Page 345 - Reading Mercury

th
“GUNHILDA MARY BROWN, died April 13 , 1887, aged 22.”
The church and churchyard were filled with persons who were desirous to show
their sympathy with the two families of the deceased; and we may add the veneration
and love in which the Rev. J.T. Brown is held by all classes; indeed, it is not too much
to say that seldom has a funeral which was not a public one been attended by large
numbers, or with greater interest. The opening sentences at the gate were said by the
Rev. J. Franklin Llewellyn, curate of the parish. The Lesson was read by the Rector of
Wokingham, and the committal to the grave was taken by the Rev. H.F. Wolley.
A service followed.

THE VICTORIA ALMSHOUSES, WOKINGHAM
The erection of the Victoria Almshouses in Wokingham as a memorial of the
Queen’s Jubilee, is progressing rapidly. The roof has been on some time, the interior
work is being pushed forward, and there is little doubt that the Almshouses will be
st
ready for the opening ceremony on the 21 of June. It is understood that there have
already been numerous applications from “all sorts and conditions of men, “with a
view to securing occupation of the houses when they are ready.
th
On Friday evening, the 20 inst., the Mayor (Mr. T. M. Wescott), who is
superintending the erection of the Almshouses, invited the builders and the employees
to meet him at supper at the Ship Inn, Peach Street, where an excellent repast was
provided by Mrs. Lush. About 20 sat down, the Mayor being in the chair, and Mr.
Neal occupying the vice-chair.
The Mayor proposed “The health of the Queen and Royal Family.” He said that
while all ought to be thankful for fifty years of such a reign as our gracious Queen’s,
those like himself, who could remember her Majesty’s coronation, ought to be even
more thankful that they had been allowed to live to see the accomplishment of her
Jubilee.
The toast was heartily responded to and the National Anthem was sung.
Mr. Neal proposed the health of the Chairman,” who he said had honourably won
his present position as Mayor, and of whom the town generally was proud. It was
entirely owing to his determination and energy that these almshouses, which had
provided work for many, had been built. In the name of all present, he also thanked
him for his generous entertainment that evening.
The toast was drunk enthusiastically with musical honours.
The Mayor, in responding, thanked the company for so warmly drinking his health.
He had been 32 years in the town, and he trusted he should spend the remainder of his
days in it. During the whole of that time he had never missed an opportunity of
bringing work into the town, and whatever position he occupied he would always
work heartily to the same end.
Mr. C. Brooker proposed “the trade and prosperity of Wokingham,” coupled with
the names of Mr. Neal and Mr. Gray.” He remarked that the fact of the Mayor, who
had the superintendences of the building operations at the Almshouses, having
inviting all concerned to meet him there that night was a proof that the contract was
being carried out by Mr. Neal to his entire satisfaction.
Mr. Neal suitably responded.
The Mayor, in proposing the toast of “the Ladies,” complimented Mrs. Lush on the
efficient manner in which she had catered.
Songs were sung, and a very pleasant evening spent, the proceedings closing with
the National Anthem.

343