REYNOLDS COLLECTORS' WORLD
POPULATION 1921 371
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From Lincoln Mrs. C. Smith Shopkeeper & Post Office Mail To Swinethorpe
Early site was in Joe Butler’s wooden bungalow to N. of present site. Then moved across road to Blacksmiths on corner to N. of P.H. Mrs Coulson Subpostmistress. Blacksmiths had to be sold in Will? and P.O. had to move. Mrs. Coulson’s problem solved when she found new site in former garden plot to front of wooden bungalow. Plot sold for £30 and purpose built house and P.O. built at present site in High Street in 1956. During her time mailwork from N. Scarle and Thorpe-On-The-Hill taken over. Mr. Sleaman then Subpostmaster, married to Mrs Coulsons daughter. Mr. Alan Parker Subpostmaster and wife Marian took over in December 1982. He had been in RAF. In 1987 they started a general stores in the post office, after having considered moving the office to another shop which was closing. Mail was earlier sorted in P.O. area but now sorted in an insulated garage. Three rounds conducted. Office opens at 0615 and van arrives from Lincoln. Van driver does his sorting and then does the Thorpe On The Hill/Wisby Round, Mr. Parker does the N. Scarle round and the third round is the village round. The office delivered parcels until 1990 when Parcelforce took over. C1990 Mr. Parker improved counter area with a thick steel sheet and covered the walls and P.O. counter with mock wood panelling. He was also experimenting with a computer to balance his weekly accounts. By 2002 the three rounds were all using vans to deliver.
TEL 01522 86 212
Contact Mrs. Coulson 6 Scarle Lane
EALAND
EAST BARKWITH
POPULATION 1921 370
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Lincoln. Penrose & Sons Drapers. (D)
The Penrose family ran P.O. for many years. Mr. Penrose also an electrician there 1960/1965. Mr. Lyndon Subpostmaster for a short time. At sometime about then the P.O. moved from present site to shop now closed adjoining but later moved back, date un- known. Then Mrs. Dixon was Subpostmistress c1971-1975. Then Mr. Eric JamesWard Subpostmaster with Mrs. Ward since 1975 in general stores, with off licence, newspapers and videos.(W) This was one of the first Post Offices to conduct the National Lottery. By 2005 Subpostmaster was David James Ward.
Information Directories (D), E. Ward (W)
EAST BUTTERWICK
POPULATION 1921 304
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Scunthorpe. Mrs. B. Walton Shopkeeper
RECEIPT 5/7/1976 F. Grinney
EAST HALTON
POPULATION, 1851 675, 1861, 727, 1871 673, 1881 641, 1891 505, 1901 493, 1911 567, 1921 662, 1931 628
According to Post Office Records the office probably opened in February 1853 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied. Mail was delivered from Ulceby. The 1855 Post Office Directory lists a basic Post Office with Edward Thompson as Subpostmaster, tailor and draper. According to the Directory mail was delivered from Hull. However the 1861 Directory states that mail was delivered from Ulceby so possibly the Hull reference was incorrect. Thompson continued for many years as Subpostmaster and his listings also include being a brick and tile maker at Goxhill in 1872, an agent for W&A Gilbey wine and spirit merchants in 1876 and also a farmer by 1882. By 1889 in common with most other offices Postal Orders could be issued but not paid. This service probably commenced at this office in 1887 as in that year a rubber datestamp was supplied which would have been needed to issue the orders.
Between 1900 and 1905 Edward Thompson’s long service ended and he was replaced by George Kirman who was also a grocer and draper. It is unlikely that the location of the office altered. Also by 1905 Postal Orders could be issued and paid. From 15th April, 1906 mail commenced to be delivered from Grimsby. George Kirman continued to run his grocers shop until after 1913. The Post Office, however, changed location and by 1909 Mark Fussey had been appointed with no other ancillary business. However, the range of services offered was extended as Money Orders could be issued and paid. By 1913 the owner of the Post Office had again changed and Job Leeman had been appointed. From January, 1915 the office was designated as a Post Town and would have received sealed mail bags from other offices. Between 1919 and 1922 for some reason the Money Order service was withdrawn and the services reverted to the basic Post Office. Further downgrading occurred on 1st February, 1925 when the office again began to receive its mail from Grimsby.
By 1926 Harold Towle had been appointed and the location of the office probably changed as he was also a Grocer. From 1st July, 1931 the mail arrangements again changed and mail was delivered from and dispatched to Habrough. By 1933 a Tel Call facility, TN208, had been installed and then on 21st February, 1934 a telegraph service was installed (code EHJ) so that a telegram service could be offered. Harold continued until at least 1937. On 8th August, 1938 mail deliveries again reverted to Grimsby. (D)
The post office moved locations in the late 1970's or early 1980's as it was at one time in the shop next to the Black Bull on Townside moving to the shop on Towles corner at this point. (i.e. back to the location Towle had had it in the 1930's?) Whilst in the shop next to the Black Bull the postmaster was Dennis Pollard who was married to Freda Pollard (School Teacher at the village school). (K)
The next information I have was that the office was a mailwork office until the 1980’s when Paul Searby was Subpostmaster, he having taken over in August, 1982. (D) Searby appears to have taken over the shop from the Towles who had had the shop there for 70 years or so. This is why it is called Towles Corner. It looks as though the Post Office moved back to an earlier former site when Paul took it over. (K) Paul left the Post Office in 1988 He was replaced by a Mr. Green but he was only Subpostmaster for a short time. Eric Wright was then Subpostmaster from August, 1989 (K) with his wife Janet. Became a National Lottery outlet from outset and by that time was the only shop in village. The business took over newspapers “temporarily” when the newspaper shop closed but the arrangement became permanent. P.O. Hours 9-12, 1-5.30, 9-1 Tue & Sat. Karen Coleman appointed 9th August, 2003. She, her husband Norman and Son returning from Australia Shop hours extended on takeover by removal of lunch hour and Tuesday afternoon closing. One position office YE tokens, N. Lincs homecare stamps and standard range of services. By August, 2005 Mrs. Pam Golton had been appointed Subpostmistress. (D)
Information - Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith. (D) Kev Wright (K)
EAST HECKINGTON
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From Boston H. Bird Shopkeeper. Sited on now by-passed main street of the village in general stores. On that site by 1934 closed by 1986, probably 1985.
