REYNOLDS COLLECTORS' WORLD

LINCOLNSHIRE POST OFFICES ALPHABETICAL ARCHIVE NAVENBY TO POTTERHANWORTH

NAVENBY

POPULATION 1921 824

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. W. Rollitt Postmaster and farmer, grocer and tallow chandler. Letters from London via Grantham by Mail coach in 9.30am out 3.30pm and from Lincoln in 9.30pm out 9.30am.

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office. C. Cowham Stationer

Mailwork office, mail from Lincoln at 06.30. Subpostmaster by 1992 Mr. Paul R.B. Sanderson. He closed the office on 26^th January, 2011. He was unable to find anyone to replace him and wished to retire.

NETTLEHAM

POPULATION 1921 981

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. J. Yarnall receiver, schoolmaster collector of poor rates and assesor. Letters from Lincoln in ? out ?

On present site by 1918. Mansford family owned it then Larders who sold it to the COOP.(R)

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Mail To Riseholme Owner not listed.

Sited on The Green. In 1960 it was a separate site with a village store adjacent. This was at the site of the flower shop to the west of the current site with the sorting office behind. Now in modern COOP supermarket. Had eight or nine postmen delivering to Scothern, Sudbrooke and North Greetwell as well as the village. Mail work ceased about 1994. MVL office since at least 1977, taxes the Lincolnshire Police vehicles. Opens MON-FRI 09.00-17.30, SAT 09.00-12.30. Mail collected 1999 at 11.45, 15.30 and 17.15. East Midlands Electricity, manual 3 part receipt machine. National Lottery Instants sold. West Lindsey Council introduced in 1990's. Not data post or Parcelforce 24 hour deliveries. Resets franking machines. Self inking date stamps introduced between 4th and 14th March 1998. (S)

INFO R-old resident S-Manager and staff.

NETTLETON

POPULATION 1921 402

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From Lincoln C. Gates Grocer

Sited in the general store and Newspaper delivery shop in the village. The office has probably been on this site for many years. Neil Ritchie ran it on behalf of his mother. He was a bricklayer and built a brick built counter at the S.W. corner of the shop the counter having previously been on the west wall.  Dave Tayles was appointed on 24^th October, 1994.  His family originally came from Lincolnshire but he lived in Derbyshire and worked for E. Midlands Electricity. Sadly his wife died after a short illness in 2000, but his daughter and son-in-law Phil now assist him in the business. One position office with Littlewoods scratch cards opening MON, TUE, THUR, FRI 9.00-13.00, 14.00-17.30, WED 9.00-13.00, SAT 9.00-12.30.

 Information D. Tayles. 

NEW BOLINGBROKE

POPULATION 1851 350, 1861, 947, 1881 549, 1891 454, 1901 337, 1911 264 1921 312, 1931 ?

The office would have opened in response to the revolution which was the introduction of the universal penny post which was introduced in January 1840 and that great Victorian revolution the Penny Black postage stamps introduced in May. Until then postage had been based on mileage and was very expensive. According to Post Office records the office probably opened when an undated circular datestamp was supplied to the office on 6^th May, 1841. Mail was received from and delivered to Boston. New Bolingbroke was also hoped to be a growing new market town. A few Georgian remnants still remain. Surprisingly there is no entry in the 1849 Directory but in the 1855 Post Office Directory George H Harrison is listed as proving a Post Office offering a basic range of services. He was also a draper and a druggist and in 1861 was also listed as a grocer. Between 1861 and 1868 he was replaced by Mrs Esther Hanson. Presumably she was his wife and George died. However, between 1872 and 1882 she was replaced by George Huskinson Hanson who was possibly her son. He was listed as a chemist, druggist, grocer, provision dealer and newsagent. 1881 saw 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 datestamp was supplied to the office in 1886 and this was probably when these orders commenced sale here. They were listed as being on sale by 1889. The range of services was further extended from 1^st February, 1892. Savings Bank business was introduced here and Money Orders were available to be issued and paid. They were similar to Postal Orders to transfer to the Post Office of the recipient sums not exceeding £10. Fees were for any sum under 10s. - 2d.; over 10s. and under £1 - 3d.; and increasing 1d. for every £1 additional up to £10. In common with other Savings Bank Offices by 1896 annuity and insurance business could be conducted here. The post office business was further enhanced from 6^th February, 1900 when a telegraph (code NUC) was installed. In addition the 1900 Kellys Directory lists that Telegraphed Money Orders and Express Delivery were added to the list of Post Office transactions, the 1900 Directory also mentions Parcel Post services being offered although they probably started being offered nearer to 1883 when the service was introduced.

Between 1919 and 1922 Hanson was replaced by George Harold Brown who was also listed as a grocer and draper. By 1926 he also offered a motor car for hire. By 1930 Thomas Child had been appo8inted. He was listed as a Grocer. He contiues until at least 1937, the date of the last Kellys Directory we have been able to examine. (D)

Local knowledge is that Hanson's site was in a shop just north of village hall/butter market. It moved c1928-1930 to a general stores and off licence. Office conducted mailwork office until c1984. Mr. P. J. Bennett Subpostmaster on 1/10/91(letter). Towards the end of his term he was unhelpful with customers, banning pushchairs, telling green giro customers that they could work etc (B) Phillip remained in office until shop closed on this site and P.O. moved to a house on west side of road.

The office is now located a 2 Station Row. It opens Monday to Friday 09:00 to 13:00, Saturday 09:00 to 12:00

Information JB Mareham (B) Local Residents (R), Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D).

NEW CLEE

photo in Roads, Cleethorpes Road section Grimsby Library.

NEW HOLLAND

POPULATION 1840 200 1851 401 1861 736

About 1830 The Yarborough Arms was built on the Humber Bank and the turnpike road extended to it.  A ferry was also provided with the ferry distance only being three miles to Hull compared with the six miles from Barton.  In 1829 two coaches per day from London to Barton connected with the Hull Steam Packets. The Inn though had been built for several years before the mails commenced running to it and the steam and sailing packet service regularly established. The lessees of the existing Barton Ferry had objected to its introduction until 1832. About 200 people lived in the village at this time.

In 1842 four steamers a day left for Hull and the mail coach left for Boston at 8.00am and London at 11.30. By 1849 the Manchester, Sheffield and Lincoln Railway had been connected to the new ferry constructed in the same year. This led to the village being developed. In 1856 a steam packet ferry was first used.

The Post Office probably opened in October, 1852 when an undated circular datestamp was provided.  Mail was delivered from Hull. By 1855 Grantham Westoby is listed as Subpostmaster and also grocer. During 1866 the range of services was extended as from 2^nd July Money Orders could be issued and paid and on 1^st October Savings Bank business could be conducted. The post office business was further enhanced in 1870 when a telegraph (code NCP) was installed. Westoby continued in the business for many years and in addition to the grocery business the directories mention druggist (by 1861), chemist and farmer (by 1872) and coal merchant (by 1882). Between 1885 and 1889 William Stephens replaced Grantham and continued the chemist and druggist business on the same site.  In common with other Savings Bank Offices by this date they could also conduct annuity and insurance business. The 1892 Directory lists the Subpostmaster as William Westoby.  It would be logical to assume that William was related to Grantham’s.  Stephens seems to have family connections and but decided to run the office for a relatively short time?  By 1896 the business was also described as a stationer. Between 1900 and 1905 ownership of the office again passed to the Stephens side of the family as Walter Stephens Junior was appointed and he continued until at least 1909. 

