hereby have chosen to write their daily life and events down in this book, for the sake of the succeeding generations, who we hope will be able to gain some knowledge of ordinary life in the 20th century. This of course is for the Hunters of future days.
Yours sincerely,
Iris and Nora Hunter.
On this day "Westfield" boasts its first "Wireless set" which was made by Jack. It is three valved and we hope to have good results.
N.H.
Full moon 6.8 a.m.
S.R. 8.5. S.S. 4.7
Nora received her bank book. Did housework etc. and then we wrote letters and read. After dinner Iris, Dolly and Nora went downtown. We met Cecil on the way. We bought this diary, which cost us 2/6d, a fair sum but we think it is worth it.
Iris and Nora Hunter hereby have chosen to write their daily life and events down in this book, for the sake of the succeeding generations, who we hope will be able to gain some knowledge of ordinary life in the 20th century. This of course is for the Hunters of future days.
Yours sincerely,
Iris and Nora Hunter.
On this day "Westfield" boasts its first "Wireless set" which was made by Jack. It is three valved and we hope to have good results.
N.H.
January 6
6 Friday (6-360)
Epiphany
We all arrive down comparatively early. Some of us went by taxi to St. John's. After the service we did some shopping. We went to Paish's and bought another "Yeoman of the Guard" and also "Yale Blues" and "Moonlit Waters", foxtrot. Afternoon we all laid in the dining room. Iris read, Cecil typed letters and found time to make faces at us. Dolly read, Nora attempted doing Latin. Did 15 lines in the end. We had a late supper. After supper Cecil, Dolly and Nora went to the GPO in Union Street. We returned along the sea front and had a very pleasant walk. Had Christmas card from Jessie.
N.H.
Epiphany
We all arrive down comparatively early. Some of us went by taxi to St. John's. After the service we did some shopping. We went to Paish's and bought another "Yeoman of the Guard" and also "Yale Blues" and "Moonlit Waters", foxtrot. Afternoon we all laid in the dining room. Iris read, Cecil typed letters and found time to make faces at us. Dolly read, Nora attempted doing Latin. Did 15 lines in the end. We had a late supper. After supper Cecil, Dolly and Nora went to the GPO in Union Street. We returned along the sea front and had a very pleasant walk. Had Christmas card from Jessie.
N.H.
January 5
5 Thursday (5-361)
Dividends Due
After our strenuous times this week we thought we deserved a "lie in" so we did what was quite an unusual happening. We did not rise until 12:30 PM. Dreadful, but still, we have our excuses.
Instead of arriving down in time for breakfast we just "blew down" in time for dinner. Then to make up for this we went by tram. to Paignton. Dolly Iris and Nora descended from the tram at Savory Road while the others continued. We bought a cake and large biscuit each. We walked along the sea front and then returned by tram. We had a "rough tea" and read until the others returned.
N.H.
Dividends Due
After our strenuous times this week we thought we deserved a "lie in" so we did what was quite an unusual happening. We did not rise until 12:30 PM. Dreadful, but still, we have our excuses.
Instead of arriving down in time for breakfast we just "blew down" in time for dinner. Then to make up for this we went by tram. to Paignton. Dolly Iris and Nora descended from the tram at Savory Road while the others continued. We bought a cake and large biscuit each. We walked along the sea front and then returned by tram. We had a "rough tea" and read until the others returned.
N.H.
January 4
4 Wednesday (4-363)
All of us, excepting Mr. Payton, and including Miss Hamerton, went to the afternoon performance at the Burlington.
It lasted from 3 PM until 5:30. We went upstairs this time and found it and improvement. We saw Harold Lloyd in "The Kid Brother". It was good. Miss Hamerton stayed for tea and we had crackers. After this we retired into the front room and heard some records. Nora broke two records for which we hope she is sorry. They were the "Student Prince" (already broken a little) and "The Yeoman of the Guard". Miss Hamilton has asked the three girls to tea next Thursday.
N.H.
All of us, excepting Mr. Payton, and including Miss Hamerton, went to the afternoon performance at the Burlington.
It lasted from 3 PM until 5:30. We went upstairs this time and found it and improvement. We saw Harold Lloyd in "The Kid Brother". It was good. Miss Hamerton stayed for tea and we had crackers. After this we retired into the front room and heard some records. Nora broke two records for which we hope she is sorry. They were the "Student Prince" (already broken a little) and "The Yeoman of the Guard". Miss Hamilton has asked the three girls to tea next Thursday.
N.H.