Office then later reopened in garage. (AR) Closed by 1999 (HB)
Info (HB Tattershall)
EAST KEAL
POPULATION 1841 475, 1851 549, 1861 393, 1871 424, 1881 395, 1891 350, 1901 319, 1911 296, 1921 298, 1931 280.
By 1849 John Gill ran the Post Office and was also a grocer, tailor and draper. The office probably opened on 13th August, 1847 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied to the office. Mail was delivered from and dispatched to Spilsby. Between 1889 and 1892 Joseph, possibly his son, replaced John Gill as Subpostmaster? A rubber datestamp was supplied in 1893 probably to datestamp postal orders, which were being issued but not paid at the office by 1896 Located on the present site since at least 1900. (M) By then Gill also offered a refreshment room. Mr. Middleton thought that someone else had been Subpostmaster prior to Mrs. Emma Cheetham being appointed by 1905. Also by 1905 Postal Orders could be paid as well as issued. Between 1913 and 1919 she was replaced by Mrs. Louisa Thornley. (D) She was the daughter of Mrs. Cheetham. (M) The 1922 Directory also mentions her husband William Thornley though by 1926 she is listed as running the shop and he as a farmer. By 1933 the office was also acting as a telephone call office and between then and 1937 Reginald H. Cheetham had been appointed as Subpostmaster. (D) He was the nephew of Mrs. Thornley. During war years Hodgson was the Subpostmaster; but. by 1949 the Baumbers were running the business. In 1955 Mr. Middleton became Subpostmaster. He extended shop area, which by the 1990’s was still a grocers and P.O. with a passing trade from main road. Applebys ice creams were for sale etc. No P.O. screen and counter as such just a little glass fronted area. (M) By 1994 Mr. G. J. Russell appointed Subpostmaster. (D) On 16th April, 1999 office was temporarily closed as the Subpostmaster was ill (HB Tattershall/D) Re-opened by 2002 in same premises. (D)
Info Mr. Middleton (M) Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D)
EAST KIRKBY
POPULATION 1921 261
P.O. has always been in Fen Lane but on various sites. Early site at shop at NW corner of Fen Lane & main road. Run by Becks? family and then by 1915 Shaw family, then Barrows family. Then moved to present site, run by Chambers until he retired then Martin. This is confirmed by the1933 Kelly’s which lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From Spilsby H. Chambers Poultry Farmer. After 1945 Mrs. Wright Subpostmistress at house No15, 2 houses N. of present site. Mrs Wright then built bungalow, 22 Sunnyleas, which had a special area for office. (G)This site was purpose built as a bungalow and PO in 1956 (H). Then Mrs. Nelson ex Subpostmistress at Hundleby Subpostmistress c1973-1974. Moved to present site in stores c1974 Mrs. Green Subpostmistress, not a mails office. In latter years hours reduced to 24 hours per week. Then c1998 hours were further reduced to 10 hours per week – MON, TUE and THUR 9.00-12.00 plus one other hour. Horizon was installed in November 2000. Mrs. Green found it difficult to grasp the new system and didn’t feel she received adequate support. She passed the course but she was unable to log on correctly on the morning after migration day. So on 16th November she had had enough and closed the post office. Her husband had not been well and she just didn’t feel it was the position it used to be and that instead of dealing with post office staff locally points of contact were remote. She continued to operate the small stores.
Info Mrs. Green (G) J. & D. Humphrey (H)
EAST RAVENDALE
EAST STOCKWITH
POPULATION 1921 380
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post Office Letters From Gainsborough Miss H. Toplin Draper.
Situated at 5 Front Street though property extends through to back street. Property was once a Public House - White Hart or White Swan. Property now extended with hose built on to east. P.O. was now where garage is at Back Street End but now at other end of property in front street. King family ran between c1944 to 1984 with father who was a policeman at Blyton running it for c20 years to be replaced by his son. Barbara Johnson appointed in October, 1984. Business was a P.O. and stores then. In 1988 business was almost sold but purchaser pulled out when to Mrs. Johnson's surprise the P.O. said the office would be a community one. There used to be a room above the post office room but this was removed to give a higher ceiling. In 1988 Mrs. Johnson decided to make the office a community Office anyway and later that year closed the stores part of the business. This would make it easier to sell. Now Community office open MON and THUR 9.30-17.30. In June 1994 for sale as a house with option to run P.O. if wanted.(J) INFO Mrs. Johnson (J) contact Mary & Ken King new bungalow cnr of main rd and Church Walk
EASTOFT
POPULATION 1921 539
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Scunthorpe. J. Watson Tailor.
EASTON/EASTON ON THE HILL
Actually located in Northamptonshire but very close to Stamford which acted as the Head Office and dispatch/receipt point for mail.
Located at 3 Westfields. Post Office and village store. Postmaster from May, 1990 (a bank holiday not sure whether the first or second one) Keith White. Previous owners were only there for about a year but they split up, Mailwork office 3 postmen sorting and four delivery rounds. Keith sold the post office in 2004.