By 1913 Mr. Fuller Parker had been appointed and by 1922 a Telegraph Express Delivery service was offered.   From 1^st August, 1925 mail began to be delivered from Barrow-On-Humber. (D) Prior to 1933 the office moved to Sheffield House on the corner of Barrow Road and School Lane, but house on very corner does not now form part of the property. Site was originally a school (G). Mr. Parker continued until 1945, and probably 1955, Myers and Alec Campbell who operated business as a partnership replaced him.  They were there by 1973.  Myers retired and Campbell continued until he died.  Chris and Ivy Dixon then ran the business there were there by 1978.  Stewart Potton was the next Subpostmaster assisted by Jacqueline.  They were there by 1993 (R). 

Office Closed 6^th April, 2001 but later reopened with a grant on 20^th June, 2002.  Mrs. Margaret (Maggie) Grimbleby was appointed Subpostmistress assisted by her husband Robert (Rob) (D). Office opens 09.00-17.30 Monday to Friday, 09.00-12.30 Saturday. Mail is delivered from Barton On Humber. A one-position office is operated on a combi-till system.  As far as I am aware this is the first one position office to be fitted with a combi-till in Lincolnshire. When not serving at the counter the area is secure and you can move to an adjacent retail till, normally operated by a member of staff, if you wish to serve someone requiring retail service.  The shop operates as a convenience store with a good selection of groceries, off licence and confectionery, tobacco and counter news.  A video library is also operated.

Information Mr. & Mrs. Grimbleby (G) Local Residents (R), Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D).

NEW LEAKE (with Eastville)

POPULATION 1891 342, 1921 510

According to Post Office Records an office offering basic services probably opened on 24^th August, 1858 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied. Mail was delivered from and dispatched to Boston. The first Business Directory entry is no though until the 1872 White's which lists a Mr. O. Pinder, grocer, draper and Subpostmaster. Mail is mentioned as coming from Old Leake but in reality probably from Boston via there. The 1876 Directory does not mention Pinder but there is reference to Eastville operated by Mr. Richard Handley and listed as being a land surveyor and grocer. The 1882 Directory quotes Ashton Blades Borman as managing the Post Office but that mail went to Mr. Handley. Possibly during this period the Post Office was in Eastville but the retail outlet in New Leake also accepted mail? Most likely there was only one site originally in Eastville and then in New Leake when that settlement was formed and later incorporated as a parish in 1894, The two settlements adjoin each other.

1881 saw 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 datestamp was supplied to the office in 1886 and this was probably when these orders commenced sale here. On 1^st May, 1891 the range of services were extended as from that date Money Order and Savings Bank business could be conducted. The 1892 White's Directory refers to this and states that Mr. R. Handley is grocer, draper, glass and earthenware dealer, land surveyor and Subpostmaster at New Leake but also refers to Eastville. The Kelly's Directory for the same year also mentions that as with other Savings Bank Offices Annuity and Insurance Business could be conducted. Between 1905 and 1909 Mr. Handley probably died as by 1909 Mrs. Mary Maria Handley is listed as Subpostmistress and Grocer. Savings bank business was probably still conducted but the directory does not mention this. On 27^th June, 1911 a telegraph (Code NLK) was installed at this office.

By 1919 the office had again changed hands with F. P. Lowie now in charge. Again Savings Bank business is not mentioned with the list of services being Post, Money Order, Telegraph and Telephonic Express Delivery. Lowie is listed in the 1922 directory but then no owner is listed from 1926 to the last Business Directory of 1937. According to a map the location was in a cottage, now The Old Post Office to south of present site, in 1928. (D)

I have no further information until the 1960's. Mr. Whiting ran the Post Office. in a wooden hut in village c1966(F) 

By the 1990's business just post office, located on present site since 1966 formerly in house next to Preston Farmers shop.(R) Postmistress in 1992 was Ms V A Waltham. Half closing day was Wednesday. MVL transactions were authorised from 2004. In December, 2007 the office was earmarked for closure with an outreach replacement service as part of the 2,500-closure programme. Mobile service now provided at New Leake Village Hall Car Park, Spilsby Road from Coningsby Post Office. Opening hours MON 09.00-12.00, TUES 15.00-16.30, WED 09.00-11.30, THUR 15.00-17.00, FRI 09.00-11.30 (D)

Information RF Wrangle Common (F) Local Residents (R), Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D).

NEWTON

POPULATION 1851 221, 1861, 228, 1881 173, 1891 187, 1901 159, 1911 153 1921 165, 1931 180, 

According to Post Office Records an office offering basic services probably opened on 19^th July, 1845 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied. The 1849 Post Office Directory has William Sandall listed and also as boot and shoemaker. Letters were delivered from and dispatched to Folkingham. According to Post Office records the office closed in 1857 and was not re-established until 1868.  The 1861 Directory list Sandall as a shoemaker only so he evidently decided that operating a Post Office was not for him. The 1882 Whites Directory lists Mr. Joseph Cooper as Subpostmaster and blacksmith.  He is probably the person who re-established it presumably at a different location.  Again only basic Post Office Services were offered. In 1890 a rubber datestamp was supplied probably to enable Postal Orders now being sold to be datestamped.

By 1896 Joseph is listed as running the post office and William (his son?) as the blacksmith.  By 1900 William as well as being the blacksmith had been appointed as Subpostmaster, probably on the death or retirement of Joseph.  By 1905 in common with other offices Postal Orders could now be issued and paid. Between 1919 and 1922 Alfred Rollings took over the appointment and continued to at least 1926.  The 1930, 1933 and 1937 Kelly’s Directory does not list an owner, but by 1933 a Telephone Call Office facility has been provided. Form 9^th November, 1936 mail arrangements were altered and main was received from and dispatched to Sleaford. When Alfred gave up the appointment and who followed him is not known. According to Post Office Records the office closed in 1977.

Mail Times                                          Received                               Dispatched

By 1849                                              8.00 am                                 4.00pm

By 1855                                              8.00 am                                 8.00am

By 1882                                              7.20 am                                 5.00pm

By 1885                                              7.30 am                                 5.00pm

By 1892                                              7.45 am                                 5.00pm

By 1900                                              7.30 am                                 4.45pm week days only, probably never Sundays

Information - Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D).