January 3
3 Tuesday (3-363)
This was a fine day. The following went for a walk - Cecil, Jack, Dorothy ( Payton ) and Iris and Nora. We took a bus from Castle Circus to a place called "Solomon's Post". The ride was enjoyable. We were disappointed to find no "post" visible. The country was lovely and a good amount of snow was left on the hillsides. From the "imaginary post" we walked back to Torquay via Barton. We had one adventure on the way. We had not walked very far, went to our surprise we found some men trying to get a car out of a snow-drift. Cecil and Jack then set to work and before long the car was driving away from us on a safe road. We all went to see "Robinson Crusoe" at the Theater Royal and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. It was worth seeing.
N.H.
This was a fine day. The following went for a walk - Cecil, Jack, Dorothy ( Payton ) and Iris and Nora. We took a bus from Castle Circus to a place called "Solomon's Post". The ride was enjoyable. We were disappointed to find no "post" visible. The country was lovely and a good amount of snow was left on the hillsides. From the "imaginary post" we walked back to Torquay via Barton. We had one adventure on the way. We had not walked very far, went to our surprise we found some men trying to get a car out of a snow-drift. Cecil and Jack then set to work and before long the car was driving away from us on a safe road. We all went to see "Robinson Crusoe" at the Theater Royal and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. It was worth seeing.
N.H.
January 2
2 Monday (2-364)
Bank Holiday in Scotland
We were full of excitement and prepared for our play.
We rehearsed a little in the afternoon. Instead of having tea or supper we have what is commonly called "high tea".
The play was acted in the kitchen, and as we are told by the audience, I think we might be permitted in stating that it was a success. We hope this was really so. The actresses used the dining room as theirs. Our next-door neighbors Miss Field and Mrs. Tompkins were our only outside visitors. After the play we retired into the "front room" and were given coffee, Christmas cake and the like. We were tired out after this days enjoyment and soon the family at Westfield retired to their comfortable beds.
N.H.
Bank Holiday in Scotland
We were full of excitement and prepared for our play.
We rehearsed a little in the afternoon. Instead of having tea or supper we have what is commonly called "high tea".
The play was acted in the kitchen, and as we are told by the audience, I think we might be permitted in stating that it was a success. We hope this was really so. The actresses used the dining room as theirs. Our next-door neighbors Miss Field and Mrs. Tompkins were our only outside visitors. After the play we retired into the "front room" and were given coffee, Christmas cake and the like. We were tired out after this days enjoyment and soon the family at Westfield retired to their comfortable beds.
N.H.
January 1, 1928
1 Sunday (1-365)
1st after Christmas
Circumcision. New Years' Day
Dog and Establishment Licences renewable
We all went to St John's Church in the morning. Then we went to Chelston Church in the evening. We had no rehearsal, but prepared for our play, "The Spanish Villain" which was to come off the succeeding day.
N.H.
1st after Christmas
Circumcision. New Years' Day
Dog and Establishment Licences renewable
We all went to St John's Church in the morning. Then we went to Chelston Church in the evening. We had no rehearsal, but prepared for our play, "The Spanish Villain" which was to come off the succeeding day.
N.H.
A background to the 1928 diary
A year or so back, whilst rummaging through the many boxes of old letters and photos that make up my family mementos, I came across a diary. At the time I didn't pay much attention to it as the covers were gone and it appeared to be more of an almanac because of the many pages of advertising, tide tables and other data at the start. A gave it just a quick glance and set it aside with the intention to get back to later. Unfortunately, this delayed me in realizing what a little treasure I'd had in my hands.
I've read it through several times now, and each time I find some new tidbit, and it's become the "text" that was missing from many photographs. I'll try to elaborate on this as I go along and add the corresponding pictures wherever applicable.
The diary was actually purchased a week before it begins, but they filled in the entries from the 1st of the year so as to make it complete, but I'll post the entries as they appear in the diary. I may give an explanation if I feel it's needed.
The diary was written by my mother, Iris Maud Hunter, aged 17 and her sister Nora Eileen Hunter, aged 15 during their final year of school in England.
They were born in the British Crown Colony of Hong Kong, to British parents. My mother was born in 1911 and her sister in 1912. Sometime about the end of WW1 (1918-ish) the family moved to Shanghai, where their father Tobias Hunter was to join his sister's husband in business. The move was a good one and the family prospered. While they were by no means wealthy, they were still able to afford a household staff of Amahs, a cook, and a chauffeur.
As was the norm for the European community, the children were sent to England to complete their formal education. As this involved a lengthy passage by ship, the children were boarded at school and spent their vacations with friends or relatives in the UK or elsewhere in Europe.