EASTVILLE - See New Leake
EATON
EAUDYKE FRISKNEY
According to Post Office records the office is thought to have opened in 1900 when a rubber datestamp was supplied to the office. 1881 had seen the introduction of the still familiar Postal Order. They were similar to money orders but designed for lower monetary values ranging from 1/- to 21/-. The rubber date stamp would have been used to cancel these on issue here but could not be paid. Mail was received from and dispatched to Friskeney Sub Office. (D) Mrs Taylor thought the office to have always been on same shop site in Eaudyke Road. It was owned by Dodds, Whites, and then Broughtons. (T) The only Business Directory entry of 1933 confirms that a Mr. A. Broughton was a grocer and Subpostmaster of a Post Office offering the basic range of services and a Telephone Call office facility. The mail arrangements were altered on 1st May, 1931 when Friskney lost it's Post Town status and mail was delivered from and dispatched directly to Boston. (D) The Broughton's were followed by the Guests. The premises were originally a granary next door with a small 'shack' shop attached on side. A Shop later built on same present site and gradually extended. The Gralas ran it c1983-1989 and then lived behind the Post Office. Mr. J. Taylor took over in February, 1989. He had worked in a London Sorting Office but later had a pub. Mrs. J. M. Taylor became Subpostmistress in June 1989 so that Mr. Taylor didn't have to pay NIS contributions. The P.O. counter was situated in a corner room of very large self-service grocery store, also offering newspapers. Living accommodation was provided above the shop. Mrs. Taylor said there was some confusion with Eaudye Friskney and Friskney with regards to Pension Books and Girobank as both P.O.'s were only about a mile form each other. Some pensioners couldn't understand that they couldn't use either as they wished. (T) The office closed on 3rd June, 1998.
Information Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D) Mrs Taylor (T), contact Pauline Guest The Rowans Eaubank Friskney.(just S. of new oap bungalows).
EDENHAM
POPULATION 1921 459
1849 - P.O. J. Glazier Receiver & Tailor letters from Bourn in 8.15am out 5pm,
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Bourne J. Smith Grocer.
Office located at 43 Main Street Edenham. Until the late 1980's a retail shop was also operated. Mrs Mary Kelby was Subpostmistress until c1999. Mr. and Mrs. Willerton then ran the office before moving to Spain. Currently the office is in a separate room at northern end of the house. The counter faces east and there is an impressive fireplace in the room. Earlier the counter faced north with the fireplace behind the counter. Andrea Gandy appointed Subpostmistress in June, 2001. The businesses is solely a Post Office. (G)
By 2007 opening hours are 09.15-14.15 MON, 09.00-12.00 TUE, 09.00-13.00 THUR. By 2010 opening hours 09.00-15.00 MON AND THUR, (R) Tuesday was found not to be a popular day. (G)
Information Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith, (D) Andrea Gandy (G) Andrew Reynolds, (R)
EDLINGTON
By 1868 Post Office, Miss Mary A. M. King Receiver and Mistress of Parochial School. Mail from Horncastle, in 9.45 out 3.30 {POD}. Next ref. By 1900 Post and Parcel Office, Miss Jessie Easton Rowley Sub Postmistress and National School Mistress(by 1896). Mail in 8.25 out 4.20 WDO, POIO and by 1905 POI&P.{K}
POPULATION 1871 357, 1881 356, 1891 366, 1901 355, 1911 351, 1921 329, 1931 253
According to Post Office records the office is thought to have opened on 25th September, 1846 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied. The 1849 Post Office Directory lists a Post Office offering basic services with John Atkinson receiver and shopkeeper located at South Elkington. Mail was received from and dispatched to Louth,.(D) Post Offcie records also state that a further undated circular datestamps was supplied on 20th August, 1858 and that the office was renamed Elkington by January, 1959. The Atkinson entries are repeated in the Directories to 1876 although the 1855 Whites Directory also mentions that he was a farm bailiff. However, Post Office records indicate that the office was in fact closed in 1861 and not reopened until July, 1892. The Directories, however, list a Joseph Plaskitt as having been appointed by 1882 with entries in 1885, 1889 and 1892. 1881 had seen the introduction of the still familiar Postal Order. They were similar to money orders but designed for lower monetary values ranging from 1/- to 21/-. A rubber date stamp was provided in 1889 to cancel these and this may well be the date they commenced sale here but could not be paid. They were on sale here by 1890. By 1905 as with most other offices Postal Orders could be issued and paid by this date. Although only offering a basic Post Office service the office was equipped with a telegraph on 10th March, 1914 (Code ELQ).