NEWTON/NEWTON-ON-TRENT

POPULATION 1841 310, 1851 366, 1861, 325, 1881 313, 1891 307, 1901 264, 1911 269 1921 231, 1931 249,

According to Post Office records the Post Office opened by 1780.  In that year a Straight-line-mark, probably with letters carved in wood “Newton” was supplied to apply to letters dispatched from the office to Newark.  By 1793 Newton had been given Post Town status and would have received and dispatched it’s own mail directly.  From 1817 mail again was dispatched to and received from Newark but a penny post service was operated in that mail would be delivered locally for an additional charge. On 29^th December, 1841 an undated circular datestamp was supplied inscribed Newton.  With the introduction of the universal penny post in 1840 additional quantities of mail were being handled. (D)

By 1840 Mrs Mary Dixon was Postmistress and the office was located at 36 High Street. (M) The 1842 and 1849 Post Office Directory confirms this and that a basic Post Office service was provided. By 1860 the office was known as Newton-on-Trent. (D) From 1864 William Atkinson replaced Mary as Subpostmaster and the office moved to 42 High Street. (M) The Directories initially mention that he also had a shop of some kind as well.  On 1^st July, 1869 the range of services was extended to include Money Order and Savings Bank Business.  The range of services offered was further extended from 6^th December, 1871 when a Telegraph (Code NEI) was installed. (D) In 1882 Miss Elizabeth Atkinson succeeded her father as Subpostmistress on William’s death. (M) By 1889 in common with other Savings Bank Offices Annuity and Insurance business could be offered. By 1896 Telegraphic Money Orders and Express Delivery Services were offered. (D) On 27^th November, 1901 Elizabeth Atkinson then aged 39 married John Toynbee Abraham a 52 year old farmer of North Clifton. (M) The 1905 Directory mentions Parcel Post services being offered although they probably started being offered nearer to 1883 when the service was introduced. (D)

In 1912 Mrs Lillian Bayes was appointed Subpostmistress at 42 High Street. (M) She was also a threshing machine owner and continued to own it long after she ceased to be postmistress. By 1922 Telegraphic Express Delivery service was being offered. (D)  She was replaced on 3^rd December, 1924 by Mrs Fanny Eliza Baker and the office moved to its present site at Kelfield 6 High Street.  Fanny was born in Newton in 1896, left the village on marriage but returned after the death of her husband to run Post Office from a back room at her parents home. (M) From 14^th September, 1929 the mail arrangements were altered and Lincoln became responsible for the receipt and dispatch of mail for the office.  (D)

In 1957 Mary Kyme, Fanny’s sister in law, took over the post office when Fanny went to look after an elderly aunt.  Surprisingly when Fanny returned some months later Mary would not transfer the appointment back to Fanny. (M) Mail was delivered from the office until possibly as late as 1976 when Doncaster Mechanised Sorting Office was opened and mailwork for many rural offices were centralised. (K)

In 1964 Edgar Kyme took over as Subpostmaster when his mother Mary retired.  He opened a general store to supplement his Post Office salary. (M) He was replaced in 1995 by his daughter-in-law Gillian who is the current Subpostmistress. Standard basic Post Office services are provided, Travel Insurance is by leaflet and West Lindsey operated a taxi travel token scheme. (K) A general stores is operated with a one-position counter situated in the North-east corner of the shop.

Datestamp 9/33 (September, 1933)

Mail Times                                          Received                               Dispatched

By 1842                                               5.00am                                  2.00pm

By 1855                                               8.30am                                  4.15pm

By 1855 to at least 1913 a daily mail cart connected Newton with Dunham for letters and parcels.

By 1868                                               8.20am                                  4.00pm

By 1872                                               8.20am                                  4.05pm                   

By 1882                                               8.00am                                  4.15pm    

By 1896                                               7.30am                                  4.45pm

By 1905                                               7.20am                                  4.45pm

By 1909                                              10.00am   & 6.10pm              4.55pm  & 6.15pm

By 1913                                               7.10am   & 6.10pm              4.55pm  & 6.15pm

Information - Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D). Mr. & Mrs Kyme (K) A Walk Through Time in Newton on Trent and Its Neighbourhood Chris Medley ©2004 – (an excellent illustrated book of the history of Newton available from the Post Office) (M)

NEW WALTHAM

Sue and Rick Lewis appointed by 9/94. Bob and Sue Wainwright appointed by 29^th July, 2003.

NEW YORK

POPULATION 1921 604? Wildmore

Subpostmaster on 25^th December, 1899 was Mr. S. J. Joll. (C)

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Lincoln. Holmes Stores Ltd. Grocers, Drapers (D)

General stores on site since before 1954, probably since 1889. Mailwork office until March, 1989, Loss meant that units now below minimum for scale payment SO.(SPM) Mailwork transferred to Coningsby (HB Tattershall) Handley's retired c1/7/1998 (DD HAG)

Information - Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D). C. Gilbert (C)

NOCTON

POPULATION 1921 553

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. G. Robinson receiver. Letters from Sleaford in ? out ? On 29^th May, 1856 an undated circular datestamp was provided and mail was delivered from and dispatched to Lincoln. A rubber datestamp was supplied in 1892 probably to enable Postal Orders now being sold to be datestamped. (D)

Harry Ash SPM c1918-1932 (J)

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office. Letters From Lincoln. (D) Miss Waite was Subpostmistress in 1933. (E) A telegraph was installed on 21^st October, 1942 (Code NKO). (D)  Mrs. B. Bee was Subpostmistress c1967 to 1987.  Mrs. M. Butler was then Subpostmistress for 18 months until 1988. (E) A NFSP Receipt confirms she was in charge on 18^th April, 1988. (D) Subpostmaster from 1988 D. Eamons. At that time a mailwork office, mail from Lincoln at 06.25. Mail delivered to Dunston, Potterhanworth and Nocton Fen utilising 3 part time cycle rounds and one full-time van. Business continues as a general stores with Mr. Eamons provided a new counter area in the former sorting office area.  He took over the newspaper deliveries for the village and also purchased a bread making machine to offer fresh bread. (E)

Information - Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D). Tony Judge (J)

NORMANBY

Brigg

NORMANBY-BY-SPITAL

POPULATION 1921 281

Office transferred from Owmby by 1910.

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O. & Tel Call Office. Letters From Lincoln. Owner not listed.

Early site on Main Street in Willow Tree House, on west side of the road to north of present site. Mr. Foston was Subpostmaster and he was replaced by his son. Then in 1957 P.O. moved to present site in existing general stores run by Cyril Leslie Green. He ran it until he died in March, 1978 when his sister Dorothy Iris Surfleet ran it until January, 1979. She had previously helped. At that time John Horton bought business and was appointed. Dorothy continues to help and serves a Tuesday a week. Originally shop had a door in the middle but is now at the N.W. corner. One position C/A office, the one shop in the village. Mailwork was conducted until concentrated on Market Rasen. Three rounds were operated covering Normanby, Owmby, Spridlington, Saxby, Cadeby, Glentham and parts of Bishop Norton. Rounds were gradually lengthened over the years as Spridlington? and Glentham? lost their mail work. latterly a moped did the round to Glentham.(DS). Office moving to new site May/June, 1999?

