society

Turvey has had many clubs and social organizations over the years - many of which were formed by Charles Longuet Higgins.

The first Turvey Brownie pack was started in the early 1960's by Ethel Umney. In the following years the church organist, Enid Wadsworth became the Brown Owl with Gwen Wooding as her Tawney.

There was also a Scout pack which from 1928-1935 met in the Working Men's Room in Bamford's Yard.

According to Quarter Session records, in 1843, Turvey petitioned that the police force should be discontinued except for the cheif constable and superintendents!

The Friendly Society was formed to help villagers with burial expenses and when wage-earners were ill. Turvey's met in the vestry although many other villages held thier's in the inns!

Here are some old photos of Turvey's cricket team. This was a noted county club in the 1890's. At this time the captain was George Edward Hopkins - the Headmaster of the National School and choirmaster/organist. There is more about him on the Schools page.

The Turvey Horticultural Society began its Annual Flower Show in 1875. Competition was tough and a large proportion of the village would turn out to see the exhibits.

Dear Gert

Just found out that I can’t com out today Missus just tolded me because she is going out to tea I think she might have said so before I don’t know wether you will get this be 4 oclock but I hope so She did not tell me while 11:15 this morning

Goodbye Best love

Boss

Picture Postcard sent from Turvey to Miss G Roberts of 45 DeParys Avenue, Bedford, dated 1.5 pm, February 13th 1906. Please note that the spellings are as the original. Villagers had their own ways of saying things.

With many postal deliveries throughout the day, people could once send postcards where we would now use a telephone. I know that one could certainly not post a postcard in the middle of the day in Turvey now and expect anyone in Bedford to receive it before 4pm! There is now only one post a day.

An important day in the old Turvey calender was 25th March - known as Lady Day. This was the old start to the year and the day on which servants were hired. Villagers would clean their cottages out and try to pay off any outstanding debts so as to start the new year afresh.

Turvey had a branch of the Bedford District of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. It was called Victoria Lodge and was formed in 1842. Between 1926 and 1932, members could receive a payment of 2/ per week if they were unable to work because of sickness.