Between 1913 and 1919 Plaskitt was succeeded by Mrs. Jane Toynton and by this date a Telegraphic Express Delivery service was also available. Local knowledge confirms that Elkington was an estate village owned by the Dobson family and that Mrs. Toynton was the Subpostmistress. Mr. Hurst is thought to have succeeded her and also ran a smallholding. Mrs. Evison his daughter then took over shortly before or when Mr. Hurst died. (H) The Evison’s were there in 1934 (H). The Directories list Toynton to 1926 and also list her as a tobacconist. The 1930 directory has no entry for the office but the 1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office John Evison Shopkeeper, which confirms the information, John was probably the appointee but his wife ran the office in practice. (D)
The Post Office was in the cottage nearest the P.O. on opposite side of road (not sure when it moved to the final shop site on the south side of the road.)(MH) Mrs. Holden remembers an old lady of 80 telling her that her job was to brick the front step of the Post Office each day until she was 14 and was able to move away and get married. (MH) Mr. Charlie Waller was Subpostmaster during some of the war years possibly taking over business c1944/1945. (H) Mr. and Mrs. Waller had P.O. for a long time (MH) Mrs. Mary Smith Subpostmistress from April,1957 to April, 1964. She replaced Mrs. Waller, her husband John ran small farm on the site. (JS)(Confirmed by MH) (Obituary for John’s son also stated family moved to Utterby in 1957)(AR). Mrs. Holden, a local resident who moved houses in the village, replaced her. (JS) Mrs. Marge Holden was Subpostmistress from 1964-1987 when she retired.(MH). They sorted and delivered the Chritmas mail for 3 weeks in early years. They built up a grocery business and her husband developed grocery rounds with 400 calls. They also started selling ice cream. Lodgers were not allowed in their time and they always had to leave someone on the premises. (MH) Mr. Ken Thomas Subpostmaster 1987-1991 (MS) He started bed and breakfast(MH)
Mr. Malcolm Shaw Subpostmaster from 2nd June,1991, he had lived in Eccles Manchester, wife used to retailing, a welcoming couple. Community office open 12 hours a week, no Girobank, Savings Bank, TV or TP. Aims to keep P.O. work to a minimum, would rather people took things to Louth that were complicated as he didn’t feel he stands any chance of reaching scale payment status. As it is was forced to offer a P.O. service to locals outside normal hours to retain goodwill. Interesting old alarm still retained in the office. You have to wind it up and a foot treadle then operates it. He does milk and paper rounds and she offers bed and breakfast. The large site on the main road is leased and the store area is large. Keen to develop the Appleby’s Ice Cream Trade. Have a large grassy area where people can park and sit and eat their ice creams. Didn't think much of training, just sit and watch some videos and look at sheets of paper showing transactions. He has already been told that his Elkington Post Office Stores sign will have to be replaced by something with either mentions the stores or the Post Office but not both. (MS) Suffered a break-in in 1992 datestamp stolen. New Subpostmaster by May, 2001 but after allegations of financial irregularities the office later closed. (D)
Information Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D) M. Shaw (MS) M. Holden (MH) Mrs. Harrison (H) John Smith (JS)
ELSHAM
POPULATION 1921 421
Previously sited in a Victorian house in Front Street. 1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Brigg T. Etty Shopkeeper.
Later Sited At 26 New Street Elsham. At This Site Since C1972. Mr. Neaves Probably First Subpostmaster At Present Site Followed By Wards. Mr. S. Binns (?) Subpostmaster Since Early In 1991. Community Office Each Morning To Early Afternoon. Subpostmaster Unhappy With Arrangements, Undue Effort Needed To Run P.O. For Little Return. Considering In June, 1992 Closing P.O. Or Reducing Hours Of Opening To Just Four Hours A Week And Dispensing For The Need To Maintain Space For A Screen Etc. Happy To Sell Stamps From Edinburgh At 5% Profit Than Having To Devote Time To The P.O. For Little Return. P.O. Sited In Smart General Stores Selling Most Lines Including Fruit And Vegetables And Strong On Butchery Lines And Meat And Dessert Pies And Cakes. P.O. Closed About The End Of June.
EPWORTH
POPULATION 1921 1,822
1849 Post Office Directory P.O. Mrs E. Peck Postmistress and druggist. Mail from Bawtry, received 10.00am, dispatched 3.20pm.
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Doncaster Owner not listed.
Mailwork office Mr. A. Hall Subpostmaster in 1992.
ESSENDINE
EWERBY
POPULATION 1921 321
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O. & Tel Call Office Letters From Sleaford Owner not listed.
Current site in hall of bungalow since SEP 1969 small shop stock. Previously one morning per week by Crown Office Staff in porch house to east of old chapel. Before then run by Mrs. Wilson on Green who gave it up/resigned, before then (years ago) in Field Lane,
FALDINGWORTH
POPULATION 1921 312
The area is part of the Cust Estate owned by Lord Brownlow. An early site c1880-1890 was the side window of a cottage immediately to the west of the present site. There was also mention of mail being sorted in a cottage in the east part of the village near the Coach and Horses. Post Office is now sited on High Street, which until a few years ago was known as Main Street. Shown photographs of present site before the front extension was built and before and after a telegraph pole was sited outside. Since 1930 Richardson family have run Office. (N) The 1933 Kelly’s confirms a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From Market Rasen J. Richardson Grocer. (D) Mr. Richardson was followed by his son Ron who ran it to c1966. Mr. Robertson ran it for 6 months and then Bunting followed by Francis ran it c1977. John Horton was then appointed and ran it with his wife Jennifer. They later ran Normanby-By-Spital. Mrs. Jennifer Northing appointed in June, 1978. Hours in 1997 are 9.00-1.00 2.00-5.30, 1pm Wed and Sat. Mail to Market Rasen 11.00 and 16.45. Office deals with AWA and Yorkshire Electricity, East Midlands start 1/2 mile towards Lincoln at garage. The potato scales have been used to weigh babies, one of which is now 18. The strangest request was for 2 dozen eggs hard boiled. (N) In December, 2007 the office was earmarked for closure with an outreach replacement service as part of the 2,500-closure programme.
datestamp E 10 37
info (D) Directories (N) J. Northing
FENTON see Laugherton
FILLINGHAM
POPULATION 1921 227
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post Office Letters From Lincoln Owner not listed.