RECEIPT 9/12/1978 P. S. Surfleet

INFO DS NORMANTON Mrs. Porter SPM (HM SUDB')

NORMANTON

POPULATION 1921 158

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, & T. Office. Letters From Grantham. Owner not listed

NORTH COCKERINGTON

POPULATION 1921 167

Post Office records indicate that the Post Office was opened by July, 1892.  Possibly the date may have been in 1891 as the 1892 Kelly’s Directory list a Post Office offering basic services being operated by Samuel Capp who was also a wheelwright.  Mail was delivered to and dispatched from Louth. By 1900 Postal orders were now issued and this service was probably offered from 1899 when a rubber datestamp was supplied to the office.  In common with many other offices by 1905 these orders could be issued and paid. Capp is listed as continuing in business until at least 1930.  However, the 1933 Kelly’s lists a Post Office now also offering a Telephone Call Office facility but the owner not listed.  Samuel Brown is listed as a shop keeper but it is not clear whether he also operated the Post Office of whether the office ever moved from the original location. (D)

In 1963/1964 the Post Office was located in the house where present post box is. Building was half a P.O. with a separate Public House adjoining. Lasted another 2-4 years until wife who ran P.O. died. Mr. Jeff (Geoff) Pearson came out with a van for a few months after that but P.O. never reopened. (W) According to Post Office records the office closed in 1967 (P).

Mail times

By 1892 mail received 6.55am dispatched 5.50pm

By 1896 mail received 7.05am dispatched 5.50pm Week days only

By 1909 mail received 6.50am dispatched 5.30pm Week days only No Sunday delivery

By 1913 mail received 6.50am dispatched 10.00pm and 5.45pm Week days only No Sunday delivery

Information - Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D).  Post Office Circular 8/3/1967 (P) Mr. & Mrs. Wattam S. Cockerington.  (W)

NORTH COTES

POPULATION 1921 241

Between 1917 and at least 1925 P.O. was in road from main road on left hand side in the south of the first group of two cottages (now one property). P.O. was just in room of house. Mr. and Mrs. Everitt ran P.O. One day before 1925 Mrs. Everitt cycled to N. Thoresby caught a train and didn't return.(G)

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From North Thoresby W. Sheffield Confectioner

 INFO Mrs. Green (G)

NORTHCOTES R.A.F. STATION

NORTH HYKEHAM

POPULATION 1841 367, 1851 442, 1861, 464, 1871 468, 1881 455, 1891 499, 1901 551, 1911 1,406 1921 1173 (Swallowbeck area transferred to Lincoln City in 1920), 1931 1864,

According to Post Office records the office opened by 1873.  The 1876 and 1882 Directories do not refer to a Post Office and the first entry is in the 1885 Kelly’s, which lists Benjamin White as a receiver with no other associated business.  Mail was delivered from and dispatched to Lincoln.  By 1889 he had been replaced by John Lamb who was a shopkeeper as well as receiver. He probably died by 1892 as Mrs Maria Lamb (his wife?) had replaced him at their grocery shop and Post Office. By 1900 Postal orders were now issued and this service was probably offered from 1896 when a rubber datestamp was supplied to the office.  In common with many other offices by 1905 these orders could be issued and paid. By 1909 John Lamb (son?) had replaced Maria. On 29^th April, 1913 a telegraph was installed (Code NIK).  By 1922 Leonard Boulds had taken over as Subpostmaster and the range of services had been extended to include Money orders and Telegraph Express Delivery.  Boulds was not listed as having an ancillary business in 1922 and 1926 but the 1930 Directory lists him as a shopkeeper.  Again it is not clear whether the location changed when Boulds took over.  By 1933 the business was described as Boulds and Son and this continued until at least 1937. (D) This may have been when the Office was located in Water Lane.  c1956 the office moved to it’s final site at 20 Middle Street and Mr. Allcock was the first Subpostmaster at this site.  The business operated as a general stores with stationery and greetings cards.  Terry Whiting was appointed c1971 and then the final Subpostmistress Hilary Bradley was appointed on 20^th August, 1983.  The office had two positions and opened 09.00-12.30 13.30-17.30 Mon, Tues, Thur and Fri, 09.00-13.00 Wednesday and 09.00-12.30 Saturday.  Increased competition from new nearby Asda and COOP supermarkets and the decision by the Government to encourage the payment of pensions and allowances into a bank account worsened the viability of the office.  This resulted in the Bradley’s decision to be one of the 3,000 offices earmarked by the Post Office for closure under the Post Office nationwide reinvention programme (B).  The aim of the programme was to maintain the viability of the network by closing offices where it was considered that alternative offices were near enough  to provide alternative facilities given the overall reduced level of business.  The office closed on 1^st September, 2003 with customers being directed to Hykeham Moor 0.7 miles away or The Forum 1.2 miles away. 

Datestamps A double ring datestamp was supplied in June, 1932 and a single ring datestamp was supplied at a later date (B) Two new datestamps were supplied in 1997 (R).

Information - Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D). H. Bradley (B)  (R) J. Roebuck

MAIL TIMES

By 1885 in 08.15                    out 4.40pm

By 1892 in 08.20                    out 4.40pm

By 1896 in 07.00                    out 6.10pm

By 1900 in 06.30                    out 6.10pm

By 1909 in 06.30                    out 3.20pm and 6.25pm no Sunday delivery

NORTH KELSEY

POPULATION 1921 822

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. J. Ellerby receiver at “Royal Oak” Mail from Caistor, received 11.30am, dispatched 1.00pm.

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From Lincoln. Mrs. E. Johnson Shopkeeper.

RECEIPT 5/7/1976 J. G. Blunt. Mrs. Blunt at N. Kelsey to c2/1992 before P.O. moved to butchers shop, North Kelsey.

By March, 2004 Mrs. Judy MacKenzie Subpostmistress. Hours 09.00-13.00 14.00-17.30 Monday to Friday except 09.00-13.00 Wednesday. Saturday 09.00-12.30. In December, 2007 the office was earmarked for closure with an outreach replacement service as part of the 2,500-closure programme. An outreach service was introduced serviced by Caistor.

NORTH KELSEY MOOR

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters. From Lincoln. Owner not listed.

It was run by Mrs Elsie Cawkwell, certainly in the 1960s and 1970s.  The Post Office was also her kitchen, so customers had to walk up the garden path, and enter through the 'front' door direct into the kitchen where business was done on the kitchen table.

The cottage was sited on the western side of the Railway crossing.

Information John Kirk (nephew)

NORTH KYME

POPULATION 1921 514

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office Letters From ? J. Torey Shopkeeper.

