Hertfordshire's Past
Number 39
Autumn 1995
The cover shows the Prince Henry public house, Luton Road, Offley, which was named after a car model called the "Prince Henry" which was produced by Vauxhall at their Luton, Beds, factory before the First World War. The house was previously a beerhouse called the Gloucester Arms, first recorded in the 1850's.
This booklet contains four main articles of interest.
John Scott, Road Builder
by David Perman
John Scott (born circa 1730, died 1783) was a Quaker who lived at Amwell, Herts, and is best known for his poetry, his building of the famous grotto at Amwell, and his critique of the road systems of his day. The article describes his involvement in the building of the road between Hertford and Ware and its inclusion in the Cheshunt Turnpike Act. In addition there is some interesting background information on the politics in Hertford at the time.
Hastoe, near Tring
by R. R. Timberlake
Recollections of life on the Rothschild Estate in the time of the first Baron Rothschild.
An excellent account of farming one hundred years ago, on the edge of the Chiltern Hills. Robert Timberlake's father managed one of the dairy farms owned by Nathaniel, the first Baron Rothschild (1840-1915) and the article provides valuable details of farming before and during the First World War.
Charles Caesar of Benington, 1673-1741
by Lionel Munby
This article includes valuable information on Charles Caesar's ancestery and his political activities as a Member of Parliament for the Borough of Hertford.
Ecuminism in 18th century Hitchin
by Alan Ruston
This article looks at two 18th century ministers, John Geard (1750-1838) who was minister of Tilehouse Street Baptist Chapel, Hitchin, from 1775-1832, and John Griffiths (circa 1736-1795) who was minister of the Independent Chapel, Back Street, Hitchin, from 1772 until his death.
There are also a number of book reviews.