Margaret Bishop Subpostmistress from November, 1990. Community office non C/A to Louth
FISHTOFT
POPULATION 1921 803
Sited in east side of Cut End Road. Cottage originally had a blacksmiths shop attached to it to south. 1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From Boston. E. Swann Grocer, Draper, Boot & Shoe Dealer, General Store. A new shop was built to north of cottage c1939. Mr. E. Swann continued as Subpostmaster until he died c1962. Mr. Swann's daughter then ran it for two years before Mr. South became Subpostmaster. Mailwork is thought to have ceased then. His daughter Mrs. Gilbert took over in 1978. In 1981 a new purpose built house shop and garage was built behind original site and original building demolished for car pull in. Now a P.O. and general stores.
FISKERTON
POPULATION 1921 376
1849 Post Office Directory P.O. E. Dove grocer, farmer and auctioneer. Mail from Lincoln by footpost, received 9.30am, dispatched 3.30pm.
Frederick Gibson was Subpostmaster by c1920, P.O. was situated in a cottage in Church view. Frederick was a carpenter and ran P.O. until he was about 80. P.O. was in kitchen at rear. Photo shows Frederick, his wife Henrietta and a grandchild. Postman lived next door. 1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From Lincoln Owner not listed. c1937 Ethel May Speed became Subpostmistress and P.O. moved to a purpose built house and P.O. in High Street, now called Ferndale. Building used to have a door at eastern end into the P.O. Acted just as a P.O. but had a telegraph and a telephone exchange. During war office was busy with Irishmen telegraphing money home to Ireland. 3 postmen delivered mail including down river bank to pumping station and across on ferry to 7 farms in Heighington Fen which were then isolated from the southern side. The midday mail arrived by bus. During the war mail was taken by bicycle for despatch from Reepham Station. Ethel May worked with her sister until she got married and P.O. was then sold on.(C) Joan Patricia Goulding appointed Subpostmistress in April, 1952, P.O. moving to present site which had been the Nelson P.H.(G) Situated in High Street. About 1972 phonebox had same no as P.O. and was a shared line. Philip Goulding appointed in April, 1983, passing from a blood relative (his mother) so not advertised. Acted as a general stores until April, 1989. Shop counter removed and old fireplace behind former shelves exposed and made a feature. New wall built as a continuation of the P.O. counter to the S. wall to increase area behind counter. Doored entrance lobby at N.W. Corner. Marilyn Goulding Subpostmaster since June, 1990 taking over from her husband, she had to attend an appointment interview. Now just a P.O. F/T C/A office, also conducting datapost since c1980 for the requirements of a local firm. Closes Thur PM.(MG). New Subpostmaster Mr. Lester Tyler by July, 2003.
Datestamp E8/34
Info Marilyn Goulding (MG) Mr. Goulding Senior (G) Iris Clarke nee Speed(C)
Name of St. where Mrs. C. Lives.
FLEET
POPULATION 1921 1,187
1849 Post Office Directory P.O. Mrs White receiver, grocer, draper and tallow chandler. Mail from Wisbech, received 7.45am, dispatched through Holbeach 4.45pm.
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Holbeach R. Crosby & Sons Grocers
FLIXBOROUGH
POPULATION 1921 310
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From Scunthorpe Owner not listed.
FOLKINGHAM/FALKINGHAM
POPULATION 1921 461
1849 Post Office Directory P.O. and orders granted and paid. R. Ward Postmaster. Mail from London, received 6.15am and from the north 8.00pm and delivered 8.00am, dispatched? Five messengers delivered mail to neighbouring villages.
(OB302)
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Letters A. Pile Stationer.
By 1992 the office was located in a shop at 1 Church Lane. Mr. L. S. Brittain was Subpostmaster. Half day closing was Tuesday. (D) He was probably replaced c2000 by Mr. & Mrs. Girard. They had big ideas but were not suited to the business. They split up and following an audit a temporary Subpostmaster was appointed. The office was then eventually relocated to the Old School, 7 Market Place. The actual office was located in the former toilet building at the rear of the scholl and fully fitted out as a post office with a counter at the north end. The office opened on 9th May 2002 and Jacqueline Douglas was appointed Subpostmistress. Opening hours from 2002-2007 were 09.00-17.30 MON-FRI 09.00-12.30 SAT. (J) In December, 2007 the office was earmarked for closure as part of the 2,500-closure programme.
Information Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D). J. Douglas (J)
FOSDYKE
POPULATION 1841 450, 1851 592, 1861 549, 1871 631, 1881 477, 1891 433, 1901 436, 1911 449, 1921 509, 1931 ?
According to Post Office records the office offering the basic range of Post Office services is thought to have opened on 24th August, 1848 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied to the office. Mail was received from and dispatched to Boston. However, on 29th September, 1851 a further undated circular datestamp was supplied and this was probably the date Mail began to be received from and dispatched to Spalding instead. The Directories list a John Smith as shopkeeper and Subpostmaster by 1842 so probably he was an existing shopkeeper who opened the Post Office. Between 1868 and 1872 John probably died as a Mrs Elizabeth Smith is listed as Subpostmistress in the White's Directory for that year. Some directories refer to the office being located at Fosdyke Bridge so probably it was located to the east of the village on the main road to King's Lynn. On 1st June, 1886 postal delivery arrangements were again changed and mail was again received from and dispatched to Boston. 1881 had seen the introduction of the still familiar Postal Order. They were similar to money orders but designed for lower monetary values ranging from 1/- to 21/-. A rubber date stamp was provided in 1893 to cancel these and this may well be the date they commenced sale here. They were on sale here by 1896. Between 1892 and 1896 Mrs. Smith was replaced by Mrs Ann Massom who again was listed as a grocer so probably the office remained on the same site. On 21st April, 1903 a Telegraph (Code FDI) was fitted. By 1905 Postal Orders could be issued and paid. The range of services were further extended by 1908 as Money Order and Savings Bank transactions could be conducted. Between 1905 and 1909 Mr. F. B. Snaith was appointed. He was also listed as a shopkeeper so the office may not have changed location. Snaith appears to have continued as Subpostmaster until at least 1937 when the last Kelly's Lincolnshire Directory was published. (D)
Local knowledge is that the office was located in a house on the corner of Post Office Lane. (not listed on modern maps) Prior to 1924 the Barber family ran it in the east half of the property. Then c1924 the Office moved to the west half of the property and was run by Atkin family. (Unfortunately neither of these names relate to the Directories) In 1965 the office moved to it’s final site at 29 Old Main Road in the centre of village on south side of road opposite church. It used to be a bake house. Not sure who ran it at first but Mr. O. N. Jones was appointed c1976 (J) According to the PO telephone directory he continued to at least 1992. (D) Mailwork was conducted until c1982-1984. One full-time and two part-time postmen were employed and mail was delivered in the village and to Algarkirk. (J) Latterly Run as a general store and cobblers.