P.O. originally in Everards Shop at N. corner of main road and Vacherie Lane. Mr. Everard senior SPM for many years and his son briefly SPM until his marriage broke up. Present site since c1985/86. Hardmans first SPM on present site, then Marden for 18 months, then Mrs. Wright since 1988.(W) Used to be a telegraph office, covering S. Kyme. lottery office, Closed c12/98.(HB) info W Wright HB HB Tattershall

NORTHLANDS (Sibsey Northlands)

According to Post Office records a rubber datestamp was supplied to the office in 1906.  This would primarily have been used to datestamp Postal Orders on issue and 1906 is probably the year the post office opened.  Both the 1909 and 1913 Directories list a Post Office providing a basic service run by Miss Eva Rushton.  She had operated a grocers shop in the village prior to that date.  Mail was delivered from Boston (time unknown) and the postbox was cleared at 7.00pm and 6.20 Sunday. Post Office records state that the office closed in 1917 and was re-established by January, 1923.  The Directories have no Post Office listed in 1919 but Richard Harrison was listed as a grocer on that date and was also listed as Subpostmaster by 1922.  He continued until 1930. The 1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office with E. English the Subpostmaster and Grocer. Telephone number was 221. (D)

Local recollections are that the original site was in a white cottage to the south of the final site next to phone box and chapel. The shop had been on that site since pre 1914. Miss Harrison was running it by 1914 and for many years until Mr. English took over. He was also an electrician. He moved P.O. to current site after 1938 probably about 1951? 1949? He had a purpose built detached house and shop built.  Eric English continued until at least 1966.  He was followed by Cliff and Flo Orgill who came from Sheffield.  They were there for over 5 years.  Next were Gladys Crowley and her husband Gordon who was a draughtsman. Next a lady ran it whose husband worked at the oilrigs.  Her tenure came to an end when he returned unexpectedly to find her with another man.  After that some people from Birmingham ran it.  May was the last owner.  She was a niece of the Orgills and was persuaded to buy it as the Orgill’s wanted part of the P.O. land to incorporate into a building plot (A).  In 1990 it was operating as the village General Stores with Off License attached. With Mr. Carter the Subpostmaster in 1990. The office closed on 24^th July, 1992.

Information Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D). Betty and Neil Armstrong (A)

NORTH LEVERTON

NORTHORPE

POPULATION 1841 141, 1851 179, 1861, 194, 1871 208, 1881 182, 1891 196, 1901 224, 1911 210, 1921 179, 1931 188,

First record of a P.O. in village in Whites directory of 1882 at Mr. William Cook's drapery business who was already in business as a grocer and draper by 1876. Mail came from Kirton Lindsey at 9.55 (9.30 by 1885) and was despatched at 3.55. Mr. Cook was also described as a provision dealer. By 1889 William had probably died as Mrs. Jane Cook was the P.O. receiver and ran the drapery business. Mail was now despatched at 4.15. By 1896 an existing shopkeeper Mr. John West was Subpostmaster Mrs. Cook probably having died or resigned. Mail came from Lincoln at 7.50 and despatched at 6.10. Postal orders were now issued. Mr. West's appointment probably saw the P.O. move to it's present site in Manor road opposite church. A photo shows it there by 1905. By 1905 Postal orders could be issued and paid. The mail time altered to in at 8.00 by 1900, 7.40 by 1905, 7.28 by 1909 and 7.40 by 1913. Outward mail altered to 5.05 by 1900, 7.35 by 1905 and 7.48 by 1909. In the directory for 1919 no P.O. or John West is mentioned but Frank Auckland was the shopkeeper. By 1922 Mr. Auckland had been appointed Subpostmaster and remained as such until at least 1933. A public telephone call office facility was installed by 1933. By 1937 Mr. Thomas Hill was running the shop and had been appointed SPM. (FM) Mrs. Crabtree was the SPM in wartime, her husband was killed in the war. Mr. West succeeded her but didn't stay for long. Mr. William Day appointed c1952. He suffered an attack on the Post Office when someone broke into his bedroom and slashed him across the face. He was never quite the same man again and retired not long after. Mr. Frank Mosey appointed SPM in March, 1967. He bought adjoining house which had been Church Farm (House only) and had been a blacksmiths shop and hemp yard. He altered property into one dwelling, removing the right hand front door to the property. Still a mailwork office until circa late 1970's. Mail came from Gainsborough for the 1 round. Officially a bicycle round, Mr. Mosey often used his car. After mail work finished Mr. Mosey also did a mail round from Scotter and still covers a duty when required in 1992. Credit stock office doing TV licences and telephone bills. Was originally under Gainsborough, then under Scunthorpe, then under Lincoln and now deals with Louth. Area Office is Doncaster. Mrs. Mosey used to deliver newspapers, get her daughter off to school and then serve at the Post Office. Until about 1989 they ran a general stores in the premises but decided to close it and not handle newspapers. In December, 2007 the office was earmarked for closure as part of the 2,500-closure programme.

NORTH OWERSBY

POPULATION 1921 261

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. Mrs. H. Richardson receiver and shopkeeper. Letters from Market Rasen in 12.00am out 2.00pm.

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From Lincoln. A. Darcey General Supply Stores

General stores and off licence, sited in former chapel on road E. Sited there for many years, not a mail office in recent years,

 NORTH SCARLE

POPULATION 1921 448

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post Office. Letters From Lincoln. Miss S. Dawson Shopkeeper.

Mrs. Molly Rant Subpostmistress. Office probably changed hands in 1992.Subpostmaster on 26/3/96 was Pauline Lewis. By November, 2003 office had been relocated inside the Village Heritage Centre. Opens 09.00-17.00 Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 09.00-12.00 Tuesday, Thursday,  closed Saturday.

NORTH SOMERCOTES

Available on request–

2. PHOTOGRAPH OF POST OFFICE AT GOLDEN LAKE SITE C1882-1888 NOTE THE SLIT LETTERBOX TO THE LEFT OF THE PICTURE WHICH STILL REMAINS

3. EASTING AND LOUGHTON RECEIPT 1902

4. PHOTOGRAPH OF Subpostmaster EBENEZER EASTING

5. PHOTOGRAPH OF POST OFFICE AT GOLDEN LAKE SITE C1908

6. PHOTOGRAPH OF POST OFFICE AT THE STORES SITE C1920. THIS IS THE MOST COMMON PHOTOGRAPH OF THE POST OFFICE ALTHOUGH IT WAS AT THIS LOCATION FOR ONLY A FEW YEARS

7. PHOTOGRAPH OF POST OFFICE AT JACKLINS SITE C1925

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NORTH THORESBY

POPULATION 1841 623, 1851 733, 1861, 824, 1871 774, 1881 745, 1891 573, 1901 629, 1911 595, 1921 649, 1931 653,

Thoresby is a large village, which had and still has a number of shops. Mrs. Jane Bond, an existing shopkeeper since by 1842, had been appointed Receiver by 1849. It may well have been sited at what is now the current site then and until after 1900. The Post Office was probably opened on 22^nd December, 1845 when an undated circular datestamp was supplied.  Mail was delivered from Louth. By 1855 Jane was still alive but William Bond had been appointed Receiver and was also a draper and grocer. However, by 1861 Thomas Bond was listed as Receiver and also grocer, draper and farmer.  I have no idea of the relationship of the three Bond’s. From 2^nd October, 1871 the range of services was extended to include Money Orders and Savings Bank and Thomas was also a wool merchant. By 1889 in common with other SB offices Annuity and Insurance Business could be transacted.  Also by that date a telegraph service was available at the railway station.