My mother and her sister were sent away to school in 1924. Their father and mother accompanied them to England but once they were settled in, they returned home to Shanghai. It would be four years before they would see their father again. It was the last time they would see their mother.
As it was this year, January 1st, 1928 was also a Sunday which I hope will make this all work out.
To any who read this:
Note: March 22, 2017
My mother passed away in 1978 in North Vancouver, BC, at only 67 years of age. Her sister Nora lived to the ripe old age of 95, and died in Laguna Hills, California in 2007.
At the time of it's writing, they were both attending Bournemouth High School, a boarding school for girls in Bournemouth, England. 1928 was their final year after which they would be returning to their home in Shanghai, China.
Prior to the end of the school year, they would be joined by their father, Tobias Hunter (my grandfather) He would travel to England overland by train from Shanghai via Berlin, beginning in mid March and arriving in England some two weeks later. He would spend some time visiting with family and friends and when the girls were finished their schooling, they would return home to Shanghai via ship. During his stay, they would take advantage of the time to see the sights of Europe as best as time would allow.
It was my intention to post entries from the corresponding dates, however due to my late start, and the fact that 1928 was a leap year, the actual days of the week will not coincide from Feb 29th. From that date onward, it will be one day off.
I'll be posting a series of entries together so as to bring the blog up to date but from there, I'll be trying to do it a day at a time. I may post my own observations in the "comments" sections.
The diary is by no means exciting but has given me much insight into the lives of both my mother and my Aunt Nora. It has also become a text, to the many photos which until the discovery of this book, were a mystery. The diary has also opened access to new genealogical avenues and even posed a few new questions.
Though I've read through it several times now, I find that with each reading, more light is cast. Seemingly simple statements, give clear answers to some long lasting questions. I hope to be able to share some of that with the few who take the time to read along.
BHB
I've read it through several times now, and each time I find some new tidbit, and it's become the "text" that was missing from many photographs. I'll try to elaborate on this as I go along and add the corresponding pictures wherever applicable.
The diary was actually purchased a week before it begins, but they filled in the entries from the 1st of the year so as to make it complete, but I'll post the entries as they appear in the diary. I may give an explanation if I feel it's needed.
The diary was written by my mother, Iris Maud Hunter, aged 17 and her sister Nora Eileen Hunter, aged 15 during their final year of school in England.
 |
| Nora Eileen Hunter abt 1925 Iris Maud Hunter abt 1925 |
As was the norm for the European community, the children were sent to England to complete their formal education. As this involved a lengthy passage by ship, the children were boarded at school and spent their vacations with friends or relatives in the UK or elsewhere in Europe.
My mother and her sister were sent away to school in 1924. Their father and mother accompanied them to England but once they were settled in, they returned home to Shanghai. It would be four years before they would see their father again. It was the last time they would see their mother.
As it was this year, January 1st, 1928 was also a Sunday which I hope will make this all work out.
To any who read this:
Note: March 22, 2017
My mother passed away in 1978 in North Vancouver, BC, at only 67 years of age. Her sister Nora lived to the ripe old age of 95, and died in Laguna Hills, California in 2007.
At the time of it's writing, they were both attending Bournemouth High School, a boarding school for girls in Bournemouth, England. 1928 was their final year after which they would be returning to their home in Shanghai, China.
Prior to the end of the school year, they would be joined by their father, Tobias Hunter (my grandfather) He would travel to England overland by train from Shanghai via Berlin, beginning in mid March and arriving in England some two weeks later. He would spend some time visiting with family and friends and when the girls were finished their schooling, they would return home to Shanghai via ship. During his stay, they would take advantage of the time to see the sights of Europe as best as time would allow.
It was my intention to post entries from the corresponding dates, however due to my late start, and the fact that 1928 was a leap year, the actual days of the week will not coincide from Feb 29th. From that date onward, it will be one day off.
I'll be posting a series of entries together so as to bring the blog up to date but from there, I'll be trying to do it a day at a time. I may post my own observations in the "comments" sections.
The diary is by no means exciting but has given me much insight into the lives of both my mother and my Aunt Nora. It has also become a text, to the many photos which until the discovery of this book, were a mystery. The diary has also opened access to new genealogical avenues and even posed a few new questions.
Though I've read through it several times now, I find that with each reading, more light is cast. Seemingly simple statements, give clear answers to some long lasting questions. I hope to be able to share some of that with the few who take the time to read along.
BHB
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)