Information Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D). Mr. Jones (J)
FOSTON
POPULATION 1921 279
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From Grantham J. Cooke Grocer.
Later Mr. (?) Davis was Subpostmaster with P.O. sited in bungalow in Church Street now called Meadow View. Mrs. (?) Snowden appointed Subpostmistress c1973 and P.O. moved to present site, The Post Office, Back Lane. P.O. is sited in former third bedroom of bungalow. Mail work ceased during her time. Mrs Beryl Poucher Subpostmistress from March 1977. Closes Thursday and Saturday PM (was Wednesday). F/T C/A office, located in the Midlands area H.O. Birmingham - Rem Ashby-De-La- Zouch, stock Derby. Sells Anglian Water Stamps. One position office but sells wools. Gas was supplied to village in 1979 so will benefit from free gas bill arrangements. Office suffered an attempted robbery with tiles being taken off the roof to gain access. Mrs. Poucher's aunt ran Manthorpe and her sister in law ran Claypole. (P) Office closed in June 2000. Mrs. Poucher decided to close the office a few weeks after the installation of Horizon to the office as she was not happy with operating the office using the system.(G)
info Mrs. Poucher, (P) T. Gardner (G)
FOTHERBY
POPULATION 1871 257, 1881 237, 1891 228, 1901 212, 1911 209, 1921 185 1931 332
According to Post Office records the office is thought to have opened on 22nd December, 1845 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied to the office. Mail was received from and dispatched to Louth.
The1849 Post Office Directory lists a Post Office offering basic services with William Rastall as receiver. By 1861 he was also acting as parish clerk. Until at least 1872 Rastall continues but the 1876 Directory lists Jeptha Holmes as shoemaker and receiver. (D) Local knowledge is that Mr. Jeptha Holmes wes a shoemaker in village for 2 years. He and his wife moved across road to a cottage at Manor House to set up the Post Office in 1875 and he ran it until he died in 1901. (L) 1881 had seen the introduction of the still familiar Postal Order. They were similar to money orders but designed for lower monetary values ranging from 1/- to 21/-. A rubber date stamp was provided in 1894 to cancel these and this may well be the date they commenced sale here but could not be paid. They were on sale here by 1896. (D) Maria Holmes, his wife, delivered letters by foot. His son Thomas William Holmes born 1875 took over as auxiliary postman and bootmaker when he was old enough. He continued to do the round until he retired in 1956 aged 81. Unfortunately he died at his presentation.
Jeptha's wife Maria Holmes carried on as Subpostmaster until she died in 1926 aged 89. (L) This is reflected in the Directories as she is listed as Shoemaker and Subpostmistress from 1905 and also as with most other offices Postal Orders could be issued and paid by this date. The 1919 Directory lists the business as Holmes and Son Shoemakers. (D) Her daughter Millicent (Milly) brother of Thomas ran it until she died in December 1940. (L) The 1926 Directory confirms this. By 1933 a telephone call facility had been installed. (D) Mrs. Leeman remembers the desk in the kitchen, with a draw in the table, little draws on top of table and date stamp. Pensions were 10/- per week. It was Post Office only with telephone in P.O. available for public use. Millie didn't like that. One man brought mail from Louth to Fotherby and carried on to Utterby and his hut at N. Ormesby, which had been there since before the 2WW. Thomas's mail round included Fotherby, Little Grimsby, Covenham School, Chequers Farm Utterby and Fotherby Top until it was transferred to N. Elkington. The round was a thirteen mile cycle ride. Ada Holmes sister of Milly ran the Post Office for 6 months until Mrs. Leila Riley took over and ran it for 2 or 3 years. Then Mrs. with Mr. Smith ran it until taken ill. They came from Little Grimsby.
Mrs. Powell then ran it at current site from wartime(?) until early 1950's. Then Mr. Ron? and Mrs. Smith from Skegness until he died. (L) Then Roland Smith appointed Subpostmaster in December, 1966. The Post Office was still at present site at that time. In 1969 he moved it further south to the blacksmith’s forge (now the nursing home), which was an existing grocery shop. Mr. Smith just moved P.O. selling shop, which sold groceries, newspapers and sweets. Roland did mail round himself in village 8-11am. Officially a bicycle round he often used his car. In 1972 mail work was concentrated and at end of 1972 Roland sold up and moved to Covenham. The Post Office moved back to present site. (S) The story is then a little confused Michael Hallam is thought then to have been Subpostmaster for c4-5 years 1973-1978 but it is reported that his wife ran it from blacksmiths premises. (M) Mrs. Leeman confirms that Roland took over and that he sold present site and moved papers and Post Office to the shop at the Old Forge, now the nursing home Fotherby House but gives dates of 1970 &1973. The Hallams took over from R. Smith until they closed shop. Then P.O. moved back to present site run by Waltons. Mr. Dennis Brown was then Subpostmaster c 5 years 1982-1987. (L) It is probable that Mr. Brown was appointed earlier than 1982 as he paid a Postmaster Federation Membership receipt in 1977. (D)
Mrs. Christine Heath Subpostmistress from November 1987. In the 1980’s and 1990’s the business ran as the only general stores and off licence in the village, also selling newspapers. The Post Office counter was located in the north end of the building. Being located on the Main A16 Grimsby to Boston Road it benefited from a higher percentage of passing trade than many other Post Offices. However, the village was bypassed and the viability of the business was affected and the retail business was abandoned. In April, 2005 the Post Office area was moved to the rear of the building in the South west corner to a room where the boiler is located. A new counter and two person waiting area was provided with access from a rear door operated by a bell and internal door release switch. Newspapers and a few sweets are sold. When the office moved the hours were reduced to 08.00-17.30 Monday and Thursday. A new self-inking datestamp was also purchased.