By 1892 Mr. Herbert Holmes Veasey had been appointed Subpostmaster and was also a grocer, draper and boot dealer, probably on the same site. However, by 1896 he had been replaced by Jesse Foster Broughton who was also a grocer and draper so again probably on the same site.  From May 1898 the office had been designated as a sub office with sealed bags of mail delivered directly to the office. Also by then the range of services had been further extended to include Parcel Post (introduced at most offices), Telegraph services, Telegraph Money Orders and Express Delivery. The telegraph was installed on 10^th April, 1900 (Code NRT). From 2^nd July, 1900.  Harold and Fred Broughton had the shop c1909. (G) Jesse Broughton had P.O. at the present site in Edwardian times. (OD)

By 1913 the office had moved and Tom Sanderson Prestwood, Mrs. Green's uncle, had the P.O. in Town Street (now demolished and bungalow built.). As well as the P.O. they also had cars for hire and Mrs. Green learnt to drive in the yard. The Kelly’s Directory also listed him as a grocer. During the First World War Mrs. Green took over driving the Ford van, which was used to deliver the mail; her uncle having the contract for it. Mail was picked up at N. Thoresby Station at 5.00. The driver was supposed to be there to meet the train but if for any reason they weren't the signalman would keep the bags. The bag for Thoresby was then taken up to the P.O.? and other bags were taken to North Cotes, Marshchapel, Grainthorpe and North Somercotes, arriving about 7.00, emptying the letter boxes on the way. She parked in the Bay Horse Yard during the day and during the day sometimes did some driving work for example for a shop at Saltfleet. The outward journey was reversed on the return departing at 4.15. The parson at Conisholme was always particular about his mail and would often be waiting to see mail go or at least she had to make sure she didn't leave without his mail (G). The Directories of 1922 and 1926 do not list any trade for Prestwood but the office now offered a telegraphic express delivery service.   Mrs Green drove the van until 1925 after which the mail was brought from Grimsby. (G) The official date Grimsby rather than Louth became responsible for the mail is 1^st November, 1937. By 1928 5 postmen were employed and there were 20 Telephone Subscribers (L). She thought that by 1925 the P.O. was in a shop, now Ye Olde Homestead, owned by Bradbury’s.  The 1930 Directory does not quote an owner by by 1933 Cecil Bradbury had been appointed and was also a Tobacconist. Directory mentions Mail being delivered to Wytham.  He continued until at least 1937 but later the P.O. was also in the stores on the N. side of the Square (now the Spar Shop). Robert’s are though to have been the owners when it was the P.O. 

The P.O. then returned to it’s current site at the south side of The Square and the Hippesley family owned it. Mrs. Olga Dolby took over from them and became Subpostmistress from October, 1983. In the 1980’s the P.O. was also a newsagents, general stores, vegetables, greetings cards and videos. The P.O. closes Wednesday and Saturday afternoon. It operated as a one position with an assistant on busy days. Not datapost but sells YEB tokens and has agreed to sell them after hours. It was a mail work office, 3 rounds, mail was delivered from Grimsby and van continued to Marshchapel. 1. Van round (van parked in garage near P.O. and parcels also delivered from there) to outskirts of Ludborough, Grainsby, Waithe and then delivers parcels in Holton-Le-Clay. 2. Bicycle round in village and up Station Road. 3. Walk in village first then moped to Ludborough, White Road and Ross's (OD). Mailwork ceased in April, 1996 and mail is now delivered from Grimsby. (A-HLC).

Claire Martin took over as Subpostmistress c2000 and Judith Whiteley replaced her in May, 2002. With Horizon she now operates the P.O. on her own but staff, her partner Gene and daughter Jodie continue a thriving shop business similar to the 1980’s.  A tearoom was opened late in 2002. This though had to close, as the necessary planning permission had not been obtained.  A video library replaced it for a while but in 2004 the decision was made to cease newspaper deliveries, off licence and sales of groceries.  The shop area was reduced and a cash machine fitted.  The business was adapted to a one-person operation selling cards, sweets, drinks, stationery, gifts and cigarettes from behind the P.O. counter.

On 7^th July, 2005 the business was transferred to Chris Dixon who was appointed as Subpostmaster.  He formerly operated a post office in Ellesmere Port, which was closed as part of the reinvention programme. In the latter period of his time there his wife Marion who assisted with the gift shop side of the business became ill. On 1^st March, 2011Terry Jones was appointed assisted by Catherine.

two datestamps S.HSIDE E77 24. Two self-inking datestamps in use by March, 1997

Information - Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith. 1928 Louth Almanac (L) Mrs. Green (G) Olga Dolby (OD) Anna Morgan (A-HLC)

Mail times

By 1849 in 12.00                    out 4.00pm

By 1855 in 10.30                    out 3.00pm

By 1861 in 11.30                    out 3.00pm

By 1868 in 10.30                    out 3.00pm also mail for Audley by foot messenger from Grimsby via Holton (until 1889-1892)

By 1882 in 09.15                    out 2.55pm

By 1885 in 08.45                    out 4.30pm

By 1889 in 08.27(08.30)        out 4.30pm

By 1900 in 04.35 delivered 07.00 and 7.25pm callers only out 7.55pm

By 1905 in 05.40 and 5.00pm callers only out 8.00pm no Sunday delivery

By 1911 in 05.00 delivered 07.00 and 5.00pm callers only out 8.00pm no Sunday delivery

By 1913 in 06.00 delivered 07.00 and 5.00pm callers only out 8.00pm no Sunday delivery

By 1928 in 05.45

NORTH WILLINGHAM

POPULATION 1921 168 

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. James Hurton receiver. Letters  by messenger from Market Rasen, in 11.00am out 3.00pm.

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office. Letters From Lincoln. Owner not listed

Last site in bungalow opposite church since 1970/71, previously in Bungalow on north side of road to the east of village with railings in front of it. Originally sited on north side of road opposite to road to Six hills.

NORTON DISNEY

According to Post Office records the office opened in 1930 (post office circular 11^th June) with mail delivered from and dispatched to Lincoln. The office closed between 1939 and 1941 to reopen by (?) 1955. (D) Mrs. Dolton thought the office reopened in 1957 in a shed/hut at the rear of Manor Farm owned by the Wells family Mrs. Pacey was appointed as the new Subpostmistress.  The office moved in 1958 to the corner site and was sited in a grocery shop.  Mr. Barry was then appointed in 1976 and continued to about 1985.  He had previously run South Somercotes Post Office and an office in Huddersfield.  The office the moved to its final site in a house with a unit attached for the Post Office.  Mrs. C. Wells was Subpostmistress from c1985 to 1988.  Mrs. Dolton then took over (S) and was the Subpostmistress when the office closed on 4^th April, 1990. (D)

Information – (D) Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith. (S) Mrs. Dalton

OASBY

POPULATION 1921 424 (Haydor)

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From Grantham. J. Johnson Shopkeeper.

