The Hastings-Rye-Ashford Rail Line

An interesting photograph loaned by a gentleman visitor to Rye. Who are these men? Could they be the Station Master and Engine Driver? Continue reading The Hastings-Rye-Ashford Rail Line

Rye Raft Race

Photographs IAIN POCOCK Report Conrad Freezer

After last year’s wet day, the sun came out for Rye & District Lions Club Raft Race & Fete, with an estimated crowd of 4-5,000 spectators cheering on a record entry of sixteen rafts. Although it is early days, the Lions estimate that the event raised around £8,000, all of which will go to help charities, local, national and international over the next year. Continue reading Rye Raft Race

Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon

The Hastings Connections

By Helena Wojtezak

Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon (1827-91) was one of the founders of the women’s rights movement in Britain. She was born in Whatlington, near Battle, Sussex, died at nearby Robertsbridge, and was connected to the Hastings area throughout her life. Continue reading Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon

Miss Welfare

Freda Mary Welfare: 1905-2005

Freda was born in Robertsbridge in 1905 where her father was landlord of “The New Eight Bells”. In 1912 her father died and the family split up. Her mother and two brothers went to Reading where there were family members, by Freda came to live with a favourite aunt and uncle in Ferry Road. The uncle had a tobacconist shop in Landgate. Continue reading Miss Welfare