Most of information supplied by Mrs. Leeman niece of Millicent. (L) Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith and Receipt 1/4/1977 D. Brown. (D) Mrs. Morton Beesby. R. Smith. (S)
contact Mrs. Powell, Barley Mow, left hand side short lane.
FRAMPTON
POPULATION 1921 934
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From Boston Via Kirton Miss Edith Taylor General Smith. The Post Office was located in Middlegate.
FREISTON
POPULATION 1921 984
Mrs. Jenny Diggles had P.O. in front room of Viola Lodge. Madge Wright telegram girl from age of 12 there in c1918. The new potato season was a very busy time for telegrams. Mr. Saul Palmer (left one eye and one arm from 1WW) later became Subpostmaster and he and his sister Eva ran it until at least 1936/36. 1933 Kelly’s lists confirms that a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Boston was run by J. Palmer (Post Office only). The office was sited at what is now Southern House two doors to south of Viola Lodge. P.O. then moved to Mr. William Whites shop opposite church. He was Subpostmaster for 40 years. Mail work conducted - 1 or 2 rounds for village and Freiston Shore. Mr. Jack Mannin was a one legged postman there who managed to deliver mail by bicycle. Mr. Coleham took over from Mr. White but was not Subpostmaster for very long. He was a builder and redesigned office. Mr. Whites son had photo showing entrance in middle of building with post box to left of door. Later the entrance was moved to the right hand end with post box on far right. Counter area was also moved behind post box. Then Mrs. Smith took over and had the post office for about 10 years retiring c1970. Mrs. Gillies then became Subpostmistress or it may have been the other way around. She is thought to have had it for 5 years. Mr. Young was Subpostmaster for 1978 -1983 when the current Subpostmaster Mr. Barrie Sherras took over. By then the counter had again been moved to the back left-hand corner of the shop. BS still Subpostmaster 6/94
FRISKNEY
POPULATION 1801 691, 1831 1457, 1851 1695, 1861 1604, 1871 1668, 1881 1477, 1891 1373, 1901 1302, 1911 1373, 1921 1,508, 1931 ?
According to Post Office records a 5th clause post was established. (D) By the mid 1830's penny post offices were operating throughout the entire United Kingdom. Whereas it was a costly business to send a letter about 30 miles distant or more by the General Post, the local posts were able to provide a splendid service for one penny - and this was a uniform rate for both letters and packages weighing up to 4 ounces. Even villages and hamlets like Friskney remotely situated and away from the post roads were helped by a service called a 'fifth clause post', so named after the fifth clause of the Act of 1801, which allowed any village not belonging to a post town to be linked up with its nearest post town. Friskney was able to pay for the service to link it with Boston.(S) An office offering the basic range of Post Office services is thought to have opened on 28th October, 1848 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied to the office. Mail was received from and dispatched to Boston. This event was too late to appear in the 1849 Directory but the 1852 Post Office Directory lists Mr. R. Wright as receiver with no ancillary business. By 1861 he had been replaced by Mrs. S. Baines who was also a shopkeeper so the location may have changed.