OLD BOLINGBROKE/BOLINGBROKE

POPULATION 1801 283, 1811 367, 1821 753, 1831 725, 1841 919, 1851 980, 1861, 1018, 1871 ?, 1881 459, 1891 397, 1901 345, 1911 367, 1921 304, 1931 275,

According to Post Office records a Post Office opened here very early, especially as the size of the village was very small. It opened by 1770 as Bolingbroke and had the status of a Post Town. By 1793 though the office was controlled from Boston. The 1826 Lincolnshire Directory lists John Clement as Postmaster with a horse post departing at 11.30am to Stickford to meet the mailcoach and returning at 3.30pm. On 3^rd June, 1841 an undated circular datestamp was supplied, probably to enable the cancellation of postage stamps which were introduced in 1840. By 1842 control of the office has passed to James Harrison. Mail was taken by footpost twice a day to me the mailcoach at West Keal. By 1844 the controlling head office had been changed to Horncastle and also the Obliterator No. 379 BOLINGBROKE was allocated to this office. By 1849 mail arrangements were again changed and letters were delivered from and dispatched to Spilsby in 8am out 5pm. The 1855 Directory also lists James as a farmer. Between 1872 and 1882 Henry William Hardy was appointed. He was also a grocer and draper so the location probably changed. George Harrison, possibly the son of James was listed as a farmer. The obliterator number 379 was vacant in 1874 indicating that probably when the office came under the control of Spilsby it's status had been reduced to just a sub office. From 1^st September, 1880 the range of services was extended to include Money Orders and Savings Bank. The 1885 Directory also lists Henry as a farmer. In common with other Savings Bank Offices Annuity and Insurance Business could be conducted by 1889. The post office business was further enhanced in on 2st November 1899 when a telegraph (code OBK) was installed. The 1900 Kellys Directory lists that Telegraphed Money Orders and Express Delivery were added to the list of Post Office transactions, the 1900 Directory also mentions Parcel Post services being offered although they probably started being offered nearer to 1883 when the service was introduced.

Between 1900 and 1905 Mrs. Elizabeth Cotton was appointed. She was also listed as a grocer and draper so the location may not have changed. The 1909 Directory is the first which refers to Old Bolingbroke rather than just Bolingbroke. Between 1913 and 1919 another new Subpostmaster was appointed named Walter Johnson. He was also listed as a shopkeeper. He doesn't appear to have taken to the position as by 1923 Arthur Fenwick was appointed. No ancillary business is listed for him. The post office continues to be listed until the last Kellys Directory I have seen for 1937. However after 1926 no owner is listed. By 1933 and probably by 1919 the office could conduct Telephonic Express Delivery work. (D)

Local knowledge confirms that Fenwicks ran the Post Office, it was there by 1926 and for many years. It was situated in Elm House opposite church with petrol pump. (R) As well as selling petrol, Fenwicks was a coach company and car repair garage. It consisted of Mr Fenwick Senior (probably Arthur), his 2 sons -Harold and Cyril and possibly a third son. This business eventually became Brylaine in the late 1970's/ early 1980's and moved to Boston. (S)
 

The post office then moved to a house opposite the old school in West Keal Road and worked by the Sergeant family. (R) They ran it for many years until the late 1960's/early 1970's. (S) It then moved again to a shop site in Back Lane at corner of West Keal Road by c1980. It was run by Mr. And Mrs. Good, Fosters, and Staintons. (R) Mr. Goods first name was Bert. This site is now known as the Old Post Office. (S) The Palings then ran it from 1986 until they decided to close it in June 1990. Possibly others also owned the Office at this site. (R)  The office closed but was reopened in Chapel Cottage in Back Lane, on the west side of the road opposite the Chapel, in 1991. Alison J Disney was appointed Subpostmistress.  It was operated as a Community office opening 09.00-12.00 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and later longer hours but also closed on Tuesdays.  In 1993 she moved the office to Chapel View. the northernmost of the group of the three cottages in the same block as Chapel Cottage. The office was operated from the front room. The office closed at the end of November, 2003.  After 12 years service and no one prepared to take the office over. The low pay and increasing overhead costs eg insurance had made running the office too much of a bind. (Y)

Information  Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith (D), Local Resident (R), Mr. Disney (Y), John Stephenson (S)

OLD LEAKE/LEAKE

POPULATION 1842 1744, 1851 2062, 1861 1912, 1871 1912, 1881 2114, 1891 ?, 1901 ?, 1911 1340, 1921 1438, 1931 ?

According to Post Office records a penny post mail service was provided in the village in 1830. Mail was delivered from Boston. An undated circular datestamps was provided on 13^th September, 1847 and April, 1853. Surprisingly no record of the existence of a Post Office appears in the 1849 Post Office Directory or the 1855 Directory. The 1861 Directory lists a Post Office offering basic services with H. Cherrington acting as postmaster and also grocer and draper. The office was located in Church End and as far as I am aware has remained at the same site. Mail was delivered from and despatched to Boston. In 1868 the range of services were extended with Money Orders available from 1^st January, and Savings Banks transactions from 1^st April. Between 1868 and 1872 J. Hockley was appointed and was also a grocer and draper. Although the official records do not quote a date of installation the 1872 Directory quotes telegraph and telegraph money order services being offered. Hockley appears to have been short lived as by 1876 the Directories quote R. Robinson as Subpostmaster. He to had been replaced by 1882 by W. Twell who adds millinery to the retail services offered. 1881 saw 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/-. As an existing Money Order Office Leake would probably have issued them from the date of introduction.

According to Post Office records the office was officially renamed Old Leake from just Leake on 1^st May, 1883. By 1885 the business had been formed into a company T. Twell & Co. (W. Twell's father?) and had also been appointed an agent for W. & A. Gilbey Wine and Spirit Merchants. By 1889 W. Twell appears to have died as the Directory lists Mrs. Ann Twell as Subpostmistress although by then the business had been renamed W. Twell & Co. In common with other Savings Bank Offices Annuity and Insurance Business could be conducted by this date. Between 1892 and 1896 John Thomas Harneiss was appointed Subpostmaster. The business was listed as J.T. Harneiss and W. Gilliatt, egg merchants were listed in addition to the previous activities. Telegraphed Money Orders and Express Delivery were added to the list of Post Office transactions, the 1900 Directory mentions Parcel Post services being offered although they probably started being offered nearer to 1883 when the service was introduced. By 1909 the Directory indicates that Gilliatt is no longer involved in the business. The 1913 Directory lists James Harneiss as Subpostmaster but this may just be an error for John? By then the retail is just listed as grocery.(D) The 1919 Kelly’s lists C. J. Hammond as Subpostmaster and Grocer. He continues until at least 1937, the last published Directory.

