 |
|
|
|
|
Early allotments in Wiltshire From correspondence published in the Wiltshire Independent in 1844-45, its seems that allotments were not always seen as a good thing. Despite providing allotments on some of his estates, Lord Radnor had four objections: it was more efficient for a labourer to devote all his time to an employer and specialise in one aspect of the work; it made a labourer too dependent; the minute division of land was a hindrance to agricultural improvement and, because of the new Poor Law Act of Settlement, it made the labourer a serf attached to the soil and prevented him from selling his labour on the free market. Other objections were that allotments were a substitute for better pay (Source: Wiltshire LH Forum Newsletter, Jan 2006, contact Editor, Jane Howells, 7 St Marks Rd, Salisbury SP1 3AY, e-mail: jane@sarum-editorial.co.uk)
Changes to Local History Month Local History Month is moving from May to September as from 2006. The organisers say that this will enable schools to take part. If May was not a good month because of exams and tests, then September seems an equally strange choice. The month coincides with the start of the new school year, when many pupils will not only have changed teachers, but schools as well. Most local history societies do not meet during August because of holidays. It is also time when many older activists have their hands full helping to look after grandchildren, so they have other priorities. September also clashes with the start of local history courses. Time will tell if the change is a success, but July may have been a better choice. Schools, local history societies and classes are all winding down in readiness for the summer break - what better time to relax and celebrate the past year's achievements? For more details about events during Local History Month 2006 visit: www.history.org.uk.
|
14 March 2006 |