Between 1876 and 1882 she was replaced by T. Wright who was also listed as a grocer and draper. The location was given as Fold Hill. This corresponds with local knowledge that prior to 1900 it was located in Pantons Stores at "Pantons Corner" at bottom of Fold Hill now Wrights Lane. On 1st November, 1887 the range of services were extended and from that date Money Order and Savings Bank business could be conducted Then on 10th July, 1888 a telegraph (code FNY) was installed. 1881 had seen the introduction of the still familiar Postal Order. They were similar to money orders but designed for lower monetary values ranging from 1/- to 21/- and Friskney as a Money Order office would have been able to issue and pay these from 1887.The 1889 Directory lists the Subpostmistress as Miss Alice Wright. In common with other offices Annuity and Insurance business could be conducted. By 1896 the range of services offered now included Telegraphed Money Orders and Express Delivery. (D) Local knowledge was that the office moved to Boothroyds in Church Lane opposite church. The site was named after a square of parish land bought from him? Boothroyds built as a P.O. in 1903, P.O. in front room of house, entry at front left from road. Miss Ada Robinson Subpostmistress until she got married, then her sister Alice took over and also ran it for many years. Another sister also helped.. (R) The information from Directories is that Alice was replaced by Miss A. Robinson between 1900 and 1909 and she is listed until 1926 but then no owner is listed in the 1930, 1933 or 1937 Kelly’s. The status of the office was increased form 1st January, 1897 as the office was reclassified as a Sub Office and would have received sealed bags of mail from various locations rather than just Boston. This designation was amended on 2nd July, 1900 to Railway Sub Office and then again on 1st August 1905 to full Sub Office/Post Town Status. By 1930 Telegraph Express Delivery was available. Friskney though lost it's Post Town Status and just had it's mail delivered from Boston again from 1st May, 1931. (D)
Local knowledge Office then moved to other side of main road opposite church to Martins Stores. With the Post Office being sited there by 1945.Fred Barratt is thought to have been the Subpostmaster. Then Frank Bradshaw was Subpostmaster, certainly by 1968. The premises had low ceilings and the shop floor was just flagstones on earth. It was still a Mailwork Office then , sorting from 6am, with 2 local rounds and 2 postmen from Boston who sorted their mail at Friskney before delivery. At Christmas sorting took up to 2pm and delivery finished 7-8 pm. Ann Bray used to look after the Post Office . The Post Office then moved to the Good Intent (present) site in Church End, (a former public house, then a butchers) c1972. Mr. Stevenson was Subpostmaster here from 1980. Ann Bray continued to do Friday balance, up to c1970 balance was at 5.30 on Saturday. c1970 people used to sign on for dole at P.O. and details sent off to social security. Quite a few telegrams, greetings for births etc. Years ago many telegrams as Friskney big potato growing region. Shown leather pouch, like a large purse for postman to take on his round. Contained stamps, specifications for duty of each round - bicycle, but part having to be done by foot. Also book of "Certificates of Posting of a Registered Postal Packet" - used by postmen to give to customer in respect of monies given for the postage of a registered letter. Mailwork ceased c1985. Official notice - Recorded delivery service introduced 1/2/1961
Dawn T. Hall Subpostmistress from January, 1990, she used to work in a bank.
Information Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D), Local residents/Dawn Hall (R), Frank Staff - The Penny Post 1680 – 1918 (S)
FRITHVILLE
POPULATION 1921 629
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Boston E. Brumpton Grocer.
Just post office in front room of house now adapted with security screens since 1986. At present site on west side of dyke near five way intersection at north of village since 1965. From c1960-1965 in first house on left on Boston Road to south of bridge. Prior to that in present Bicycle shop which used to be a grocers and drapers in centre of village. Mailwork office until 1950's, 1 round present postmistress used to do it in her twenties, pay in the 1950's was 17/- per week under 21 and 21/- if over 21.
FRODINGHAM
Closed between 1902 and 1907
FULBECK
POPULATION 1921 569
1849 P.O. Mrs. A. Wilkinson Receiver and Blacksmith, letters from London via Grantham by Mail coach in 9am out 4pm letters from Lincoln in 4pm out 9am.
1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O. & Tel Call Office Letters From Lincoln Owner not listed
FULLETBY
On 23rd January, 1911 Mr. Marshall was Subpostmaster and shop owner. (A)
Last site of P.O. was in Winn cottage opposite church. Last family to own it were the Ruffles. P.O. closed c1982 (G)
Info Own information (A), man at garage (G)
FULSTOW
POPULATION 1851 550, 1861 577, 1871 519, 1881 565, 1891 472, 1901 ?, 1911 456, 1921 421, 1931 416,
According to Post Office records the office opened on 1st October, 1872 offering Post, Money Order and Savings Bank services. The 1876 PO Directory lists Mr. Overton Pinder as grocer, draper and Subpostmaster. Mail was delivered from Louth. By 1882 he had been replaced by Mr. John Green Phillips also listed as grocer, draper and Subpostmaster. (A) Photographs show the location as the present site, probably since it was opened and certainly by 1917. Premises also had a bakehouse. (D) By 1889 in common with other offices Annuity and Insurance business could be conducted. On 2nd October, 1900 the office was further upgraded by the installation of a telegraph (Code FLU). The 1905 Directory also lists Telegraphed Money Orders and Express Delivery as additional services. (A)
John Phillips was replaced by his son William Robert Phillips. He continued as Subpostmaster until he retired in the mid to late 1950's (D). The Directories first list him in 1913.His son Bill Phillips was not interested in taking over the business. From 1st September, 1912 mail was Delivered from North Thoresby. (A) This was by bicycle. This continued to at least during the second world war (D). P.O. records show that mail was delivered from Grimsby from 1st November, 1937 and from Louth from 1st August, 1942 so that may be the date the bicycle ceased to be used. By 1919 the office could also offer telephone call and express delivery services. Also by 1926 Telephone express delivery was available. (A) Mr. Phillips was replaced by Mr. Dyer c1959 who had it for about 2 years. Mrs. Greenland replaced him. She was Subpostmistress for 17 years. Mr. Taylor who was ex police followed her. He did some internal alterations to the premises, extending the shop area to the east into a former store room. After Mr. Taylor had been in post between c1978-1980 Clive Spencer was Subpostmaster for 2 years. In February, 1982 Mr. Keith Davis and his wife Valerie took over. Keith had had a shop in Kent for the previous 10 years. The post office counter had been in the N.W. Corner and he moved it to the south centre of the shop, but later decided to provide more room for it and again moved it to the N.E. corner. Shop is the one general stores in the village selling newspapers, groceries, fruit and vegetables, off license etc. One position C/A office appointed agent for National Lottery in mid 1995 (D). Mrs Val Bown was appointed Subpostmistress c2000 and runs the business with husband Steve. Postmistress by 29th July, 2003 Janice Mann. Her husband Phil had an illness and they decided to sell. Mrs. Sandra Beamish appointed from 17th May, 2007 working the business with her husband Gary.
Datestamp 5/1942, replaced 4-8/2003
Information Keith Davis (D) Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (A)
Email to SONIA-AND-ANDREW-REYNOLDS@bigfoot.com
or Royal mail contact address