In recent times the office is sited in large supermarket store. The former car park behind front part of store has been built on and joined onto buildings at back to form large retail area. P.O. right in back room at right, probably the longest walk from door to counter in Lincolnshire? John Beswick has been the appointed Subpostmaster since prior to 1990.

OLD SOMERBY/SOMERBY

POPULATION 1881 271, 1891 195, 1901 193, 1911 198, 1921 185, 1931 166

According to Post Office Records an office offering basic services probably opened in 1865. The 1868 Post Office Directory lists a Post Office run by John Porter who was also a shopkeeper.  Mail was received from and dispatched to Grantham.  By 1872 Mr. Thomas Eldridge had been appointed as Subpostmaster.  However, by 1882 Whites Directory lists Mr. John Ayre’s as Subpostmaster.  He was also a blacksmith.  Unusually Thomas Eldrige is still listed in this Directory as a postman and the 1881 census also lists him as a postman. The reason why Thomas ceased to be Subpostmaster but still involved in delivering the mail is not known. However, his wife, Mary Ann Moulds Eldridge, died in 1881 leaving him with many children so he may not have had the time to do more than deliver the mail or altered financial circumstances forced a change. The 1885 Kelly’s continues to list John Ayre but there is no mention of Eldridge.  1881 saw 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 datestamp was supplied to the office in 1896 probably to datestamp these orders and certainly by 1900 this service was being offered.

According to Post Office records the office was renamed Old Somerby on 1^st April, 1930. The 1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & T. Office with J. Ayre Blacksmith still in charge. Post Office records do not record a telegraph being installed and it is more likely the directory refers to a telephone call office facility being installed.  The telephone number was Grantham 072. (D)

Mrs. Hankins said that the Ayres family owned  the Post Office to 1981. Father and son, both John Ayres ran the business but not sure of date of changeover.  Then the granddaughter in law  Mrs. Ayres was running the office by 1931. It continues as a Post Office and blacksmiths and a mail work office until Mrs. Ayers retired. The site is now known as the old P.O. Mrs. A. J. Hankins took over c1981 and moved the office to the Old School House "Belholme" in N. side of School Lane W. of church. Operates as a Full time non C/A office in rear conservatory of house with a half day Thursday. The office has a small grocery stores. (H) In December, 2007 the office was earmarked for closure as part of the 2,500-closure programme.

Mail times

By 1868 received 8.25am dispatched 5pm.

By 1872 received 8.00am dispatched 5.30pm.

By 1882 received 7.30am dispatched 5.40pm.

By 1885 received 7.30am dispatched 5.45pm.

By 1889 received 7.00am dispatched 6.10pm.

By 1896 received 7.05am dispatched 6.00pm.

By 1900 received 7.15am dispatched 6.10pm.

By 1905 received 7.05am dispatched 6.00pm. (no Sunday delivery) unlikely to ever have been.

Information – Directories/own information/information from P.O. records by Ken Smith. (D) Mrs. Hankins (H)

ORBY

POPULATION 1921 314

Early site run by Garrards with a shop, petrol pump and garage Site?.(CC)

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office. Letters From Burgh. J. Brown Shopkeeper.

Miss Brown had the Post Office near the school, probably in the 1950's(DC). Then 'Rosie' ran it and then Mrs. Vercoutere ran it for 7 years in a house opposite the glass shop. Now in The Grange a house opposite Plough P.H., SPM Christine Claridge. There since 1979. P.O. was in back living room but now in utility room with full screen etc. Open 6 mornings 9-12, C/A office but no S/B. P/T rather than community office. Recently sent all £20 notes and had to take to Barclays at Skegness to change. Then sent £1000 extra out of the blue. (CC) Visit July, 1990. Then sited at the stores run by Mr. Shepperton. Open 6 hours a week as a community office. Didn't last long and closed in 1991. (C)

INFO Mrs. Claridge (CC) C. Welton (C) D. Chafer B-L-M (DC) Die E1/39

OSBOURNBY

POPULATION 1921 329

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. G. Jordan Postmaster, draper and grocer. Letters from Folkingham in 8.00am out 4.00pm.

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From Sleaford. A. Pick Grocer.

OSGODBY/KIRKBY-CUM-OSGODBY

POPULATION 1921 327

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. A. Plumtree receiver. Mail from Market Rasen, received 12.00am, dispatched 2.00pm.

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office. Letters From Lincoln. Wilkinson Bros. Coal And Coke Merchants

P.O. only in house Washbourne Lane (?). Present site since 1/10/1979. Formerly on site of vets in main street. There since pre 1967, probably before the war.

OWMBY

Transferred to Normanby by 1910. Was sited in cottages on site of old people bungalows at n.w. of the junction

Info Ds NBS

OWSTON FERRY/OWSTON

POPULATION 1921 1,144

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. B. W. Garner receiver and postman. Letters by footpost from Haxey, meeting the mail gig from Bawtry in ? out ?

1933 Kelly’s lists a Owston Ferry Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office Letters From Doncaster Owner not listed.

Lynn Beck Subpostmistress in 2004.

PANTON

PARTNEY

POPULATION 1921 340

1849 Post Office Directory P.O. T. Gilliat receiver. Letters from Spilsby in 8.00am out 6.00pm.

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From Spilsby. Owner not listed.

In 1953 P.O. was sited in house (now demolished and replaced by old peoples bungalows) up a turning to the north near the bus shelter. Mrs. Mills was the SPM.(B) Sited in Scremby Road in general stores by 1993. Mrs. Philippa Holland Sub Postmistress by 18th November, 1993 After a period of closure the office reopened located in a petrol garage and stores on the A!6 roundabout .(AR)

info Mrs. Brooks Strubby.

PICKWORTH

POPULATION 1921153

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office. Letters From Folkingham. Miss R. Bryan Shopkeeper

Last Site at S.W. corner of western "T" junction in village.

PINCHBECK

POPULATION 1921 1,597

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, M.O., T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From Spalding. Owner not listed.

Site of Grocery and P.O. occupied by Hargreaves butchers shop in 1935 Llife 3/1992. Mr. Andrew Gaunt Subpostmaster in 2004.

PINCHBECK BARS

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office. Letters From ? Owner not listed.

PODE HOLE

By 2007 located at 323 Bourne Road opening hours 09.00-17.30.

POINTON

POPULATION 1921 546

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post & Tel Call Office. Letters From Billingborough. Owner not listed.

Mrs. Bristow SPM at 12 High Street in porch. There quite a long time, there during 2WW. Used to milk cows the do P.O. Then at 14 High Street. Lucas (next SPM/M?) P.O. in food shop, then baking own bread etc. Then Anne Dodds SPM c1980-1985/86, continued shop but fewer lines. Then Mrs. Hunter for 2 years and then P.O. closed for 2-3 months. Mrs. Hodges reopened as a community office in 10 High Street. P.O. with gifts, clothes, plants etc.

POTTERHANWORTH

POPULATION 1921 466

1933 Kelly’s lists a Post, T. & T.E.D. Office. Letters From ? F. Gilliatt Shopkeeper.

Office reopened 11.4.1988,

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